The construction firm behind a brand-new and trailblazing Youth Zone, that is going to transform the lives of young people in Grimsby and North East Lincolnshire for generations to come, has completed work on the project ahead of it opening early next year. Hobson & Porter, which operates across Lincolnshire
Manchester City Football Club has appointed CBRE as the sole leasing agent for the next phase of their commercial development at the Etihad Campus. Situated in the heart of the future Entertainment Destination, One Medlock Square will offer 30,000 sq ft of new Grade A office space, with floor plates
Acquisition of leading property and construction specialist boosts Bellrock’s private sector consulting offering Property Services industry disruptor Bellrock has acquired Axiom, a respected property and construction consultancy based in Scotland. Axiom will join Bellrock’s Consulting Division, alongside Summers Inman, JRP, Oakleaf & Nifes and C&P. The business will continue to
Bauer Technologies has been awarded the specialist piling and geotechnical works package for The Dovetail Building, a striking new 24-storey mixed-use development located in the City of London. Commissioned by Deconstruct UK Ltd on behalf of client Brockton Everlast, the project represents a significant addition to London’s premium office and
Carrier Solutions UK supplied a Toshiba climate control solution for Bannatyne Health Club & Spa in Wellingborough, delivering a complete HVAC refurbishment to improve customer comfort and operational efficiency. Carrier Solutions UK Ltd (formerly Toshiba Carrier UK Ltd) is a part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in
Introducing the new the M18 FUEL™* M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with a high sustained air flow giving versatile power for all-day productivity, and the integration of VACLINK™** wireless dust control, this solution redefines cordless dust extraction. MILWAUKEE® UNVEILS A REVOLUTIONARY DUST EXTRACTION SOLUTION WITH THE NEW THE M18 FUEL™
Bluebay Building Products, one of the UK’s leading independent distributors of specialist civil engineering and construction products, has appointed Mark West as Operations Director. With a wealth of industry experience gained through leadership roles at Topps Tiles, Eurocell and Homebase, Mark will play a central role in Bluebay’s ISO 9001
Renting climate control gear is a cost-effective way to keep your construction crew safe and comfortable, protect materials from heat and moisture, and finish projects on schedule. Discover the three best enterprises offering climate control equipment rentals for construction sites. 1. Herc Rentals Herc Rentals is perfect for multisite construction
Whitbread plc, the UK’s largest hotel company, and owner of Premier Inn, has submitted a planning application for a new city centre hotel in Carlisle. The proposed 104-bedroom hotel on Victoria Viaduct, close to the station and Carlisle City Centre, will complement the existing Premier Inns in Carlisle when it
Merry Hill has announced that M&S has opened its latest renewal store concept at the top 10 UK shopping destination, featuring a brand-new Coffee Shop, fresh market-style foodhall, and expanded fashion, home & beauty offer. The opening represents a major investment by M&S and the landlord, and underlines Merry Hill’s
The construction firm behind a brand-new and trailblazing Youth Zone, that is going to transform the lives of young people in Grimsby and North East Lincolnshire for generations to come, has completed work on the project ahead of it opening early next year. Hobson & Porter, which operates across Lincolnshire and Yorkshire, has now handed over the £11.5m Horizon Youth Zone and work is currently underway on the internal fit-out of the facility before it opens. Decisions on the interior design including paint colours and artwork are being led by the Young People’s Development Group (YPDG), made up of young people from across the local area. Construction started in late 2023 and has incorporated a vast spectrum of work. Several large Grade II listed 19th century maltings and grain store buildings, known as West Haven Maltings and Migar House, have been fully restored and repurposed. Part of a building also had to be completely rebuilt alongside the River Freshney, using a pontoon in the river to create a working platform to access a river wall. In addition to the intricate refurbishment and restoration aspects of the project, Hobson & Porter has also built a large new sports hall and an outdoor multi-use games area (MUGA). Other facilities include a climbing wall, music room with built-in recording studio, performing arts space, maker zone with 3D printing equipment, arts and crafts area, boxing gym and fitness suite. Horizon Youth Zone, part of the OnSide Network, will offer a safe and inspiring place for young people aged 8 to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs, to enjoy their leisure time. There will be over 20 activities taking place each evening, for just £5 annual membership and 50p per visit. Joe Booth, Pre Construction and Business Development Director from Hobson & Porter, said: “There’s no doubt this has been a hugely challenging and complex project. There were new build aspects, refurbishment works, delicate conservation phases, heritage considerations, major repurposing, river works and highway improvements, which all had to be balanced and carefully managed by our dedicated team and supply chain. “However, it’s been a very rewarding project for everyone involved. As well as giving a disused site and several major derelict buildings a completely new life, the whole construction team knows what it means for young people in and around Grimsby and the lasting impact it will have. “We’re therefore delighted to complete work and hand the project over to the team and we can’t wait to see it welcome the first members through the doors in the coming months.” Lucy Ottewell-Key, CEO of Horizon Youth Zone, said: “This is another significant milestone, and because the people of North East Lincolnshire can now see the completed buildings and how amazing they look, the level of anticipation and interest surrounding Horizon Youth Zone is growing by the day. “We now have a busy and very exciting couple of months coming up as we complete the rest of the internal work and begin the soft openings phase of school, community visits and team training ahead of us opening early next year.” Horizon Youth Zone is being delivered in partnership with North East Lincolnshire Council, which is contributing to the development as part of the Greater Grimsby Town Deal, and the Department of Culture Media and Sport, through the Youth Investment Fund. Capital funders of Horizon Youth Zone comprise of Historic England, National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Architectural Heritage Fund, The Youth Investment Fund, Evergreen Life, St. James’s Place Charitable Foundation, Ørsted and Greencoats Wind UK. Horizon Youth Zone is also building a fabulous family of Founder Patrons, comprising of local organisations and philanthropists, who will support the Youth Zone during its first four years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Manchester City Football Club has appointed CBRE as the sole leasing agent for the next phase of their commercial development at the Etihad Campus. Situated in the heart of the future Entertainment Destination, One Medlock Square will offer 30,000 sq ft of new Grade A office space, with floor plates of 10,000 sq ft each. Scheduled for completion in late 2026, this development will provide ESG-focused spaces within a vibrant leisure district, offering more than just office space. Occupants will have access to a raft of onsite conference and events amenities, communal event spaces, extensive wellness facilities, and a variety of on-site food and beverage options. This, combined with world-class entertainment venues nearby, will create a unique workspace environment unparalleled in the city. With wellbeing at its core, the development is situated alongside world-class sports facilities including indoor and outdoor running tracks, a gym, tennis and football centres, swimming pools, and a national squash centre. The Etihad Campus will be home to a premier, year-round Entertainment Destination featuring the impressive Etihad Stadium, home to Premier-League champions Manchester City Football Club and Co-op Live, the UK’s only music-first arena which hosts the very best events in music and sport. The new development, opening in phases from spring 2026, will also include The Medlock, a 401-room hotel and a variety of new bars and restaurants. One Medlock Square will also feature a range of ESG credentials, including all-electric infrastructure and a target of EPC A and BREEAM Very Good accreditation. Mark Garner, Director at CBRE, stated: “We are delighted to be working with Manchester City on One Medlock Square, which will provide occupiers with an opportunity to work within one of the most exciting entertainment districts in the region. The space will be delivered to a Grade A specification and will come to the market at a time when there is a distinct undersupply of new build office space.” Danny Wilson, Managing Director – Manchester City Operations, said: “One Medlock Square presents a unique opportunity to be part of a world-class entertainment destination with incredible events and experiences on your doorstep. The next evolution of the Etihad Campus is the most ambitious and exciting to date and we’re looking forward to welcoming businesses to be part of that journey.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Acquisition of leading property and construction specialist boosts Bellrock’s private sector consulting offering Property Services industry disruptor Bellrock has acquired Axiom, a respected property and construction consultancy based in Scotland. Axiom will join Bellrock’s Consulting Division, alongside Summers Inman, JRP, Oakleaf & Nifes and C&P. The business will continue to be led by Managing Director, Gary Logue, who will work closely with Carlo Alloni, CEO of Bellrock and Dan Weiss, Managing Director, Bellrock Consulting, to ensure a smooth transition and maintain continuity for clients and colleagues. Axiom delivers project management and cost consultancy services to private-sector clients across leisure, residential and industrial developments. With offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester and London, the business has built a reputation for quality, collaboration and trusted, long-term client partnerships. The acquisition expands Bellrock’s consulting capabilities and strengthens its national offer to its clients. Axiom’s expertise and regional insight complement Bellrock’s existing experience, creating new opportunities for collaboration, growth and knowledge-sharing across the group and the clients. “Joining Bellrock marks the start of a new chapter for us,” said Axiom Managing Director, Gary Logue. “We’re proud of what we’ve built and excited to grow our public-sector offering alongside a group that shares our values and ambition.” Bellrock CEO, Carlo Alloni, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Axiom to the Bellrock family. With its expertise, regional insight and clients’ focus, this acquisition will strengthen our consulting division and unlock new opportunities to enhance our service offerings and deliver even greater value to our clients and teams.” Dan Weiss, Managing Director Bellrock Consulting also commented, “this move supports Bellrock’s strategic goal to deliver multidisciplinary, integrated, insight-led consultancy across the full property lifecycle. We strive to connect people, data and technology to deliver excellence to our clients and the Axiom business will support us in achieving this”. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bauer Technologies has been awarded the specialist piling and geotechnical works package for The Dovetail Building, a striking new 24-storey mixed-use development located in the City of London. Commissioned by Deconstruct UK Ltd on behalf of client Brockton Everlast, the project represents a significant addition to London’s premium office and retail landscape, featuring a three-level basement and high-specification tower structure designed to meet modern sustainability and performance standards. Bauer Technologies’ scope of work is being delivered in two distinct phases to facilitate archaeological investigations by the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA). The first phase, – running from November 2025 to February 2026 – will involve the extraction of redundant piles and the installation of approximately two-thirds of the new secant wall. The second phase, scheduled for June to September 2026, will focus on installing a front-of-wall cased CFA secant pile line along the party boundary, and completing the foundation and bearing piles, including temporary works for the tower cranes and gantry. In keeping with Bauer Technologies’ strong commitment to sustainable construction, the project will incorporate a wide range of carbon-reducing initiatives. These include the use of low-carbon reinforcement steel, concrete incorporating blended cement, supplied from a local batching facility, and 100% HVO fuel for all site plant. Bauer has also implemented waste-reduction measures to optimise material efficiency and minimise environmental impact throughout the project’s lifecycle. Commenting on the award, Bauer Technologies’ Managing Director John Theos, said: “We are delighted to be working once again with Deconstruct UK on such a high-profile London development. The Dovetail Building exemplifies the type of technically challenging, sustainability-driven project where Bauer’s experience in complex urban settings and commitment to innovation can make a real difference. It’s a showcase for how deep foundation solutions can be delivered responsibly, efficiently, and in harmony with the capital’s built environment.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Carrier Solutions UK supplied a Toshiba climate control solution for Bannatyne Health Club & Spa in Wellingborough, delivering a complete HVAC refurbishment to improve customer comfort and operational efficiency. Carrier Solutions UK Ltd (formerly Toshiba Carrier UK Ltd) is a part of Carrier Global Corporation (NYSE: CARR), global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions. The eight-week project involved decommissioning and removing ageing R407c split systems that had reached the end of their useful lives. These systems were proving costly for Bannatyne Group to maintain, making a modern replacement essential to enhance performance and reduce operating expenses. Ventec Services Ltd, the appointed installation contractor, selected Toshiba products for their high efficiency, reliability and tailored climate control capabilities. Equipment was procured through one of Carrier’s preferred distributors, Cool Designs Ltd, ensuring a smooth and reliable supply chain throughout the project. The installed solution included Toshiba Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems, featuring SMMSu Heat Pump 2-pipe and SHRMe Heat Recovery 3-pipe models, as well as Toshiba Digital Inverter R32 single, twin and triple split units. The project also replaced outdated DX cooling coils and condensing units within the club’s air handling units. Key features of the new installation include inverter-driven compressors, which adjust heating and cooling output in response to real-time demand, thereby reducing power consumption during periods of low usage. A Toshiba Black Pear Central Controller was also installed, allowing the club’s General Manager to control different temperature settings across the gym, studios, spa areas and offices from within the main office. Careful planning ensured the project was completed outside opening hours, thereby minimising disruption to daily operations. “Working with Ventec and Carrier Solutions UK ensured a hassle-free installation,” said Stuart Maclachlan, Regional Manager at Bannatyne Group. “The Toshiba system has improved comfort and both members and staff have noticed the difference.” Richard Goose, Director of Ventec Services Ltd, added: “The collaboration between Ventec, Bannatyne and Carrier Solutions UK made this project a great success. Toshiba’s systems were the ideal choice for their efficiency and flexibility and we’re proud to have delivered a solution that exceeds client expectations.” For more information on Toshiba products, visit: https://www.toshiba-aircon.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Introducing the new the M18 FUEL™* M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with a high sustained air flow giving versatile power for all-day productivity, and the integration of VACLINK™** wireless dust control, this solution redefines cordless dust extraction. MILWAUKEE® UNVEILS A REVOLUTIONARY DUST EXTRACTION SOLUTION WITH THE NEW THE M18 FUEL™ M-CLASS AC/DC DUAL BATTERY DUST EXTRACTOR WITH VACLINK™. THIS INNOVATIVE DUST EXTRACTOR SETS NEW STANDARDS FOR PRODUCTIVITY AND SAFETY ON JOB SITES FOR GENERAL CONTRACTING, MECHANICAL, HVAC, ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, AND REMODELLING PROFESSIONALS. The M18 FUEL™ M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with VACLINK™ features an automatic filter cleaning mechanism. It will filter up to 99.9% of harmful dust including MDF, plaster, cement and concrete due to the two HEPA H13 filters. It provides the ability to maintain consistent airflow and boost efficiency during dust extraction applications, keeping users more productive on the job site. The extractor is equipped with a low flow alarm to alert users when the airflow drops below optimal performance. Also capable of wet clean-up, this solution includes water sensors that indicates if the tank is full. When paired with two M18™ FORGE™ 12.0 Ah batteries, it will run up to 70 minutes on low and 40 minutes on high power mode, delivering 1980 l/minutes air delivery rate on DC mode (2550 l/minutes AC). MILWAUKEE®’s dust extractor is equipped with VACLINK™ wireless dust control technology. Users can pair the extractor with VACLINK™ compatible tools or remotes to wirelessly activate the extractor during dust-producing applications. The dust extractor comes with the VACLINK™ wireless dust control remote, allowing users the ability to start/stop the dust extractor wirelessly, enhancing efficiency. Additionally, this extractor includes an anti-static 3 m long, crush and twist-resistant hose delivering extended hose life. As an added benefit, the M18 FUEL™ M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with VACLINK™ is compatible with the PACKOUT™*** modular storage system, offering unparalleled convenience and organisation. This compatibility helps users reduce trips back and forth on the job site, allowing them to focus more on their tasks and less on transportation. With the inclusion of ONE-KEY™functionality, users can effortlessly track and manage their tool using the ONE-KEY™ app. With the addition of the new M18 FUEL™ M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with VACLINK™ the PACKOUT™ modular storage system now has over 100 solutions for users to choose from to build out their custom storage solution – making PACKOUT™ the most versatile and durable modular storage system in the industry. MILWAUKEE® is committed to improving productivity by providing performance-driven and trade-focused solutions so users can perform an entire day’s work on one battery system. The M18 FUEL™ M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with VACLINK™ is fully compatible with the entire M18™ line, now offering more than 315 solutions. *M18 FUEL™ is engineered for the most demanding tradesmen in the world. Delivering unrivalled performance, all M18 FUEL™ products feature three MILWAUKEE®-exclusive innovations—The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor, REDLITHIUM™ Battery Pack and REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence Hardware and Software—that deliver unmatched power, run time, and durability on the job site. Simply put, M18 FUEL™ tools are the most powerful 18V cordless tools in their class. **MILWAUKEE®’s dust extractor is equipped with VACLINK™ wireless dust control technology. Users can pair the extractor with VACLINK™ compatible tools or remotes to wirelessly activate the extractor during dust-producing applications. The dust extractor comes with the VACLINK™ wireless dust control remote, allowing users the ability to start/stop the dust extractor wirelessly, enhancing efficiency. ***The PACKOUT™ Modular Storage System is the most versatile and durable modular storage system in the industry. An intuitive and quick attachment mechanism gives users the freedom to stack and lock PACKOUT™ tool boxes, organisers, totes, and bags of different sizes in numerous configurations that best suit their needs. ****ONE-KEY™ is the first digital platform for tools and equipment. By integrating industry-leading tool electronics with a custom-built cloud-based program, ONE-KEY™ provides a new level of control and access to information that revolutionises the way work gets done. The ability to customise, track, and manage through ONE-KEY™ fundamentally changes the way users interact with their tools and equipment. Specifications M18 FUEL™ M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with VACLINK™ M18 ONEF2VC34M-0 Kit Includes: (1) M18 FUEL™ M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with VACLINK™, (1) Remote control, (2) HEPA filters, (1) Fleece bag, (1) Hose, (2) Power tool dust port adaptors To find out more about the new M18 FUEL™ M-Class AC/DC Dual Battery Dust Extractor with VACLINK™ see video footage of it in action or find your nearest store, please visit www.milwaukeetool.eu Visit Milwaukee Tool UK’s Instagram and LinkedIn for further information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bluebay Building Products, one of the UK’s leading independent distributors of specialist civil engineering and construction products, has appointed Mark West as Operations Director. With a wealth of industry experience gained through leadership roles at Topps Tiles, Eurocell and Homebase, Mark will play a central role in Bluebay’s ISO 9001 implementation, as well as streamlining business processes. His appointment comes in a pivotal year for Bluebay, following its acquisition by Wolseley Group in January 2025. Since then, the company has forged new partnerships with global suppliers and expanded its team – including its senior leadership with Mark joining Managing Director Lucy Furnival, Sales Director Emma Ward, and Finance Director Mark Siney at the helm. Managing Director Lucy Furnival explained: “Mark’s appointment is an exciting step forward for Bluebay as we embark on a time of significant growth. “His operational insight and project management expertise will be invaluable, while his collaborative and forward-thinking approach will complement the strengths of our senior management team. As we build the foundations for the next chapter at Bluebay, we are delighted to welcome him to the team.” Mark’s initial six-month secondment will see him move from Burdens, Bluebay’s sister company which specialises in underground drainage and heavy construction products; he adds: “I’m really pleased to be joining Bluebay. “Over the next six months, my focus will be on creating greater consistency and clarity across our operations – building a framework that drives efficiency and supports long-term growth. “It’s the ideal time to take on this role as we prepare for a wave of recruitment to strengthen our workforce and support future expansion. I’m looking forward to working closely with Lucy and the rest of the team to help turn the company’s ambitions into reality.” Bluebay, which was founded in South Wales in 2003, has positioned itself as a go-to destination for delivering innovative new products to the UK construction market, a reputation further solidified by this latest appointment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Renting climate control gear is a cost-effective way to keep your construction crew safe and comfortable, protect materials from heat and moisture, and finish projects on schedule. Discover the three best enterprises offering climate control equipment rentals for construction sites. 1. Herc Rentals Herc Rentals is perfect for multisite construction operations requiring an equipment lessor that can reliably supply assets to sites in major North American metropolitan areas. It has a large selection of high-quality rentals for cooling, heating, air quality, and dehumidification powered by gas, diesel, electricity or a combination of two power sources. This provider handles gear positioning, basic installation, routine maintenance and 24/7 emergency repairs. Herc Rentals offers flexible contract terms and volume discounts. 2. Aggreko Aggreko is ideal for construction crews with environmental, social and governance goals. It offers multiple energy-efficient assets, including no-fume heaters that can run on biodiesel, helping minimize fuel waste and decarbonize operations. This vendor’s engineering solutions help rightsize your equipment, ensuring you rent no more than your teams need. Aggreko can integrate battery energy storage systems into your projects to power your climate control rentals with clean electricity when the grid is limited. 3. EquipmentShare EquipmentShare is an excellent fit for construction firms seeking climate control assets for long-term megasite projects. It allows you to tailor your rental arrangement to lease equipment for as long as the job requires. You can choose from leading brands like Smartech, Wacker Neuson and KwiKool. EquipmentShare requires insurance to rent gear and automatically enrolls you in its damage waiver if you do not provide qualifying coverage. Comparing the Best Companies That Rent out Climate Control Rentals for Construction Projects Explore the various types of climate control assets these vendors offer and where they operate. Vendor Equipment Categories Service Areas Herc Rentals 20 Canada and the U.S. Aggreko 15 80-plus countries and territories EquipmentShare 15 45 U.S. states Evaluating Providers of Climate Control Rentals for Construction Consider these factors when selecting where to rent climate control equipment for construction projects: Rent Climate Control Equipment From the Best Companies Herc Rentals, Aggreko and EquipmentShare have unique strengths and solid track records. Learn more about each one’s offerings to see which aligns with your project needs.
Whitbread plc, the UK’s largest hotel company, and owner of Premier Inn, has submitted a planning application for a new city centre hotel in Carlisle. The proposed 104-bedroom hotel on Victoria Viaduct, close to the station and Carlisle City Centre, will complement the existing Premier Inns in Carlisle when it opens. In May 2025, the company announced the freehold acquisition of the former Central Plaza site from Cumberland Council for this development. The site has a lengthy connection to the hospitality industry stretching back to 1881 but in more recent years the former hotel fell into disrepair and was demolished in 2019 / 2020. Whitbread is seeking planning permission for a new five-storey Premier Inn hotel offering the brand’s latest format ‘Standard’ and enhanced ‘Premier Plus’ bedrooms as well as a guest-focused restaurant. The bedrooms are arranged from lower ground to fourth floor with the hotel reception and restaurant accessed from Victoria Viaduct at the upper ground floor via a prominent and welcoming entrance. Public car parking at the West Walls car park is a two-minute walk away. Jill Anderson, Acquisition Manager for Whitbread in the north of England, said: “Since announcing our plans in May 2025 people have told us that they wish to see the vacant Central Plaza site brought back into long-term use. They also welcome the new employment opportunities and positive economic benefits the hotel will bring to the city. We’re very grateful for all the support we’ve received so far from stakeholders and representative groups we have spoken to. “The site on West Walls is not an easy location to redevelop into a hotel and we’ve had to be flexible to create a design that meets our operational requirements and is economically viable. The contemporary design we are proposing responds positively to the historic context and will create an active frontage onto both Victoria Viaduct and West Walls. We’re eager to move the proposal forward, get onto site and deliver the package of benefits the hotel will create.” Based on its own in-house data, Whitbread estimates around 30,000 Premier Inn guests will stay at the City Centre hotel per annum once it reaches maturity. These customers are anticipated to spend more than £4 million a year within the visitor economy during their stay according to an independent economic impact assessment submitted as part of the planning application, supporting the leisure and tourism sector in the region. Around 25 new permanent hospitality jobs are also anticipated to be created on opening with around 45 established jobs in the construction supply chain expected to be supported during the £12 million build. Subject to planning, Whitbread is hoping to commence development in 2026 and is targeting to welcome its first customers before the end of 2028. In line with the company’s sustainability policy the proposed hotel will be powered by electricity generated from renewable sources and the proposed building will incorporate heat recovery systems and air source heat pumps to create a low energy demand. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Merry Hill has announced that M&S has opened its latest renewal store concept at the top 10 UK shopping destination, featuring a brand-new Coffee Shop, fresh market-style foodhall, and expanded fashion, home & beauty offer. The opening represents a major investment by M&S and the landlord, and underlines Merry Hill’s position as a location where leading retailers continue to grow and thrive. Spanning 100,000 sq ft, the new M&S marks a significant reinvestment after 35 years at Merry Hill. The store brings together two existing units into one flagship space, reflecting M&S’s long-term commitment to its loyal customers at the centre. The new foodhall offers an enhanced shopping experience, with wider aisles, expanded product ranges, produce from M&S’ Select Farm partners and standout new features such as an iconic cheese barge, in-store bakery, and dedicated Flower and Wine Shops. Across fashion, home and beauty, the store has been reimagined to deliver a seamless shopping experience for customers. Home, menswear and kidswear now come together to form a full fashion destination on the upper mall, while womenswear has moved to the lower mall. Adding to the transformation is the brand-new M&S Coffee Shop, located just outside the main store, where customers can find a range of breakfast and lunch choices, alongside cakes and pastries, barista-made coffee and iced drinks. Graeme Jones, Executive Director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, on behalf of Merry Hill, commented: “This opening builds on the centre’s transformation in recent years. It’s a move that wouldn’t have been possible a few years ago, but with Merry Hill thriving, the time is right to create a growth platform for M&S and use that evolution to unlock new opportunities. Importantly, it delivers even more for our customers, enhancing the visitor experience at M&S, and allowing us to introduce new brands that have wanted to be here for a while, and are now willing to commit to Merry Hill, having seen the significant changes that have taken place.” Calum Telford, Regional Manager at M&S, said: “M&S Merry Hill is one of more than 20 new or renewed stores we are opening across the UK in the remainder of this financial year, and it’s fantastic for customers to see the full transformation. Renewing our stores is all about delivering the very best of M&S and the best possible shopping experience for our customers. Our transformed store does just that and our focus is now on delivering the trusted value and exceptional quality we’re known for. As we celebrate 35 years at Merry Hill, it is brilliant to be starting this next era for the store.” This landmark investment by M&S follows a wave of major anchor tenants joining Merry Hill, including Hollywood Bowl, international home retailer Harvey Norman, premium fitness brand XF Gym, and the soon to launch Funstation. JLL, Time Retail Partners, and Font Real Estate represent Merry Hill. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals