Kenneth Booth
Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Huddersfield has welcomed its first Chopstix restaurant as the popular Asian quick-service brand continues its rapid UK expansion. Opening this month on King Street, the new outlet is part of Chopstix’s strategy to grow in high-footfall areas, including busy high streets and major transport hubs. The Huddersfield launch follows several

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£50m Vision to Breathe New Life into Birmingham’s Bill House Site

£50m Vision to Breathe New Life into Birmingham’s Bill House Site

A long-neglected site in Birmingham is set for a major transformation, as developer Pickstock Group unveils ambitious plans to create a vibrant mixed-use community on Soho Hill. The Bill House site, which has stood vacant in recent years and suffered from fires and anti-social behaviour, could soon become home to

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Healthcare construction specialists Stepnell to lead development of Dorset ambulance base

Healthcare construction specialists Stepnell to lead development of Dorset ambulance base

COMPLETE construction partner Stepnell is set to deliver a Main Operating Base (MOB) in Dorset for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), aiming to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency services across the South West. Scheduled for completion this autumn by healthcare construction specialists Stepnell, based in Southampton, the

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Legrand Launches State-of-the-Art Lighting Control Platform

Legrand Launches State-of-the-Art Lighting Control Platform

Legrand UK & Ireland has launched a state-of-the-art lighting control platform, designed to meet the needs of diverse buildings, including high-end office developments, sports stadia, large hospitals and other major infrastructure developments. Wattstopper PLUS, powered by Encelium technology, offers a platform that works with Legrand’s range of CP Electronics DALI-2

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Finning delivers gen-set providing instant back-up for power specialist IDE Systems

Finning delivers gen-set providing instant back-up for power specialist IDE Systems

Temporary power distribution specialist IDE Systems has installed a customised Cat® DE110E2 diesel generator, supplied by Finning UK & Ireland, at its manufacturing centre in Cannock. The standby generator will provide resilience against power outages and ensure seamless operations in producing power distribution equipment for critical sectors, including data centres, healthcare

Read More »
The Evolving Role of Workwear in the Construction and Healthcare Sectors

The Evolving Role of Workwear in the Construction and Healthcare Sectors

In industries like construction and healthcare, where both safety and comfort are paramount, workwear plays a pivotal role in ensuring workers can perform their tasks effectively while staying protected. Whether it’s a durable construction uniform or a breathable medical uniform, the importance of well-designed clothing is often overlooked, yet it

Read More »
Glencar Breaks Ground on Sustainable Industrial Scheme in Rugby

Glencar Breaks Ground on Sustainable Industrial Scheme in Rugby

Glencar has been appointed as the main contractor for a major new logistics and industrial development in Rugby, as French developer Barjane expands its UK footprint. Known as Rugby 106, the 106,196 sq ft facility will be constructed at Central Park on a five-acre site that previously housed a 45,000

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Latest Issue
Issue 334 : Nov 2025

Kenneth Booth

IES has launched a 3D model of Dublin Town, mapping 3,000 buildings on the road to net zero

IES has launched a 3D model of Dublin Town, mapping 3,000 buildings on the road to net zero

IES has launched a publicly accessible 3D Urban Energy Model of the Dublin Town Business Improvement District, a landmark digital twin that places more than 3,000 city-centre buildings under a single, data-rich lens. Commissioned by Dublin Town Business Improvement District – the organisation representing over 2,000 businesses across the capital – the model offers the most detailed picture yet of how each premise consumes energy, emits carbon, and could profitably transition to net zero. Built with IES’s urban modelling engine, fed by an analytics platform and connected through the stakeholder engagement portal, the model fuses live operational data from buildings with physics-based simulation. This unique combination allows users to explore current building performance, benchmark operational carbon emissions, pinpoint energy-intensive properties, and run sophisticated retrofit scenarios that range from light-touch behavioural changes to deep fabric upgrades, new heating systems, on-site renewables, and district-energy connections. The resulting evidence is presented through live, interactive dashboards that continuously track progress, verify savings, and prevent buildings from slipping back into inefficient operation. “In partnership with Dublin Town, we have created a living, breathing map of the city centre’s energy story,” said Ruth Kerrigan, COO at IES. “For the first time, business owners, investors, and policymakers can interrogate engineering-grade data in real time and see exactly which retrofit pathway will cut emissions, slash bills, and future-proof our historic streetscape.” The work dovetails with Dublin City Council’s wider 2030 climate objectives. IES subjected the model to a suite of decision-support analyses, testing shallow, medium, deep and full-renovation strategies against the district’s decarbonisation targets. Annual operational-savings curves and stepped investment plans are now visualised for every building, giving stakeholders a clear, financially-robust roadmap towards climate neutrality. Richard Guiney, chief executive of Dublin Town, believes the project marks a turning point for urban regeneration. “Dublin has committed to bold carbon-reduction goals, but businesses need the clarity and confidence to act,” he said. “This model translates ambition into practical steps and empowers every operator to be able to map their pathway to lower costs and lower carbon.” To accelerate action on the ground, IES is extending free energy-audit support to eligible small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the district through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland voucher scheme. Companies with fewer than 250 employees, turnover below €50 million, and annual energy spend above €10,000 can secure a comprehensive assessment delivered by IES’s consultants. The audit involves reviewing a year of utility bills, conducting an on-site survey, identifying waste, and recommending no- and low-cost measures. Through this, it quantifies potential capital projects and sets out the corresponding energy, cost, and carbon savings in a tailored report for each building. For building owners and managers ready to move beyond operational diagnosis to delivery, IES Live – the company’s flagship product – takes the district-wide insights down to individual assets, creating dynamic, evidence-based decarbonisation plans that are continually validated against real-time performance data. By comparing live energy feeds with predictive simulations in a single environment, IES Live offers a fully integrated platform, capable of turning building physics into actionable data and verified results. With the model now in place and the tools to act readily available, Dublin’s path to a greener, more competitive city centre is mapped out. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Huddersfield has welcomed its first Chopstix restaurant as the popular Asian quick-service brand continues its rapid UK expansion. Opening this month on King Street, the new outlet is part of Chopstix’s strategy to grow in high-footfall areas, including busy high streets and major transport hubs. The Huddersfield launch follows several recent openings across the country, including Brighton, Leeds and Wolverhampton. Sam Elia, co-founder and director at Chopstix, said: “We’re excited to be opening in Huddersfield and bringing our unique brand proposition to another great UK high street. This year we’ve seen strong momentum across the business, which is a testament to the strength of the Chopstix brand and our focus on quality, speed and customer experience.” The company’s growth has accelerated following investment from quick-service restaurant group QSRP earlier in 2024. With new locations continuing to open at pace, Chopstix is aiming to become the largest Asian quick-service restaurant brand in Europe. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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£50m Vision to Breathe New Life into Birmingham’s Bill House Site

£50m Vision to Breathe New Life into Birmingham’s Bill House Site

A long-neglected site in Birmingham is set for a major transformation, as developer Pickstock Group unveils ambitious plans to create a vibrant mixed-use community on Soho Hill. The Bill House site, which has stood vacant in recent years and suffered from fires and anti-social behaviour, could soon become home to 115 new houses and flats, alongside an 80-bed care home. With a gross development value of £48.5 million, the project aims to boost housing provision while contributing to the regeneration of the wider area. Pickstock Group development director Liam Davies described the proposal as “a dynamic approach to different housing typologies”, combining affordable housing, open market sale and lease options with specialist care provision. The 2.5-acre brownfield site will be redeveloped by a professional team including Glancy Nichol Architects and RPS Group, part of Tetra Tech. Glancy Nichol managing director Adam McPartland said: “This will be a comprehensive redevelopment that is sensitive to the local character, providing multi-generational living in line with the needs of the community. The aim is to create a place that feels authentic and uplifting, contributing to broader regeneration goals for the area.” RPS planning director Jacob Bonehill added: “These proposals present a chance to deliver much-needed homes and employment opportunities beyond Birmingham’s city centre. For too long, growth has been concentrated within the Inner Ring Road, and developments like this are essential to ensuring regeneration reaches areas such as Soho Hill.” The scheme follows early engagement with stakeholders and detailed planning appraisals. If approved, it promises to replace dereliction with a thriving neighbourhood that serves a range of housing and care needs, while breathing new life into a key part of the city. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Healthcare construction specialists Stepnell to lead development of Dorset ambulance base

Healthcare construction specialists Stepnell to lead development of Dorset ambulance base

COMPLETE construction partner Stepnell is set to deliver a Main Operating Base (MOB) in Dorset for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), aiming to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency services across the South West. Scheduled for completion this autumn by healthcare construction specialists Stepnell, based in Southampton, the MOB will serve as a central regional hub for ambulance services. The new multi-functional building forms part of the Trust’s multi-year programme to modernise healthcare infrastructure, which includes a wider network of MOBs, ambulance stations, and community ambulance points. Rob Speirs, regional director at Stepnell, said: “With extensive experience delivering healthcare infrastructure across the South West, we understand what it takes to build spaces that meet the complex needs of frontline services. Our work on this project ensures that ambulance crews have the right environment to effectively deliver emergency care for Dorset and wider communities. “This main operating base consolidates operations – making a real difference to the lives of people across the South West. The final build, alongside our comprehensive social value delivery, will create substantial local spend and deliver further opportunities for the community, which will have a lasting impact for generations to come.” In addition to housing ambulance vehicle operations, the MOB will integrate various Trust departments and consolidate staff and services currently based at Bournemouth, Wimborne, and St Leonards ambulance stations. Stepnell is constructing the new facility to offer improved welfare and training amenities for staff, and its strategic layout will reduce non-clinical workloads for frontline personnel, enabling them to focus on patient care. Andrew Rosser, chief financial officer at SWASFT, said: “Establishing a new Main Operating Base in Dorset is a vital step in strengthening our service’s presence and responsiveness within the community. This facility will enhance our operational capabilities, ensure faster support, and foster closer collaboration with local partners – ultimately improving safety and service quality for everyone we serve.” To find out more about Stepnell, visit www.stepnell.co.uk, or join in the conversation at @Stepnellltd. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Legrand Launches State-of-the-Art Lighting Control Platform

Legrand Launches State-of-the-Art Lighting Control Platform

Legrand UK & Ireland has launched a state-of-the-art lighting control platform, designed to meet the needs of diverse buildings, including high-end office developments, sports stadia, large hospitals and other major infrastructure developments. Wattstopper PLUS, powered by Encelium technology, offers a platform that works with Legrand’s range of CP Electronics DALI-2 sensors and supports compliance with Approved Document L, Volume 2. DALI-2 compliant, it can be installed in wired, wireless and hybrid configurations, making it easy to add new floors or buildings to existing systems. Wattstopper PLUS is especially flexible because it is compatible with all DALI dimmable and non-dimmable luminaires. As a result, it not only offers an excellent solution for new developments, but also for renovation works. Further compounding the benefits of Wattstopper PLUS, a substantial element of the commissioning work can be carried out off-site, thanks to the use of a system database that mimics the real-world. As a result, disruption to other construction work or building operations can be kept to a minimum, with ensuing cost savings. Moreover, Wattstopper PLUS supports compliance with Approved Document L, Volume 2, as energy usage from lighting can be calculated and reported in line with the latest statutory requirements.  Russell Vanstone, Product Manager – Connected Buildings, said: “Meeting the needs of occupants with quality lighting that continually adjusts according to changing conditions through the day can have a major impact on both wellbeing and energy consumption. Getting lighting right is critical to the success of any major development or renovation project. “Wattstopper PLUS draws upon Legrand’s decades of experience in lighting, digital building products, including sensor technologies, to deliver a high-end lighting system that caters for projects with the most stringent demands for quality lighting controls. “Our full-service project support guides projects from concept to completion with tailored solutions and end-to-end technical support. We’re on hand to assist consultants and specifiers with system layouts, integration advice and application planning, and we’re able to manage project delivery, supporting timelines, logistics and coordination. Our expert commissioning team configures and programs the system to meet performance expectations and, even after installation is complete, we offer remote and on-site support, diagnostics and servicing for the full lifecycle of the building.” Legrand will be showcasing its range of Connected Buildings products at LiGHT25 this year. Visit stand T14 for a demonstration and to find out more. To find out more about Wattstopper PLUS, please visit Legrand.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Finning delivers gen-set providing instant back-up for power specialist IDE Systems

Finning delivers gen-set providing instant back-up for power specialist IDE Systems

Temporary power distribution specialist IDE Systems has installed a customised Cat® DE110E2 diesel generator, supplied by Finning UK & Ireland, at its manufacturing centre in Cannock. The standby generator will provide resilience against power outages and ensure seamless operations in producing power distribution equipment for critical sectors, including data centres, healthcare and infrastructure projects. The installation ensures that in the event of a mains failure, IDE Systems’ manufacturing operations can continue without interruption, protecting customer delivery timelines and production schedules. Matt Collins, Head of Power Distribution at IDE Systems, said: “Our facility produces a full range of power distribution panels, including everything from small dual 16 A sockets to 4,000 A generator connections. Any disruption on site doesn’t just impact us, it can delay critical deployments for customers. This new standby system from Finning gives us the resilience we need to operate with confidence, even during unexpected outages.” Customised at Finning’s Cannock site, the generator was tailored to IDE Systems’ requirements with fuel system upgrades and a branded enclosure. The unit delivers 110 kVA at 50 Hz and is powered by a Cat C4.4 engine. With a 250-litre tank and fuel consumption of 23.8 L/hr at full load, the system provides up to 10.5 hours of continuous runtime, enough to cover most outages without the need for immediate refuelling. Martyn Drinkwater, Senior Sales Manager of Electric Power UK & Ireland at Finning, said: “The DE110E2 is engineered for fast response in environments where downtime isn’t an option. It meets ISO 8528-5 transient response standards and can accept 100% block load in a single step. This means power is restored instantly without any phased ramp-up. “It meets EU Stage II emissions standards and is housed in a sound-attenuated enclosure suitable for installation near offices or testing bays. With its 50°C ambient capability, it’s well suited to real-world UK site conditions, including the kind of summer extremes we’ve seen in recent years.” Finning UK & Ireland is the exclusive distributor for Cat equipment and power systems across the region. With in-house engineering, service, and customisation capabilities, the company supports customers in construction, manufacturing, energy, and other critical sectors with power solutions. For more information please visit: https://www.finning.com/en_GB Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The Evolving Role of Workwear in the Construction and Healthcare Sectors

The Evolving Role of Workwear in the Construction and Healthcare Sectors

In industries like construction and healthcare, where both safety and comfort are paramount, workwear plays a pivotal role in ensuring workers can perform their tasks effectively while staying protected. Whether it’s a durable construction uniform or a breathable medical uniform, the importance of well-designed clothing is often overlooked, yet it has a direct impact on productivity, safety, and overall job satisfaction. The Critical Need for Durable Construction Workwear When it comes to the construction industry, the work environment is tough, often involving extreme weather conditions, heavy machinery, and high-risk tasks. For workers, wearing the right construction clothing is not just about comfort but about safety. Reflective elements, high-visibility jackets, flame-resistant fabrics, and robust footwear can significantly reduce the risk of workplace accidents. Construction uniforms are designed to meet these specific needs. The fabrics used must be durable enough to withstand abrasions and rough handling, while also being flexible enough to allow for the freedom of movement. Additionally, incorporating smart fabrics that are moisture-wicking, breathable, and even antimicrobial helps to keep workers comfortable during long shifts in demanding environments. Workwear’s Role in Healthcare: Comfort and Cleanliness Just as construction uniforms are designed for durability and safety, healthcare uniforms—whether for nurses, doctors, or other medical professionals—are tailored to meet different requirements. In hospitals, clinics, and care facilities, healthcare uniforms need to prioritize comfort, cleanliness, and practicality. Medical uniforms have evolved from simple scrubs to advanced fabrics that feature antimicrobial properties, which help in reducing the spread of infections. Comfort is crucial as healthcare workers spend long hours on their feet, so breathable and moisture-wicking materials help to maintain hygiene and overall well-being. Beyond just functionality, nursing uniforms and healthcare workwear are also becoming more fashionable, with many organizations offering a range of styles and colors. This change is a reflection of a growing recognition of the importance of employee morale and the role that comfortable, stylish uniforms can play in enhancing the workplace environment. The Intersection of Technology and Workwear: Smart Fabrics and Wearables As the demand for high-performance workwear continues to grow, industries are increasingly turning to technology for solutions. For example, in construction, some uniforms now incorporate wearable technology such as smart sensors that can monitor a worker’s health, alert supervisors about potential dangers, or track fatigue levels. This is especially important in high-risk environments where early detection of problems could prevent accidents. In healthcare, wearables embedded within uniforms can monitor patient vitals or ensure that medical staff are adhering to hygiene protocols, ensuring both worker and patient safety. The combination of traditional workwear with advanced technology is reshaping how industries view protective clothing. Choosing the Right Workwear: What to Look for in Construction and Healthcare Uniforms Whether you’re looking for industrial uniforms for the construction industry or medical scrubs for healthcare professionals, there are several key factors to consider: For those looking for reliable sources of high-quality uniforms, there are many stores specializing in construction workwear, medical uniforms, and other industry-specific apparel. Yurinox Workwear is one such online store where you can explore a wide range of options for your team. Sustainability in Workwear: The Green Movement As with many industries, the workwear sector is starting to feel the pressure of environmental concerns. More companies are now opting for sustainable materials in the production of uniforms, ensuring that their environmental footprint is minimized. From organic cotton in medical uniforms to recycled polyester in construction workwear, the shift toward greener solutions is a growing trend. In addition to the use of sustainable fabrics, there is also a push for reducing waste through initiatives like clothing recycling programs and better garment care practices. By making smarter choices, industries can balance the need for functional, protective, and stylish workwear with environmental responsibility. Conclusion Workwear may seem like a basic component of the job, but its impact on safety, comfort, and productivity cannot be underestimated. Whether you’re in construction, healthcare, or another industry, investing in the right uniforms is essential for both workers and employers alike. The future of workwear is set to be more comfortable, more functional, and more sustainable, thanks to continued innovation in fabric technology and design.

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VIVID’s 2024–25 Annual Review: A year of customer-informed action and growth

VIVID’s 2024–25 Annual Review: A year of customer-informed action and growth

VIVID, a leading housing association in the south of England, has published its 2024–25 Annual Review – showcasing how customer insight, partnership and bold investment are transforming lives and neighbourhoods at scale. During the year, VIVID prioritised the areas that customers said mattered most to them – faster repairs, keeping customers informed, and enhanced complaint handling. Improvements were driven by customers and its teams working closely together. Key results which brought a positive impact direct to customers include: Customers also helped shape this Annual Review. It contains stories and insights that bring to life the real impact of housing in transforming lives and strengthening communities. One standout story comes from Fielder Court, a housing complex for people over 55, where a customer, supported by VIVID’s customer influence team, helped launch and lead a new residents’ group. It’s a great example of how people are coming together to make their community feel more like home. Customer contributor Kevin Grantham said: “It’s not just about sharing what we’ve achieved at Fielder Court—it’s about showing how residents can shape the places they live and feel genuinely heard. Being involved in this annual review has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder that when we work together, we can build communities we’re truly proud of.” The review also tracks VIVID’s performance against the Tenant Satisfaction Measures set by the Regulator of Social Housing. Mark Perry, Chief Executive of VIVID said: “We’re dedicated to providing high quality homes and consistent, reliable services that deliver outcomes that truly matter to customers. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made. Our customers’ voices help shape everything we do – from the services we deliver to the way we invest in communities. This review of the year reflects that partnership.” Visit the Annual Review 2024–25 here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Plot 3 completes at Matrix 49, advancing sustainable industrial hub in Avonmouth

Plot 3 completes at Matrix 49, advancing sustainable industrial hub in Avonmouth

McLaren Construction Midlands and North has successfully completed Plot 3 of Matrix 49, the landmark industrial and logistics scheme in Avonmouth, Bristol. Delivered on behalf of Equation Properties, the £21.6 million project spans 13 acres and includes a 219,660 sq. ft warehouse and 11,365 sq. ft of office space, alongside a control tower, gatehouse, external hard standings, and extensive parking, road landscaping, loading docks, level access and drainage infrastructure. The completion of Plot 3 marks another milestone in the phased development of Matrix 49, which is transforming a 65-acre site into a strategic logistics and industrial hub with strong transport connectivity. Designed to achieve a BREEAM Excellent rating, Plot 3 demonstrates McLaren’s ongoing commitment to delivering sustainable and future-focused industrial premises. Works included the management of complex ground conditions, a rhine diversion, and close co-ordination with ecological consultants to protect the site’s local water vole population. McLaren Construction are also currently onsite progressing works for Plot 4, a 596,000 sq. ft speculative warehouse development due to complete in April 2026. Building on the successful delivery of Plot 3, the latest phase will further cement Matrix 49’s role as a vital employment and sustainability-led scheme for the region. Gary Cramp, Managing Director of McLaren Construction Midlands and North, said: “Completing Plot 3 is a significant step forward in realising the vision for Matrix 49. Our team has worked diligently to deliver high-quality, sustainable space on time and to a high standard. We now look ahead to delivering Plot 4, which will build on the momentum and quality established so far across this transformative scheme.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Glencar Breaks Ground on Sustainable Industrial Scheme in Rugby

Glencar Breaks Ground on Sustainable Industrial Scheme in Rugby

Glencar has been appointed as the main contractor for a major new logistics and industrial development in Rugby, as French developer Barjane expands its UK footprint. Known as Rugby 106, the 106,196 sq ft facility will be constructed at Central Park on a five-acre site that previously housed a 45,000 sq ft office and workshop unit. The old structure has been demolished to make way for the high-spec development. Barjane, already known in the UK for owning Decathlon’s distribution hub in Northampton, is aiming to cement its presence in the Midlands with this state-of-the-art scheme. The new facility will be designed to meet the highest sustainability standards, targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ certification and an EPC A+ energy rating. Once complete, the unit will feature 87,000 sq ft of warehouse space, two floors of offices and welfare areas, a flexible operational mezzanine, and a clear internal height of 14 metres. Additional amenities will include a first-floor terrace, generous car parking, service yards and landscaped external areas designed to support wellbeing and environmental performance. Peter Goodman, managing director at Glencar, said: “As a business renowned for its sustainable and forward-thinking logistics projects, Barjane sets high standards and we’re proud to have been selected to help realise their vision for this strategically important site.” Patrick Batten, UK commercial director at Barjane and former Segro director, added: “We are delighted to have appointed Glencar and to have started on site to deliver this prime Midlands site, which will showcase Barjane’s unique approach to premium quality sustainable development.” Construction is now underway, with completion anticipated in the first quarter of 2026. The development will cater to a wide range of logistics and industrial occupiers, reinforcing Rugby’s position as a key hub in the UK’s distribution network. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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