All of the 36,000 personalised granite stones that will make up the spectacular Everton Way have now been sold. The paved walkway had been widened due to popular demand along the entire length of the exterior of the south stand at Everton Stadium, expanding earlier this season from the original plan
The Centre, Livingston is gearing up to welcome Starbucks as its latest addition, with the global coffee giant set to open later this month. Taking a 3,200 sq ft unit with seating for 90 customers, the new Starbucks location is expected to start serving mid-February, adding to the shopping destination’s
NATIONAL procurement specialist Pagabo has launched a campaign to support the UK’s public and private sectors with adopting and benefiting from the latest procurement reform, which will come into effect on 24 February when the Procurement Act 2023 goes live. ‘Act on Procurement’ is simplifying the legalisation within the Procurement
SPECIALIST engineering consultancy Hexa has announced the opening of its new office in Sheffield, marking significant expansion into the North of England. In addition, Harry Davison and Jake Adams have been promoted to associates and will be leading the new Sheffield presence. Harry, a senior engineer, joined Hexa in 2021, bringing with him
A long-serving director at family-owned contractor Beard says the company’s commitment to developing young talent plays a vital role in supporting their growth ambitions. Dean Averies joined the Wiltshire-headquartered company as a 16-year-old trainee in 1988, after writing without success to some 50 other firms seeking an apprenticeship opportunity. Since
An innovative partnership led by a northeast housing association is creating opportunities for people to start their career in construction as an apprentice. Nine roles have already been created through the be:ONE partnership, which was established by believe housing in April 2024 to deliver internal and external improvements to around
Isover, a UK manufacturer of mineral wool insulation products, is launching new packaging to improve recyclability and reduce their environmental impact. Isover has reduced the ink coverage on its packaging to only 15%, with a change to white base foil. Additionally, the company will continue using 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR)
Mayplas, a specialist in passive fire protection, acoustic and thermal insulation for the housebuilding industry, has introduced two new products. The new Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit add to Mayplas’ comprehensive portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications. The new Party Wall Head System provides
Scannell Properties and Royal London Asset Management Property have secured final planning approval for TN2 Gateway, a state-of-the-art logistics and industrial development in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Construction is now underway on the 33-acre scheme, which will deliver over 500,000 sq ft of high-specification warehouse space, including flexible office accommodation. The
Places for People, the UK’s leading social enterprise, has acquired a 110-acre site on the outskirts of Edinburgh to deliver more than 1,300 much-needed homes. This significant development will help address the growing demand for housing in the Scottish capital, as the organisation continues its mission to create thriving, sustainable
All of the 36,000 personalised granite stones that will make up the spectacular Everton Way have now been sold. The paved walkway had been widened due to popular demand along the entire length of the exterior of the south stand at Everton Stadium, expanding earlier this season from the original plan of 28,000 stones which had sold out in 2023. The final stones were secured by fans just days after work commenced on the huge installation, which will be a focal point for visitors to Everton Stadium – featuring personal messages that celebrate Evertonians’ births, marriages, anniversaries and loved ones. Anyone who has purchased a stone on Everton Way still has an opportunity to purchase a replica stone, which will be presented in an Everton-branded display box. These replica stones offer an additional memento, along with the option of a personalised A4 presentation certificate of authentication. This can be done by logging into your Everton Way account, selecting ‘adding product to booking’ within the order, and choosing the replica option. More information can be found HERE For supporters who missed out on the chance to be part of Everton Way, there are further opportunities to cement your place at Everton Stadium and be part of history. The Club’s latest personalisation project, The Everton Fan Wall, offers the opportunity for fans to feature in a wall of ‘originals’, as part of a pictorial mosaic depicting Everton players who have realised unique achievements while representing the club, and those who have truly embodied the Everton spirit on and off the pitch. Evertonians around the world can submit a photo for inclusion, with all of the personal images pieced together to create a magnificent, supporter-inspired mosaic. Places on the fan wall are on sale now HERE Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Centre, Livingston is gearing up to welcome Starbucks as its latest addition, with the global coffee giant set to open later this month. Taking a 3,200 sq ft unit with seating for 90 customers, the new Starbucks location is expected to start serving mid-February, adding to the shopping destination’s extensive mix of retailers and eateries. With over 150 stores and restaurants, The Centre already boasts household names such as M&S, River Island, Flannels, H&M, Hotel Chocolat, Wagamama, Nando’s, and Five Guys. Over the past year, the retail hub has also welcomed exciting new arrivals, including Cinnabon, Rituals, Søstrene Grene, Las Iguanas, BeLeaf Juice Bar, Beauty’s Inn, Pop Specs, Buzart, Afro Crest, The Designer Rooms, Loris Parfum, The Watch Lab, Barclays Bank, and Elite Smile Dental Clinic. Adding to the line-up, Hollywood Bowl is set to open a 26,000 sq ft entertainment venue at The Centre next year, reinforcing its position as a top leisure and retail destination. Rakesh Joshi, Director at LCP, part of M Core, said: “We are delighted to kick off 2025 with the opening of Starbucks at The Centre, Livingston, further strengthening our commitment to attracting high-quality brands to the shopping centre. “The past year has been fantastic, with the arrival of international names such as Cinnabon, Rituals, and Søstrene Grene. As we expand into more experience-led activities, we have exciting plans in the pipeline that will enhance the overall visitor experience.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
NATIONAL procurement specialist Pagabo has launched a campaign to support the UK’s public and private sectors with adopting and benefiting from the latest procurement reform, which will come into effect on 24 February when the Procurement Act 2023 goes live. ‘Act on Procurement’ is simplifying the legalisation within the Procurement Act through a range of resources, including an extensive downloadable guide, explainer video, frequently asked questions and webinars – all created by the experienced experts at Pagabo. As well as explaining what changes will have to be considered by key stakeholders including contracting authorities and suppliers, and how it impacts them, Pagabo’s Act on Procurement campaign explores why 2025 will be a landmark year in the history of procurement legislation and how the well-established procurement specialist can help. Shamayne Harris, head of procurement at Pagabo, said: “Through our close contact with organisations varying in size across the public and private sectors, we’re well aware of the different levels of preparedness ahead of 24 February. With this in mind, we’ve established a collection of resources to increase access to knowledge and support around the Procurement Act – both before the Act goes live and afterwards – to help others compliantly navigate procurement reform. “There are lots of new concepts, definitions and processes for different professionals to familiarise themselves with, which we hope to have made more accessible and actionable. Pagabo is the UK’s leading procurement specialist, managing a suite of frameworks on behalf of public sector contracting authorities. The company provides UK and EU procurement law compliant framework agreements and bespoke consultancy – delivered and backed up by a team of MCIPS and NEC qualified procurement professionals. With an approach rooted in creating the maximum social value possible, works procured through Pagabo’s frameworks have to date enabled more than £6bn in social value for communities. The procurement specialist’s approach and appreciation of social value will become particularly valuable once the Procurement Act 2023 goes live, as the legislation contains significant provisions to encourage sustainability when awarding contracts. Shamayne added: “The Procurement Act presents a huge opportunity to increase simplicity, transparency and opportunity within procurement in the long-term, which will help to ensure the public purse is best utilised – making this an important moment in time. With central government continuing to unveil substantial plans for development of infrastructure, communities and public services, the time is now for everyone to pull together and help realise the potential for public procurement to provide value for money, economic growth and social value. “We’re encouraging anyone, no matter how much procurement concerns you day-to-day, to consider learning more and challenging their existing approach to projects that involve public and private sector collaboration.” Pagabo’s popular monthly webinar series Pagabo Live will be focussing on the Procurement Act in March, with the episode titled ‘Procurement Reform is Live – What Now?’ Those interested in receiving insights after the Procurement Act is implemented can register now ahead of the online session scheduled for 19 March: www.pagabo.co.uk/episodes/webinar-procurement-reform-reactions-from-the-public-sector To learn more about Act on Procurement and access Pagabo’s range of resources, head to www.pagabo.co.uk/procurement-reform Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SPECIALIST engineering consultancy Hexa has announced the opening of its new office in Sheffield, marking significant expansion into the North of England. In addition, Harry Davison and Jake Adams have been promoted to associates and will be leading the new Sheffield presence. Harry, a senior engineer, joined Hexa in 2021, bringing with him a wealth of experience in residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects. Jake, a structural technician, has been instrumental in the growth of Hexa’s Leeds office alongside director Richard Osbond since it opened in 2022, and brings a strong understanding of project delivery and client relationships. Harry Davison said: “This is a pivotal moment for Jake and I, as we spearhead Hexa’s growth in Sheffield. The city is undergoing a period of significant regeneration, and we are confident that Hexa can play a vital role in shaping the future of the city, and we are keen to meet like-minded people and have those conversations. Hexa has changed the skyline of Nottingham and Leeds; now it’s time to do it in Sheffield. “Having started as a student engineer and received great mentoring from all the senior Hexa team over the years, I’m also keen to help shape the next generation in the same way.” Jake Adams added: “We are committed to building strong relationships with clients and collaborators in Sheffield as we continue to immerse ourselves in networking and business development opportunities. We believe that our expertise, combined with our local knowledge, will enable us to deliver exceptional projects that meet the unique needs of the city. “We are both incredibly grateful to the leadership team at Hexa for backing our ambitions and to the senior team for being great role models. As two Sheffield locals, we are so motivated to deliver for our hometown and being able to live amongst a city we’ve helped to shape will be incredibly fulfilling. The new Hexa base is strategically located within Sheffield’s vibrant Heart of the City development. This prime spot provides easy access to key stakeholders, including architects, quantity surveyors, and other collaborators. The team has already secured several projects in Sheffield, including the prestigious West Bar development. The company is actively pursuing new opportunities and is confident that 2025 will be a year of significant growth for the Sheffield office. Richard Osbond, director at Hexa, said: “It’s great to be strongly kicking off 2025 with the opening of our office in Sheffield. Hexa has already secured several projects in Sheffield, including the prestigious West Bar development, which will allow our team to showcase its expertise in the region. “Both Harry and Jake bring a wealth of experience having supported our teams in Nottingham and Leeds, and have shown enormous passion in pursuing their professional goals as part of Hexa. I am confident in their ability to contribute to the city’s growth and in helping to deliver high-quality, sustainable projects.” For more information about Hexa, please visit https://www.hexaconsulting.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A long-serving director at family-owned contractor Beard says the company’s commitment to developing young talent plays a vital role in supporting their growth ambitions. Dean Averies joined the Wiltshire-headquartered company as a 16-year-old trainee in 1988, after writing without success to some 50 other firms seeking an apprenticeship opportunity. Since then, he has progressed from school leaver to estimator, surveyor, contracts manager, construction director and leader of Swindon-based Beard’s 110-strong Oxford team. Dean’s 22-year-old son Corey is following in his father’s footsteps as a carpenter having joined Beard as an apprentice six years ago. Beard confirmed its continued commitment for supporting young talent during National Apprenticeship which kicks off on 10 February. Dean said: “When I left school in 1988, careers advice was limited, and I had no idea what roles existed in construction. “I sent hand-written letters to companies, and Beard was the only one to offer me a chance. Their support for young people was unusual at the time, as many other companies were asking for degrees. “Had Beard not supported me, I don’t think I would be working in construction today. The support I received – through on-the-job training, professional qualifications, and career development – shaped my entire career. “I’m proud to see the company continuing that legacy with a new generation of apprentices.” Tackling the skills shortage At a time when the construction sector faces a critical skills shortage, with estimates predicting that the industry needs more than 250,000 extra workers by 2028, Beard continues to offer young people opportunities to build lasting careers. The business currently supports 10 employees on degree apprenticeships and a further four in apprenticeship roles. Melissa Barber, Beard’s head of people and communications, added: “Dean’s story is a great example of why investing in young people has always been important to us. “The skills shortage in construction is well-known and we must take big steps to train, support, and retain talent at all ages. “Apprenticeships have always been an important part of this ambition. I look forward to us developing the next group of committed apprenticeships who can expect a fulfilling and rewarding career in this industry.” Beard is one of the few contractors that directly employs apprentices from age 16, providing a vital entry route into the industry at a time when many firms require prior qualifications or higher education. The firm also actively engages schools and colleges to improve careers advice and showcase the range of roles available in construction. Dean added: “Beard took a chance on me as a teenager. Now, in my role as director, I see it as my responsibility to do the same for the next generation. It is also an important part of helping a business like ours to continue to grow. “Those joining us today are the next generation of industry leaders. We need to do everything possible to attract, develop and retain them.” To find out more about Beard’s apprenticeship and career opportunities, visit https://www.beardconstruction.co.uk/careers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An innovative partnership led by a northeast housing association is creating opportunities for people to start their career in construction as an apprentice. Nine roles have already been created through the be:ONE partnership, which was established by believe housing in April 2024 to deliver internal and external improvements to around 5,600 of its homes over a four-year period. The not-for-profit landlord and contractors Buston & Maughan, RE:GEN Group, Sendrig Construction Limited and Sunter Limited made a series of commitments as part of the contract. One key aim is to boost the local economy and employment, by creating new jobs and apprenticeships and supporting business growth. And in the first year, all the partners have hired new apprentices to work on the contract. Buston & Maughan recently took on Brooke Hawes as an electrical apprentice, Robert Kirsopp is an apprentice joiner with Sendrig, and property maintenance trainee Scott Hutchinson is gaining a wide range of experience with Sunters. RE:GEN has six apprentices working on the contract; apprentice site manager Joseph Quigley, apprentice quantity surveyors Luke Bell, Joe Freeman, Ben Turnbull and Charlotte Kendal, and apprentice joiner Jack Robinson. David Taylor, Assistant Director of Major Works at believe housing, said: “be:ONE is not only about improving the homes of thousands of our customers but also ensuring the benefits of our investment reach the wider community. “I’m delighted for the apprentices who have secured roles with our be:ONE partners and hope they all go on to enjoy successful and fulfilling careers. “It is always good to see new people joining the social housing and construction sectors, boosting the workforce needed to build and maintain homes and support the growth of the UK and regional economy.” Jonathan Horner, Managing Director at RE:GEN North East, said: “We are a purpose-driven organisation focused on enhancing lives through safe, sustainable social housing regeneration. “Our work goes beyond just improving homes; it extends to creating jobs and training opportunities that benefit individuals and communities. “Being part of the be:ONE partnership and receiving long-term investment from believe housing gives us the confidence to create valuable apprenticeship roles, which are essential for the future growth of the housing and construction sectors. “The benefits of true partnership working are clear and it’s great to see so many people gaining from it.” The be:ONE partnership was created with support from procurement experts, Prosper. The partners also collaborate to improve customer experience, achieve significant savings, and maximise the impact of social value in communities. And they work together to cut carbon emissions, reduce waste, and increase recycling. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Isover, a UK manufacturer of mineral wool insulation products, is launching new packaging to improve recyclability and reduce their environmental impact. Isover has reduced the ink coverage on its packaging to only 15%, with a change to white base foil. Additionally, the company will continue using 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content and aims to increase this in the future. The updated branding of the packaging has a cleaner look and includes a new suite of pictograms providing clear signposting for Isover product ranges, features and applications. Michelle Placide, Head of Insulation Category at Isover, said: “This packaging change to improve recyclability demonstrates Isover’s commitment to our purpose of making the world a better home while also improving our customers’ experience with the design changes to easily identify the Isover products for their projects”. Isover will begin the roll-out of the new packaging for all insulation products manufactured at its plant in Runcorn, Cheshire. The plant manufactures insulation products from up to 82% recycled glass, and all electric equipment in the plant is powered by 100% renewable electricity. The phased launch plan is expected to continue across the first half of 2025. The launch of this packaging is another key sustainability initiative from Isover, which is committed to supporting the circular economy and reaching Net Zero Carbon by 2050. In 2024, Isover partnered with The Pallet LOOP, a circular economy pallet supplier. Increasingly, Isover products such as Spacesaver and Acoustic Partition Roll are shipped on easily identifiable, green-coloured LOOP pallets, to significantly reduce avoidable pallet waste. To find out more about Isover’s insulation products and their commitment towards Net Zero Carbon by 2050, visit www.isover.co.uk/sustainability. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Mayplas, a specialist in passive fire protection, acoustic and thermal insulation for the housebuilding industry, has introduced two new products. The new Party Wall Head Cap System and Therma Soffit add to Mayplas’ comprehensive portfolio of products for timber and masonry frame applications. The new Party Wall Head System provides fire protection compartmentation at the party wall junction. Installed together as per Mayplas’ Installation Guide, the two-component system – a party wall head cap and a tile batten barrier, achieves 60 minutes fire integrity and insulation tested to the principles of EN 1363-1:2012 and EOTA TR31:2008 and independently assessed in accordance with BS 476-20:1987 and BS 476-22:1987. The system addresses Building Regulations requirements to maintain the continuity of fire resistance between a compartment party wall and the underside of the roof covering, so preventing the spread of fire and smoke. Mayplas’ new Therma Soffit product also works at the party wall junction providing thermal insulation within the soffit. It is available in two thicknesses, 100mm and 150mm, facilitating required thermal resistance values (Approved Document L) and providing resistance to the passage of sound synonymous with stone mineral wool insulation (Approved Document E). These new products join Mayplas’ MP552 Cavity Stop Socks, MP556 Fire Stop Slab, MP551 Timber Frame Cavity Barriers and MP557 Acoustic Party Wall DPC Cavity Carrier, all recently tested to BS EN 1366-4:2021, to meet a wide range of housebuilders’ specialist insulation needs. “Builders are putting fire safety first and foremost. Our new Party Wall Head System together with our existing passive fire protection range addresses that need,” explains Michael Hunter, Mayplas’ Technical Director. “We now provide a comprehensive solution for realising passive fire protection, for reducing heat loss and for minimising sound transmission in both timber frame and masonry construction to help housebuilders create protected, energy-efficient and comfortable homes.” New technical data sheets are available at: www.mayplas.co.uk/housebuilding-solutions Mayplas is a member of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection and the Structural Timber Association. An insulation specialist for over 40 years, Mayplas manufactures a range of fire, acoustic and thermal insulation products at its facility in Bury, Greater Manchester, ideally located for distribution throughout the UK. Mayplas can accommodate virtually any insulation specification, working with architects, contractors, developers, distributors and merchants. Mayplas is part of the Performance Technology Group. www.mayplas.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Scannell Properties and Royal London Asset Management Property have secured final planning approval for TN2 Gateway, a state-of-the-art logistics and industrial development in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Construction is now underway on the 33-acre scheme, which will deliver over 500,000 sq ft of high-specification warehouse space, including flexible office accommodation. The development comprises nine adaptable units, ranging from 23,000 to 175,000 sq ft, catering to businesses of all sizes looking to establish a foothold in the region. A Prime Location for Business Growth Strategically positioned adjacent to Kingstanding Business Park, TN2 Gateway benefits from easy access to the A21, offering seamless connectivity to the M25, London, and key southern transport hubs, including the Channel ports of Dover and Medway. Sustainability at Its Core Aligning with Scannell and Royal London Asset Management Property’s commitment to sustainable investment and development, the scheme is targeting BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A+ ratings. Green initiatives include: In addition to its eco-friendly design, TN2 Gateway will feature extensive landscaping to create a workspace that enhances employee wellbeing and biodiversity. Wildflower meadows, a pond, new tree planting, and green buffer zones will help blend the development seamlessly into the local environment. A Boost for Local and National Businesses With an estimated post-development gross development value (GDV) of £135m, TN2 Gateway is set to become a key commercial hub in an area historically underserved by mid-sized industrial units. Simon Borthwick, UK Development Director at Scannell Properties, commented:“TN2 Gateway will be the only business park in the region offering ‘mid-box’ warehouse units, a sector experiencing significant demand. Its prime location, excellent transport links, and strong sustainability credentials are already attracting interest from both local and national businesses.” Next Steps Following the site acquisition in June 2024, construction has now begun, with the first units set for occupation in Q1 2026 and full completion expected later that year. McLaren has been appointed as the main contractor, while JLL and Glenny will act as joint letting agents. Lichfields advised on all planning matters. With its cutting-edge design, prime location, and strong environmental credentials, TN2 Gateway is set to redefine the logistics landscape in Tunbridge Wells and beyond. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Places for People, the UK’s leading social enterprise, has acquired a 110-acre site on the outskirts of Edinburgh to deliver more than 1,300 much-needed homes. This significant development will help address the growing demand for housing in the Scottish capital, as the organisation continues its mission to create thriving, sustainable communities. Located west of the city centre, the site boasts excellent transport links and close proximity to education, leisure, and employment opportunities. The acquisition from Murray Estates marks a major step in delivering high-quality housing in line with the Edinburgh City Plan 2030. Colin Jack, Regional Managing Director – Scotland of Places for People Developments, said:“The City of Edinburgh and the Scottish Government have declared a housing emergency, highlighting the urgent need for new homes. Scotland has long faced a chronic housing shortage, and we are committed to helping address this. We’re excited to play a key role in shaping the west of Edinburgh with a mixed-tenure development that will create a lasting, vibrant community.” A Vision for Modern, Connected Living The masterplan for the development will take inspiration from new town principles, creating a well-balanced, sustainable neighbourhood. Key elements of the plan include: David Murray, Managing Director of Murray Estates’ owner Murray Capital, added:“As a family business that has owned this site for 40 years, we are delighted to see our vision for Redheughs being brought to life by an organisation dedicated to building high-quality, sustainable communities. This development is a key milestone in the expansion of west Edinburgh, delivering thousands of homes the capital urgently needs.” Beyond Housing: A Commitment to Social Impact As a social enterprise, Places for People is committed to enhancing the wider community beyond just building homes. The organisation will promote apprenticeships, local employment, and training schemes while supporting initiatives such as the Hays Community Pantry and the Tools for Equity project. Through its subsidiary, Places Leisure, it also plans to expand physical activity programmes and extend the Relational Mentoring Project in partnership with Wise Group. Colin Jack concluded:“Our goal is not just to build homes but to create places where people can truly thrive. We believe in fostering strong, connected communities by working closely with local charities and businesses to provide essential services and opportunities. We look forward to collaborating with Edinburgh City Council to bring this vision to life.” Construction is set to begin in summer 2026, marking a major milestone in addressing Edinburgh’s housing needs and shaping the city’s future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
