Kenneth Booth
Edgware Regeneration Moves Forward with £1.7bn Masterplan Approval

Edgware Regeneration Moves Forward with £1.7bn Masterplan Approval

A major milestone has been reached in the transformation of Edgware town centre, as a joint venture between Ballymore and Places for London secures outline planning permission for its ambitious masterplan. Approved by Barnet Council’s Strategic Planning Committee, the regeneration scheme covers a 10.3-hectare site, including the Broadwalk Shopping Centre,

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LSH appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester to support next phase of infrastructure programme

LSH appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester to support next phase of infrastructure programme

Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has been appointed to Transport for Greater Manchester’s recently announced £120m four-year professional services framework, as the city region delivers the next phase of its transport infrastructure programme. This includes the Bee Network, Metrolink, active travel (walking and cycling), and bus stops and stations across the

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Muse appoints development director to growing North West team

Muse appoints development director to growing North West team

Muse, the nationwide placemaker, has appointed Laura Percy as Development Director to strengthen its growing North West team.   The new hire joins the business with over 15 years’ experience delivering complex urban regeneration, mixed-use, and innovation projects across the UK and Asia. Laura was most recently at Landsec U&I,

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Indurent Unveils Plans for Major 500,000 sq ft Logistics Hub in Heywood

Indurent Unveils Plans for Major 500,000 sq ft Logistics Hub in Heywood

Industrial and logistics developer Indurent has taken a significant step forward in expanding its North West footprint, with a detailed planning application now submitted for a new 500,000 sq ft distribution facility at Heywood Distribution Park in Rochdale. The proposed development follows outline planning approval secured in May and marks

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Platform4 Launched to Deliver 40,000 New Homes Around Railway Hubs

Platform4 Launched to Deliver 40,000 New Homes Around Railway Hubs

A major step forward in unlocking the potential of surplus railway land has been announced with the launch of Platform4 — a new development company created through a collaboration between Network Rail Property and London & Continental Railways (LCR). The venture aims to deliver up to 40,000 new homes over

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The big reveal: HS2 to showcase train interior design development

The big reveal: HS2 to showcase train interior design development

Rail enthusiasts heading to Alstom’s The Greatest Gathering event in Derby this weekend (1-3 August) will have the opportunity to see the concept designs for HS2’s Class 895 trains. HS2 is joining forces with rail industry representatives to take part in what is believed to be ‘The Greatest Gathering’ of

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Latest Issue
Issue 334 : Nov 2025

Kenneth Booth

Edgware Regeneration Moves Forward with £1.7bn Masterplan Approval

Edgware Regeneration Moves Forward with £1.7bn Masterplan Approval

A major milestone has been reached in the transformation of Edgware town centre, as a joint venture between Ballymore and Places for London secures outline planning permission for its ambitious masterplan. Approved by Barnet Council’s Strategic Planning Committee, the regeneration scheme covers a 10.3-hectare site, including the Broadwalk Shopping Centre, Edgware Bus Station and Garage, a Sainsbury’s supermarket, Redhill Medical Centre and Deans Brook Nature Reserve. The £1.7 billion redevelopment will deliver around 3,500 new homes, alongside 460,000 sq ft of commercial space. This is expected to include a mix of retail, leisure, and community uses such as an integrated healthcare hub and library. One of the cornerstones of the plan is the creation of a modern public transport interchange, complemented by 11.9 acres of green and open spaces to enhance liveability and biodiversity in the area. Designed by leading architectural firm Howells, the masterplan offers a comprehensive approach to urban regeneration, seeking to make better use of brownfield land while supporting London’s ongoing need for housing, infrastructure and inclusive growth. Savills, which advised Barnet Council, played a key role in navigating the planning process. Iyabo Johnson, associate director in Savills’ London Planning team, commented: “The Edgware masterplan offers a sustainable, plan-led response to London’s pressing need for housing and growth. It unlocks a significant package of public benefits that will shape the future of the area for generations to come.” Next steps include the finalisation of the Section 106 Agreement and securing Stage II approval from the Mayor of London. Stakeholders hope to see the first phases of the development move forward in the near future, helping to breathe new life into one of North London’s key town centres. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Planning application and new design code submitted for Graven Hill development

Planning application and new design code submitted for Graven Hill development

A new hybrid planning application has been submitted to Cherwell District Council (CDC) for the remaining residential development at Graven Hill. The original outline planning permission was granted in 2014. The new planning application seeks permission as follows: Hybrid planning application comprising: It has been prepared by Graven Hill Village Development Company (GHVDC) and its technical team, for the remainder of the development. It is called a hybrid planning application as it is both a full planning application for part of the site and an outline planning application for the remainder; apart from one small site adjacent to Anniversary Avenue East, where full planning permission is applied for 34 residential units, the application is in outline. There are currently up to 1,329 dwellings under the hybrid/outline, including the 34 applied for in full. An outline application does not determine the location, design or layout of each individual building, play areas or space, it simply seeks a decision on the general principles of how a site can be developed. The application includes parameter plans and a masterplan; this is indicative and is subject to change as part of the subsequent Reserved Matters planning application processes for each phase. These later Reserved Matters applications will provide details on the appearance, means of access, landscaping, layout and scale. Extensive public consultations were held regarding the new hybrid application. These ran from November 2022 to February 2023, and during February 2024 and March 2024, culminating in consultation feedback in October and November 2024. As well as public events, respondents could review, comment and ask questions via an online portal. There were also presentations and meetings with CDC, Oxfordshire County Council, Create Streets, the Graven Hill Residents’ Association (GHRA) and the independently appointed team of experts on the Design South East design review panel. In order to respond to feedback received during this pre-application consultation process, updates have been made to the masterplan and a comprehensive Design Code accompanies the Design and Access Statement and establishes site-wide and street type character area design requirements. This Design Code provides a framework for the detailed design, materials, layout, scale, access and landscaping of development irrespective of the designer, or whether the housing is self-build, market or affordable housing. It also supports the Design Review Panel’s feedback that, while not over-restricting architectural freedom, it sets guidance and design requirements for how building lines, car parking, boundary treatments, landscaping, planting and trees should be coded. It is an extensive update to the previous Stage 1 document and includes: Other changes made to respond to feedback as the masterplan evolved included: Adrian Unitt, Managing Director of GHVDC, said: “We’ve welcomed the opportunity to engage with the local authority, GHRA, residents, Create Streets and the independent Design Review Panel.  The team has worked hard to respond to the feedback we’ve received through the design process, with LSH preparing a comprehensive Design Code. “This is an outline application which sets out key parameters for the remaining development rather than determining the detail and we look forward to further engagement through the application process.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Government Overhauls Building Safety Regulator to Accelerate Housebuilding

Government Overhauls Building Safety Regulator to Accelerate Housebuilding

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has unveiled a significant reform package aimed at transforming the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), with the goal of reducing project delays and driving forward the construction of 1.5 million high-quality homes. Announced on 30 June 2025, the reforms include a new fast-track review process, strategic leadership changes, and major investment in regulatory capacity. The initiative is intended to streamline safety assessments without compromising the protection of residents—a critical issue in the wake of the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Former London Fire Brigade Commissioner Andy Roe KFSM has been appointed as the non-executive chair of a new board within MHCLG, which will oversee the functions of the BSR. This appointment signals the government’s move toward establishing a single, integrated construction regulator. Roe will be supported by Charlie Pugsley, Deputy Commissioner of the LFB, who takes on the role of Chief Executive Officer of the restructured BSR. Minister for Building Safety, Alex Norris, said: “The establishment of the Building Safety Regulator has been fundamental to centralising safety in the construction process. It’s time to take the next steps—building on that precedent to create a system that works for the sector while keeping residents and their safety at the heart of the process.” The new fast-track system will bring building inspectors and engineers directly into the BSR to help expedite decisions on both new builds and remediation projects. The MHCLG has pledged to hire over 100 new staff members to support these efforts, enhancing capacity and reducing backlogs that have frustrated developers and housing providers alike. Andy Roe commented: “The creation of the BSR was a watershed moment for housing and construction. But the system must continue to evolve to meet the urgent need for safe, new homes. I look forward to working with industry partners to tackle delays and support the delivery of much-needed housing.” The reforms will also see the BSR transition from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to a new arm’s-length body within MHCLG. HSE Chair Sarah Newton acknowledged the milestone, saying: “We are proud of the work we’ve done to establish the BSR. We always recognised that the regulator might move on once fully operational. Our focus now is to ensure a smooth and successful transition.” With these changes, the government hopes to unlock critical housing delivery, speed up safety reviews, and improve trust and transparency within the construction sector—all while ensuring the lessons of past tragedies are never forgotten. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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LSH appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester to support next phase of infrastructure programme

LSH appointed by Transport for Greater Manchester to support next phase of infrastructure programme

Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH) has been appointed to Transport for Greater Manchester’s recently announced £120m four-year professional services framework, as the city region delivers the next phase of its transport infrastructure programme. This includes the Bee Network, Metrolink, active travel (walking and cycling), and bus stops and stations across the city region. Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) Professional Services Framework, which comprises sixteen specialist lots, will fulfil the advisory requirement of the city region’s ambitious 2040 transport strategy. It will also ultimately help Greater Manchester to deliver the UK’s first fully integrated, zero-emission public transport network by 2030, following significant government funding. LSH has been appointed to a new Lot that covers Estates advisory. Estates advisory services that LSH will provide include strategic advice, valuation, lease advisory, rating, planning, land assembly, disposals, and development consultancy, in order to support the delivery of TfGM infrastructure projects within the city region. LSH’s appointment builds on the firm’s long history of working in the transport sector including transport projects in and around Manchester and the north of England. LSH clients include HS2, Northern Trains, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, LNER, Network Rail and West Yorkshire Combined Authority. Paul Shuker, Director (Planning, Regeneration and Infrastructure) at LSH, said: “Manchester is now widely recognised as one of the UK’s – and Europe’s – success stories when it comes to leveraging infrastructure – not only to accelerate growth, but also to unlock the city region’s potential, create new jobs and better connect our communities. “The latest pipeline of projects is set to bring even farther-reaching benefits – by making travel easier and more affordable; facilitating new Metrolink lines to key settlements; and supporting the delivery of new homes and employment areas. “We at LSH – and our specialist multi-disciplinary land, infrastructure, planning and regeneration teams – look forward to working with TfGM and other stakeholders. We are committed to supporting Greater Manchester’s 2040 vision to create a world class public transport system and deliver the Bee Network.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Muse appoints development director to growing North West team

Muse appoints development director to growing North West team

Muse, the nationwide placemaker, has appointed Laura Percy as Development Director to strengthen its growing North West team.   The new hire joins the business with over 15 years’ experience delivering complex urban regeneration, mixed-use, and innovation projects across the UK and Asia. Laura was most recently at Landsec U&I, where she oversaw the businesses’ investments and developments across the North. This included MediaCity UK, the transformative mixed-use development in Salford Quays, Greater Manchester, and Mayfield, the large-scale £1.4bn regeneration project in Manchester City Centre. Prior to this, Laura was Head of Development at Bruntwood SciTech. Over the course of a three-year period she led the development of ID Manchester, the £1.5bn joint venture project with the University of Manchester, alongside holding responsibility for the master planning and delivery of the £750m mixed-use Circle Square development in Manchester. With a deep-rooted connection to the region, Laura is also a Board Member of the Greater Manchester Business Board (LEP), which brings together the public and private sectors to support business growth, develop local skills and innovation, and direct investment. The appointment of the strategic development lead continues to boost Muse’s growth trajectory in the North West, with the Development Director supporting the delivery of a strong regional pipeline. This includes Crescent Innovation Zone, a pivotal element of the £2.5bn Crescent Salford Masterplan, by ECF – the joint venture between Muse, Homes England and L&G, Salford City Council, and the University of Salford, and the £100m transformation of Prestwich Village in partnership with Bury Council. Steven Knowles, Director of Development Management at Muse – North West, said: “Laura brings a wealth of placemaking experience to our team. She will play an important role in supporting our exciting and ambitious pipeline in the North West.   “Her knowledge of innovation-led regeneration and experience working in partnership with the public and private sector will be crucial as we push forward with our plans for Crescent Salford and the sustainable regeneration of Prestwich Village. “The last six months have been excellent in terms of growth, and Laura’s appointment puts us in a strong position to continue to progress over the forthcoming period.” Laura Percy, Development Director at Muse – North West, said: “I am delighted to be joining Muse and look forward to playing my part supporting the team in the North West. “The company is amongst the industry leaders who are working in partnership to deliver outstanding new places across the country. Joining the team in the North West is an opportunity to support an ambitious pipeline which will be transformative for the region. “By bringing my own experience, and working with the established and expert team, we will continue to deliver outstanding regeneration and placemaking and have a real impact on communities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Indurent Unveils Plans for Major 500,000 sq ft Logistics Hub in Heywood

Indurent Unveils Plans for Major 500,000 sq ft Logistics Hub in Heywood

Industrial and logistics developer Indurent has taken a significant step forward in expanding its North West footprint, with a detailed planning application now submitted for a new 500,000 sq ft distribution facility at Heywood Distribution Park in Rochdale. The proposed development follows outline planning approval secured in May and marks another key milestone in Indurent’s strategic growth ambitions. The site, spanning 26 acres, is strategically located just minutes from Junction 19 of the M62 and Junction 3 of the M66, providing fast access to key regional markets across the North West and Yorkshire. Heywood Distribution Park is already a well-established logistics destination and benefits from strong local labour links in nearby Rochdale and Bury. Once operational, the new unit is expected to support over 500 jobs, providing a major boost to employment and economic growth in the Greater Manchester region. The facility has been designed to meet Indurent’s high sustainability and operational standards, known as the Indurent Code. It will target BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and EPC A+ certifications, with a base 5MVA power supply and infrastructure in place to upgrade to over 10MVA—ideal for energy-intensive operations such as advanced manufacturing and distribution. Rob Richardson, Development Director at Indurent, commented:“If approved, this new facility at Heywood Distribution Park will play a vital role in supporting the region’s growth by attracting leading occupiers and creating high quality jobs. This submission marks an exciting step forward in our commitment to delivering best in class, sustainable manufacturing and logistics space in strategic locations, like the North West.” Subject to planning approval later this summer, construction is expected to begin in late 2025, with completion anticipated by the end of 2026. Indurent continues to grow its UK industrial portfolio, which now totals around 9 million sq ft across the North West. Approximately 90% of its current space is already let. The company recently completed Indurent 420 at Omega West, Warrington—another flagship 421,000 sq ft logistics scheme that went live in June 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Platform4 Launched to Deliver 40,000 New Homes Around Railway Hubs

Platform4 Launched to Deliver 40,000 New Homes Around Railway Hubs

A major step forward in unlocking the potential of surplus railway land has been announced with the launch of Platform4 — a new development company created through a collaboration between Network Rail Property and London & Continental Railways (LCR). The venture aims to deliver up to 40,000 new homes over the next decade, with a projected £1bn in residential development planned across the UK. Backed by the Department for Transport, Platform4 marks a departure from previous, fragmented approaches to station-adjacent regeneration, where Network Rail and LCR operated independently. By bringing both under one umbrella, the government expects to boost delivery speed and scale, potentially generating an additional £227 million in value through strategic alignment. Platform4’s mission is to repurpose surplus railway land for housing, attract private sector investment, and stimulate urban renewal in key areas. The initiative has four flagship sites lined up for initial development: Former Lendlease managing director Bek Seeley will chair Platform4. Seeley also leads the government’s Euston housing delivery group and brings a track record in large-scale regeneration and place-making. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “Our railways are more than just connections between places – they create economic opportunity and drive regeneration. It’s exciting to picture the vibrant neighbourhoods, family homes, and businesses that will grow out of these sites.” Profits from Platform4 will be reinvested into the national rail infrastructure, creating a circular model of development and improvement. Industry figures have welcomed the move. Neil Jefferson, Chief Executive of the Home Builders Federation, said the initiative will help “address our chronic housing crisis, allow young people to access decent accommodation, and generate investment in infrastructure and amenities.” The British Property Federation added that releasing under-utilised public land in this way has the potential to “stimulate local regeneration, drive economic growth, and deliver long-term benefits to communities across the country.” With an eye on sustainable growth and strategic placemaking, Platform4 is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping urban environments around the UK’s transport networks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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The big reveal: HS2 to showcase train interior design development

The big reveal: HS2 to showcase train interior design development

Rail enthusiasts heading to Alstom’s The Greatest Gathering event in Derby this weekend (1-3 August) will have the opportunity to see the concept designs for HS2’s Class 895 trains. HS2 is joining forces with rail industry representatives to take part in what is believed to be ‘The Greatest Gathering’ of historic and modern trains and rail-related exhibits. The event will take place at Alstom’s Derby Litchurch Lane Works, which will open its doors to the general public for the first time in almost 50 years. As part of the rail exhibition, focused on the future, visitors will be given the opportunity to book an exclusive tour of a life-size model carriage, which has been fitted out to illustrate the concept design for HS2’s Class 895 train. The show and tell opportunity showcases the ongoing intensive work between HS2 Ltd, the future high speed rail operator West Coast Partnership Development (WCPD), and the joint venture company building the fleet of high-speed trains, Hitachi-Alstom High Speed. James Dawson, HS2 Ltd’s senior rolling stock engineer said: “We’ve dedicated time and energy into understanding what matters most to people when they travel by train, and by listening and acting on feedback we can be confident that our interior designs will meet and exceed passengers’ needs. “These trains will run across Britain on high-speed and conventional lines for decades to come, so it’s important we get the fundamental design right, not just for today but also for the future.” The public has played a major role in shaping the initial design concepts. Twenty dedicated user groups and a consumer focus group of over 500 people have helped to inform the passenger experience programme of work led by WCPD. This is understood to be the most extensive user development exercise ever for a new train fleet built in the UK. New design features will help to ensure the train will be accessible and inclusive for all. Step free access at new HS2 stations, reprofiled grab handles, audio announcements and visual display screens in the toilet cubicles are just some of the positive changes being made. Customers travelling with mobility aids will also have greater freedom to select their seat and wheelchair users can expect equal provisions as found at all other seating on the train. Rigorous user testing has helped to define the design requirements to ensure the onboard facilities meet the needs of those travelling for work, leisure, as a solo passenger, or with friends and family.  The design features include: HS2 Ltd awarded the contracts to build Britain’s next generation of high-speed trains to the Hitachi-Alstom High Speed joint venture in 2021. The contracts, worth around £2bn, will provide a major boost to the UK’s rail manufacturing and supply chain sectors. The fleet of trains will be designed and built at three key UK sites – Derby, County Durham and Crewe. It is estimated that this will spearhead the creation of around 2,500 jobs in the Midlands and the North – including new apprenticeships. The trains will be maintained at the new HS2 depot in Washwood Heath, Birmingham. The bogies will be manufactured in Crewe, the bodyshell welding and electrical installation will be completed in County Durham, and the interior fit out will be completed at the Hitachi-Alstom High Speed joint venture facility in Derby. James Grundy, Project Director for Hitachi-Alstom High Speed, said: “As we progress towards delivering the next generation of high-speed trains for HS2, the feedback from passengers has been invaluable. Their insights have helped us develop and refine the design concept, to ensure that our trains not only meet but exceed expectations for accessibility, comfort and convenience. Engaging with a diverse range of future passengers, including those who may not typically consider train travel, has been crucial in shaping the features that will make a real difference to their experience. “Hitachi-Alstom High Speed is committed to putting passengers at the heart of every decision. Working with our stakeholders and closely with the public, we are confident that we’re creating a fleet of trains that will set a new standard for intercity travel in the UK. When HS2 is operational, this collaborative approach will underpin a transformative and stress-free journey for a wide range of people.” The all-electric trains will be designed to operate on both the HS2 network and the existing rail network – enabling HS2 trains to travel north towards Manchester, Liverpool, and Glasgow in the future. Capable of speeds of up to 225mph (360km/h), they will be amongst the quickest, quietest, and most energy efficient high-speed trains operating anywhere in the world. Detailed design works are continuing ahead of manufacturing of the exterior bodies. HS2 Ltd’s Chief Executive, Mark Wild, is leading a comprehensive reset of the HS2 project to ensure the railway can be delivered efficiently and to the lowest reasonable cost – timescales may therefore be subject to change. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Back in the office? Here’s how to keep your people happy, motivated and staying put

Back in the office? Here’s how to keep your people happy, motivated and staying put

By Blueprint Interiors With the hybrid tide turning and more businesses bringing people back to the office, the conversation has quickly moved from “how do we get them back?” to “how do we make them want to stay?” The answer lies not just in desks and deadlines – but in design, culture and purpose. We’ve spent over two decades helping businesses create workspaces that are more than just functional. They’re places where people want to be. And with recent stats showing that nearly 40% of global workers value a positive work environment over salary (Microsoft Work Trend Index, 2024), now’s the time for employers to rethink what a return to the office really means. Here are our top tips for keeping your people happy, productive and loyal once they’re back through the door: 1. Design spaces that inspire collaboration The traditional “rows of desks” model doesn’t cut it anymore. The office isn’t just a place to complete daily tasks – it’s a space for culture, collaboration and connection. Research shows that people want to come into the office to collaborate, build relationships and be part of something bigger. It’s not just about getting people back into the office; it’s about creating spaces that make them want to stay. By creating collaborative spaces that encourage teamwork and innovation, businesses see a significant boost in creativity and employee satisfaction. Top Tip: Use spatial zoning to create different environments – quiet zones, collaboration hubs, social spaces. These spaces will inspire creativity and make employees feel more connected. It shows you understand that work isn’t one-size-fits-all. 2. Prioritise employee wellbeing in design A great workspace isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about creating an environment where employees feel physically and mentally supported. With employees increasingly prioritising wellbeing over salary, the design of your office space plays a crucial role in retention. Top Tip: Integrate biophilic design elements such as plants, natural lighting, and outdoor views to enhance mood and productivity. Include quiet zones for relaxation and focus, and ensure ergonomic furniture is a priority to prevent burnout. 3. Tailor the office to your culture We take a bespoke approach to each client, ensuring the office design mirrors the values, mission, and personality of the company. The workspace should reflect your company’s unique culture, encouraging employees to feel part of something bigger than just their job. Top Tip: Use branded elements in your workspace design, such as custom wall art, colour schemes, or interactive displays that reflect your company’s ethos. Integrate spaces for informal team building, brainstorming, and socialising, ensuring employees feel a sense of belonging. 4. Flexibility still matters Flexibility remains a top priority for employees, and we champion flexible, hybrid-friendly office designs that allow businesses to adapt to evolving work styles. Creating adaptable workspaces helps employees feel empowered and trusted in their roles. Top Tip: Design spaces that can accommodate various work styles. Include adjustable desks, movable partitions, and multi-purpose areas to ensure that the office meets both personal and team needs. 5. Enhance productivity through acoustic design One area that often gets overlooked is acoustics. Poor acoustics can significantly impact employee focus and satisfaction making sound management a priority in creating a better working environment. Top Tip: Use acoustic panels, ceiling baffles, and carpeting to reduce noise in open-plan areas. Offer employees quiet rooms and phone booths for private calls, ensuring they have spaces to focus without distractions. 6. Listen to your people and measure what matters One of the biggest mistakes we see is businesses assuming they know what people want. Is your workspace actually doing what it’s supposed to? Track key metrics like engagement, retention, and productivity – but also qualitative feedback on how the office really feels to your team. We work closely with our clients to evaluate the success of office transformations, measuring not only how well the space works but how it impacts employee experience. Top Tip: Define success criteria and assess progress over time. Conduct regular employee feedback surveys to identify areas for improvement and ensure your office space evolves to meet their needs. At Blueprint, we believe the office should be more than a place to sit – it should be a place to belong. The employers getting it right aren’t just filling their desks – they’re building spaces that fuel purpose, connection and growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Construction starts on landmark laboratory building at University of Southampton Science Park

Construction starts on landmark laboratory building at University of Southampton Science Park

Construction has started on the new landmark laboratory building ‘Infinity Labs’ at University of Southampton Science Park and was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony held on Monday 21 July. The event was attended by Rt Hon Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, who put the first spade in the ground to officiate the milestone. Dr Robin Chave, CEO of Southampton Science Park, was joined by Scott Brownrigg representatives Ed Hayden, Life Sciences Director, and Amy Bourne, Associate Project Leader, who have been responsible for the design of the new gateway building. The new multi-tenancy building will provide 3,400 sqm of much needed new laboratory space at the entrance to the Southampton Science Park, supporting the Park’s commitment to fuel innovation and elevate the presence of British science and technology on the world stage. Curved in shape, the three-storey building will activate a sweeping bend at the main entrance to the site and feature a sloping green roof, helping to embed the structure within the landscape and enhance biodiversity onsite. A fabric first approach supports the Park’s sustainability objectives for a low-energy, low-carbon building. Of the milestone, CEO of Southampton Science Park, Dr Robin Chave, said: “We are incredibly excited to officially commence construction of this widely anticipated project. This new building, the largest to be built at Southampton Science Park to date, is going to provide much-needed facilities for life science and other laboratory-based companies from spin-out and start-up onwards. It will play a significant role in helping the life science cluster in the region to grow and prosper, building on the talent emerging from our Universities and shining a light on the investment potential across the South Central economy.” The Rt Hon Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, said: “It’s always great to be here at Southampton Science Park, witnessing how it develops and grows year on year. The new Infinity Labs building is impressive and beautiful. It is such an iconic looking building, and a real testament to the Science Park’s determination to grow, to bring high quality jobs to this area, and of course, to make sure that there are facilities that our scientists will use and desperately need. So, massive congratulations to the University of Southampton Science Park. I can’t wait to see the finished building!” With the main contractor, Amiri Construction now starting works on site, the new landmark gateway building is expected to complete in 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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