An exciting new collaboration between one of the leading operators of student accommodation, Fresh, and British department store, John Lewis & Partners is taking the stress out of move-in weekend for student residents. As part of Fresh’s commitment to resident wellbeing, the collaboration is designed not only to ensure residents
Now is a time of change for UK’s ‘broken’ water sector Publication of the final report of the independent review into the water sector’s regulatory system in England and Wales has been welcomed by ACE Group. The Independent Water Commission, chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe, has now concluded its investigation
Frasers Group has reaffirmed its commitment to property as a core element of its growth strategy, highlighting real estate investment as a “key focus” amid shifting retail dynamics. The group’s property division generated £13.9 million in revenue for the 2025 financial year, marking a 19.1% year-on-year increase. This accounted for
The City of Westminster Council has appointed Altius Real Estate as its delivery partner for the comprehensive redevelopment of Huguenot House, a prominent site nestled between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The 1960s-era building is set to be replaced with a vibrant mixed-use scheme, including a cinema, hotel, new residential
Metrocentre in Gateshead has secured two significant retail deals, with Superdrug set to open its largest store in the region and Danish lifestyle brand Søstrene Grene preparing to launch its first outlet at the scheme. Superdrug will upsize its unit within the centre’s Red Mall to 10,000 sq ft, marking
A future defining office building set to lead on design, sustainability and occupier experience in Leeds Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) has unveiled Z – a bold, future-focused 111,000 sq ft office development at Whitehall Riverside which is set to redefine workplace standards in Leeds. Positioned on a prime riverside
Landmark leases secured for 300,000 sq ft of speculatively developed industrial space Development and asset manager, Canmoor Asset Management (Canmoor), has secured major lettings at practical completion of two brand new, speculatively developed buildings, totalling almost 300,000 sq ft at Westway at Glasgow Airport. The UK Government has signed a
Planning permission has been granted for a landmark £70m residential development in Stockport town centre, paving the way for construction to begin early next year. The scheme, designed by AEW Architects, will provide a new community in the heart of Stockport, delivering 245 high-quality homes on a currently vacant 0.4
Mechanical, electrical and public health (MEP) service provider G&H has announced the expansion of its service offering with the creation of building performance. This move comes in response to increasing client demand as businesses seek to adapt their existing properties to achieve net zero targets and comply with the UK’s
The best construction trainees and apprentices from across the UK have been announced following this year’s SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers. The Regional Qualifier finalists all now progress to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final in November later this year. SkillBuild, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is the largest and
An exciting new collaboration between one of the leading operators of student accommodation, Fresh, and British department store, John Lewis & Partners is taking the stress out of move-in weekend for student residents. As part of Fresh’s commitment to resident wellbeing, the collaboration is designed not only to ensure residents feel comfortable and supported from day one, but also features exclusive offers and practical support tailored to students’ needs. The partnership reflects Fresh’s ongoing investment in enhancing the student experience and is part of a wider programme of wellbeing-focused initiatives. Sam Scott, Managing Director of Fresh, explains: “Check-in weekend can feel stressful for many students but at Fresh we are providing more than just a home. We want our residents to be welcomed into a community and feel valued from the day they move in. Our collaboration with John Lewis adds a greater level of enjoyment for all involved. With fabulous pop-up shops in several of our Fresh locations, free lunches and parking we are confident we will be making the move-in experience less stressful, taking the pressure off our new residents and their parents and carers for a smooth experience.” The John Lewis & Partners pop-up shops will be available at selected Fresh properties as students move in, selling everything from power banks to duvets. Its stock is designed to ensure that students can access all forgotten essentials, no matter how big or small, to ensure check-in day is a seamless experience. The unique collaboration between Fresh and John Lewis & Partners will also see dedicated shopping lists available for students who simply don’t know where to start with their university packing. Created with Fresh properties in mind, the shopping lists take account of what students will already have in their rooms, as well as what they might need. Parents and carers are also supported via the collaboration, with vouchers available for discounted food and drinks and free parking at participating John Lewis & Partners stores during check-in weekend (time limits apply). The offer means adults can take a breather and give their youngsters a couple of hours to unpack and meet their fellow residents, before ensuring all is well and saying their goodbyes. The collaboration with John Lewis & Partners is the latest in a string of innovations implemented by Fresh to support students’ wellbeing. The company already delivers the best-in-class Be Wellbeing programme, supporting the evolution of vibrant communities where residents can thrive. The programme is an integral part of the Fresh experience, meaning every student is supported to build friendships and enjoy a sense of belonging. Regular events and activities take place throughout the year as part of the Be Wellbeing programme, from sushi-making classes and breakfast get-togethers to art therapy and puppy yoga. Students are also welcomed to a wide range of cultural and religious celebrations, including for Christmas, Lunar New Year, Holi Bhai Dooj, Eid, Ramadan and Hanukkah. Louise Julier, Business Partnerships Executive at John Lewis & Partners comments: “We are delighted to be collaborating with Fresh to deliver this unique new service to students in support of their wellbeing. A stress-free start to the university term supports young people to settle in more quickly and enjoy the experience, rather than the anxiety of forgotten essentials. It’s a weight off minds for parents and carers too, knowing their young people have everything they need to embrace their fledgling independence.” To find out more, visit www.thisisfresh.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Now is a time of change for UK’s ‘broken’ water sector Publication of the final report of the independent review into the water sector’s regulatory system in England and Wales has been welcomed by ACE Group. The Independent Water Commission, chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe, has now concluded its investigation into the provision of water and the quality of our natural water environment. The review is a direct response to a catalogue of pollution cases, financial difficulties, mismanagement and infrastructure failures within the sector, which combined have shaken the public’s trust. With firm recommendations on driving resilience, enabling innovation, supporting supply chain capacity, speeding up delivery and the capability of water companies to roll out large infrastructure projects, ACE Group is calling on Government to embed these into law at the earliest opportunity. Director of Policy at ACE Group, Marie-Claude Hemming, said: “ACE Group has long argued that the UK’s water sector is fundamentally broken, still driven by cycles of boom and bust alongside challenging business models, a lack strategy and pipeline visibility. “The publication of the Cunliffe review highlights that it really is now time for change. Trust has been broken and we all have a part to play in its restoration. “This cannot be done in isolation. While we urge the government to implement the recommendations of this independent review as soon as possible, we must all be cognisant of big decisions ahead. “Primarily, it is no longer possible to continue with the current approach, whereby the industry is deprived of necessary investment – does not drive economic growth and the longer-term environmental outcomes future generations deserve. “We need honest conversations about cost and the finance models needed to deliver the world class water infrastructure society expects. “ACE Group urges Government not to shy away from difficult decisions and seize the opportunity to deliver this once in a generation reform to our water sector.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Frasers Group has reaffirmed its commitment to property as a core element of its growth strategy, highlighting real estate investment as a “key focus” amid shifting retail dynamics. The group’s property division generated £13.9 million in revenue for the 2025 financial year, marking a 19.1% year-on-year increase. This accounted for 1.8% of total group revenue and reflects a strategy built around targeted acquisitions and asset enhancement. The uplift was underpinned by the annualisation of previous acquisitions, including Castleford’s shopping centres, alongside a string of high-profile deals completed during the year. These included Frenchgate in Doncaster, Princesshay in Exeter, Fremlin Walk in Maidstone, and a portfolio of Affinity outlets. Trading profit from the property arm rose by £5 million, driven by higher rental income. However, gains were partly offset by a £5.8 million increase in operating costs. In contrast, Frasers’ core retail division reported a 7.4% decline in revenue compared to the previous year. Although Sports Direct continued to deliver sales growth and the group acquired Twinsport during the period, these gains were outweighed by planned revenue reductions across Game UK, Studio Retail, and a number of brands previously acquired from JD Sports and SportMaster in Denmark. The luxury market also remained subdued, though the group noted some encouraging early signs of recovery. Michael Murray, Chief Executive of Frasers Group, said:“I’m pleased with our performance this year, despite the headwinds caused by last year’s Budget. We remain fully committed to our Elevation Strategy, which drove another record year of profitable growth and further delivery of our key priorities. We continued our strategy of confidently investing for the future, unlocking multiple opportunities for sustainable medium- to long-term growth.” He added:“We accelerated our international expansion, announcing partnerships in Australia, Asia and EMEA, to further build Sports Direct into a truly worldwide proposition. Our relationships with the world’s best global brands, including Nike, adidas and HUGO BOSS, are the strongest they have ever been, and our ambitious growth plans are now strengthening and scaling these partnerships even further.” “We captured over £125 million of synergies through strategic acquisition integrations and cost-savings, and continued to invest in real estate opportunities that deliver great value for the group.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The City of Westminster Council has appointed Altius Real Estate as its delivery partner for the comprehensive redevelopment of Huguenot House, a prominent site nestled between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The 1960s-era building is set to be replaced with a vibrant mixed-use scheme, including a cinema, hotel, new residential flats, modern office space, and significant improvements to the surrounding public realm. Altius Real Estate will collaborate with contractor Erith and world-renowned architects Foster + Partners to bring the project to life. With design work now underway, a planning application is expected to follow a period of public consultation. The council first identified full-scale redevelopment as the preferred approach in 2021, following extensive studies and community engagement over several years. Councillor David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, commented:“The redevelopment of Huguenot House represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform a key site in the heart of the West End. Altius has demonstrated a clear commitment to delivering high-quality homes, including much-needed affordable housing, alongside vibrant community spaces and a reimagined public realm.” The scheme aims to revitalise this strategic location with a mix of cultural, commercial and residential uses, helping to reinforce the West End’s role as one of London’s most dynamic and liveable districts. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Metrocentre in Gateshead has secured two significant retail deals, with Superdrug set to open its largest store in the region and Danish lifestyle brand Søstrene Grene preparing to launch its first outlet at the scheme. Superdrug will upsize its unit within the centre’s Red Mall to 10,000 sq ft, marking a 31% increase on its previous space. The upgraded store will feature the brand’s latest concept, including treatment studios and cosmetic services, as well as new signage, flooring, ceiling tiles, and energy-efficient LED lighting. The enhanced space will strengthen Superdrug’s position as a wellness anchor in the Red Mall, joining leading fashion and lifestyle brands such as Zara, Flannels, River Island, and upcoming arrivals Stradivarius and Urban Outfitters. Meanwhile, in the Lower Green Mall, Søstrene Grene has signed for a 5,000 sq ft unit opposite Next. Known for its Scandinavian-inspired home décor, furniture, crafts and gift items, the retailer will join an established line-up that includes ProCook, Clarks, and Holland & Barrett. Ben Cox, director at Sovereign Centros from CBRE, asset manager of Metrocentre, said:“We firmly believe that creating growth opportunities for existing brands is paramount to not just a successful tenant mix, but the overall visitor experience. Superdrug will be benefiting from that after years of success, delivering a greater range of services and products in a better and more enhanced environment. The arrival of Søstrene Grene will also elevate the centre, with both retailers highlighting confidence in our destination as we provide even more reasons for people to visit and uphold our position as the go-to destination in the North East.” These latest signings follow continued investment in Metrocentre, including a full refurbishment of Boots’ 40,000 sq ft unit, as well as new openings for Kuoni, Muffin Break, and the regional debut of Clinton’s new store format. Lunson Mitchenall and Time Retail Partners represent Metrocentre on leasing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A future defining office building set to lead on design, sustainability and occupier experience in Leeds Town Centre Securities PLC (TCS) has unveiled Z – a bold, future-focused 111,000 sq ft office development at Whitehall Riverside which is set to redefine workplace standards in Leeds. Positioned on a prime riverside site, the 11-storey building will deliver a next-generation workspace that blends intelligent building systems, exceptional sustainability credentials, and distinctive architecture. Designed for ambitious, connected businesses, it will offer the most technologically advanced and experience-led office space in the city. Z is intentionally distinctive – a bold, single-letter name inspired by its spiritual, astrological and mathematical associations of knowledge, wisdom, understanding, beauty, harmony and completeness. It symbolises ambition, modernity, and a new era of workspace thinking: where performance, design, and wellbeing converge. More than a name, Z reflects a progressive shift in how we work, connect, and care for our environment. A New Brand with Creative at Its Core To support the launch, TCS has introduced a striking new visual identity and brand for Z, now live at zleeds.com. The campaign includes a series of unique, AI-generated images that blend people with elements of nature – symbolising Z’s connection to its immediate natural surroundings. A fully interactive virtual tour is also now available on the website, giving prospective occupiers a dynamic preview of the spaces and amenities on offer. Craig Burrow, Group Property Director at TCS said “As workspace continues to evolve, Z has been designed to be more than just a building. Set within an unrivalled riverside location, it provides best-in-class, smart, energy-efficient office spaces, with the highest level of amenity. We are excited to be setting new standards with a new breed of workspace”. A Smart, Sustainable, Future-Ready Workplace Z will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies that monitor air quality, occupancy, and energy usage in real time – empowering occupiers to make data-driven decisions. Flexible floorplates and a variety of workspace formats are supported by a communal rooftop terrace, lounge areas, multipurpose spaces, and high-spec meeting and event facilities. TCS is currently in advanced discussions with potential occupiers and plans to bring forward Z as a key component of the wider Whitehall Riverside masterplan. This includes a new flagship CitiPark multi-storey car park and travel hub, offering 478 EV-enabled spaces to support sustainable commuting and future mobility. A Riverside Destination for Business and Community Set within a reimagined public realm, Z connects directly to the River Aire via landscaped walkways, rain gardens, and biodiverse planting. The animated ground floor will act as a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a riverside terrace, on-site café, and social spaces designed to support both work and leisure. Z represents a major investment in the future of Leeds – a dynamic new destination that reflects how people want to work, live, and connect. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Landmark leases secured for 300,000 sq ft of speculatively developed industrial space Development and asset manager, Canmoor Asset Management (Canmoor), has secured major lettings at practical completion of two brand new, speculatively developed buildings, totalling almost 300,000 sq ft at Westway at Glasgow Airport. The UK Government has signed a long lease on Westway 200, a brand new 202,862 sq ft unit, which was completed in early July 2025. The deal is believed to be Scotland’s largest speculative industrial and logistics letting in three decades. Meanwhile, Westway 90, extending to 88,017 sq ft has been let at practical completion in April this year to sustainable packaging technology company Pulpex Ltd, under a 20 year lease. The building will be used by Pulpex as the location for its first commercial-scale fibre bottle manufacturing facility, which was announced in February. Both buildings embody sustainable design, earning BREEAM “Excellent” and EPC “A” ratings. The facilities are all-electric capable and include electric vehicle charging stations, photovoltaic panels, and air source heat pumps. Key amenities include dedicated car parking, HGV parking and extensive yard space, all within Westway’s 24/7 fully secure environment. The deals mark a major milestone for Westway and for Canmoor’s speculative development programme which delivers best-in-class, sustainable industrial spaces, which continues to resonate with forward-thinking occupiers. Strong demand for the developments and the continued strength of the West Scotland market, underscores Canmoor’s commitment to speculative development at the estate. Westway stands as one of Scotland’s premier industrial estates. It offers quick and direct access to Junction 28 of the M8, via the recently opened Barnwell Street Bridge, as well as easy connectivity to Glasgow Airport and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS). Further exciting developments are on the horizon at Westway. Following the planned demolition of Block F, a new phase of build-to-let opportunities will be introduced, featuring purpose-built industrial units ranging from 20,000 to 300,000 sq ft. Joint letting agents at Westway are JLL and Colliers. The main contractor on this development was Muir Construction. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Planning permission has been granted for a landmark £70m residential development in Stockport town centre, paving the way for construction to begin early next year. The scheme, designed by AEW Architects, will provide a new community in the heart of Stockport, delivering 245 high-quality homes on a currently vacant 0.4 hectare brownfield site. Spanning two buildings of eight to 20 storeys, the development will deliver a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, designed in line with Passivhaus Low Energy Standard principles. Comprising 12 townhouses and 233 apartments, 10% of the apartments are designed to M4(3) wheelchair-adaptable standards. In addition, the surrounding public realm has been carefully planned to ensure accessibility, making the development as inclusive as possible. The design puts people first, with features that make everyday living better. These include clever positioning to make the most of natural sunlight, bright and airy staircases, shared laundry areas, and a rooftop garden with community allotments and solar panels. At the heart of the development sits a 100m² flexible space which can be used for various events and workshops for residents and non-residents. The site presented several challenges, including a significant 6-metre level difference and a large retaining wall between the parcels. Additional complexities include the varied scale of neighbouring properties, which range from one to twelve storeys, as well as consented and emerging proposals on nearby sites. The approved plans aim to revitalise a key gateway site while supporting Stockport’s wider regeneration strategy for Stockport East and ambitions to create a vibrant, urban residential community in the heart of the town. Phil Hepworth, director at AEW Architects, said: “We’re extremely pleased to have reached this milestone in bringing forward innovative, flexible, age-friendly and contextually-appropriate accommodation in the centre of Stockport. In collaboration with the wider design team, we have conducted detailed site analysis, engaged in public consultation activities, and liaised closely with key stakeholders to shape our proposals. “Since initial designs in 2020, we have worked with the local planning authority to refine the building form, adjusting massing to respond to a changing brief, the evolving context, and the need to address the site’s topographical and contextual constraints with a robust design solution. “The buildings are conceived as two interconnected blocks lined by a double-height atrium. To address the site’s topography and the surrounding built context, we have adopted a design strategy that breaks the development into distinct forms, each responding individually to the streetscape they face.” Euan Kellie, founding director at Euan Kellie Property Solutions which lodged the planning application, added: “Stockport is going great guns in terms of its evolution and we’re all very pleased to have reached this important milestone in the delivery of a major new development. “We’re firm believers that future schemes are not a one size fits all and this project demonstrates that in spades.” David Fairclough, director at Progressive Living, concluded: “This approval represents a major milestone for a project that’s been six years in the making, and we’re proud to play our part in shaping the next chapter of the town centre’s transformation.” Brought forward by Manchester-based developer Progressive Living in partnership with residential operator Picture This, the development is backed by a highly-experienced team, including Re-Form, renaissance, Zerum, OFR, GIA, Novo, Our Studio, Jameson Acoustics, SK Transport, Turley, Oxford Archaeology, Euan Kellie Property Solutions and AEW Architects. It is hoped demolition and enabling works can start this year with construction expected to begin in spring 2026, following BSA Gateway 2 approval. Completion is targeted for Summer 2028. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Mechanical, electrical and public health (MEP) service provider G&H has announced the expansion of its service offering with the creation of building performance. This move comes in response to increasing client demand as businesses seek to adapt their existing properties to achieve net zero targets and comply with the UK’s tightening Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES). Chartered building surveyor Mike McGill, with over 35 years’ experience in surveying, upgrading and adaptation of UK buildings, will head up the new service. This strategic expansion has led to G&H successfully securing a contract with UK property investment and development company, CEG. Under the new appointment, G&H will work to improve the energy performance of Tricorn House, a 1970s office building in Birmingham. The goal is to achieve a minimum EPC B rating for the building, ahead of the current 2030 deadline in line with MEES regulations, reduce its operational carbon costs, and support the client’s wider targets to decrease energy intensity. Following a detailed building survey and options appraisal of Tricorn House, G&H will create a detailed prototype of one office floor, using Building Information Modelling (BIM) and thermal dynamic modelling to identify the most efficient and commercially viable retrofit solution for the whole building. Mike McGill, building performance director at G&H, said: “I’ve joined G&H to lead its new building performance service because there’s a significant need from UK clients for seamless, proven, and viable solutions to decarbonise their buildings and achieve their net zero targets. By combining G&H’s vast experience with my background in adapting buildings, we have the capability to devise and deliver exactly what the market is demanding. “We’re off to a great start following our appointment by CEG. They’ve taken the initiative to ensure the long-term sustainability of Tricorn House, well ahead of the MEES deadline. Tricorn House is a typical 1970s concrete office tower, exactly the kind of building that’s often written off as too challenging to retrofit. CEG wants to use this project to prove that these buildings can be successfully upgraded and continue to play an active role as economic and social assets in our city centres.” Paul Greenhalgh, FM quality and procurement manager said: “We needed a partner that could not only improve Tricorn House’s EPC rating to ensure its legal compliance and its commercial viability, but also one that offered a complete integrated solution. “G&H’s approach really appealed as it covers everything from initial assessment to final certification. Knowing the project will be designed and managed by Chartered Building Surveyors and CIBSE building services engineers, and delivered by G&H’s own team, is very reassuring.” As part of the UK government’s target to reach net zero by 2050, all commercial buildings are expected to achieve an EPC C rating by April 2028 and an EPC B rating by April 2030 for both new and existing leases. Properties failing to meet these proposed standards will no longer be lettable, though these requirements have not yet been formally legislated. Founded in 1998, G&H is a leading MEP provider. Its 200-strong team designs, manages, delivers, and maintains every aspect of MEP schemes across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The best construction trainees and apprentices from across the UK have been announced following this year’s SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers. The Regional Qualifier finalists all now progress to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final in November later this year. SkillBuild, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is the largest and longest-running industry skills competition in the UK and has become a prestigious showcase for those in construction. This year, over 1,000 students battled it out across 10 construction trade categories during 16 Regional Qualifiers, each one day long, in which participants were assigned a task relevant to their trade. Eight students – the highest scorers in each category – will go head-to-head in the National Final at the Arena MK, Milton Keynes on 19–20 November, where the 10 winners will be crowned top of their trade. The three-day final will consist of competitors constructing a project within 18 hours, with an expert panel of judges assessing them on a number of characteristics – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements. With CITB’s annual industry forecast highlighting that 47,860 extra workers are needed per year from 2025–2029, SkillBuild continues to be an important platform to spotlight the industry and the opportunities available. Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said: “Congratulations to all of the competitors progressing through to the SkillBuild 2025 National Final – it’s truly a great achievement for them. “In a time when construction skills are in high demand, it is more important than ever to spotlight the next generation of construction talent. SkillBuild continues to further this mission and is proud to demonstrate the value that a trainee or apprentice provides to their team. “The quality of participants never ceases to amaze me – I’m excited to see this year’s National Final and wish all the competitors the best of luck!” Josh Thompson, Painting and Decorating Judge, said: “Having been a former contestant myself, I know first-hand just how amazing a competition SkillBuild is, and I intend to pass on any words of wisdom I can do all the competitors. It’s so encouraging to see the enthusiasm from trainees and apprentices across the industry coming from all corners of the country. Good luck to everyone participating in the Final later this year!” CITB would like to thank all the fantastic sponsors, supporters and strategic partners of this year’s SkillBuild competitions:BAL Adhesives, Band of Builders, Brick Development Association, British Gypsum, Careers Wales, CITB NI, Crown Paints, Festool, FIS, Institute of Carpenters, N&C Nicobond, NFRC, NSITG, Saint Gobain, Schluter, SPAX, Stablia, TARMAC, The Tile Association, Tilgear, Weber, Wienerberger, The Worshipful Company of Masons, and The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals