Leading commercial property developer, Stoford has announced a new site wide agreement with the Church Commissioners for England that will unlock future phases of development at a job creating industrial scheme in East Devon. The agreement paves the way for the development of an additional c.500,000 sq ft of industrial/logistics
THE CONSTRUCTION industry needs to capitalise on the collaborative atmosphere created by this year’s MIPIM in order to meet the key challenges it faces, according to Andrew Carpenter, chief executive of Constructing Excellence Midlands. Speaking in the wake of this year’s event – which was attended by more than 20,000
Leading national urban regeneration business, Muse Developments, in partnership with Bradford Council, has appointed Caddick Construction to deliver the landmark One City Park office scheme, which will continue the transformation of the heart of Bradford city centre. The 56,403 sq. ft sustainable development on the former police HQ site, is
Civil engineering specialist firm GRAHAM has been appointed as the Principal Contractor to deliver a new bridge and link road as part of the Chelmsford East Beaulieu S278 Works (RDR Phase 3) project. The £16.77m project will connect the A130 Essex Regiment Way and the Beaulieu and Channels housing developments
Works at the new luxury residential development The Yacht Club, situated on the banks of the River Trent between Colwick and West Bridgford, continue to progress well with first completions afoot and residents set to be welcomed to their new homes very soon. Developed by Leeds-based KMRE Group Ltd, the
Building output was boosted by sustained rise in new work across the board according to the Construction Purchasing Managers index for March. The latest reading of 59.1 was unchanged from February and well above the 50 mark that separates expansion from contraction. The index revealed the joint-fastest rate of output
Meanwhile, the fully pre-let 2 Ruskin Square tops out and is on track to complete in mid-2023 Both 2 and 3 Ruskin Square targeting BREEAM Outstanding ratings. Schroders Capital’s UK Real Estate Fund (SREF) and Stanhope Plc have secured detailed planning consent from Croydon Council for 3 Ruskin Square, a
INTERNATIONAL M&E consultancy CPW has further expanded its operations and appointed two accomplished acousticians. Jon Willmott now heads up the newly formed acoustics department, with the support of senior acoustics consultant James Large, in order to meet the growing demand across multiple sectors for acoustic input. Jon, who has been
Homes Plus, a leading provider of affordable homes has completed a landmark £3.2 million project in a Staffordshire village that aims to provide high quality, retirement living for older people. The purpose-built complex in Kinver offers 20 modern, spacious, self-contained apartments with extensive communal facilities, including an attractive rooftop terrace,
Since 2018, Peterborough-based Trade Mastermind has helped hundreds of construction businesses to achieve exceptional success and growth. Under the guidance of Trade Mastermind’s CEO Joseph Valente, and the former winner of BBC’s The Apprentice, the entrepreneur uses his vast business knowledge to teach construction business owners how to scale-up. After
Leading commercial property developer, Stoford has announced a new site wide agreement with the Church Commissioners for England that will unlock future phases of development at a job creating industrial scheme in East Devon. The agreement paves the way for the development of an additional c.500,000 sq ft of industrial/logistics accommodation at Exeter Logistics Park, Clyst Honiton. Stoford will develop the scheme on a design and build basis, with new units made available on freehold or leasehold terms. Exeter Logistics Park is part of the second phase of a significant industrial scheme which was opened in 2017, following the grant of outline planning, secured by the Church Commissioners. Part of the Exeter and East Devon Growth Point economic development zone east of the M5, near Exeter Airport, the scheme will total more than 650,000 sq ft upon completion and includes improvements to the local transport infrastructure. A new access road and signalised traffic junction have been created off the B3174 London Road, making the site immediately available for further development. Stoford has already completed construction of a new 90,000 sq ft distribution unit and a 415-space electric vehicle charging park at Exeter Logistics Park, on behalf of an international retailer. Works are also underway on the construction of a further two new buildings, including DHL’s 54,732 sq ft parcel distribution service centre and a 28,464 sq ft warehouse that is being developed speculatively. The new developments are characterised by strong environmental credentials, including green roof spaces, a sustainable urban drainage system, provision of solar panels and an external trim trail with outdoor gym and fitness area. They are expected to be completed this month (March 2022) and have the potential to create more than 100 new jobs. It is estimated that Exeter Logistics Park could contribute between £90 million – £105 million to the regional economy when fully complete. Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director, Stoford said: “Exeter Logistics Park is an extremely well connected site with enormous potential. We are on track to deliver the two new buildings in Q1 this year and the new agreement will enable us to further develop the scheme to meet continued demand. This is a sustainable scheme that has already attracted high calibre, international occupiers. It has all of the attributes to become the South West’s leading distribution hub, south of Bristol.” Joanna Loxton, Head of Strategic Land for the Church Commissioners for England, said: “The latest agreement builds on our already strong partnership with Stoford and will see hundreds of thousands of square feet of high-quality employment space being delivered, resulting in significant job creation locally and supporting the area’s continued growth. “We are particularly proud of Exeter Logistics Park’s sustainability credentials, which are a demonstration of our ESG commitments in action and will help support a ‘green recovery’ post-covid.” All enquiries regarding Exeter Logistics Park should be directed to the scheme’s retained agents, JLL and Cushman & Wakefield.
THE CONSTRUCTION industry needs to capitalise on the collaborative atmosphere created by this year’s MIPIM in order to meet the key challenges it faces, according to Andrew Carpenter, chief executive of Constructing Excellence Midlands. Speaking in the wake of this year’s event – which was attended by more than 20,000 delegates from around the world – Carpenter says that while a collaborative spirit is alive and well in Cannes, it risks being wasted if not capitalised on at home. “MIPIM has always been an ideal opportunity to meet the movers and shakers,” said Carpenter. “You can speak with the whole supply chain in one fell swoop, as well as some of the major policy creators and decision makers. “The event is the nucleus of the collaborative culture that we believe the construction industry needs to ensure it moves forward at the required pace. However, it is how that is followed up that will make the key difference when it comes to creating a truly integrated supply chain. “It’s our industry’s version of ‘a dog is for life, not just for Christmas’. It’s all well and good doing and saying the right things at MIPIM, but if that collaborative approach gets left at passport control on the way back into the UK, it’s just lip service and not something that is going to drive us forward.” Carpenter – who is also chief executive of the Structural Timber Association – hosted a breakfast event during MIPIM, which discussed the use of timber as part of the government’s push for net zero. He believes this is a key example of where collaboration is needed in order for the ambitious targets to be met. “With an eye on 2050 as the target for decarbonising all sectors of the UK economy, it is clear that this is not going to be anywhere near feasible for the construction industry if we aren’t working in lockstep. “We as an industry are one of the biggest polluters on the planet, and we are at a crossroads in terms of how we tackle that. “This is a key conversation that Constructing Excellence is having across its regions. We recently refined our theme groups – at which we discuss and define industry challenges – to create a dedicated workstream that focuses on strategic and collaborative research into how the climate crisis can be addressed. Conversations like this are a vital catalyst for continuous, long-term industry improvement, which is what Constructing Excellence is all about. “We truly feel that the construction industry is at a critical juncture, and it’s our responsibility to make sure that we move forward together in the right direction.” If you or your organisation would like to be involved or to find out more, please contact Constructing Excellence Midlands at info@cemidlands.org.
Leading national urban regeneration business, Muse Developments, in partnership with Bradford Council, has appointed Caddick Construction to deliver the landmark One City Park office scheme, which will continue the transformation of the heart of Bradford city centre. The 56,403 sq. ft sustainable development on the former police HQ site, is the first high-quality, modern office scheme to be delivered in Bradford city centre for more than 20 years. It will directly address the need for high-quality offices by offering exceptional workspace with adaptable floor plans to accommodate agile working practices. The five-storey development – rated BREEAM ‘Excellent’ – will also feature new public realm areas around the scheme. The building will connect seamlessly to the multi award-winning City Park with new stepped access and attractive seating areas. It is also within walking distance to cultural assets including City Hall, St George’s Hall and new music venue Bradford Live, which is due to open later this year. More than 300 jobs will be created throughout the construction with a further 450 jobs based in the building once completed. Enabling works are already underway with construction due to start on site later this month, and the building due to complete by summer 2023. The development will have strong sustainability credentials, including high-performance glazing to the façades to maximise natural light while reducing solar gain; photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps to make sure the building operates on renewable energy. A roof terrace will serve a dual purpose, helping with the natural cooling of the building as well as promoting the wellbeing of its occupants. All of the car-parking spaces will have electric car charging points, coupled with secure cycle storage and changing facilities on the ground floor to encourage workers to take more sustainable and healthier ways to travel to the office. Simon Dew, development director at Muse Developments, added: “We’re very excited to announce this important milestone for One City Park and to be working with Bradford Council and Caddick Construction on this flagship scheme. The significance of One City Park can’t be underestimated for Bradford and we know there’s growing demand from businesses looking to relocate or expand in the city centre.” Adrian Dobson, managing director for Caddick Construction, said: “This is a high-profile scheme in the heart of Bradford that will have a transformational effect on the city centre. Caddick is delighted to have been chosen as construction partner to deliver on such an important project for Muse, Bradford Council and the city as a whole.” Jason Longhurst, Bradford Council’s strategic director for place, said: “We are delighted that Caddick Construction has been appointed to bring this flagship scheme to life. One City Park will be a huge step forward in our ambition to become a clean growth city district and provide a welcome boost to the city centre economy.” Muse Developments is an established specialist in place-changing regeneration, working in close partnerships with councils, local stakeholders and the wider business communities to create award winning landmark developments across the UK. Muse is also part of Morgan Sindall plc – the UK’s leading construction and regeneration group. Bradford was also recently named in a national report as the city with the most potential to benefit from the Levelling Up agenda. This report coincides with significant investment for Bradford into both transport and infrastructure as part of the £50m Transforming Cities public realm enhancement programme. For further information visit www.onecitypark.com.
Civil engineering specialist firm GRAHAM has been appointed as the Principal Contractor to deliver a new bridge and link road as part of the Chelmsford East Beaulieu S278 Works (RDR Phase 3) project. The £16.77m project will connect the A130 Essex Regiment Way and the Beaulieu and Channels housing developments on the west side of the Great Eastern Main Line (GEML) railway lines to the A12 Boreham interchange on the east side of the railway. The scheme will see the delivery of new highways infrastructure to facilitate future phases of development at the Beaulieu Development in Chelmsford for the client Countryside and L&Q. The works comprise of a new three-span bridge over the Great Eastern Main Line railway and A12 slip-road; and approach embankments on either side linking into the new Radial Distributor Road (RDR) and the existing Boreham Interchange. The infrastructure will also form part of a local bus route and the principal HGV traffic route between the A12 and Braintree and provide a link between the proposed new Beaulieu railway station on the east side of the railway. GRAHAM has already delivered the pre-construction phase of the contract, which required a fully coordinated design and installation methodology to meet the approval and standards of Highways England and Network Rail. As part of the contract, GRAHAM will provide the construction of a range of new highway infrastructure, including: A new three-span highway bridge structure Piling Earthworks Soil retaining walls Bearings Stormwater (SUDS) drainage Road construction to include provision for pedestrians Traffic signs and road markings Traffic signal loops Street lighting Fencing Vehicle restraint systems. Utility ducts Temporary works Other ancillary works Coordination with and programming of the works of statutory undertakers to carry out required diversion/protection works on the public highway All associated Traffic Management Works The new Beaulieu Rail Bridge will be a 161m long three-span structure of composite weathering steel fabricated plate girders on in-situ reinforced concrete column abutments and piers, with reinforced concrete pile-caps and bored cast in place reinforced concrete piles. The girders will be a constant depth over their full length. The superstructure will be constructed on site, off-line on adjacent land. GRAHAM will carry out the installation by raising the complete superstructure using Self Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMT) which will carry it to its final position before lowering it onto the permanent bearings. This methodology has been used by GRAHAM successfully on previous bridge installations, notably on the Carpenter’s Land Bridge in 2020, a project that linked London’s East Bank to its International Quarter. GRAHAM has a proven track record in the Chelmsford area having completed the award-winning A138 Chelmer Viaduct – a £32m strategic highway, which has increased transport capacity and significantly improved journeys for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Discussing the award of this next phase of works, GRAHAM Managing Director Leo Martin said: “Following our appointment to design the bridge for this scheme under a Stage 1 Pre-construction Services contract which focused on optioneering, outline design and detailed design development, we were delighted to secure the build phase for the Chelmsford East Beaulieu S278 Works. “The use of SPMTs to install the complete bridge rather than the traditional usage of a crane is an example of our innovative approach to civil engineering infrastructure projects and this methodology will help us install the new superstructure in the safest and most efficient manner. Leo added: “We’re thrilled to be delivering another important infrastructure scheme in the Chelmsford region following our work on the award-winning A138 Chelmer Viaduct. The Chelmsford East Beaulieu S278 works will provide important new transport links for the Beaulieu and Channels housing developments to the A12 Boreham Interchange, as well local bus and HGV routes between the A12 and Braintree. The project is another excellent opportunity for our team to show its capabilities in both the highways and rail sectors.” Work on the Chelmsford East Beaulieu S278 (RDR Phase 3) project is currently underway with an anticipated completion date in Spring 2023.
Works at the new luxury residential development The Yacht Club, situated on the banks of the River Trent between Colwick and West Bridgford, continue to progress well with first completions afoot and residents set to be welcomed to their new homes very soon. Developed by Leeds-based KMRE Group Ltd, the 81-home waterfront scheme – which will be known by residents as Yacht Club Place – is located off the secluded Trent Lane, with Colwick Country Park and Nottingham Racecourse to the East and Lady Bay Bridge to the West, in an area that is undergoing significant transformation promising a vibrant new inbound community. Over 60% of the apartments in the first phase have already been sold and the largest out of the three apartment blocks, Block C, is set to complete in the coming days. The remaining two blocks – Block A and Block B, are set to complete within the next few weeks as they enter the final stages of construction. The development comprises of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouses, with prices starting from £300,000. A show apartment is available for prospective buyers to view on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays between 9am – 12pm, where a member of the sales team will be on hand to show visitors around and answer queries. All of the homes are river-facing, and each feature their own private balcony or terrace, providing spectacular views over the water, looking out to The Hook nature reserve opposite. With no passing traffic, except that of river boats, paddle boarders and rowers, The Yacht Club offers a supremely serene location by the water. Residents will also be able to access an onsite gym which boasts stunning views of the river. A new cycle and pedestrian bridge, known as the Waterside Bridge, is also proposed for the area with a planning application due to be submitted to Nottingham City Council and Rushcliffe Borough Council – it would be the first bridge to be built over the River Trent in more than 60 years. At the end of last year, The Yacht Club reached a new milestone with 45% of its apartments sold and has since completed the largest of the three apartment blocks that make up the development, Block C, which features 35 apartments and four penthouses. Of the apartments sold so far, developer KMRE Group Ltd and joint selling agents FHP Living and William H Brown have noted a particularly high level of interest from both young professionals and those looking to downsize or purchase a second home. Julia Day, Sales and Development Progression Manager at KMRE Group, said: “As our first residential development in Nottinghamshire, we are pleased to be investing in the area – contributing to the ongoing regeneration of the waterside and bringing high quality and unique desirable new homes to the city. “The apartments have been particularly popular with young professionals and downsizers – those who want a taste of city living with convenient amenities nearby, as well as access to open spaces and the countryside in a tranquil location. “The apartments are spacious but also sleek and simple, so easy for second homeowners or holiday-goers to lock up and leave, knowing their home will be safe and secure whilst they’re away. Given that travel companies are reporting a ‘summer boom’ is on the way with a surge of holiday bookings as Covid restrictions lift*, that might prove to be a real selling point for prospective buyers.” During and post pandemic, the housing market has also seen a shift in the number of London-based homeowners choosing to purchase properties outside of the capital and moving further up north. In 2021, homebuyers from London purchased more homes outside of the city than in any year since 2007**, in a movement that is expected to continue. Jules Hunt, Director at The Yacht Club’s joint selling agent FHP Living, said: “Homebuyers are searching for a higher quality of living and a balance between city life and access to nature – a trend that we have seen increase post-lockdown as workplace and travel routines change. “Providing an exclusive waterside lifestyle, The Yacht Club is ideally located close to the city centre, green spaces and local amenities and places of interest, including East Point Retail Park, Colwick Country Park and Holme Pierrepont. “These modern, spacious and contemporary homes provide uninterrupted views across the river and The Hook nature reserve, in an area of Nottingham that is undergoing an exciting transformation – creating new neighbourhoods along the banks of the River Trent.” For more information, call selling agents FHP Living on 0115 9778935 or William H Brown on 0115 9819828.
Building output was boosted by sustained rise in new work across the board according to the Construction Purchasing Managers index for March. The latest reading of 59.1 was unchanged from February and well above the 50 mark that separates expansion from contraction. The index revealed the joint-fastest rate of output growth since June 2021 boosted by the highest level of new orders since August last year. Commercial work was the best-performing segment with an index reading of 60.8 due to projects restarting following the roll back of pandemic restrictions. Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply group director Duncan Brock said: “But residential building became the laggard of the pack as affordability concerns were a factor in holding back progress particularly in new housing and refurbishment work.” Recoveries in residential work lost momentum in March with a reading of 54.9 and 56.3 for civil engineering. Deliver wait times climb A third of supply chain managers reported longer wait times for deliveries and sharp inflation rises as transport and raw material cost went up. The overall rate of input price inflation accelerated sharply since February and was the highest for six months. “Construction companies are braced for more disruption on the horizon as a result of the Ukraine conflict. The rise in purchasing demand fed into higher costs for materials already in short supply as energy hikes also impacted on business costs,” said Mr Brock. Input buying rose at the steepest pace since July 2021, driven by a combination of stronger demand and efforts to build stocks where possible. S&P Global economics director Tim Moore, whose company compiles the survey, said: “Business optimism slipped to its lowest since October 2020 on concerns that clients will cut back spending in response to rising prices and heightened economic uncertainty.” Property finance intermediary Hank Zarihs Associates said despite economic uncertainty tender opportunities and resilient customer demand meant development finance lenders were keen to offer construction loans to builders.
Meanwhile, the fully pre-let 2 Ruskin Square tops out and is on track to complete in mid-2023 Both 2 and 3 Ruskin Square targeting BREEAM Outstanding ratings. Schroders Capital’s UK Real Estate Fund (SREF) and Stanhope Plc have secured detailed planning consent from Croydon Council for 3 Ruskin Square, a 14-storey office building adjacent to East Croydon Station. The building, strikingly designed by shedkm, will provide 290,000 sq ft of offices plus retail on the ground floor to enhance future amenity at the scheme. Advanced and sustainable design remains at the heart of the Ruskin Square development, with a number of key sustainability design features incorporated into each building. 3 Ruskin Square will benefit from an all-electric energy strategy, rainwater harvesting, a high-performance façade, 35% green roof cover, a modular structural design to minimise embodied carbon, photovoltaics and a BREEAM Outstanding target. Focussing on occupier health and wellbeing, the building will also feature an air handling plant providing fresh air on a floor-by-floor basis rather than conventional communal/building wide system. This will be a significant feature which will be of keen interest to tenants following recent pandemic air quality concerns. The design also includes bicycle spaces with lockers available for tenant use to promote active lifestyles and fitness, as well as three retail units located on the ground floor intended for use by convenience and local amenities to support the community-focused approach to the development. Schroders Capital has signed up to the Better Buildings Partnership agreement and Ruskin Square is a key example of delivering on its ambitious sustainability targets. The Ruskin Square mixed-use development also saw 2 Ruskin Square top out earlier this month. Both buildings are targeting BREEAM Outstanding ratings and the NABERS building performance accreditation as SREF, part of Schroders Capital, the private assets specialist investment division of Schroders, and Stanhope Plc look to deliver best-in-class office spaces, complete with pioneering sustainability credentials. These latest developments will further amplify Ruskin Square’s transformative effect on the borough. Pre-lets to the UK government were secured for both of the first two phases; the 183,000 sq ft, Grade A 1 Ruskin Square was let in its entirety on a 25-year lease to HM Revenue & Customs in 2016, and the 330,000 sq ft 2 Ruskin Square was pre-let to the UK Home Office in 2020 on a 25 year lease from completion of the development. Rob Cosslett, Deputy Fund Manager, Schroders Capital, commented: ““Ruskin Square is on track to become a truly best in class office scheme in South London, combining exceptional building design with the benefits of the nearby train station, the amenities of Boxpark, and high quality and long term office occupiers. The active management approach adopted by the team, twinned with our strong occupier relationships has generated considerable value at Ruskin Square in recent years. Achieving planning for 3 Ruskin Square represents a major step forward in delivering the next phase of the scheme, with the building offering cutting edge ESG solutions and highly desirable office space that will be well-placed to meet evolving occupier needs.” David Camp, Chief Executive, Stanhope Plc, added: “We are delighted to have received detailed planning consent for this super looking building which will set new standards for health and wellbeing not only in Croydon but the wider central London office market. It amplifies the commitment of both Schroders and Stanhope in setting high design goals and responding positively to the ESG agenda.” Alex Flint, Director, shedkm also commented: “shedkm are delighted to be working with Schroders and Stanhope on this next exciting addition to the Ruskin Square masterplan. The commercial offer looks to bring the very highest standard of sustainable workspace to the area, whilst generating a strong timeless architectural response with a new colonnade at ground and first floor and an extension to Ruskin Square itself.” Ruskin Square pipeline Ruskin Square boasts dining and leisure destination Boxpark, a further 100,000 sq ft of retail and restaurant space and attractive public realm. The first of four residential phases is now fully occupied. Delivered in partnership with Places for People, ‘Vita’ comprises 161 stunning apartments. A further 326 homes across three residential plots are consented – all with access to communal amenities and outside space. Croydon is supporting significant growth within the tech sector, attracting companies, incubators and accelerators, as the town strives to be a world-class destination for growth, opportunity and innovation in the tech sector. Croydon has recently been named London Borough of Culture for 2023, fending off competition from across the capital. This will see events across the borough – and in Ruskin Square itself – to celebrate the borough’s rich and resilient artistic heritage, creativity and diversity.
INTERNATIONAL M&E consultancy CPW has further expanded its operations and appointed two accomplished acousticians. Jon Willmott now heads up the newly formed acoustics department, with the support of senior acoustics consultant James Large, in order to meet the growing demand across multiple sectors for acoustic input. Jon, who has been in the industry for more than 20 years, has assumed the position of associate director and head of acoustics following successful tenures at several other major consultancies, where his expertise took him as far as the Middle East for the FIFA 2022 preparations. The acoustics department is a complementary service to CPW’s MEP consultancy and provides specialist advice on all aspects of the acoustics, noise, and vibration in the built environment. Based primarily at CPW’s Manchester office, Jon is tasked with offering specialist advice on projects across the UK as well as growing the team and client base. He said: “It’s been incredibly busy since joining CPW and taking on the responsibility of the acoustics department, but I’ve enjoyed every minute. “CPW’s work culture and values immediately drew me in. The forward-thinking nature of its employees and collaborative approach to solving problems within the built environment is something we’re keen to continue nurturing. Following a raft of new project appointments, we’re looking to grow the team and take on engineers across a range of positions. “This is a really exciting time for CPW following a companywide rebrand and the expansion of four offices, so further investing in the acoustics team will offer our clients even more added value on projects. As a business we are continuing to invest in the acoustic tools and software to enable exciting 3D modelling and auralisations. However, our core objective is to produce cost-effective practical design solutions to our clients, and communicate these in jargon-free, plain-English.” James, who has worked alongside Jon previously in his career, will also play a key role in driving the department’s future growth strategy. He brings nine years of industry experience to the team, having worked on several high-profile developments such as the refurbishment of Waterloo Train Station. James said: “I’m really pleased to be part of CPW’s new acoustic department. There are so many exciting opportunities on the horizon, and the acoustics team is already home to vast amounts of technical expertise ready to be put to good use for CPW’s growing customer base.” Having noticed the increased demand for acoustic services from the healthcare, education, residential and commercial sectors, CPW expects the department to quickly grow and complement its existing team of experts specialising in sustainability within the built environment. Antonios Agapakis, director at CPW, added: “I recognised that we needed an acoustics expert to head up our new specialist department – and to have Jon join us is a real win for the business. We’re delighted to build on our in-house capability, which will be bolstered by James’ expertise and support. “The department serves as a ‘one-stop shop’ for clients, offering peace of mind through both challenging regulation adaption and design recommendation. As we grow this new arm of the business, we look forward to expanding the team and furthering our service offering, whilst providing opportunities to the next generation of acoustic specialists.” Understanding that noise and poor acoustics can have wide-reaching implications on health and wellbeing, the acoustics department offers a range of services such as environmental noise impact assessments, acoustic modelling, sound insulation testing and BREEAM noise assessments – all of which add to the depth off offering to clients. CPW is an international M&E consultancy with more than 250 staff based across 11 offices – including Bristol, Derby, Huntingdon, Leeds, Leicester, London, Manchester, Nottingham, and Solihull as well as Poland and India – specialising in designing and integrating a full range of energy solutions into existing and new buildings. For further information visit www.cpwp.com or follow @CPWengineering on social media.
Homes Plus, a leading provider of affordable homes has completed a landmark £3.2 million project in a Staffordshire village that aims to provide high quality, retirement living for older people. The purpose-built complex in Kinver offers 20 modern, spacious, self-contained apartments with extensive communal facilities, including an attractive rooftop terrace, secure parking and electric vehicle charging points. The property also has photovoltaic panels which will improve the building’s overall energy efficiency. Homes Plus has developed the site of several bungalows that no longer met the organisation’s high standards. The Burgesses development has been designed for people over 55 who want to live independently, with the reassurance of access to care and support provided by Housing Plus Group’s care company, Care Plus. During the construction process, residents of the bungalows were temporarily rehoused at a neighbouring Care Plus retirement living scheme, and a number of them will soon be moving into the new apartments.Kerry Bolister, director of development at Housing Plus Group, explained: “We are delighted to see the completion of this landmark project that has received strong support from residents who previously lived in The Burgesses and from people living in Kinver who may need to move into more suitable accommodation as they get older. “As well as providing much-needed affordable housing for older people, the development is also a great example of working in partnership to replace outdated housing stock with high-quality homes, much better suited to current and future housing need.” The ambitious project went ahead following a £1.1 million Social Housing Grant from Homes England and additional funding of £145,000 from South Staffordshire District Council. Darren Adnett, provider manager of Homes England, commented: “Despite the current challenges affecting the country, accelerating housebuilding remains our number one priority. We are committed to supporting Housing Plus Group that has ambitions to build new homes and our investment through affordable housing grant allows us to do that. “We’re delighted that this funding will enable Housing Plus Group to deliver much needed new homes for older people in Kinver, Staffordshire.” Work on site has been carried out on behalf of Housing Plus Group by S J Roberts Construction Ltd, who formally handed over the development in December 2021. Michael Sambrook, S J Roberts managing director, said: “It’s been fantastic to see this vital community facility progress and now handed over to Housing Plus Group. This building will provide older people with beautifully designed independent living with the knowledge that any help they require is close to hand. “S J Roberts is proud of its relationship with the Housing Plus Group, and we look forward to this continuing well into the future.” The new homes form part of Housing Plus Group’s ambitious pledge to start building 2,000 much-needed new homes by 2023, helping to tackle the national housing crisis. “The Burgesses scheme offers yet another example of how we are investing in the future by building high-quality, energy-efficient homes to meet the needs of our customers and to help tackle a national shortage of affordable housing,” Kerry added. Councillor Terry Mason, cabinet member for planning and business enterprise at South Staffordshire District Council, commented: “Delivering much needed affordable housing across South Staffordshire remains a priority for this Council and we’re pleased to have been able to support another quality development in partnership with Housing Plus for older people in Kinver.”
Since 2018, Peterborough-based Trade Mastermind has helped hundreds of construction businesses to achieve exceptional success and growth. Under the guidance of Trade Mastermind’s CEO Joseph Valente, and the former winner of BBC’s The Apprentice, the entrepreneur uses his vast business knowledge to teach construction business owners how to scale-up. After winning The Apprentice, Joseph became business partner to Lord Sugar after the successful billionaire invested £250,000 into his Peterborough plumbing and heating business called Impragas. The company grew rapidly, reaching £1,000,000 per month turnover, as it became the largest independent boiler installation business in the UK. With Impragas achieving rapid growth, Joseph eventually became the only construction winner of The Apprentice to buy back his share of the business from Lord Sugar. Now, Trade Mastermind sits neatly under The Trade Group umbrella, with Joseph and his team focusing solely on helping other construction businesses to scale-up further. Construction businesses such as electrical, plumbing & heating, building, and landscaping to name a few, are all benefiting from the two-day events that cover every aspect of running a business and resulting in huge growth. With so many construction business owners struggling to gather leads, close sales, and hire staff, Trade Mastermind’s two-day events have become increasingly popular within the industry and the demand to attend is rapidly rising. The next two-day event on the calendar focuses on plumbing and heating with the 7 Figure Boiler Business Builder taking place on April 29th & 30th at the Brightfield Business Hub in Peterborough. Local hotel discounts are available on request for those seeking accommodation. The schedule includes a packed itinerary with guests from the industry also speaking at the event. Lunch is provided with hot and cold drinks throughout each day. Day 1: Day 2: All plumbing & heating business owners interested in attending can find out more here: https://www.trademastermind.co.uk/boiler-business-builder-academy/ Email: Craig.Mander@trademastermind.co.uk Alternatively, Tel: 0330 058 7100