Kenneth Booth
Mansell welcomes Head of Commercial

Mansell welcomes Head of Commercial

Mansell Building Solutions specialist in modern methods in construction (MMC) have recruited Martin Lynch to the newly-created position of Head of Commercial. Martin joins from Seddon Construction, where he held senior commercial and management positions from January 2020 to June 2025. Prior to joining Seddon, Martin was Commercial Manager for

Read More »
Baxi appoints new Managing Director for UK & Ireland

Baxi appoints new Managing Director for UK & Ireland

Baxi, part of the BDR Thermea Group, has announced the appointment of Alstom MD Jason Baldock as the new MD for Baxi UK & Ireland. This follows the news that out-going MD and Dutch national Jan Rijnen has re-located to head up sister BDR company Remeha, covering the Belgium, Netherlands

Read More »
Sustainability giant SLR Consulting appoints new urban masterplanning expert

Sustainability giant SLR Consulting appoints new urban masterplanning expert

SLR CONSULTING has strengthened its integrated approach to placemaking with the appointment of experienced masterplanner Louise Fountainas associate director for urban design.  With more than 20 years of experience in masterplanning, urban design and architecture across both the public and private sectors, Louise has held senior roles at AECOM, Planit,

Read More »
Arc & Co. and HTB complete £21.5m facility for Nottingham student scheme

Arc & Co. and HTB complete £21.5m facility for Nottingham student scheme

Arc & Co. and Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) have completed a £21.5 million development facility to support the delivery of a 210-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in central Nottingham. The sponsor, an experienced developer, appointed Arc & Co. to structure and arrange the £21.5m facility, with HTB providing the

Read More »
Techspace returns to OP for London coworking transformation

Techspace returns to OP for London coworking transformation

Building on their successful partnership, OP will deliver Techspace’s newest eight-floor coworking facility on St Andrew Street in London, marking their second collaboration. The leading interior design consultancy will deliver a complete strip-out and combined CAT A and CAT B fit out across 16,300 sq ft of workspace for tech

Read More »
Latest Issue
Issue 335 : Dec 2025

Kenneth Booth

Mansell welcomes Head of Commercial

Mansell welcomes Head of Commercial

Mansell Building Solutions specialist in modern methods in construction (MMC) have recruited Martin Lynch to the newly-created position of Head of Commercial. Martin joins from Seddon Construction, where he held senior commercial and management positions from January 2020 to June 2025. Prior to joining Seddon, Martin was Commercial Manager for Keepmoat Regeneration before joining ENGIE as Head of Commercial and Operations Education & Public Buildings. With more than 30 years’ leadership experience in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management, Martin has built a proven track record in delivering major construction and new-build projects across the education, housing, warehousing, and care sectors. He brings both strategic oversight and hands-on expertise in driving value, quality, and innovation. In this new role, Martin will support Mansell’s mission to increase the uptake and implementation of off-site construction – balancing commercial imperatives with build quality, programme certainty, and stakeholder priorities. He has a strong background in working within frameworks and long-term partnerships, consistently delivering results that strengthen client relationships and drive repeat business. Commenting on his appointment, Martin said: “Mansell is the go-to specialist contractor for panelised construction and MMC in the region. I’m passionate about building capability, improving performance, and contributing to the evolution of the sector – especially in sustainability, modern methods of construction, and future-proofing housing stock. I’m looking forward to seeing what impact I can make on the business so it can continue building high-quality spaces.” said Martin Lynch, Head of Commercial at Mansell Building Solutions. Angela Mansell, Managing Director, added: “With an impressive track record across education, housing, warehousing, and care sectors within main contractors, Martin is known for his strategic insight, commercial leadership, and people-first approach. He’s passionate about sustainability, de-risking project delivery, and building high-performing teams that make a real difference.” Martin’s commercial and leadership experience, along with his contractual and risk management approach will be a welcome addition to our Senior Leadership Team as we work to generate over 100,000m2 of off-site panelised construction the only MMC factory in Greater Manchester, helping the region create over 1,000 spaces each year. “We’re excited for the impact Martin will have as we continue to grow and evolve – and we know he’ll be a fantastic addition to the Mansell team”. Established in 1991, Mansell Building Solutions are a specialist contractor using modern methods of construction (MMC) to build high quality spaces in the North. They have over 30 years industry experience in off-site frames and on-site finishes. Geographically they deliver their finished frame solution across the North West and Frames in the North (Yorks, NE & Mids). Since 2018 they have created over 5,500 spaces for occupation across residential, care, student and leisure sectors including – Aviva Studios, Downley Drive in Ancoats and five affordable Passivhaus schemes in Salford for Seddon Construction. They are currently working on two iconic developments in Stockport, Cityheart’s Stopford Park for Oak Construction Projects and Academy of Living Well for Rowlinson Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Baxi appoints new Managing Director for UK & Ireland

Baxi appoints new Managing Director for UK & Ireland

Baxi, part of the BDR Thermea Group, has announced the appointment of Alstom MD Jason Baldock as the new MD for Baxi UK & Ireland. This follows the news that out-going MD and Dutch national Jan Rijnen has re-located to head up sister BDR company Remeha, covering the Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg (Benelux) region.  Jan will continue to be responsible for Baxi UK&I until Jason joins on October 1st . Jason has 29 years’ experience in commercial and project delivery roles, most recently as MD of Alstom UK&Ireland Digital and Integrated Systems division since 2020.  During his time at Alstom, Jason oversaw numerous significant contract wins in the rail sector, which included securing the largest market share of Network Rail’s Major Signalling Framework Agreement (MSFA). Both Jan and Jason will report into BDR Group CEO Tjarko Bouman. Of his UK&I replacement, Jan said: “Jason has immense experience in helping complex organisations to upgrade and replace their legacy control systems for the 21st century.  His experience is a great fit for Baxi in our role to help organisations replace existing heating systems with sustainable solutions that reduce carbon, reduce costs and improve controls. We’re extremely pleased Jason is joining our BDR team.”  Commenting on his appointment, Jason said; “I am truly excited to be joining Baxi UK & Ireland and look forward to building on the company’s strong heritage and exploring new opportunities as we embrace the decarbonisation agenda.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Leep Utilities strengthens net zero ambitions with senior heat networks appointment

Leep Utilities strengthens net zero ambitions with senior heat networks appointment

Leep Utilities has appointed Ieman Barmaki as Director of Heat, to establish and drive forward the company’s heat networks division. Ieman brings over 20 years’ experience in delivering sustainable heat solutions, energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects across both public and private sectors. Ieman’s expertise is crucial at a time of rapid change for the UK’s heating sector. Heat networks have undergone a step change in functionality and efficiency and, with the UK on a firm path to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, they offer an unrivalled opportunity to reduce the carbon associated with heating homes and businesses, as well as providing cost-effective energy solutions. It’s estimated that the number of heat networks in operation will need to increase from 3% to around 18%. Ieman’s appointment strengthens Leep’s heat network adoption programme, ensuring heat networks are a sound investment and supporting Leep to be a true multi-utility provider: offering water, electricity, waste, and heat services to developers and asset owners. Louise Manfredi, CEO of Leep Utilities said, “We are delighted to welcome Ieman to the team at such a pivotal time for the UK’s heating sector. “His proven track record in developing heat networks and navigating complex regulatory environments makes him the ideal person to establish and grow our heat division. With changes on the horizon like the Future Homes Standard and gas boilers being phased out of new developments, Ieman’s expertise will be instrumental in helping our clients transition to sustainable heating solutions while maintaining our commitment to exceptional customer service.” Ieman previously lead on the development of multiple heat network both in the private and public sector, He has held numerous senior roles in renewable and heat network organisation and formerly Head of Asset Management and Sustainability at London Brough of Enfield managing complex asset portfolio, decarbonisation and development of renewable heat networks. Ieman Barmaki said about his role, “I’m joining Leep at a time when the UK’s heating landscape is undergoing such fundamental change. It’s exciting to have the opportunity to acquire and adopt innovative and sustainable heat solutions that align with the UK’s decarbonisation targets but that also work for our customers – helping developers and asset owners to maximise their business outcomes while also supporting environmental objectives.” To learn more about Leep Utilities and its services, please visit www.leeputilities.co.uk/heat-networks/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
From Post-Grenfell to product standards, UK Construction Week Birmingham puts safety first

From Post-Grenfell to product standards, UK Construction Week Birmingham puts safety first

As the doors to the UK’s biggest event for the built environment prepare to open, building safety will be high on the agenda at this year’s UK Construction Week (UKCW) Birmingham. With a wide range of exhibitors and a dedicated programme of talks, the award-winning show will spotlight best practice, compliance and the importance of meeting the highest safety standards, as well as ensuring the safety of the buildings under construction. Leading voices in the construction industry will be sharing their expertise and the latest regulatory updates, including fire safety; product regulation; working at heights; and Digital Skills Passports for workers. Taking place at the NEC from September 30th to October 2nd, UKCW Birmingham will be a bustling networking hub for all tier 1 and tier 2 contractors; housebuilders and developers; local authority and housing associations; architects; buyers and procurement experts. To help attendees get the most out of the show, UK Construction Week has launched its handy web-based app. Visitors can quickly build a personalised itinerary of talks, book meetings and navigate the floorplan all from the palm of their hand. The programme of talks on building safety includes: Tuesday September 30th Product Safety and Standards: Next Steps in Regulatory Reform Main Stage, 12.20pm With the Green Paper consultation period concluded, this session offers a timely look at the future of construction product regulation. Featuring insights from the CCPI, Construction Products Regulator and senior voices from MHCLG as well as major product users, the panel will explore what reforms are coming, how the industry should prepare, and what it means for accountability, responsibility, and compliance. Join us for a critical discussion on rebuilding trust and raising standards across the construction product supply chain. Speakers: ● Amanda Long, CEO, Code for Constructions Products Information ● Duncan Johnson, Deputy Director – Construction Product Regulation, Office for Product and Safety Standards ● Gary Neal, Head of Fire Risk Management, Skanska ● Louise Barr, Deputy Director – Construction Products Reform, Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government Post-Grenfell: Turning Regulation into Reality – One Year On Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 1.15pm A year after the final phase of the Grenfell Inquiry, the construction sector is moving from reflection to implementation, as new regulations reshape responsibilities, competency frameworks, and safety culture. This session offers updates on legislative progress, enforcement, and how businesses are adapting on the ground to meet the demands of integrity and accountability. Speakers: ●  Kevin McKeown, Chartered Fire Engineer, Pillar Fire ●  Paul Scott, Partner, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ●  Rachael Hobbis, Partner & Head of Birmingham Office, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ●  Richard Cymler, Director Registered Building Inspector Class 4 3G/H Technical Manager & Specialist Building Inspector RBCP04038R1D at Sweco Building Control Limited Wednesday October 1st Competence in Construction: The Role of CSCS cards and the Digital Skill Passport Culture Change & Skills Hub, 10.30am As expectations around safety, transparency, and accountability grow, workforce competence is becoming a central focus in construction. This panel will explore how the industry is defining, measuring, and demonstrating competence at every level, and the practical steps being taken to meet these evolving demands. It will also examine how digital tools like Digital Skills Passports and smart verification systems are transforming the way capability is evidenced across sites. Speakers: ●  Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, National Officer, GMB Union ●  Colin Marrs, Editor-in-Chief, Construction News ●  Faye Burnett, Super Sector Programme Director, Mace ●  Mark Blundy, Group Director Health & Safety, Bowmer & Kirkland Group Raising the Standard: Improving Process Control in Roofing, Cladding, and Insulation Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 11.30am Roofing, cladding, and insulation installations often face challenges due to inconsistent processes, unclear guidance, and a lack of shared understanding across the supply chain. This session will highlight how adopting structured methodologies – such as Construction Product Quality Planning (CPQP) – can improve quality, safety, and confidence in delivery. Drawing on real-world examples, we’ll explore how manufacturers and contractors can work together to embed clarity, consistency, and accountability at every stage of the build. Speaker: ●  Krish Parmar, CEO, Elevate Building Safety Thursday 2 October The Building Safety Act and Low-Rise Housing: Clarity, Compliance, and Consequences Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 11.50am While the Building Safety Act has largely focused on high-rise buildings, its implications for low-rise developments are increasingly coming into focus. This panel will unpack what the Act means for low-rise residential projects – from design accountability and compliance to resident engagement and duty-holder responsibilities. Join experts from across the sector to explore how to navigate these changes and ensure proportionate, practical implementation that doesn’t stall delivery. Speakers: ● Huw Wilkins, Senior Associate, Fenwick Elliot LLP ● Krish Parmar, CEO, Elevate Building Safety ● Nia Stewart, Partner, Burges Salmon LLP ● Olivia Jenkins, Senior Associate, Trowers & Hamlins LLP ● Tom Weller, Head of Group Building Safety, Persimmon Homes Working at Height – Risks and Compliance Roofing, Cladding & Insulation Hub, 1.30pm Discussion around the risks of working at height, the associated statutory requirements and how standards and training drive competency, safety and compliance. Speaker: ● Mark Collinson, Head of Technical, National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) Neil Gaisford, Divisional Director, Construction, commented: “As new legislation and regulations demand greater accountability, the focus on building safety could not be more important. At UK Construction Week (UKCW), we provide a platform to ensure safety remains at the heart of every project and corner of the construction industry.” UKCW Birmingham attracts visitors and exhibitors from across the globe, and will showcase a host of international exhibitors from the likes of China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Turkey. Amongst those already confirmed are Lanes Group; Build Warranty; Reader Cement; Unibond; Xpedeon; Cure It Composites; Don & Low; Metador; and Licata. Alongside over 300 leading brands from around the world, UKCW Birmingham will feature 200 speakers and over 150 hours of CPD accredited seminars and talks across five stages. To register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://forms.reg.buzz/ukcw-birmingham-2025​/cab-pr To download the show app, visit

Read More »
Sustainability giant SLR Consulting appoints new urban masterplanning expert

Sustainability giant SLR Consulting appoints new urban masterplanning expert

SLR CONSULTING has strengthened its integrated approach to placemaking with the appointment of experienced masterplanner Louise Fountainas associate director for urban design.  With more than 20 years of experience in masterplanning, urban design and architecture across both the public and private sectors, Louise has held senior roles at AECOM, Planit, Taylor Young (now Arcadis), and PRP Architects and led on major regeneration projects.   Her portfolio includes 1,500 homes within the Greater Manchester Places for Everyone (PfE) plan, Jackson’s Brickworks in Manchester, 2,500 homes at New Eastern Villages near Swindon, and the historic Woolwich Barracks site in Greenwich.  Based in Manchester, Louise will enhance SLR’s Place team in the North West, which includes 15 masterplanning and landscape specialists.   The team is involved in some of the region’s most significant projects. These include the South Warrington Eastern Urban Extension for Homes England, Bold Garden Village in St Helens, Droylsden Town Centre Masterplan, Leigh Civic Square, First Street and Bootle Strand.  Louise said: “I admire the creativity and ambition of the place team at SLR, the combination of visionary design with technical excellence uniquely positions the team to deliver sustainable, people-focused places. By bringing my own experience together with the established team, we’ll strive for outstanding placemaking that positively impacts both communities and the environment.”  She also brings leadership experience in town and city centre regeneration, having worked on frameworks and strategies such as the Warrington Growth Ambition, Sheffield City Centre Priority Frameworks, and Northwich Development Framework, alongside regeneration schemes in Radcliffe and Ashton, and residential capacity studies in Sheffield and Leicester. She has also delivered design codes in Prestwich and Keighley.  Alongside her practice work, Louise serves as Supporting Chair of the RIBA Places Matter design review panel, providing independent design advice across the North West. She intends to use this experience to strengthen SLR’s internal design review process and its advocacy for design quality.  Pol MacDonald, director of the place team at SLR Consulting, said: “Louise’s extensive masterplanning expertise and commitment to raising design quality will play a key leadership and mentoring role for the Manchester studio and beyond, as we continue to expand our place team across specialist disciplines and levels of experience.  “Since fully merging OPEN with SLR in 2022, our place team across the UK has gone from strength to strength, benefiting from the support of SLR’s wider disciplines such as ecology, transport, heritage and infrastructure – combining creativity with technical rigour to ensure that placemaking projects are deliverable and sustainable.”  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Arc & Co. and HTB complete £21.5m facility for Nottingham student scheme

Arc & Co. and HTB complete £21.5m facility for Nottingham student scheme

Arc & Co. and Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) have completed a £21.5 million development facility to support the delivery of a 210-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in central Nottingham. The sponsor, an experienced developer, appointed Arc & Co. to structure and arrange the £21.5m facility, with HTB providing the development funding. Construction has commenced and the scheme is targeting completion ahead of the 2027 student intake. Nottingham, home to both the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, is a key regional student market where demand continues to outstrip supply. The development will deliver 210 new bed spaces in a high-quality scheme designed to meet the needs of a growing student population. Philip Kay, Director at Arc & Co, said: “PBSA remains a highly active sector for Arc & Co., and we were very pleased to support the sponsor on this important Nottingham scheme. “Our role was to structure and arrange a funding solution that aligned with the developer’s requirements, and HTB proved to be an excellent partner throughout the process. Their ability to navigate the complexities of a transaction of this scale and deliver with certainty made them the right lender for this project.” Andrew Dignum, Lending Director at HTB, said: “This was a significant opportunity to support a new to bank client on a complex PBSA scheme. “The £21.5m facility underlines HTB’s capability in structuring and funding large student accommodation developments in key regional markets, and it has been a pleasure to work in partnership with Arc & Co. to deliver this transaction. We look forward to seeing the scheme progress and to building on this new relationship.” Neil Leitch, Managing Director of Development Finance at HTB, added: “Student accommodation remains one of the most resilient sectors in regional property markets, with Nottingham a prime example of a location where demand continues to exceed supply. Transactions of this scale and complexity require specialist sector knowledge and certainty of funding. “At HTB we are building a strong PBSA track record, and this facility reinforces our role as a trusted partner for complex regional development.” So far in 2025, Arc & Co. has completed a series of £20m+ funding transactions, including a £26m bridging loan for a Prime London residential property; a 111-bed PBSA scheme in London with a £36m GDV; and a £59m loan secured against a hotel portfolio. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Former Aberdeen landfill to be redeveloped as home to solar power and hydrogen project

Former Aberdeen landfill to be redeveloped as home to solar power and hydrogen project

A historical landfill site is to be redeveloped to create a solar farm as part of the first phase of a green hydrogen infrastructure initiative being delivered by bp Aberdeen Hydrogen Energy Limited (bpAHEL), a joint venture between Aberdeen City Council and bp. RSK Renewables, an RSK Group company, will work with bpAHEL on the project on the former Ness Landfill site, located on Coast Road in Aberdeen, adjacent to Nigg Bay. Engineering design work has started at the site, with construction expected to start early in the new year. RSK Renewables Managing Director Adrian Strudwick said the team was excited about contributing to a project that redevelops a historical landfill site to produce renewable energy. He noted that it was also part of the first phase of a green hydrogen infrastructure initiative being delivered by the bpAHEL joint venture. This will provide power for a hydrogen production facility and refuelling station for buses and trucks. Adrian said: “RSK Renewables is responsible for the engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and testing of the planned 8 MW solar farm. Guided by our in-house design and structural engineering teams, we identified a custom ‘tree-type’ mounting system as the optimal solution. This innovative design minimises ground disturbance, preserving the integrity of the former landfill’s protective capping while securely and efficiently supporting the solar array. With this solution also not requiring concrete or ballasted foundations, it enables the project to be built with a reduced CO₂ impact.” At the peak of the project, the team expects to have 50 to 60 people on-site, including civil engineering and electrical specialists. RSK Renewables will also remain with the project for two years as part of the operating and maintenance contract associated with the project. The solar farm will feature: Other RSK Group companies contributing to the project include RSK Advantage (pre-contract services) and RSK Asbestos (providing on-site monitoring services in relation to the former landfill site). Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Techspace returns to OP for London coworking transformation

Techspace returns to OP for London coworking transformation

Building on their successful partnership, OP will deliver Techspace’s newest eight-floor coworking facility on St Andrew Street in London, marking their second collaboration. The leading interior design consultancy will deliver a complete strip-out and combined CAT A and CAT B fit out across 16,300 sq ft of workspace for tech entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The comprehensive sixteen-week project spans from basement to sixth level, creating flexible workplace suites and collaborative areas that incorporate Techspace’s signature approach to flexible working, featuring private offices, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces. Key features of the refurbishment include a reimagined ground floor reception and welcome area, a central cafe and social hub will be installed, featuring purpose-built seating areas and collaboration zones designed to encourage networking and community building among members. OP will maximise the existing windows to flood the new offices with natural light and views of London. The design will retain and enhance existing architectural features while introducing modern finishes and contemporary workplace amenities. The project includes comprehensive M&E upgrades, new lighting systems, and refreshed common areas throughout all eight floors. Modern end-of-journey facilities will be uplifted, and OP will install new secure bike storage to support sustainable commuting. Sustainability credentials are central to the refurbishment, with energy efficient systems, low VOC materials, and sustainable finishes specified throughout. The project targets strong environmental performance ratings while creating a healthy, productive workspace for Techspace members. The fit out will support Techspace’s established model of providing forward-thinking tech companies with access to premium workspace, high-speed connectivity, and networking opportunities in London’s vibrant business ecosystem. Stephen Parsons, Group Managing Director of OP, said: “We’re delighted to be furthering our relationship with Techspace following our successful delivery of their Old Street location. This comprehensive transformation represents exactly the kind of inspiring workspace that supports London’s thriving tech sector. The complete strip-out and redesign across eight floors will create a truly modern environment where innovation can flourish, while the fast-track sixteen-week programme demonstrates our ability to deliver complex projects to demanding timescales.” Paul Sandilands, Property Director of Techspace said: “We’re excited to be partnering with OP once again following the success of our Worship Street location. This latest full-building transformation reflects Techspace’s mission to empower the tech community with spaces designed for growth. By creating flexible, collaborative environments with best-in-class facilities, we’re giving scale-up teams the platform they need to innovate, connect and thrive.” The project is scheduled for completion in December 2025, with Techspace members benefiting from enhanced facilities and expanded capacity across the transformed building. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Heyford Park, Oxfordshire, named one of the UK government’s ‘New Towns’ in major growth initiative

Heyford Park, Oxfordshire, named one of the UK government’s ‘New Towns’ in major growth initiative

Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: “The inclusion of Heyford Park in the Government’s new towns programme shows a growing commitment to building not just more homes but better places – places with identity, infrastructure and long-term purpose. That’s exactly what we’ve been working towards at Heyford Park. “Our development is one of the most ambitious regeneration projects in the UK, and it’s shaped by a clear masterplan and a strong sense of place. From new homes and schools to community spaces, green infrastructure, local employment and plans to become the UK’s first energy-surplus town, Heyford Park is designed to grow in a sustainable and balanced way. We’ve already come a long way in transforming a former RAF base into a thriving, modern community, and the next chapter is about delivering on that original vision with ambition and care. “As momentum builds behind the new towns programme and strategic growth across the region, Heyford Park stands as a clear example of what’s possible when development is led by placemaking. This recognition gives us the platform to build on everything achieved so far and deliver create a long-lasting legacy for Oxfordshire.” For more details and to view the masterplan in full, visit: www.heyfordpark.com/heyford-park-masterplan Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Firethorn appoints HG Construction to deliver Hackney Wick student accommodation

Firethorn appoints HG Construction to deliver Hackney Wick student accommodation

Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has appointed HG Construction to deliver a high-quality purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) site in Hackney Wick. Part of the Firethorn Living portfolio, Hackney Wick will comprise 204 modern and spacious student bed spaces, 35% of which will be affordable accommodation. Residents will benefit from generous amenities, including co-working study spaces, common rooms, private dining space, a gym and two outdoor roof terraces. Firethorn will also work with a local community interest group to create around 1,400 sq. m. of affordable and incubator workspace at the site, to support the local creative industry. Set on the grounds of the former Broadwood piano factory, the development will preserve and incorporate the site’s historic brick chimney, originally built in 1902. Sustainable features have been incorporated into the design, with a target BREEAM “Excellent” rating. Paul Martin, Development Director at Firethorn said: “Hackney Wick reflects our commitment to increasing the provision of high-quality student accommodation in key university cities across the UK. HG Construction’s strong track record in delivering modern PBSA developments, combined with the team’s local expertise, makes it the ideal partner for this project. We look forward to working together to bring the development to swift completion.” Adam Quinn, Chief Executive Officer of HG Construction, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Firethorn to deliver this exciting new scheme. Having previously delivered several successful developments just a stone’s throw from the site, we know the area well and value its rich heritage. The opportunity to preserve key historical elements while bringing forward high-quality student accommodation aligns perfectly with our ethos. “We look forward to collaborating with Firethorn to deliver this scheme with a commitment to quality and sustainability, and to maximising social value opportunities throughout the construction phase and beyond.” The development is within a 15-minute walking distance of University Arts London and UCL East, and the surrounding area offers a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants and shopping centres. Work is due to start on site immediately, with completion on track for the 2027/28 academic year. Hackney Wick is Firethorn’s third PBSA development, with the others located in Stratford, London, and Leith Walk in Edinburgh, which has reached the topping out stage and is scheduled for practical completion in September 2026. Firethorn’s growing living portfolio also includes the delivery of a 138-bedroom hostel in Dublin, sleeping up to 716 persons, and the office-to-residential conversion of One Bessborough Gardens in central London. For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »