Construction is advancing at pace at Panattoni Park in Swindon, with McLaren Construction (Midlands & North) firmly on track to deliver the landmark 545,000 sq. ft. logistics and industrial scheme within the 39-week programme. McLaren is delivering the speculative design and build contract on behalf of Panattoni, supported by UMC
Great Portland Estates (GPE) has received planning approval for a major refurbishment of Whittington House in London’s West End, paving the way for 74,500 sq ft of new premium headquarters workspace. Camden Council has resolved to grant consent for the comprehensive eight-storey revamp, which will retain the building’s original Richard
Leading office interior design consultancy, OP, has completed a strategic space optimisation project for alternative investment management firm, Attestor Limited, at their London headquarters at 7 Seymour Street. Attestor Limited is a leading alternative investment management firm specialising in credit and direct lending strategies across Europe. The firm manages assets
One of the largest regeneration projects of its kind in Scotland, to develop a £1.3bn environmentally friendly coastal town on the Capital’s largest brownfield site, at Granton Waterfront, is set to take a huge step forward. The business case for phase 1 of this ambitious new development sets out how attractive
Savills Earth has successfully delivered the Pendleton, Eccles and Swinton Social Impact Guides, a landmark commission for Salford City Council that sets a new standard for building capability within the social value economy. The guides provide developers and investors with practical insights to understand local strengths, challenges and real-life opportunities
Leading offsite manufacturer McAvoy has completed the construction of a new modular building at Leeds City College and Leeds Sixth Form College, both members of Luminate Education Group. The completion also marks the conclusion of a unique education programme, where students from the colleges followed the construction of their new
The Mayor of London has named seasoned retail and real estate executive Scott Parsons as his preferred choice to chair the board of the new Oxford Street Development Corporation, the body tasked with leading the transformation of the capital’s most famous shopping street. Parsons is currently chief executive of Lysara,
By Matthew Reed – Head of Asset Management (Retail Parks) at British Land What’s driving retail parks to outperform? It’s the combination of affordability, accessibility, and adaptability – a strategy that attracts leading brands, welcomes new formats, and keeps our parks thriving. When it comes to the future of retail,
Commenting on the publication of the Keep Britain Working report yesterday, Peter McGettrick, Chairman of British Safety Council, said: “We welcome the Keep Britain Working report and its clear call for joined-up, systemic action to tackle the growing challenge of health-related economic inactivity. “For too long, issues linking long-term health
John Sisk & Son (Sisk) has completed all legal and regulatory requirement for the acquisition of Farrans Construction, following Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) approval last month. As announced in September, Sisk reached an agreement to acquire Farrans, a leading Northern Ireland based, building and civil engineering contractor, with
Construction is advancing at pace at Panattoni Park in Swindon, with McLaren Construction (Midlands & North) firmly on track to deliver the landmark 545,000 sq. ft. logistics and industrial scheme within the 39-week programme. McLaren is delivering the speculative design and build contract on behalf of Panattoni, supported by UMC Architects, KAM Project Consultants, BWB Consulting and Construction CDM Services. The project continues to hit key milestones of the 39-construction week schedule, and the steel frame is now complete, the internal roof largely finished, windows are being installed, and cladding installation is progressing steadily. Roofing works are well advanced with lining sheets due for completion, and externally, concrete slab works are underway, the multi-story car park deck is poured, kerbs are being installed, alongside power and water service installations. The office area is fully glazed and cladding of the striking link bridge – connecting the main building to the multi-storey car park – is now taking place. First-fix mechanical and electrical services have begun within the warehouse, and internal finishes and the office fit-out is progressing well. On completion, the development will offer premier logistics space with two storeys of high-spec office accommodation and a decked car park. The scheme is targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and EPC A+/A ratings, with a commitment to achieving net zero upfront carbon emissions. Historically, the site was used as brownfield land before being an airfield during World War II, and then later it was redeveloped for car manufacturing by Honda in the late 20th century. This regeneration is part of Panattoni’s wider plan to bring new life and jobs to the area following the closure of Honda’s operations in 2021. Luke Arnold, Regional Director at McLaren Midlands & North, said: “We’re proud to be delivering this project at pace and to such a high standard. This is a flagship scheme, not only for Panattoni but for the wider region, and our team is focused on maintaining momentum right through to completion in early 2026.” Panattoni Park Swindon is poised to deliver high-quality industrial space in a location with excellent connectivity and legacy infrastructure, further strengthening Swindon’s position as a key logistics hub in the South West. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Great Portland Estates (GPE) has received planning approval for a major refurbishment of Whittington House in London’s West End, paving the way for 74,500 sq ft of new premium headquarters workspace. Camden Council has resolved to grant consent for the comprehensive eight-storey revamp, which will retain the building’s original Richard Seifert & Partners architecture while introducing a series of modern, sustainability-led upgrades. The proposals include enhanced energy performance, improved building services, a new rooftop terrace and a pavilion overlooking the recently pedestrianised Alfred Place. Due for completion in early 2027, the scheme will strengthen GPE’s growing cluster of Grade A offices around Tottenham Court Road. Together with the Gable Building, the Courtyard Building and existing holdings on Alfred Place, the Whittington House project will help deliver a combined 220,000 sq ft of high-spec workspace in one of the capital’s most connected locations. The refurbishment is designed to respond to evolving occupier expectations for quality, flexibility and amenity, rather than pursuing wholesale demolition. By retaining and reworking the existing structure, GPE aims to reduce embodied carbon while still delivering a workplace that meets modern standards for comfort, wellbeing and environmental performance. Trevor Phyo, senior development manager at GPE, said: “Securing planning permission from Camden Council marks a significant milestone for this project. We’re proud to be breathing new life into this building, recognising its architectural heritage, and transforming it into a standout workplace that reflects the future of office design.” With planning now secured, detailed design and pre-construction work will progress ahead of the main build, positioning Whittington House as a key part of GPE’s long-term West End office strategy. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading office interior design consultancy, OP, has completed a strategic space optimisation project for alternative investment management firm, Attestor Limited, at their London headquarters at 7 Seymour Street. Attestor Limited is a leading alternative investment management firm specialising in credit and direct lending strategies across Europe. The firm manages assets for institutional investors including pension funds, insurance companies, and sovereign wealth funds, with a focus on delivering consistent returns through disciplined investment approaches. The six-week project has successfully transformed the 6,300 sq ft workspace to accommodate an additional 8-10 workstations without expanding the existing footprint, demonstrating how smart design can unlock hidden potential within established business premises. OP delivered the comprehensive reconfiguration during the summer period, minimising operational disruption while maintaining the exact look and feel of Attestor Limited’s existing environment. The project centred on strategic space planning to maximise every element of the available floor area through precision planning and targeted interventions. OP created the spatial capacity needed for additional positions while ensuring optimal workflow patterns and maintaining collaborative opportunities. The transformation’s centrepiece is a custom banquette seating solution designed to accommodate meetings for up to 25 people within constrained parameters. This bespoke installation integrates seamlessly with existing joinery, delivering significant functional improvements without compromising the workspace aesthetic. The project showcases OP’s specialisation in technical design and construction management within compressed timelines. OP maintained design consistency through careful material matching and finish coordination. The collaborative approach with trusted supply chain partners ensured seamless delivery within the six-week window, with the result appearing as a cohesive, intentional workspace rather than an adapted environment. The solution enables Attestor Limited to accommodate their growing team within their established prime location, avoiding the significant time investment and operational disruption associated with relocation. The transformation delivers immediate capacity while providing flexibility for future growth requirements within the competitive alternative investments sector. Located in an area where OP has successfully completed other projects, this project demonstrates the consultancy’s deep understanding of the unique demands facing professional services firms in London’s business district. Tom Parsons, Managing Director of OP, said: “This project demonstrates how strategic space planning can generate substantial returns on investment by enabling business growth within existing assets rather than requiring additional real estate investment. We’re delighted to have worked with Attestor Limited to unlock the hidden potential within their Seymour Street headquarters, creating the additional capacity they needed while preserving the quality environment that reflects their market position.” David Alhadeff, Director at Attestor Limited said: “OP’s technical expertise and collaborative approach enabled us to accommodate our growing team within our established location without compromising on the quality of our working environment. The transformation appears seamless and intentional, supporting our high-performing culture while providing the flexibility we need for continued growth.” The project showcases how rapid business growth can be supported through workspace optimisation delivering immediate capacity gains while future-proofing operations for continued success in London’s competitive financial services sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
One of the largest regeneration projects of its kind in Scotland, to develop a £1.3bn environmentally friendly coastal town on the Capital’s largest brownfield site, at Granton Waterfront, is set to take a huge step forward. The business case for phase 1 of this ambitious new development sets out how attractive local living for residents and people in the surrounding communities will be achieved. The delivery plans include new housing which will be enhanced with a new primary school (the school to be delivered through a separate contract), retail units, public and open green space. This would be achieved through entering into a development agreement with Cruden Homes to deliver site wide enabling, infrastructure and new homes. Each of the 847 new homes will be fitted with an air source heat pump providing residents who move in with new, warm, energy efficient ‘net zero ready’ homes, with fairly priced energy bills. At least 45% of the homes will be affordable – 214 will be for social rent with the rest a mixture of mid-market rent and homes for sale. Some will also be suitable for families who require wheelchair accessibility. The revitalisation of Granton Waterfront’s historic buildings and industrial built heritage, coupled with the delivery of new leisure and recreation opportunities, will significantly increase visitors to the area, creating new local employment opportunities. The overall development will make a significant contribution to Edinburgh’s target to become a net zero carbon city, through a mix of energy efficient buildings, gas free heat solutions, cycling and walking paths and a nature-based approach to climate mitigation and adaptation. This exciting regeneration in the north of Edinburgh, set to start early next year and due for completion in 2033 will build on early action projects already underway in Granton Waterfront. If approved by the Finance and Resources Committee on Tuesday, 18 November, the business case will then be considered by Council on Thursday, 18 December. Some of these projects are already complete with others taking shape. Tenants are already living in 75 new ‘net zero ready homes’ for social and mid-market rent at Granton Station View. A short distance away Western Villages has 444 ‘net zero ready’ homes for social, mid-market rent and some for sale, which are nearly all occupied. A further 143 ‘net zero ready’ social and mid-market rent homes at Silverlea are also due for completion in Summer 2026. At the heart of this nationally significant development of Edinburgh’s coastline sits the Granton Gasholder now known as ‘Gasholder 1 Park’. The iconic gasholder frame has been restored and can be seen for miles around as it is lit up after dark. It has a new public park created within the frame making it a spectacular focal point in the area. The historic former Granton Station has been refurbished as a creative hub and has a new civic square in its grounds. The Pitt has opened in a repurposed industrial building at 20 West Shore Road and the core path through the development has been upgraded and named Speirs Bruce Way. Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “The £1.3bn regeneration of Edinburgh’s coastline is hugely significant for our Capital city. It is the largest public sector led project of its kind in Scotland. Over the next 10 to 15 years, it will continue to set the standard for sustainable economic growth in Edinburgh. “We’re using the largest brownfield site we own to deliver the first phase of this project, with our development partner Cruden Homes. We will be delivering new and affordable, energy efficient ‘net zero ready’ homes which will provide our residents with fairly priced energy bills. The retail and leisure units we will deliver will provide an opportunity for local people to enjoy recreation and access employment. We’ll also be improving public transport and cycling and walking paths as well as education services. Our aim is to help to reduce child poverty as well as address the nature and climate emergencies we face locally and globally. “Our investment in this major project for the Capital further reinforces our approach across the city to achieve low carbon affordable living for as many of our residents as possible. Our aim is to make Edinburgh more inclusive and well connected to support prosperity and wellbeing for those in the Granton Waterfront area and across the city region.” Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden Homes, said: “We’re proud to be playing a leading role in delivering this landmark regeneration of Edinburgh’s coastline. Granton Waterfront is a bold and innovative project that will create a distinctive new coastal neighbourhood with a real sense of place, centred around much-needed, high-quality, energy-efficient homes and sustainable infrastructure. Working in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, we’re not only building net zero ready homes but also creating valuable community benefits, from local employment and apprenticeships to investment in skills and supply chains. This next phase marks an exciting milestone in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable and connected future for the Capital.” Phase 1 of the project has been made possible through the Council securing funding from the Scottish Government – capital grant funding from its Housing Infrastructure Fund as part of its commitment through the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, along with revenue funding through an innovative Place Based Accelerator grant. This was formulated with the support of Scottish Futures Trust. The Place Based Accelerator grant is an innovative funding model that will allow the Council to take forward the development in return for achieving outcomes for the people in the north of Edinburgh including achieving targets related to improvements to health and wellbeing, educational attainment and local employment opportunities. Granton Waterfront regeneration supports the delivery of the City of Edinburgh Council Business Plan, the Edinburgh City Mobility Plan, Edinburgh City Plan 2030, Climate Ready Edinburgh Plan 2024 – 2030 and the Edinburgh 2030 Climate Strategy. It also supports the delivery of key national policy objectives as set out in NPF 4, Housing to 2040
Savills Earth has successfully delivered the Pendleton, Eccles and Swinton Social Impact Guides, a landmark commission for Salford City Council that sets a new standard for building capability within the social value economy. The guides provide developers and investors with practical insights to understand local strengths, challenges and real-life opportunities to help ensure all residents benefit from the city’s growth. Supported by funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, and working alongside Salford CVS, this project represents a bold and innovative approach to embedding social value as a core element of civic infrastructure, moving beyond its traditional role as a planning requirement. Developed through engagement with over 300 residents, 61 VCFSE (voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise) organisations, and local councillors, the guides are a co-designed framework integrating ESG (environmental, social and governance) principles and aligning with UKGBC guidance. The final product is a practical blueprint for embedding social value across planning, procurement and asset operations, with clear delivery routes and measurement tools aligned to national standards. Olivia Sutcliffe, Associate Director, Savills Earth, states: “Salford’s leadership in embedding social value at the planning stage sets a new benchmark for ethical, inclusive development. This scalable model rooted in collaboration, accountability and long term stewardship offers a blueprint we hope to see other local authorities adopt.” Councillor Jack Youd, Deputy City Mayor and Lead Member for Finance, Support Services and Regeneration, adds: “Our mission is to create a brighter future for everyone in Salford, and that begins with listening to our residents and understanding their needs. We’ve worked closely with communities and VCFSE groups to co-produce these place-based guides rooted in local strengths and challenges. They provide developers and investors in Eccles, Swinton, and Pendleton with a framework to help realise our vision of a fairer, greener, healthier and more inclusive Salford. We thank Savills for their expertise and instrumental role in shaping frameworks that will deliver tangible, positive impact for our communities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leading offsite manufacturer McAvoy has completed the construction of a new modular building at Leeds City College and Leeds Sixth Form College, both members of Luminate Education Group. The completion also marks the conclusion of a unique education programme, where students from the colleges followed the construction of their new study space from beginning to end. Procured through the NHS Shared Business Services (SBS) Modular Building Framework, the new 1,380m2 ‘C block’ at Leeds City College’s Park Lane campus has capacity for 300 students and offers cutting-edge teaching space and facilities including laboratories, preparation rooms, study areas, sports science and massage rooms, changing facilities, staff offices and classrooms. As part of the BREEAM Excellent-rated project, 75% of the building’s modules were completed offsite including mechanical and electrical systems and internal fit-out, before being craned into place during a five-day installation. McAvoy also delivered the hard landscaping and EV charging points . Throughout the project, students from Leeds Sixth Form and Leeds City College were actively involved, starting with a visit to McAvoy’s Lisburn factory to see the offsite manufacturing process, through to observing the 42-module installation at the Park Lane campus in Leeds. McAvoy also provided opportunities for the students to build a scale model of a module and experience a Virtual Reality (VR) walkthrough of their new building during a VR demonstration. Thomas Boyle, Senior Contracts Manager at McAvoy, commented: “Delivering this snag free modular building all while supporting students at the colleges who are considering careers in engineering, architecture and design, has been a great process. The students have seen first-hand how the building was delivered, and now it is complete will be able to enjoy the cutting-edge space to continue their studies.” David Warren, Group Vice Principal for Development at Luminate Education Group, commented: “It’s great to see this much-needed space now ready for student use. Through this new facility, we’re better able to support the region’s growing number of 16–18-year-olds with high quality learning opportunities and respond to regional and national skills needs. “It’s been especially rewarding to see our students involved throughout the project, gaining valuable insight during the process.” For more information, visit www.mcavoygroup.com/sectors/education/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Mayor of London has named seasoned retail and real estate executive Scott Parsons as his preferred choice to chair the board of the new Oxford Street Development Corporation, the body tasked with leading the transformation of the capital’s most famous shopping street. Parsons is currently chief executive of Lysara, a pan-European energy infrastructure platform focused on logistics and urban markets. He brings deep experience from some of the UK’s highest-profile retail and mixed-use destinations. Between 2019 and 2025 he served as UK chief operating officer at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield, overseeing Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City and steering the portfolio through the pandemic. Before that, he spent 13 years at Landsec, where as head of property for London he managed a range of landmark assets, including holdings along Oxford Street from Park House in the west to Primark and the Dominion Theatre in the east. He is also a former non-executive director of the New West End Company. His proposed appointment follows a recruitment process launched in August and is subject to a confirmation hearing by the London Assembly. It comes as City Hall advances plans to establish a Mayoral Development Corporation (MDC) dedicated to the district, with the goal of creating a world-leading urban environment for shopping, leisure and outdoor events. The London Assembly gave its backing in July 2025 and the Mayor is now working with government to bring forward the necessary legislation for the MDC to be established by 1 January 2026. Sadiq Khan said the choice reflects a determination to “unlock Oxford Street’s true potential” and deliver a step-change in visitor experience and economic performance. Parsons welcomed the opportunity, describing the Oxford Street Transformation as a chance to put a global icon “back on the map” and signalling his intent to work closely with the Mayor, the corporation’s incoming chief executive and their teams. The development corporation is expected to coordinate public and private investment, guide design quality and public realm upgrades, and address long-standing challenges around tenant mix, vacancy, accessibility and activation. Early priorities are likely to include rebalancing retail with culture and hospitality, improving pedestrian space and wayfinding, and supporting a shift towards more sustainable, experience-led uses. If approved, Parsons’ appointment would bring high-level operational expertise to the helm just as the governance framework is finalised—setting the stage for a comprehensive reset of Oxford Street’s offer for Londoners, visitors and businesses alike. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
By Matthew Reed – Head of Asset Management (Retail Parks) at British Land What’s driving retail parks to outperform? It’s the combination of affordability, accessibility, and adaptability – a strategy that attracts leading brands, welcomes new formats, and keeps our parks thriving. When it comes to the future of retail, our Head of Retail Parks, Matt Reed, is clear: retail parks are winning. Backed by fresh leasing data and real-world insight, he reveals why these destinations are outpacing the competition – boasting high footfall, strong rental growth, and record-low vacancy. Accessibility, affordability, and adaptability are the three pillars pushing retail parks ahead. We’re seeing retailers gravitate to parks because they tick every box for today’s omni-channel world.” Why Are Retail Parks so accessible? Let’s start with location. Retail Parks tend to be strategically placed on major arterial roads, making them easy to access. It’s simple. People want convenience, and with free, abundant parking right outside the door retail parks play in to the consumers need for convenience But it’s not just about access. For example, at our retail park in Teesside, our centre team collaborated with the local bus operators to boost public transport links, ensuring everyone, including staff and shoppers, can access the park easily. It’s a win for everyone but especially for our customers bottom lines. Affordability drives growth Affordability is a major draw for retailers. Compared to high streets and shopping centres, total occupational costs at retail parks are highly competitive. This has attracted a diverse mix of tenants, especially in the wake of Brexit and COVID. As a result, this has opened the door for a wave of new retailers, from value food brands to innovative new retail formats eager to take advantage of the cost-effective space. As a result, we are seeing strong rental growth and exceptionally low vacancy rates across our portfolio – a clear sign the model is working. Are Retail Parks built for modern retailers? Adaptability is at the heart of a retail park. Our units are essentially blank canvases – big tin sheds we can cut, carve, and combine to suit any need. Need a click-and-collect hub? No problem. Want to launch a new format store. We can do it. We’ve seen a huge acceleration in omni-channel features from click-and-collect to return hubs and drive-to convenience. Retailers love it because it supports both in-store and online sales. Who’s leading the charge? Value food retailers like Aldi and Lidl have been the darlings of the market. Their presence drives regular footfall, which benefits every occupier on the park. It’s a halo effect – if someone’s coming for groceries, they’re likely to pop next door for fashion or homeware. But it’s not just food. We’ve repositioned units to attract everything from medical diagnostics centres to dentists and vets. At Crown Point, Denton, we combined two smaller units for InHealth to create a mini medical centre. That’s diversification in action, catering to a wider demographic. Asset management in retail property is unique – you get to shape real, tangible places and build lasting relationships. We work closely with our retailers all year round, understanding their needs. It’s a dynamic, social career where every project is a chance to make a visible, meaningful impact. That’s what makes it so rewarding.” How does smart leasing shape the future? Smart leasing is about more than just filling units. It’s about curating a vibrant, relevant mix that keeps our parks ahead of the curve. We’re always looking for ways to adapt spaces for new entrants, whether that means carving out smaller units for coffee shops and bakeries or combining spaces for larger occupiers. This flexibility ensures our parks stay dynamic and attractive to both retailers and the communities they serve. “At Denton, we turned a standard unit into a modern dental hub – so now, alongside brands like JD Sports and M&S, you’ll find essential services right on the park. That’s what sets retail parks apart: we’re creating places that are diverse, dynamic, and truly community focused.” At British Land, our strategy is clear: we’re setting the standard for modern retail by championing affordability, accessibility, and adaptability across our retail parks. By creating spaces that are easy to reach, cost-effective for retailers, and flexible enough to welcome new concepts, we are not just responding to change, we are helping drive it. Our approach ensures our parks remain vibrant, resilient, and ahead of the curve, delivering value for our occupiers, our communities and our investors. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commenting on the publication of the Keep Britain Working report yesterday, Peter McGettrick, Chairman of British Safety Council, said: “We welcome the Keep Britain Working report and its clear call for joined-up, systemic action to tackle the growing challenge of health-related economic inactivity. “For too long, issues linking long-term health conditions, disabilities and economic inactivity have been treated in isolation, when in fact they are deeply connected. The proposed ‘Healthy Working Lifecycle’ offers a practical roadmap to help employers of all sizes build healthier, more inclusive and more productive workplaces. “We particularly support the emphasis on prevention, early intervention and shared responsibility between government, employers and individuals. These principles align strongly with our own mission to create safer, healthier working lives for everyone, and health, safety and wellbeing professionals are a vital part of the solution. “Challenges do remain in terms of turning the report’s recommendations into a reality, which will require commitment, collaboration and sustained investment. It rightly highlights the fit note, statutory sick pay, and wider government support as key areas of focus. Proposals for a single data and intelligence body and new standards are welcome, and the prize is worth it: a thriving workforce, reduced pressure on our health system, and a stronger economy built on wellbeing at work.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
John Sisk & Son (Sisk) has completed all legal and regulatory requirement for the acquisition of Farrans Construction, following Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) approval last month. As announced in September, Sisk reached an agreement to acquire Farrans, a leading Northern Ireland based, building and civil engineering contractor, with over 600 employees, delivering world-class projects in core sectors including aviation, water and renewable energy in Ireland and the UK. The Farrans business will continue to trade under its own brand, and all project operations will continue as normal. The consideration will not be disclosed.Sisk is Ireland’s largest construction and civil engineering company, operating across Ireland, the UK and Europe. The coming together of these two successful contracting businesses will unlock new opportunities for delivering major infrastructure projects across the UK and Ireland. Sisk acquired Farrans from the building materials provider CRH. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals