Kenneth Booth
How to Size an Industrial Generator

How to Size an Industrial Generator

One of the biggest challenges when choosing a generator is to size it appropriately for your business needs. Nowadays, businesses prefer to go for diesel generators because they’ve proven themselves to be reliable, durable, and more fuel-efficient than other alternatives. However, they are a considerable investment, so you need to

Read More »
Get Living submits revised plans for Elephant and Castle West Site

Get Living submits revised plans for Elephant and Castle West Site

Get Living, one of the UK’s leading build-to-rent operators and developers, has submitted revised proposals for the next and final phase of its Elephant and Castle town centre transformation, bringing further homes for rent, including affordable homes, as well as landscaped public realm and a major cultural venue. The West

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• Sensitive transformation and extension of Grade II listed building has reached practical completion • PayPal has signed a lease agreement to take 40,000 sq. ft. of space on the building’s top floor • With 80% of its existing structure retained and numerous low-carbon design principles incorporated, 76 Southbank exemplifies low-carbon office design • 76 Southbank has achieved a design-stage BREEAM outstanding certification • The scheme has been delivered with Stanhope Plc as Development Manager, LaSalle Investment Management as asset manager, and Multiplex as Main Contractor

Paypal sign lease for 40,000 sq. Ft. At 76 Southbank as construction completes

The transformation and extension of 76 Southbank, a Grade II listed building adjacent to the National Theatre, has successfully reached practical completion – delivering 300,000 sq. ft. of cutting-edge and sustainable office space. The scheme has been delivered with Stanhope Plc as Development Manager, LaSalle Investment Management as asset manager

Read More »
Caddick Gears Up for Growth with New Leeds Logistics Hub

Caddick Gears Up for Growth with New Leeds Logistics Hub

Caddick Construction has broken ground on a major urban logistics development in Leeds, after being appointed by developer Chancerygate as main contractor for its £46.5 million T45 scheme. Situated just off junction 45 of the M1 motorway, the 11.1-acre site will deliver 23 high-specification commercial units ranging in size from

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£330m homelessness overspend as housing crisis threatens to bankrupt London boroughs

£330m homelessness overspend as housing crisis threatens to bankrupt London boroughs

London’s worsening homelessness emergency represents the “single biggest risk” to boroughs’ finances and is pushing town halls towards bankruptcy, London Councils has warned. Analysis from the cross-party group estimates that skyrocketing numbers of homeless Londoners needing a roof over their heads and spiralling temporary accommodation costs mean boroughs in the

Read More »
Green Light for Audley Retirement Village at Brent Cross Town

Green Light for Audley Retirement Village at Brent Cross Town

A new chapter in later living has been approved for Brent Cross Town, as Barnet Council grants planning permission for a major retirement living development by Audley Group and Senior Living Investment Partners. The approved plans will see the delivery of a 10-storey building comprising 148 high-quality apartments designed specifically

Read More »
£37.6m Housing Development In Beverley Reaches Major Milestone

£37.6m Housing Development In Beverley Reaches Major Milestone

Great progress is being made at Yorkshire Housing’s latest affordable housing development in Beverley, thanks to a partnership with Strata and Summers-Inman. The first homes at the much sought after Anthem development have been made watertight, marking a significant milestone for the project. With demand for affordable housing higher than

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Latest Issue
Issue 330 : Jul 2025

Kenneth Booth

CBRE’s Ciaran Bird to Step Down as UK & Ireland CEO After Nearly Two Decades of Leadership

CBRE’s Ciaran Bird to Step Down as UK & Ireland CEO After Nearly Two Decades of Leadership

CBRE has announced that Ciaran Bird, Chief Executive of its UK & Ireland advisory business, will be stepping down from his role. The global real estate services firm has begun the process of identifying his successor. Bird, who has led the advisory division through a period of strong growth and transformation, will continue to oversee the business alongside the UK Advisory Executive Committee until a new leader is appointed. Having joined CBRE in 2005 following its acquisition of retail specialist Dalgleish—where he spent 16 years—Bird has become a central figure in shaping the company’s strategy and expanding its presence across the UK and Ireland. Reflecting on his tenure, Bird said: “Our business has grown and prospered in ways I could never have imagined back in 2005. As I prepare to hand over the leadership reins, I do so knowing that the next chapter looks just as promising.” CBRE has a significant footprint in the UK and Ireland, with offices in major cities including London, Dublin, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Belfast, among others. The company’s UK advisory team currently comprises over 3,000 professionals. Chris Kirk, Global Chief Operating Officer of Advisory Services at CBRE, praised Bird’s impact on the firm: “CBRE holds a market-leading position in the UK advisory sector, thanks in large part to the leadership of Ciaran and the calibre of our team. We are grateful for his many contributions. The business is in a strong position for the future.” He added: “Ciaran and the UK Executive Committee will remain fully focused on driving the business forward, ensuring a smooth leadership transition as we search for the right person to build on our momentum.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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How to Size an Industrial Generator

How to Size an Industrial Generator

One of the biggest challenges when choosing a generator is to size it appropriately for your business needs. Nowadays, businesses prefer to go for diesel generators because they’ve proven themselves to be reliable, durable, and more fuel-efficient than other alternatives. However, they are a considerable investment, so you need to make sure you choose the right size generator when you purchase. Below is a guide to help you size a generator. 1.  What do you need it for? Before discussing how to find the right size generator, we first want to look at why you need to get a generator and its purpose. Usually, businesses get generators for one of two reasons: they get them as standby generators to provide backup power to the business during an unplanned power outage. For businesses that rely on electricity to operate, one or two hours without it can be detrimental to the business. In this case, investing in a generator is wise because it ensures that business can continue uninterrupted. Secondly, businesses get an industrial generator as their primary source of power. This is usually the case when a business operates in an area without access to the power grid or if the power supplied to the area is unreliable. These generators are built to handle a consistent load for long periods. So, before we move on, consider the power needs of your business. Do you need a generator as a backup or as your primary source of power? 2.  How much power do you need? Now that you know what purpose your generator will function in, you need to figure out what your power requirements are. Usually, this involves calculating the amount of power you use to run the business, like the power requirements for your equipment, HVAC systems, computers, machinery, or anything else your business needs to operate. You may also need to consider the types of loads your generator will be handling, for example: 3.  Understand the motor-starting methods The starting method you choose for your generator can also impact what generator you choose in the end. There are three common starting methods for generators: 4.  Consider the environmental factors Suppose you’re a business owner in Australia, and you’re looking to install a large generator. In that case, there are regulations about what generator you can install, the emissions it can release, and where it should be installed. Likewise, other factors influence the size of the generator you might need. For instance, high altitudes, extreme weather conditions, and high humidity can all impact the generator’s performance and may require you to buy a larger generator. 5.  Choose the right fuel system Lastly, modern generators run off various fuel systems, such as petrol, diesel, and natural gas. However, most businesses tend to favour diesel generators because of their durability, longevity, and fuel efficiency, making them a better investment option. Diesel generally burns slower than petrol and is less flammable, making it more economical to run and safer for your business. Buying an industrial generator Now that you know more or less how to size a generator, you need to find the right one. When it comes to industrial generators, we recommend getting in touch with Renteca. As professionals in the industry with years of experience, Renteca specialises in industrial generators so they’ll be able to set you up with the right one. Final thoughts Let’s recap. The first step in sizing a generator is working out what you need it for and how much power it needs to provide. From there, you can look at things like fuel type and other features that make the generator more convenient. Once you’ve figured these out, you can start the process of finding the right generator for the job.

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Get Living submits revised plans for Elephant and Castle West Site

Get Living submits revised plans for Elephant and Castle West Site

Get Living, one of the UK’s leading build-to-rent operators and developers, has submitted revised proposals for the next and final phase of its Elephant and Castle town centre transformation, bringing further homes for rent, including affordable homes, as well as landscaped public realm and a major cultural venue. The West Site sits alongside The Elephant, the second phase of the scheme, which is providing 485 new homes, a diverse mix of restaurants, shops, leisure and cultural facilities, a new university campus, workspace, improved transport infrastructure including a new underground station and a new public square. The updated plans for the West Site, have been submitted to Southwark Council this month and form the third phase of Get Living’s £1.5 billion regeneration of the Elephant and Castle Town Centre. The enhanced proposal reinforces Get Living’s commitment to creating a thriving destination and a new meeting place for locals, prospective residents and visitors alike. It will be the company’s flagship mixed use scheme, incorporating retail, leisure, culture, education and infrastructure improvements alongside the new homes for rent. Building on the original 2019 masterplan, the revisions introduce 452 purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) beds, easing pressure on the local private rental market and responding to the growing demand for high-quality rental and student accommodation. In Southwark alone, there has been a 25% rise in the student population over the past decade. In response to local community feedback, retail space on the first floor facing Pastor Street has been replaced with nine additional homes, increasing the total number of homes to 507, of which 165 are affordable. The plans introduce architectural improvements to complement Elephant and Castle’s distinct character alongside providing a new public square, which will serve as a focal point for the area’s social and cultural life. Sustainability remains at the heart of the project, with an all-electric low carbon energy system, increased green spaces, and a strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions where possible by adopting the principles of passive haus design. A significant carbon reduction will be achieved by repurposing part of the existing LCC Workshop into an exciting new cultural venue. The adaptive reuse of the structure will help to preserve Elephant and Castle’s rich history and social fabric whilst creating flexible spaces for arts, performances, and community activities. The development also carefully respects the surrounding streetscape, providing the transition between the nearby Elliott’s Row Conservation Area and Victorian houses on Oswin Street to the new Elephant and Castle town centre. The West Site becomes available for redevelopment in early 2028, following the relocation of the LCC to its new, state-of-the-art campus building next door at The Elephant. The launch of the development will mark the delivery of a game changing regeneration of Elephant and Castle, set to be central London’s newest and exciting mixed use destination. Rick de Blaby, Chief Executive of Get Living, said: “Elephant and Castle has always been a place where cultures, commerce, and communities converge and we are working hard to honour that legacy as we continue the extraordinary transformation. “We are pleased to submit our planning application for the final phase that better reflects local need while significantly enhancing the sustainability credentials. “Alongside our work on the West site, our vision for the second phase of The Elephant is quickly becoming a reality and we are progressing some very exciting conversations with both well-known brands and unique independents, which will be opening their doors when the scheme launches in 2026. “As long-term stakeholders, we are committed to delivering a new meeting place where people can come together to live, work and socialise, delivering much-needed homes, including affordable homes, student accommodation and vibrant public spaces that bring energy and opportunity to the area.” The first phase of Get Living’s Elephant and Castle development, Elephant Central, launched in 2017, and included 374 homes for rent, 278 student homes and 65,659 sq ft of commercial space, comprising a supermarket, gym and nursery. Its second phase, The Elephant, is launching in early 2026, and will include 135,000 sq ft of shops, restaurants and leisure space, a 370,000 sq ft university buildings for UAL, landscaped public realm, 55,000 sq ft of workspace, and 485 new homes for rent, of which 172 will be affordable. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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• Sensitive transformation and extension of Grade II listed building has reached practical completion • PayPal has signed a lease agreement to take 40,000 sq. ft. of space on the building’s top floor • With 80% of its existing structure retained and numerous low-carbon design principles incorporated, 76 Southbank exemplifies low-carbon office design • 76 Southbank has achieved a design-stage BREEAM outstanding certification • The scheme has been delivered with Stanhope Plc as Development Manager, LaSalle Investment Management as asset manager, and Multiplex as Main Contractor

Paypal sign lease for 40,000 sq. Ft. At 76 Southbank as construction completes

The transformation and extension of 76 Southbank, a Grade II listed building adjacent to the National Theatre, has successfully reached practical completion – delivering 300,000 sq. ft. of cutting-edge and sustainable office space. The scheme has been delivered with Stanhope Plc as Development Manager, LaSalle Investment Management as asset manager and was overseen by Multiplex as the Main Contractor.   PayPal, a global leader in digital payments, will be the building’s first occupier, after signing a lease for 40,000 sq. ft. of the top floor of the building. Targeting a Q2 2026 occupancy, PayPal selected 76 Southbank based on the building’s amenity offerings, proximity to their current City offices and its transport connectivity. Six stations, including Waterloo, Charing Cross and Blackfriars, are within a 10-minute walk from 76 Southbank, providing direct access to the West End, City of London and Canary Wharf. The completed refurbishment features impressive outdoor terraces spanning 50,000 sq. ft., offering panoramic river views alongside biophilic landscaping. A double-height entrance lobby provides a generous office reception, with a striking centrepiece staircase serving as a visual focal point. 76 Southbank prioritises occupant wellbeing, with the revitalised building offering adaptable office spaces designed to enhance productivity and comfort while fostering collaboration. Forward-thinking design principles prioritise the end user experience, such as touchless entry systems and curated amenity areas. The iconic space sets a new standard in low-carbon office design. The project construction has embraced a circular economy approach, prioritising off-site fabrication to minimise on-site waste and incorporating reused steel in its construction. This dedication to sustainability is embodied through energy-efficient solutions that have been installed whilst protecting the building’s brutalist heritage. The project is targeting a BREEAM Outstanding certification and NABERS Design Reviewed Target Rating of 5 Stars.  The transformation project renews the last significant work of Sir Denys Lasdun, the renowned architect behind iconic structures such as the National Theatre. The remodelling and refurbishing of this historically significant Grade II listed building has been carried out with the utmost sensitivity, ensuring that 80% of its iconic structure is preserved for future generations. The architectural redesign has been led by AHMM. Stanhope are the Development Manager and LaSalle Investment Management are the asset managers for the project. Global alternative asset manager Cheyne Capital Real Estate provided the financing for the project. Leading real estate agencies CBRE and JLL have been appointed as agents for 76 Southbank. JLL acted for Paypal. Kevin Darvishi, Head of Leasing at Stanhope said: “Practical completion of 76 Southbank and the arrival of PayPal will breathe new life into this brutalist icon. Built for the future, 76 Southbank is accessed from a spectacular triple height reception and provides large floor plates that all benefit from unrivalled views of the Thames, in a thriving part of central London. An occupier of PayPal’s calibre underlines market demand for low-carbon and amenity-rich workspaces.” Chris Lewis, Managing Director, International Accounts, Europe, LaSalle Investment Management said: “The completion of 76 Southbank marks a significant milestone. Its strong location, best-in-class amenities and historical significance position it as a standout commercial property in central London. PayPal’s decision to occupy space here underscores the building’s appeal, and we look forward to welcoming their employees to this exceptional development next year.” Simon Bladon, PayPal UK CEO said: “This is an exciting time for PayPal in the UK, and we’re looking forward to welcoming in the next chapter with a brand new home on London’s iconic South Bank.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Kier completes £30 million Bristol Development and Interaction appointed to deliver fit out

Kier completes £30 million Bristol Development and Interaction appointed to deliver fit out

Practical completion reached at The Crescent Centre as fit out company appointed On behalf of investment and development company CEG, Kier has completed the redevelopment of Crescent at Temple Quay in Bristol. The building has been transformed to include a new two-storey feature façade, a rooftop extension and the addition of three private roof terraces, the most prominent of which offers unrivalled views over Temple Gardens from the fifth floor. The first letting has already been secured with OVO relocating its UK headquarters to 22,894 sq. ft of space, which includes the entire fifth floor and a fourth-floor suite. Crescent offers 100,000 sq ft of office space and has the largest private garden in the city centre as an added benefit for its occupiers. There is also a secure weatherproof cycle park for 164 bikes and a repair docking facility, wellbeing and fitness studio with leisure club changing facilities. As well as targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A, the building is targeting Net Zero Carbon in operation. Reuse of the existing structure provides a 45% reduction in upfront embodied carbon over new build, allied with best-in-class energy efficient heating and cooling, makes Crescent a compelling sustainability option. CEG has now appointed Bath-based fit out specialist, Interaction, to deliver break out workspace and beautiful fitted office suites. The fitted office suites will provide occupiers with the option of taking tailor made space ready for immediate occupation or taking traditional office suites where they can deliver their own fit out.   Interaction’s Business Director, Hannah Eardley said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with CEG on such a transformative project. The design balances sustainability with a deep respect for the building’s heritage, incorporating nods to Bristol’s rich manufacturing history such as the original fabric racks and pottery. By reimagining communal areas with thoughtful, flexible design, we’re creating a space that really works for its occupiers, offering something for everyone. This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity to deliver not just a workplace, but a destination where community and sustainability are at the heart of the experience.” Paul Richardson, Investment Manager at CEG, said; “Crescent sits in a prime location on Temple Back. This is a first-class redevelopment and Interaction’s interior design will deliver a contemporary and healthy place to work, supported by amenities including a ribbon business lounge, Temple Grind café, well-being and fitness studio.” The development will offer floor plates of 18,000 sq ft. It also benefits from the ability to accommodate a range of requirements from 1,600 sq ft upwards. Carter Jonas and Savills have been appointed to launch the development to market. Harry Allen, Director of Office Agency South-West at Savills, said: “Crescent offers exceptional space for small and growing businesses, from 16 desks to 180, it will create a vibrant and thriving business community. The building’s flexibility and market leading tenant amenities, from a private garden to a café and gym, will appeal to Bristol businesses seeking best in class working environments for their staff with Net Zero commitments.” This £30 million investment is the latest in significant investments into the CEG Group’s portfolio in Bristol which, to date, stands at £234 million. The team is managing a 250,000 sq ft Bristol portfolio, has refurbished the Quorum, delivered the award-winning EQ at 111 Victoria Street and 1000 Aztec West. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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M&S Unveils £90m Expansion Plan to Boost London Food Halls and Store Upgrades

M&S Unveils £90m Expansion Plan to Boost London Food Halls and Store Upgrades

Marks & Spencer has announced a £90 million investment to expand and upgrade its store portfolio across London, with six brand new food halls and 11 enhanced stores set to open or relaunch in the coming years. The retail giant will add around 70,000 sq ft of new space through the launch of food halls in Covent Garden, Leytonstone, Clapham Common, Putney, New Malden, and Fulham Broadway—subject to planning permission. These additions are part of a wider strategy to strengthen M&S’s presence in the capital by catering to growing customer demand for high-quality, convenient food offerings. In addition to the new openings, 11 existing stores are undergoing significant upgrades. Among them is the Clapham South food hall, which has already reopened featuring a refreshed produce section, expanded frozen and ambient food areas, a larger in-store bakery, and improved fixtures including new flooring, refrigeration, and checkouts. Further refurbishments are under way at stores in Brooklands, Islington, Brent Cross, Whetstone, Wimbledon, and Chiswick. Meanwhile, revamped M&S food outlets have recently reopened in key London transport hubs including Euston, St Pancras, and Charing Cross stations. One of the most high-profile projects is the phased renewal of M&S’s flagship Pantheon store on Oxford Street. The renovation will begin with a complete overhaul of the basement food hall in April, which will stay open throughout the works. A temporary food offering will be in place while construction progresses. Once completed, the updated food hall will include a fresh pizza counter, hot chicken options, and an all-new coffee shop concept. This investment in the capital follows the company’s announcement of a separate £50 million plan for the North West, aimed at increasing store space and modernising outlets in the region. Sacha Berendji, Operations Director at M&S, said:“London has always held a special place in the M&S story—from our early days with penny bazaars to the modern Foodhalls we operate today, like the one we reopened in Brixton last year. We serve thousands of customers each day across the capital, from large full-line stores to grab-and-go outlets in train stations. This new wave of store investment is our commitment to bringing the best of M&S to every corner of London—from Brixton to Barnet—for many years to come.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Caddick Gears Up for Growth with New Leeds Logistics Hub

Caddick Gears Up for Growth with New Leeds Logistics Hub

Caddick Construction has broken ground on a major urban logistics development in Leeds, after being appointed by developer Chancerygate as main contractor for its £46.5 million T45 scheme. Situated just off junction 45 of the M1 motorway, the 11.1-acre site will deliver 23 high-specification commercial units ranging in size from 4,450 sq ft to 34,000 sq ft. In total, the development will add 223,000 sq ft of new logistics and industrial space to the region, with completion expected in early 2026. The project marks the fourth collaboration between Chancerygate and Caddick, following successful developments in Carlisle, Aintree, and Knutsford. With sustained demand for logistics and manufacturing space across the UK, Caddick has significantly expanded its regional footprint. The company is also delivering a £42 million manufacturing facility for Schneider Electric in North Yorkshire, while nearing completion of a £28 million site in Howden for Yara International — soon to be home to the UK’s largest specialist fertiliser plant. T45 is expected to attract a broad range of occupiers and contribute to the ongoing regeneration and economic development of the Leeds area. Its strategic location, just minutes from the national motorway network, makes it an ideal site for logistics and light industrial businesses. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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£330m homelessness overspend as housing crisis threatens to bankrupt London boroughs

£330m homelessness overspend as housing crisis threatens to bankrupt London boroughs

London’s worsening homelessness emergency represents the “single biggest risk” to boroughs’ finances and is pushing town halls towards bankruptcy, London Councils has warned. Analysis from the cross-party group estimates that skyrocketing numbers of homeless Londoners needing a roof over their heads and spiralling temporary accommodation costs mean boroughs in the capital were forced to overspend on their homelessness budgets by at least £330m in 2024-25. This represents a 60% increase on their original homelessness budget plans for the year. Local authorities have a legal duty to provide temporary accommodation to homeless households qualifying for support under housing law, making it essentially impossible for councils to place strict limits on their homelessness expenditure.    London boroughs also highlight a growing mismatch between their temporary accommodation costs and the subsidy they receive for this from the government. In 2023-24 the gap was around £96m, but London Councils estimates the gap for 2024-25 reached £140m – a 45% increase.   London Councils fears that if current trends continue, more boroughs will need emergency support from the government and may even be at risk of issuing Section 114 notices – effectively declarations of bankruptcy [1].   London Councils highlights the following: London Councils emphasises the need for urgent national policy action in the Spending Review to reduce homelessness pressures, including through more financial support for hard-pressed boroughs and additional investment in affordable housing. The government is set to conclude its Spending Review in June, which will determine levels of investment in public services for the coming years. The government is also preparing a new national strategy on homelessness. Cllr Grace Williams, London Councils’ Executive Member for Housing & Regeneration, said: “The worsening homelessness emergency is devastating the lives of too many Londoners and represents the single biggest risk to boroughs’ finances. “Homelessness spending is fundamentally driven by factors outside our control. Boroughs have a legal duty to provide homelessness support – and we’re seeing homelessness numbers skyrocket while accommodation costs spiral.   “If things carry on as they are, we will see more boroughs’ become effectively bankrupt. This brings massive uncertainty to the future of our communities’ local services, and could ultimately mean more costs to the government when emergency interventions are required. “London boroughs are doing everything we can to turn this situation around, but we need urgent action from ministers. Only national government has the powers and resources required to bolster councils’ budgets and reduce homelessness pressures – particularly through investing far more in affordable housing.” Cllr Williams recently gave evidence in parliament on boroughs’ unsustainable homelessness spending, including showing MPs a “chart of doom” based on boroughs’ fast-rising overspends [3].   London Councils is calling on the government to: Help councils meet the cost of temporary accommodation by ending the fourteen-year freeze on the amount local authorities can claim back from government to meet their temporary accommodation costs. The subsidy gap has become the key driver of financial insecurity for boroughs, reducing investment in prevention and is consequently leading to lower quality accommodation. Make the increase in Local Housing Allowance rates a permanent measure. Research published by London Councils shows only 5% of London’s private rental listings in the capital are affordable to households in the private rented sector relying on Local Housing Allowance (which goes to eligible households as part of their housing benefit or Universal Credit payment if they have a private landlord). Boroughs want LHA rates updated annually to track inflation and help ensure adequate support for low-income tenants in the private rented sector. This would prevent significant levels of homelessness in the capital.  Progress work on the national cross-departmental strategy to reduce homelessness. In line with the government’s commitment to a new strategy with a clear role for councils, tackling homelessness must be a major priority at a national level with government departments working together – in addition to key partners such as local authorities – as effectively as possible. Boost long-term grant funding for affordable housing. The chronic and longstanding shortage of affordable housing is the key factor driving London’s homelessness emergency. At the Spending Review, the government should announce a more ambitious and longer-term Affordable Homes Programme on top of the initial investment confirmed for 2026-27.  With more investment available for social and affordable housing, boroughs will be in a better position to deliver the affordable housing London’s communities are crying out for. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Green Light for Audley Retirement Village at Brent Cross Town

Green Light for Audley Retirement Village at Brent Cross Town

A new chapter in later living has been approved for Brent Cross Town, as Barnet Council grants planning permission for a major retirement living development by Audley Group and Senior Living Investment Partners. The approved plans will see the delivery of a 10-storey building comprising 148 high-quality apartments designed specifically for residents over 60. This will mark the first retirement community within the 180-acre Brent Cross Town regeneration — one of Europe’s most ambitious urban renewal projects, being delivered by Related Argent in partnership with Barnet Council. The development, valued at £8 billion, is already reshaping this area of north-west London, with thousands of new homes, expansive office space, schools, parks, and a vibrant high street in the pipeline. With two residential buildings already completed and occupied, the community is beginning to take shape. Audley’s new scheme will operate under its Mayfield Villages brand, known for its contemporary, wellness-focused approach to retirement living. It will also be the brand’s first location in the capital and only the second in its portfolio. Residents will benefit from 17,000 sq ft of shared amenities, including a health and wellbeing centre, landscaped gardens, a village hall, and a café-bistro that will be open to the public, encouraging community interaction. The project is being delivered in partnership with Senior Living Investment Partners, a £200 million joint venture between Octopus Real Estate and Pension Insurance Corporation. Nick Sanderson, chief executive of Audley Group, commented: “Planning approval for the new Mayfield Village at Brent Cross Town is a fantastic step forward. The demand for specialist retirement living properties isn’t slowing down and it’s important we give more people more choice over how and where they live as they get older. Mayfield Brent Cross will become an important part of the vibrant intergenerational community being created in this area of London.” Tom Goodall, chief executive of Related Argent, added: “We are delighted that the first retirement living homes at Brent Cross Town have been given the go-ahead. This builds on the continued inward investment secured over the last 12 months and accelerates our bold vision to create an intergenerational community with diverse housing options. We look forward to bringing this vibrant new project to life with industry leaders Audley Group.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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£37.6m Housing Development In Beverley Reaches Major Milestone

£37.6m Housing Development In Beverley Reaches Major Milestone

Great progress is being made at Yorkshire Housing’s latest affordable housing development in Beverley, thanks to a partnership with Strata and Summers-Inman. The first homes at the much sought after Anthem development have been made watertight, marking a significant milestone for the project. With demand for affordable housing higher than ever, the development, which is situated off Minster Way, will see a total of 136 homes built across a mixture of tenures, including social rent, shared ownership and rent-to-buy. It’s hoped the first homes will be ready to move into this summer. Part-funded by Homes England, the development is part of Strata’s Anthem project, with Summers-Inman providing cost consultancy and employer’s agent support.  Summers-Inman has a strong track record with Yorkshire Housing, having worked on a number of previous developments. The company is also involved in several other much needed affordable housing projects across the North of England, supporting developments of all sizes.  Commenting on progress at the Beverley site, Summers-Inman director and specialist housing lead, David Blakey, said: “We were delighted to win this latest project which will make a substantial contribution to easing the affordable housing shortage in the East Riding of Yorkshire, and at the same time creating communities with a real sense of belonging. “We have been able to develop a highly effective working relationship with Yorkshire Housing over many years on schemes throughout the region. Clients appreciate the innovation and expertise we can bring to projects which we have gained on a variety of housing projects working in the capacity of employer’s agent, quantity surveyor, project manager and principal designer, all of which are all familiar territory for us. We hope we will be able to provide our expertise on many more Yorkshire Housing schemes in the future.”  Yorkshire Housing has ambitious plans to build homes in the coming years. So far, almost 3,500 have already been completed, with another 1,200 in the pipeline. Their focus is on providing high-quality, affordable and sustainable developments to make sure more people have a place they’re proud to call home. Sian Webster, executive director of growth and assets at Yorkshire Housing, said: “We’re excited to see our Beverley development come to life and to be working with Strata with support from Summers-Inman to deliver much-needed affordable homes in the area. Demand for high-quality, energy-efficient housing is high, and this project is a great example of what strong partnerships can achieve. “At Yorkshire Housing, we’re committed to building homes that are both affordable and sustainable. We’re looking forward to welcoming the first residents in summer and continuing to work with our partners to tackle the housing crisis in Yorkshire.” Rob Larkin, pre-construction director at Strata, added: “It’s great to be working on another contract with Yorkshire Housing, a valued partner of Strata, to deliver much needed affordable housing to the Beverley area. We believe modern, energy efficient homes should be accessible to anyone, regardless of tenure and this partnership is another important step towards this for the region.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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