Award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group has agreed to the purchase of two parcels of land at Parsonage Road in Takeley, Essex, with plans to deliver a high-quality new residential community of 108 homes. The site, which spans almost 16 acres, was acquired through land promoter Endurance Estates and agent Sworders
The London Irish Centre has awarded its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE, the distinguished businesswoman, entrepreneur, and industry trailblazer renowned for her transformative impact on the waste management and construction sectors. The award, presented by his excellency the Irish Ambassador to the UK, Mr. Martin Fraser, recognises
Finning has tested and built a Cat® 988 wheel loader 150-metres below ground, enhancing operations for the UK’s biggest salt mine at Compass Minerals in Winsford, Cheshire. Compass Minerals, a global leader in mineral extraction, has invested in a Cat 988 wheel loader from Finning UK & Ireland, to support
Midlands-based housing provider GSA is looking to sell its offsite housing manufacturing business, LoCaL Homes. The 25,000-home provider has announced plans to exit the Walsall-based business in line with its strategy to simplify and strengthen and focus on its core social landlord services. Mona Shah, Chief Finance and Investment Officer,
M&G Investments has appointed Ruth Jackson as head of UK investment management within its real estate division. Jackson joins from Hines, where she was managing director of investment management with responsibility for three major European funds, overseeing assets valued at more than €5 billion (£4.37 billion). Her career also includes
Developers Mitsubishi Estate London and CO—RE have officially broken ground on Vista at 72 Upper Ground, a £800m mixed-use scheme on London’s South Bank. Main contractor Multiplex is delivering the 640,000 sq ft redevelopment of the former ITV Studios site, slated to open in 2029 as a new office and
The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has described the Government’s decision to press ahead with a new generation of new towns as one of the most ambitious development initiatives in more than fifty years – and one that must be built on lessons from the past if it is to
European automotive component distributor, Olympus Global, has announced it is soon to break ground on its new multi-million pound distribution facility in the North East of England. Ambitious growth plans and a significant £2.7m investment by the Midlands-HQ’d company, as well as industrial architectural designs, civil engineering and project management
Developer Wykeland Group has officially opened a newly-completed £10m development at the fast-growing Melton West business park in East Yorkshire. Evolve @ Melton West provides growing companies with high-quality, modern space in the heart of one of Yorkshire’s most sought-after business locations. Medequip, the UK’s leading provider of community equipment
Works have begun to convert Wakefield’s Grade II-listed Crown Court into a new social and cultural venue, marking the latest step in the Civic Quarter’s renewal. Leeds-based Mulberry Construction Group has started on site for Harrogate developer Rushbond, working in partnership with Wakefield Council. Designed by Group Ginger and delivered
Award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group has agreed to the purchase of two parcels of land at Parsonage Road in Takeley, Essex, with plans to deliver a high-quality new residential community of 108 homes. The site, which spans almost 16 acres, was acquired through land promoter Endurance Estates and agent Sworders and has a gross development value of £50 million. 40% of the development will be delivered as affordable housing, comprising one and two-bedroom apartments, and two to four-bedroom houses for affordable rent and shared ownership. The development will also offer a range of two to five-bedroom houses for private sale. To better align with the housing needs of Uttlesford District Council, Hill will replace an existing reserved matters consent for a 66-bedroom care home on part of the land, identified as surplus to local requirements, with additional housing. A reserved matters application for 88 homes and a full application for 20 homes are expected to be submitted in October 2025, with a start on site targeted for summer 2026. The new homes will be designed to meet high environmental standards in line with Hill’s commitment to sustainable development. Features will include energy-efficient fabric-first construction, air-source heat pumps, electric vehicle charging points, cycle storage, and private or shared outdoor space. Andy Hill OBE, founder and Group Chief Executive of The Hill Group, said: “Parsonage Road is a well-located site that will enable us to deliver high-quality new homes in an area where there is a strong housing need. By adapting existing consents to reflect local housing requirements, we can create a new residential community that truly enhances the local area. We look forward to engaging with residents and stakeholders as we develop our detailed proposals.” Takeley is a thriving Essex village located between Bishop’s Stortford and Great Dunmow, with excellent transport links via the M11 corridor to both London and Cambridge, as well as close proximity to Stansted Airport. The village benefits from a wide range of community amenities, schools, and local services, making it an attractive setting for home movers. Hill has a proud tradition of delivering high-quality new homes in Essex, with its headquarters based locally in Waltham Abbey. Current developments include Hollymead Square in Newport and a large-scale development at Kennel Lane in Billericay, both of which showcase Hill’s design-led approach to placemaking. Together with the new proposals for Takeley, these projects demonstrate Hill’s long-term commitment to working in partnership with local authorities and other stakeholders to deliver much-needed sustainable new homes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The London Irish Centre has awarded its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE, the distinguished businesswoman, entrepreneur, and industry trailblazer renowned for her transformative impact on the waste management and construction sectors. The award, presented by his excellency the Irish Ambassador to the UK, Mr. Martin Fraser, recognises Jacqueline’s outstanding contribution to the Irish community in London, where she has long been a leading advocate, mentor, and supporter. Jacqueline’s career has been marked by exceptional leadership and innovation. As one of the most influential women in the construction and waste management industries, she has not only broken barriers but also championed sustainable practices, safety standards, and opportunities for others to thrive. Her remarkable achievements have been recognised on both sides of the Irish Sea. She was previously honoured by President Michael D. Higgins with the Presidential Distinguished Service Award for her extraordinary commitment to the Irish diaspora, and in King Charles III’s 2023 Birthday Honours she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her outstanding contribution to recycling, safety, and industry. Speaking about the award, Jacqueline O’Donovan OBE said: ‘It is an incredible honour to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award from the London Irish Centre. I am deeply proud of my heritage, and it has always been important to me to give back to the Irish community in London, which has played such a vital role in my own journey. To be recognised in this way, and by the Irish Ambassador, is truly humbling.” A respected role model for women in business, Jacqueline continues to inspire future generations with her unwavering dedication to community, innovation, investment and leadership. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Finning has tested and built a Cat® 988 wheel loader 150-metres below ground, enhancing operations for the UK’s biggest salt mine at Compass Minerals in Winsford, Cheshire. Compass Minerals, a global leader in mineral extraction, has invested in a Cat 988 wheel loader from Finning UK & Ireland, to support demand in its salt mining operation. Sourced from the USA, the machine was assembled and tested by Finning at its Winsford workshop. Jamie Lennon, Mine Mechanical Engineer, at Compass Minerals UK said: “Our rock salt mine is the largest and oldest working mine in the UK, lying approximately 150 meters under the Cheshire countryside. When we were looking for machinery that could meet the demands of these unique working conditions the Cat 988 ticked every box for the level of durability and capability we needed, especially as we approach the uplift in the seasonal demand for salt as we look towards the UK winter season.” Last year, over 2 million tonnes of salt were spread on roads across the country to combat harsh weather conditions, it is essential its machinery can keep up with these demands. However, there were added complexities in the delivery of this machine, as the available access shafts to the Compass Minerals UK mine are only 4 metres by 4 metres. This presented a logistical challenge as the Cat 988 is a 51-tonne machine, with a maximum height of 7455 mm 24.5ft with the bucket raised, and would not be able to access the mine in its entirety. To address the challenge, the machine was stripped down and each component was carefully lowered through the mine shaft, and then rebuilt underground by a dedicated team of Finning Field Service engineers. Once rebuilt and rigorously tested the machine was commissioned for 24/7 mining operations – where it will remain for the remainder of its life. Though it is common for heavy machinery in mining applications to be assembled underground, the challenges this presents are numerous and include heightened safety concerns, accessibility restrictions and higher associated costs. Mike McGrady, Area Manager at Finning UK & Ireland said: “The Cat 988 is designed for demanding environments, and is expected to deliver up to 15% fuel savings, as well as achieve multiple lifecycles – essential for Compass Minerals’ 24/7 operation. However, having to perform underground assembly does bring many additional variables to this delivery. “We were able to mitigate some of these challenges by performing robust testing to ensure the machine will perform to our exact specifications before beginning the meticulous process of dismantling and transporting it underground. “Delivering the parts for safe and efficient assembly by our Field Service engineers was our priority. The underground environment presents complex challenges including the risk of ground instability and accidents to limited visibility and manoeuvrability. However, the expertise and collaboration from both teams ensured a safe delivery and assembly, demonstrating the importance of having a reliable partner to mitigate risks and ensure operations remain safe, efficient, and sustainable.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Midlands-based housing provider GSA is looking to sell its offsite housing manufacturing business, LoCaL Homes. The 25,000-home provider has announced plans to exit the Walsall-based business in line with its strategy to simplify and strengthen and focus on its core social landlord services. Mona Shah, Chief Finance and Investment Officer, said: “LoCaL Homes has made an important and innovative contribution to housebuilding in the UK, and our product has been used by housing providers on developments up and down the country – that is something to be proud of. However, the landscape has changed significantly and while it has been a difficult decision to exit, it is a necessary one. We have a strategic objective to simplify and strengthen our organisation to enable us to focus on our core offer and to realise our vision of being a great social landlord. “We are in active discussions with interested parties and remain hopeful of finding a buyer. However, having made the decision to exit LoCaL Homes, this cannot continue indefinitely and if we are unable to do so, we will close the factory in spring 2026. “We have informed all LoCaL Homes colleagues and customers and our focus in the coming weeks and months will be on supporting them as we continue our search for a buyer.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
M&G Investments has appointed Ruth Jackson as head of UK investment management within its real estate division. Jackson joins from Hines, where she was managing director of investment management with responsibility for three major European funds, overseeing assets valued at more than €5 billion (£4.37 billion). Her career also includes senior roles at Invesco, in a pan-European capacity, and at JLL with a focus on investment and development in the City of London. In her new position at M&G, Jackson will lead bespoke mandates and develop fresh investment solutions, reporting to Peter Riley, head of UK commercial and capital solutions. Commenting on the appointment, Riley said: “We are delighted to welcome Ruth to M&G. Her appointment reflects our commitment to building the capabilities required to capitalise on global opportunities and deliver for clients as the UK market enters a new phase of growth. Ruth’s proven leadership and impressive track record will be invaluable for leading our UK commercial team through compelling opportunities for our clients.” Jackson added: “I’m excited to join M&G at such a pivotal time as the UK commercial real estate market is reinvigorated. Stabilising capital values, easing interest rates and structural demand across key sectors are creating a compelling environment for performance-led strategies. This is an opportunity for M&G Real Estate to lead in the UK market recovery and I look forward to building on its strong track record of innovation and performance.” M&G Real Estate, part of M&G’s £77 billion private assets division, manages a portfolio that includes retail landmarks such as Manchester Arndale and Cribbs Causeway in Bristol. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developers Mitsubishi Estate London and CO—RE have officially broken ground on Vista at 72 Upper Ground, a £800m mixed-use scheme on London’s South Bank. Main contractor Multiplex is delivering the 640,000 sq ft redevelopment of the former ITV Studios site, slated to open in 2029 as a new office and cultural destination. Designed by Make Architects, the commercially led scheme centres on a 25-storey office tower linked to two smaller buildings of 14 and 6 storeys, all set on a substantial podium. The design includes external terraces and balconies facing the Thames, a public rooftop restaurant and terrace, and a transformed public realm, with 40% of the site given over to public space. The buildings will be all-electric and are targeting net zero carbon in operation alongside BREEAM Outstanding. Masanori Iwase, senior executive officer at Mitsubishi Estate, said: “Breaking ground at Vista marks the beginning of a new chapter for London’s South Bank. We understand and respect the responsibilities that come with being a major investor in London, and it makes us very proud to demonstrate what can be achieved when working with local government and communities to achieve a shared vision.” Bradley Baker, chief executive of CO—RE, added: “This is a new cultural and commercial destination that will open up the riverfront, support Lambeth’s creative economy, and set new benchmarks for sustainability and wellbeing.” The ceremony brought together senior figures from government, international investment and the project team, including Japan’s ambassador to the UK, Hiroshi Suzuki. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has described the Government’s decision to press ahead with a new generation of new towns as one of the most ambitious development initiatives in more than fifty years – and one that must be built on lessons from the past if it is to succeed. The Government has confirmed that at least three new towns will be advanced in this Parliament, following recommendations from the New Towns Taskforce, which identified twelve potential locations. The RTPI, which recently published survey data showing that 73% of the public are not confident new towns will meet community needs in 50 years’ time, has urged the Government to ensure lessons are learned from the past and that local communities are placed at the heart of planning and delivery. Dr Victoria Hills, Chief Executive of the RTPI, said: “The Government’s commitment to a new generation of new towns is a bold step, and one of the most ambitious approaches to development in half a century. It represents an opportunity to think differently about how and where we create the places of the future. “However, while it’s good to see the Government looking toward the future, it’s important to remember the lessons from the past. The first wave of new towns showed what can be achieved when government and planners work at scale, but they also highlight the importance of getting design, infrastructure, and community voice right from the very start. Public support for new towns will depend on learning those lessons and making sure they reflect the aspirations of the people who will live and work in them. Our members stand ready to deliver successful places and communities for now and many generations to come. “Our research shows that people want to see a variety of organisations involved in delivery, new ways of planning and funding explored, and – above all – local communities given a genuine say in shaping their future. “If this generation of new towns is built around those principles, they can become thriving, sustainable places that stand the test of time and capture the same spirit of ambition that inspired their predecessors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
European automotive component distributor, Olympus Global, has announced it is soon to break ground on its new multi-million pound distribution facility in the North East of England. Ambitious growth plans and a significant £2.7m investment by the Midlands-HQ’d company, as well as industrial architectural designs, civil engineering and project management expertise by Building Design Northern (BDN) all come together on Monday 06 October when construction starts at the 16,000 sq ft Newton Aycliffe site. The announcement coincides with this year’s North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA) event (25 September) which sees organisations from across the whole industry supply chain attend the annual expo held in Sunderland. Olympus Global, a UK and European-wide distributor of high-quality engineered components, is building its second UK warehouse distribution facility (the first in the North East) to directly serve industrial, automotive and wider supply chain companies in northern and Scottish regions. The bespoke build – designed, delivered and project managed collectively by architectural and engineering firm, BDN, will see prime brownfield land at Aycliffe Business Park in County Durham be fully transformed into a fit-for-purpose scheme with dedicated storage space and modern offices. The site will facilitate existing international customers including Unipres, Thorn Lighting and Gestamp Tallent (located opposite), and is anticipated to ship more than £7m worth of parts and engineering components in the first year of operations alone. The new facility will create up to 10 new jobs making a significant contribution to the local economy. Ryan Doyle, Director at Building Design Northern (BDN) which is working on behalf of major UK-wide industrial and commercial clients including Olympus Global, commented: “Being able to announce the start of construction onsite is fantastic and it’ll be great to start seeing our designs coming out of the ground. “We have worked closely with Olympus Global right from the start across all requirements to support this major scheme, and our knowledge, industry insight and technical expertise across different architectural and engineering disciplines has proved critical given our client is also based outside the region. The main contractor is ready to go so getting ready to break ground on the site is good news for Olympus Global, the industry and the wider business community too.” BDN has appointed Hall Construction as principal contractor to deliver the development which also includes bespoke ‘green’ features to align with Olympus Global’s commitment to carbon reduction and sustainability. Olympus Global – a £38m turnover business – supplies engineering fasteners, precision-turned and machined components, castings, aluminium extrusions and forgings to major organisations within the industrial and automotive sectors. The Newton Aycliffe development will become the company’s fifth site including its head office and distribution centre in the Midlands and further facilities in Spain and Hungary. Keith Rice, Managing Director at Olympus Global, said: “We are delighted to be breaking ground at Newton Aycliffe as it is a key strategic site for the company, and one which marks a new chapter in our 50+ year history. We work very closely with the region’s automotive supply chain, so it is also very timely to announce the start of construction date at NEAA’s expo event. “The North East and County Durham is a prime location providing direct access to main transport routes and proximity to the industry’s big players and cluster locations. “Our clients are fast-paced organisations that require the highest level of turnaround, dispatch and efficiency, so we’re delighted to be starting construction and making our mark here in the region.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developer Wykeland Group has officially opened a newly-completed £10m development at the fast-growing Melton West business park in East Yorkshire. Evolve @ Melton West provides growing companies with high-quality, modern space in the heart of one of Yorkshire’s most sought-after business locations. Medequip, the UK’s leading provider of community equipment loan services, has already occupied one of Evolve’s two larger units. Now, with the speculative development complete, interest is growing in a second larger unit, of 37,000 sq ft, and five smaller, 5,000 sq ft units, with one of these already under offer. Dominic Gibbons, Managing Director of Wykeland, owner and developer of the 200-acre business park, said: “We’re delighted to have completed this major new development at Melton West, providing commercial space which is best in class and unmatched for quality in the local area. “We have delivered this development speculatively, reflecting our confidence in the proposition Evolve offers and our commitment to stimulating investment and growth. That decision has already been rewarded by securing an excellent first tenant in Medequip. “Now that the other units are available to occupy, we’re seeing growing interest, reflecting a pent-up demand from growing businesses looking for the high-spec, future-proofed facilities Evolve offers.” In completing Evolve, Wykeland has delivered 85,000 sq ft of commercial space, split across seven units. The units cater for a broad range of businesses and uses, including industrial, manufacturing and distribution, with associated office space. Evolve provides growing businesses with modern, purpose-built facilities which also boast outstanding sustainability features. All of the units are EPC A-rated, with rooftop solar panels, green living walls and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The buildings are highly energy efficient, meaning occupiers benefit from reduced running costs, while ensuring their operations are fit for the future. Cllr Anne Handley, Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, which has supported Evolve with grant funding, cut the ribbon to declare the development officially open. She said: “Melton West is one of the region’s premier business locations and a jewel in the crown of the East Riding of Yorkshire’s outstanding investment offer. “Melton West has seen hundreds of millions of pounds of investment from world-class businesses such as Amazon and Smith+Nephew. Evolve now adds a new dimension to the business park and offers an exciting opportunity for more businesses to join this thriving commercial community.” Melton West is home to leading businesses such as Heron Foods, generator manufacturer Allam Marine and shower maker Kohler Mira. In recent times they have been joined by an Amazon last-mile facility, with the global ecommerce giant adding to this by opening a £200m retail logistics fulfilment centre this month. Construction is also well underway at Melton West on a £100m manufacturing facility for global medical technology business Smith+Nephew. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Works have begun to convert Wakefield’s Grade II-listed Crown Court into a new social and cultural venue, marking the latest step in the Civic Quarter’s renewal. Leeds-based Mulberry Construction Group has started on site for Harrogate developer Rushbond, working in partnership with Wakefield Council. Designed by Group Ginger and delivered by Mulberry, the 25,000 sq ft scheme will reposition the former courthouse as a commercial and cultural destination alongside Rushbond’s nearby residential regeneration, now nearing phase one completion. Built in 1810 and extended in the 19th century, the building has stood vacant since the early 1990s. The plans include a new city-facing entrance and landscaped public terrace; an events space within the former courtroom; a restaurant/food hall with indoor and terrace seating and a café shop; plus co-working and studio spaces. Completion is scheduled for summer 2026. The project forms part of a wider strategy to revitalise Wood Street and the wider Civic Quarter, complementing new homes and the restoration of neighbouring heritage sites, including the former police station, Gills Yard and Gills Mews. The aim is to reinforce Wakefield’s appeal for business, investment and cultural activity. Rushbond founder and chairman Jonathan Maud said the Crown Court is “one of [Wakefield’s] most treasured sites”, adding that the vision is to restore it as a focal point for the city with creative workspace, leisure and event facilities and public art. Cllr Jack Hemingway, cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, said the restoration would act as a catalyst for growth and help create a vibrant new community in the city centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals