Ambitious plans to transform Wythenshawe town centre are accelerating, as Muse submits proposals for a brand-new food hall as part of its £500 million regeneration programme. The proposed food hall forms part of a wider vision to revitalise Wythenshawe Civic Shopping Centre in Manchester, alongside the development of a £32
The £1 billion regeneration of Eastgate Quarter in Leeds city centre has reached a significant milestone with the appointment of a specialist consultant team to help deliver the ambitious scheme. Danish planners and British architects have been selected to bring forward proposals for the redevelopment of a four-hectare site in
Willmott Dixon is stretching from Wales to Kent as it mobilises on two landmark leisure developments set to transform community sport and wellbeing facilities on either side of the country. In Swansea, early works are now under way on the new National Institute for Sport & Health (NISH), while in
Vistry, the UK’s leading provider of mixed-tenure homes, has officially started work on 163 homes in Mastin Moor, Chesterfield. Delivered in partnership with Sage Homes, England’s largest provider of newly built affordable homes, the scheme will offer a diverse range of housing options for local people. Situated to the east
Canadian real estate development and investment firm Epta Development Corporation (EDC), and its development partner Stoford, has secured a freehold turnkey transaction for a 209,319 sq ft last-mile logistics unit at Axis Works, Bristol. The high-specification unit will be developed on a 27.91-acre plot at Central Park, Avonmouth, on behalf
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has announced its expansion into the Data Centre market. Building on 25 years of proven delivery, Winvic will now deliver purpose-built, resilient, and scalable data centre
PUBLIC SERVANTS on the front line of housing delivery have spoken out on the government’s target of delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029, with less than 1% thinking that the goal is achievable with current policy measures. This is according to the latest nationwide survey report and analysis from public
Tork, the global leader in professional hygiene and an Essity brand, has released new guidance aimed at industrial businesses – manufacturing, processing, packaging and plan and equipment businesses – to help transform their washrooms into assets to enhance user satisfaction and benefit business performance. Based on research which shows that
During National Apprenticeship Week, members of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) Cymru and their apprentices have been showcasing their skills to the Welsh Government’s Skills Minister. The Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant MS, visited an FMB member site operated by Excel Home Design in Pontyclun,
Commercial property developer Stoford and privately owned property company Gallan have agreed a new 35-acre land promotion and development deal in West Northamptonshire, further strengthening their presence in one of the Midlands’ most established logistics locations. The 34.2-acre site, located off Dockham Way in Crick, sits close to Junction 18
Ambitious plans to transform Wythenshawe town centre are accelerating, as Muse submits proposals for a brand-new food hall as part of its £500 million regeneration programme. The proposed food hall forms part of a wider vision to revitalise Wythenshawe Civic Shopping Centre in Manchester, alongside the development of a £32 million Culture Hub currently under construction by Kier. Joel Chandler, Senior Development Manager at Muse, said the project is progressing at speed to deliver the renewal the town centre deserves. He explained that the food hall is set to become a lively destination, showcasing a diverse mix of local food and drink operators. Designed as a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike, it will provide new opportunities for people to gather, socialise and enjoy the town centre — while also giving a significant boost to Wythenshawe’s evening economy. Muse has already begun discussions with prospective vendors, following positive engagement with the local community about the types of cuisine they would like to see represented. The goal is to create an inclusive offering that reflects the tastes of local people and celebrates the very best of Wythenshawe. In addition, Muse has submitted three separate planning applications to deliver 422 new affordable homes for social rent across three town centre locations. This initial phase forms part of a long-term masterplan that will see up to 2,000 new homes built over the next 10 to 15 years, reshaping Wythenshawe into a thriving, modern neighbourhood fit for the future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The £1 billion regeneration of Eastgate Quarter in Leeds city centre has reached a significant milestone with the appointment of a specialist consultant team to help deliver the ambitious scheme. Danish planners and British architects have been selected to bring forward proposals for the redevelopment of a four-hectare site in the heart of Leeds. The mixed-use project will span from Vicar Lane in the west to Bridge Street in the east, and from Lady Lane in the south to the A64(M) in the north. Leeds-based developers Khalbros and Torsion Group formed a joint venture after acquiring the Eastgate Quarter site in April 2025. Their plans aim to expand the footprint of the city centre and establish a vibrant new neighbourhood featuring homes, workspace, leisure and hospitality destinations. To realise this vision, the joint venture has appointed FeildenCleggBradley (FCB) Studios as lead architect and masterplanner, alongside Danish urban design practice SLA. FCB Studios already has strong ties to Leeds, having designed Broadcasting Place for Leeds Beckett University and developed the masterplan for Wellington Place. Planning consultancy services will be delivered by Leeds-based ID Planning, while Roscoe will provide structural and civil engineering expertise. AMA has been appointed to advise on highways and transport matters. A further 15 specialist consultants and advisers will support the core team. These include Urban Wilderness for townscape visual impact assessments, Futuresecology for ecological consultancy, Prospect for archaeology services, and Social for communications and public consultation support. Additional expertise will be provided by FD Global on wind consultancy, Levrant on heritage conservation and repurposing, GIA Consulting on daylight and sunlight surveying, and Tace on services and utilities consultancy. The proposals are currently progressing through a pre-application process with Leeds City Council to ensure alignment with the ambitions set out in the Eastgate Quarter masterplan. David Khalastchi, Managing Partner at Khalbros, described Eastgate Quarter as a defining moment for Leeds, calling it the final major regeneration opportunity within the inner city centre. He said the appointments signal the project’s international significance while remaining rooted in Leeds’ distinctive character, adding that the team and its investors are proud to contribute to the city’s long-term transformation. Dan Spencer, Chief Executive of Torsion Group, said the consultant appointments represent a pivotal step in bringing the vision for Eastgate Quarter to life. He highlighted the strength of the team, combining local and international expertise, and said the calibre of advisers reflects the scale of ambition behind the scheme and its commitment to supporting inclusive economic growth while creating a lasting legacy. Alex Whitbread, Senior Partner at FCB Studios, said the area has been overlooked for decades. He outlined plans to create a new mixed-use neighbourhood grounded in Leeds’ identity, where sustainability, density and high-quality placemaking work together. The scheme will breathe new life into long-vacant buildings, replace empty plots and car parks with a dynamic public realm, and reconnect surrounding residential communities as the city centre continues to expand. Rasmus Astrup, Design Principal and Senior Partner at SLA, added that the team is excited to be working on such a transformative project. Drawing on Leeds’ heritage, the ambition is to reimagine Eastgate as a ‘Greengate’ — a neighbourhood shaped by nature, public life and green infrastructure as key drivers of regeneration. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Willmott Dixon is stretching from Wales to Kent as it mobilises on two landmark leisure developments set to transform community sport and wellbeing facilities on either side of the country. In Swansea, early works are now under way on the new National Institute for Sport & Health (NISH), while in Gravesend preparations are gathering pace for the long-awaited Cascades Leisure Centre. In Wales, the four-storey NISH development for Swansea University is being constructed at the entrance to Swansea Bay Sports Park. The project is funded through the Swansea Bay City Deal, with backing from Swansea Council and local health boards. Work began last month to replace the existing pavilion at Sketty Lane, with full construction scheduled to commence in the coming weeks. Project management is being led by Pick Everard, working alongside architects Powell Dobson. The 2,000 sq m facility is designed to unite public, private and academic sectors engaged in sports and health research and development. NISH aims to support start-ups and growing businesses in advancing product innovation, while also serving as a key anchor for a broader Science and Innovation Park. Keith Lloyd, Director of NISH, said the institute will position Swansea — and Wales — firmly on the global stage for pioneering research, product development and community health innovation. He described it as a catalyst for discovery, inward investment and improved wellbeing. The building is expected to open its doors in 2027. Further east in Gravesend, Kent, Willmott Dixon is working with Gravesham Borough Council to prepare the site for a new £43 million leisure centre. Early site activity is under way, with demolition works scheduled to begin in early spring to clear the existing structures and ready the ground for construction. The new Cascades Leisure Centre will replace the current ageing facility. Plans feature a 25-metre swimming pool, a 17-metre learner pool, an aqua play and flume area, spectator seating, a six-court sports hall, a multi-level soft play zone, dedicated party and community rooms, and a café. Willmott Dixon was appointed as the council’s construction partner in September 2025 for the pre-construction phase via a direct award through the Pagabo framework. Richard Poulter, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in the South, said it is an exciting stage of the project as visible activity begins on site. He added that the new leisure centre will provide an outstanding, sustainable facility designed with families and the wider community in mind. Over the past decade, Willmott Dixon has delivered more than 160 leisure facilities across the UK, including 108 swimming pools. The new Cascades Leisure Centre is expected to open in 2028, marking a significant investment in the future health and wellbeing of the Gravesend community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vistry, the UK’s leading provider of mixed-tenure homes, has officially started work on 163 homes in Mastin Moor, Chesterfield. Delivered in partnership with Sage Homes, England’s largest provider of newly built affordable homes, the scheme will offer a diverse range of housing options for local people. Situated to the east of Bolsover Road, the development forms part of a wider 650‑home masterplan, being delivered by Devonshire Property Group, which includes proposals for later living, a local centre, extensive new parkland and an extension to the existing community garden. The wider site is also home to the Construction Skills Hub operated by Chesterfield College. Dave Bradley, Managing Director of Vistry North Midlands, said: “We’re thrilled to be moving forward with this project, which is all about creating opportunities for local people. Our focus is on building not just 163 high-quality homes, but a thriving, inclusive community where families can grow and friendships can flourish. We’re committed to working closely with our partner Sage, local authorities, and residents to ensure this development delivers real value for Mastin Moor and the wider Chesterfield area.” Alex Dawkins, Acquisitions Director, Sage Homes, said: “We are pleased to extend our partnership with Vistry and, as England’s largest provider of newly built affordable homes, are proud to be providing much needed high quality, energy efficient, affordable homes for people on the local authority’s housing waiting list.” Andrew Byrne, Director of Devonshire Property Group, said: “Seeing this second phase of Mastin Moor commence is a huge step forward in the delivery of the wider masterplan. We are delighted to welcome Vistry and their partner Sage Homes to Mastin Moor and Chesterfield. Their commitment to the provision of affordable homes to rent or buy, helping create diverse and vibrant communities, is a key factor in the partnership and something that aligns with the core values of the Devonshire Group. Vistry’s use of timber frame buildings also demonstrates their commitment to creating sustainable homes for the future. We wish them well.” Vistry will continue to work with local stakeholders throughout the construction process to ensure the new neighbourhood reflects community aspirations and supports long‑term growth in the region. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Canadian real estate development and investment firm Epta Development Corporation (EDC), and its development partner Stoford, has secured a freehold turnkey transaction for a 209,319 sq ft last-mile logistics unit at Axis Works, Bristol. The high-specification unit will be developed on a 27.91-acre plot at Central Park, Avonmouth, on behalf of an undisclosed occupier. This represents a significant investment by the purchaser and continues the success of EDC and Stoford at Axis Works. The building will target EPC A and BREEAM ‘Very Good’ standards and incorporate a range of sustainability measures, including photovoltaic panels and electric vehicle charging provision. Bowmer + Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor. In addition, construction on a new £74 million M&S logistics facility at Axis Works has reached a key milestone, with the completion of the building’s steel frame. EDC and Stoford are delivering the 390,000 sq ft high-specification warehouse on behalf of LondonMetric Property Plc, which is pre-let to M&S on a 20-year lease. The unit is now progressing through the next phase of construction, with cladding and roofing works underway. Both developments at Axis Works are scheduled for practical completion in October 2026 and will be accessed via a new internal estate road, which has already achieved sectional completion. Chris Tsakumis, Principal at Epta Development Corporation, said: “Axis Works continues to prove its appeal to best-in-class occupiers. This latest development reflects the site’s attractiveness and its growing reputation as a premier industrial destination in the region. This marks another step in EDC’s vision to deliver top-tier industrial environments, responding to sustained demand from leading occupiers in one of the UK’s strongest markets.” Dan Gallagher, Joint Managing Director at Stoford, added: “Axis Works continues to attract strong occupier interest due to its excellent connectivity and ability to deliver bespoke, high-quality logistics buildings. Progress across the estate, including significant infrastructure delivery, highlights the scale and momentum of the scheme.” Axis Works is a 101-acre site located at Central Park, South Gloucestershire, within the Avonmouth Severnside Enterprise Area. The scheme benefits from hybrid planning consent to deliver c.2 million sq ft of new industrial, warehouse and logistics space. CBRE and Knight Frank are joint agents on the scheme. For further information, visit www.axis-works.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has announced its expansion into the Data Centre market. Building on 25 years of proven delivery, Winvic will now deliver purpose-built, resilient, and scalable data centre solutions to meet growing market demand, reinforcing its commitment to innovation, operational excellence and supporting the digital economy. Data Centres is Winvic’s fourth core sector, sitting alongside Industrial & Logistics, Multi-room, and Civils & Infrastructure. As a Tier 1 partner of the UK’s most complex industrial and infrastructure developments, Winvic has built an enviable record of disciplined delivery and the highest standards of quality. Its move into the Data Centre market is part of its ongoing growth and diversification, bringing its core values and expertise to a rapidly expanding market. Danny Cross, Director – Head of Data Centre Delivery at Winvic, said: “Over the last eighteen months we have focused on developing our supply chain, upskilling our teams and recruiting new expertise. Working alongside specialist MEP partners, we’re combining civil engineering scale and management with technical precision to deliver data centres designed for uptime, resilience, and scalability. “This marks a significant milestone in Winvic’s evolution as we expand into one of the fastest-growing construction sectors whilst maintaining our commitment to quality, collaboration, and excellence.” Danny Nelson, Managing Director of Industrial, Logistics and Data Centres at Winvic, said: “Our entry into the Data Centre market is a natural evolution of our capabilities as these developments share similar attributes to buildings we’ve been specialising in for over 25 years. Our proven delivery of large-scale and complex industrial and logistics projects, rigorous safety and quality standards through our ‘Doing It Right’ culture, and a collaborative approach gives us a strong advantage. “ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
PUBLIC SERVANTS on the front line of housing delivery have spoken out on the government’s target of delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029, with less than 1% thinking that the goal is achievable with current policy measures. This is according to the latest nationwide survey report and analysis from public sector procurement specialist Pagabo, which reveals insights from respondents representing a broad cross-section of job functions across local government and housing associations. Building 1.5 Million Homes – Is It Achievable? reveals a deep-seated pessimism across the housing sector and a sobering reality for government. Even with significant policy reform, less than one-third believe the target is achievable. When asked if they are satisfied with their organisation’s progress in relation to the delivery of affordable homes compared with the local target since the Labour party entered government last year, only a fraction over one-third of respondents said yes. The report reveals that the most critical factor holding back housing delivery is the lack of sufficient, flexible, and long-term funding. Meanwhile a trio of interconnected issues surrounding land cost, site availability and developer profit expectations present widespread barriers to delivering more homes – with planning restrictions, community opposition and infrastructure constraints also cited as obstacles to overcome. Jonathan Parker, development director at public sector procurement specialist Pagabo, said: “Our new report includes findings that suggest the government’s housebuilding target is more optimistic than realistic, but this is tinged with a clear appetite to be able to deliver more homes. Without a greater understanding of the views and challenges being faced around the country by those tasked with delivery, no changes can be made. Having these insights means that the government and wider delivery collaborators can now come together to find the solutions that breed confidence and progress against local targets – not see them dwindle further. “The structure of traditional contracts involving land sales followed by developer delivery is widely seen as misaligned with public objectives – which is likely feeding that barrier cited around community opposition. This reinforces the need for a more collaborative delivery model in which the public sector and developers share responsibility from the outset to accelerate delivery and maximise public value – but also ensuring that communities are taken on that journey as well in order to truly be involved in shaping their own futures.” Digging deeper into the issue of site availability, the survey revealed a pragmatic stance adopted by housing professionals despite an ideological preference for building on brownfield sites. Faced with the high costs of remediation, the main constraint in bringing forward brownfield land cited by respondents, 54% of those surveyed prioritise a balanced mix of both brownfield and greenbelt sites, while only 3% leant towards prioritising green belt land. The new report also draws attention to the nation’s existing housing stock, identifying a critical and growing tension beyond the headlines dominated by new homes. Results show that for housing associations, which often manage the quality, safety and sustainability of vast property portfolios, refurbishment is a core strategic priority – particularly with the introduction of new legislation like Awaab’s Law in 2025. By contrast, local government bodies viewed refurbishment as secondary to the primary goal of planning and enabling new development. Despite this strategic difference, across the sector there is a strong view that new housing must be supported by corresponding investment in social infrastructure. Respondents see collaboration not as a ‘nice-to-have’, but as a critical component of placemaking. An overwhelming 79% of all respondents view collaboration with other public sector bodies as either essential or important – especially for ensuring new homes are supported by the right physical and social infrastructure. Jonathan continued: “Our report highlights that new housing delivery and existing housing refurbishment cannot be considered in isolation. Success is defined not by numbers alone, but by the creation of thriving places, underpinned by access to healthcare, education, transport and social infrastructure. We’re especially interested in all that the report reveals because we believe that procurement offers a powerful opportunity to make a difference, from the outset of development planning and placemaking through to the legacy that is created. “Since conducting our latest survey, the government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill has become law and further changes to the National Planning Policy Framework are under consultation – seeking to move the dial as housing sector professionals desperately seek solutions. Despite what’s been said and done already, an open-minded attitude and collaboration driven approach can make 2026 a year that will be remembered for the right reasons.” Produced by Surveys in Public Sector in partnership with Pagabo, Building 1.5 Million Homes – Is It Achievable? is informed by a survey involving a total of 84 individuals from 69 unique local authorities and housing associations. To read the full report, visit www.pagabo.co.uk/white-paper-research-building-1-5-million-homes-is-it-achievable. The Developer-Led Framework – managed by Pagabo on behalf of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust – promotes early engagement between developers and public sector clients to improve viability, placemaking and delivery. It is the first framework of its kind to provide private sector funding to public sector schemes, for more information visit www.pagabo.co.uk/frameworks/developer-led-framework Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Tork, the global leader in professional hygiene and an Essity brand, has released new guidance aimed at industrial businesses – manufacturing, processing, packaging and plan and equipment businesses – to help transform their washrooms into assets to enhance user satisfaction and benefit business performance. Based on research which shows that 73% of people will not return to a washroom after a bad experience, Tork’s “Washroom Guide”, available on its website, provides recommendations on improving inclusive hygiene, environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. “Our data shows that when washroom users and cleaners’ needs aren’t met, a business can suffer,” said Olivia Slater, Commercial Director, Professional Hygiene at Essity. “With three in four people concerned about washroom hygiene,[1] and one in two likely to face barriers to meeting their needs, small, targeted updates to the washroom – the most visited room in a facility – can make a substantial difference for both users and cleaning staff.” Recommendations: Washroom users said that when the following “must have” elements are provided, which exemplify inclusive hygiene, the majority (59%) of people say a business can improve its positive image: The washroom is an overlooked place for reducing environmental impact by businesses, yet 67% of people want washroom managers to prioritise environmental sustainability.[2] Tork recommends the following actions: Investing in washroom features and supporting cleaning staff can improve business revenue. To empower cleaning staff, many of whom feel unsupported1 and enhance user experiences, Tork recommends: Olivia continued “By addressing these critical aspects, industrial businesses can help washroom users and cleaners meet their basic needs and deliver an experience that meets the needs of as many as possible. Investing thoughtfully in inclusive hygiene, sustainability and operational support meets evolving user expectations.” Tork helps businesses realise the benefit of sustainable hygiene with a focus on four key areas materials & packaging, use & waste, carbon and hygiene for all. It also provides free training and educational assets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
During National Apprenticeship Week, members of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) Cymru and their apprentices have been showcasing their skills to the Welsh Government’s Skills Minister. The Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant MS, visited an FMB member site operated by Excel Home Design in Pontyclun, where he toured the development and saw apprentices in action. During the visit, the Minister met apprentices currently learning their trade and heard first-hand about the vital role small, local builders play in training Wales’s construction workforce. The construction sector continues to face acute skills shortages, and the Federation of Master Builders is calling for greater support to help small firms offer and sustain apprenticeship placements. Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant, said: “We greatly value our partnership with the Federation of Master Builders in addressing construction skills, standards, and SME capacity. Construction is a critical sector for the Welsh economy, with a long and successful past in harnessing the power of apprenticeships for the benefit of employers, learners, and the wider socio-economic landscape. We are committed to strengthening its workforce and skills pipeline to meet construction, housing and retrofit ambitions. “There is clear demand for Level 2 construction apprenticeship opportunities to be made available in Wales, and the new pathways we have announced today are proof our commitment to apprenticeships is unwavering. The sector can be confident that Wales is building a modern, flexible and future focused apprenticeship system. Small builders like Excel Home Design train the majority of construction apprentices in Wales. We value that contribution immensely, and I was delighted to accept an invitation from the FMB Cymru to visit them and see first hand the positive impact of apprenticeships across Wales.” Ifan Glyn, Director of FMB Cymru, added: “We were delighted to host the Minister on one of our members’ sites and to discuss the key pinch points that are currently putting the brakes on the delivery of construction apprenticeships in Wales. Construction is a sector that relies heavily on employer-led apprenticeships, and it is encouraging to see the Minister engaging directly with the industry. Addressing these challenges will require close collaboration between all key stakeholders.” Russell Everett, Managing Director of Excel Home Design and an FMB member, concluded: “Apprenticeships have been vital to our business and to the construction industry as a whole. Training young people from the ground up allows us to develop the specific skills we need, whilst giving apprentices a strong foundation for a rewarding career. “It was a pleasure to host the Minister and showcase the excellent work our apprentices are doing. Investing in their training is an investment in the future of Welsh construction, and we are proud to play our part in building the next generation of skilled tradespeople.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Commercial property developer Stoford and privately owned property company Gallan have agreed a new 35-acre land promotion and development deal in West Northamptonshire, further strengthening their presence in one of the Midlands’ most established logistics locations. The 34.2-acre site, located off Dockham Way in Crick, sits close to Junction 18 of the M1 motorway and has the potential to deliver up to 500,000 sq ft of industrial and logistics accommodation across a series of units. The land adjoins the well-established Crick Employment Area, which is home to a mix of local, regional and national occupiers including Costco and Inspired Pet Nutrition. Stoford and Gallan aim to reinforce the role of this key employment hub, positioned to the north of the West Northamptonshire local authority area. The agreement builds on the partners’ existing land interests in Crick, taking their combined promotion and development portfolio in the area to around 140 acres. The wider portfolio is intended to cater for a range of occupier requirements, offering flexibility in building sizes and uses, with options to purchase or lease. Stoford and Gallan will work alongside Wallis Real Estate, which represented the landowners in securing the agreement. Andy Hartwright, Land Director at Stoford, said the site presents a strong opportunity to respond to sustained demand for high-quality industrial and logistics space in prime locations, helping to drive economic growth across the region. Marty Gallagher, Director at Gallan, added that expanding the Crick portfolio enables the partnership to bring forward a broad mix of development opportunities suited to a variety of occupiers, supporting both regional business expansion and inward investment. The latest deal underlines continued confidence in the Midlands logistics market, with Crick remaining a strategically important location due to its motorway connectivity and established occupier base. Further details on the Dockham Way opportunity are available directly from Stoford and Gallan. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals