Salford-based builder, Watson, has submitted plans to transform a 1.55-acre site on Charter Street, Accrington into 40 new homes. The development represents the latest chapter in the regeneration of this key site, which previously contained railway sidings, an engine shed, and a sports club and was recently acquired from Hyndburn
Y Senedd in Cardiff played host to the second leg of the APS National Construction Industry Mental Health Awareness campaign, before it moves on to Westminster The Association for Project Safety (APS) continued its UK-wide campaign to promote mental health and wellbeing within the construction industry, taking its message to
Scott Brownrigg, an international design practice, has secured planning permission for the T-Levels Building, a new University Technical College (UTC) facility adjacent to the University of East London Docklands Campus, that expands the existing London Design & Engineering (LDE) UTC’s teaching facilities. The new scheme will provide additional workshops and
GMI Construction Group has been appointed by Sunderland City Council to deliver a £4.9m extension and upgrade to the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing (CESAM), enabling JATCO to commence production of innovative 3-in-1 electric vehicle powertrains for Nissan’s nearby Sunderland plant. This marks a return to the International
30-year-old among five new Fellowships awarded by the Institution of Civil Engineers. Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, is celebrating the achievements of five professionals who have been awarded Fellowship by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the highest grade of membership and a globally recognised mark of professional excellence. Fellowship
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, has announced the acquisition of an 11.8-acre site in Bognor Regis, marking its fourth strategic land purchase in the South Coast region in the past two years, following acquisitions in Crawley, Burgess Hill, and Brighton, all along the M23 corridor. Amid a
BW: Workplace Experts has completed the major Cat B fit out of Virgin Media O2’s London headquarters in Paddington – the new home for its London-based teams and its first major office space investment since the two brands merged in June 2021. The ambitious 81,750 sq. ft office spans six
2024 felt the lasting impact that regulatory change has had on the facilities management sector. The introduction of the Fire Safety Act 2021, the Building Safety Act 2022 and the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 fundamentally reshaped responsibilities, focus areas and challenges for facility maintenance professionals, establishing new compliance requirements
Allegro acquisition marks a significant step in expanding UK property portfolios Global real estate powerhouse QuadReal Property Group and Canadian investment firm Realstar have announced the acquisition of Allegro, a prominent Build-to-Rent (BtR) development in Birmingham’s One Exchange Square. This joint venture adds the impressive 345,662 sq. ft scheme to
Bioregional, a pioneer in sustainable development, yesterday announced the release of its latest guidance document, Goals and guidance for new-build communities in the UK. Tailored specifically for housing developers, this essential guide provides practical strategies for designing and delivering sustainable communities using the renowned One Planet Living framework. With this
Salford-based builder, Watson, has submitted plans to transform a 1.55-acre site on Charter Street, Accrington into 40 new homes. The development represents the latest chapter in the regeneration of this key site, which previously contained railway sidings, an engine shed, and a sports club and was recently acquired from Hyndburn Council. The proposed development comprises 32 houses and eight cottage flats, all of which will be delivered as affordable homes through partnership with a registered housing provider. The scheme has been carefully designed to complement the surrounding area while maximising the potential of this emerging housing allocation site. Located off Charter Street, the development will benefit from good transport links and proximity to Accrington town centre. It will also provide adequate parking and attractive landscaping to create a desirable new neighbourhood. Rob Watson, director at Watson, said: “This planning submission represents an important step forward in bringing new life to this historic site. We have extensive experience in delivering high-quality affordable homes across Lancashire and look forward to working with our partners to create a development that meets local housing needs and contributes positively to the area.” Subject to planning approval, the development will transform a key site in Accrington, providing much-needed affordable homes. This latest scheme adds to Watson’s strong track record in delivering affordable housing across the North West, with more than 1,210 homes completed and 659 currently in development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Y Senedd in Cardiff played host to the second leg of the APS National Construction Industry Mental Health Awareness campaign, before it moves on to Westminster The Association for Project Safety (APS) continued its UK-wide campaign to promote mental health and wellbeing within the construction industry, taking its message to the Welsh Parliament (Senedd Cymru) in Cardiff. Whilst the overall social stigma related to mental health has been largely reduced with employers now offering staff a raft of support interventions, The Association for Project Safety (APS) remains steadfastly committed to seek greater awareness and understanding on the range of issues which accounts for 24% of all ill health in the construction sector and to compel the industry to consider mental health in a similar vein to physical health. Having successfully launched its campaign at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, last November, APS took its message to Y Senedd on Tuesday 14th January. An invited audience made up of APS members in South Wales, local construction companies, cross-party MS members from the Welsh Parliament and representatives from local mental health charities gathered to hear the event host, senior former Labour Minister John Griffiths MS from the Welsh Labour Group, speak of the need for employers and individuals to prioritise mental health awareness and provide support where it is needed. He comments: “Addressing the stigma of poor mental health and promoting positive mental wellbeing across workplaces has never been more important. We need to focus on the great work carried out by APS and its focus on construction. In doing so, we can work towards a mindset change needed to improve workplace mental health.” The event also heard from guest speaker, Dylan Skelhorn – a former Solid Fuel Heating Engineer who sustained life changing injuries following a fall from height 15 years ago. Since his slow mental and physical health recovery, Dylan has been working as a motivational safety speaker, sharing his story to try and prevent others having life-changing accidents. Dylan is involved in projects to prevent Working at Height injuries and deaths and is a harsh reminder to those in all industries and at every level that unfortunately these incidents are still happening today Andrew Leslie, CEO, The Association for Project Safety, believes the construction industry is sitting on a mental-health time-bomb that requires a collegiate approach. “Across society, there is a growing awareness of the benefits to discuss mental health issues, but this societal change is taking time to filter through the construction industry. “Asking for help and opening up about feelings and emotions are not things that come naturally to many of those working in construction. The sad truth is that large numbers of workers will never approach their employer, or even an independent service, to seek support about their mental health. This is especially true of older workers, who are not as comfortable talking about their emotions as newer recruits into the industry. This is why we are taking these events to the seats of power across the United Kingdom to promote positive mental health across the construction sector and let our politicians see what needs to be achieved.” APS plans to hold its next event at The Palace of Westminster in early summer. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Scott Brownrigg, an international design practice, has secured planning permission for the T-Levels Building, a new University Technical College (UTC) facility adjacent to the University of East London Docklands Campus, that expands the existing London Design & Engineering (LDE) UTC’s teaching facilities. The new scheme will provide additional workshops and teaching spaces, allowing the college to increase the learning environment for its students. The new, three-storey building will overlook the Royal Albert Dock to the south. The building’s entrance will be located across a compact central square from the existing LDE building, creating a connection between the two buildings and a focal point for the developing industrial and research facilities in the area. Like the existing LDE building, the new T-Levels Building will feature dark grey terracotta cladding on the ground floor and dark-grey vertical profiled metal cladding on the upper floors. Bright yellow accents – around the entrance and on some windows – will provide visual continuity with bright yellow columns that form an exuberant colonnade along LDE college’s southern elevation. Both buildings allow the general public to interact with the engineering workshops and the teaching spaces, with welcoming open frontages acting as shop fronts to the activities taking place. The workshop on the ground floor has been designed to accommodate large equipment and machinery, while the upper two floors will host other curriculum activities. The new facility will include cutting-edge technical equipment and industry-standard spaces, co-designed with employer partners to meet the demands of the modern workforce. Providing these additional spaces for students will also open up spaces within the existing college for enhanced community programming and public events. The landscape design will extend the existing material palette and treatment across the new site, enhancing consistency and cohesion. This includes paving material and pattern choices, to match the walkways around the existing UTC. The building’s design takes on the ‘Fabric First’ approach with a well performing envelope that aligns with both the Department for Education and the local authority’s sustainability criteria. The design also caters for future expansion and flexibility, allowing the building to be easily adapted in response to the UTC’s future needs. Construction on the new T-Levels building is anticipated to complete in late summer of 2025. UTCs offer T- Levels, full-time, technically oriented education to 14 – 19-year-olds, in preparation for higher education or employment. Oliver Thomas, Project Director at Scott Brownrigg, said: “Continuing to develop LDE UTC’s estate acknowledges the success of the first building that we delivered for them in 2018. Being able to design buildings that facilitate the aspirations and development of individuals and communities, whilst supporting the sustainable growth of both the borough and LDE UTC, is something that we are very proud of.” Geoffrey Fowler, CEO and Founding Principal of LDE UTC, said: “This project is about much more than a building. It’s about investing in young people, addressing the UK’s skills gap, and providing the tools for learners to realise their potential. We are grateful for the overwhelming support from stakeholders, the Greater London Authority (GLA), the Royal Docks Team, Newham Council, our local community and our sponsors Costain, Skanska, Thames Water, the Diocese of Chelmsford and UEL. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Newham’s young people”. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GMI Construction Group has been appointed by Sunderland City Council to deliver a £4.9m extension and upgrade to the Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Advanced Manufacturing (CESAM), enabling JATCO to commence production of innovative 3-in-1 electric vehicle powertrains for Nissan’s nearby Sunderland plant. This marks a return to the International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP) for GMI, which originally completed the CESAM manufacturing and research hub in 2019. During the pandemic, CESAM played a vital role as an NHS Nightingale Hospital and later as a mass vaccination centre. This upgrade represents a pivotal step in restoring CESAM to its original purpose – establishing the North East as a leader in advanced manufacturing technology and innovation. The project includes the construction of additional external buildings and modifications to the existing 138,840 sq. ft facility to meet the specific needs of JATCO, a leading Japanese automotive transmission manufacturer. JATCO’s £48.7m investment in the facility will create up to 183 highly skilled jobs, bolstering the UK’s electric vehicle (EV) supply chain. The site will produce 3-in-1 electric powertrains for Nissan’s Sunderland plant, a cornerstone of Nissan’s EV36Zero initiative, a transformative project integrating EV production, renewable energy, and battery manufacturing to establish a global blueprint for the automotive industry’s future. Gary Oates, GMI’s Divisional Managing Director, North East, said: “We’re proud to return to CESAM to deliver this important extension and upgrade on behalf of Sunderland City Council for JATCO. This project is a testament to the quality of our work and highlights our commitment to supporting innovative companies. It also reinforces the North East’s role as a key hub for electric vehicle production and advanced manufacturing.” Michael Mordey, the leader of Sunderland City Council adding: “JATCO’s decision to locate in our city is a testament to Sunderland’s strength as a world-renowned hub for automotive and advanced manufacturing. This investment will benefit our communities and reinforce our reputation as a destination for innovation and growth.” Alan Johnson, Senior Vice President, Manufacturing, Supply Chain and Purchasing for Nissan AMIEO, commented: “This is a fantastic step forward for our world-first EV36Zero plan. Welcoming a key supplier to the North East of England provides a big boost to the efficiency of our supply chain.” Tomoyoshi Sato, JATCO’s CEO, said: “We have enjoyed a long and fruitful partnership with Nissan and are delighted to bring the manufacture of our 3-in-1 powertrain to the UK. I am grateful for the support of the UK Government, Sunderland City Council, and all others involved in the establishment of JATCO UK.” JATCO joins a cluster of automotive and advanced manufacturing businesses located at IAMP, a joint venture between Sunderland City Council and South Tyneside Council. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
30-year-old among five new Fellowships awarded by the Institution of Civil Engineers. Costain, the infrastructure solutions company, is celebrating the achievements of five professionals who have been awarded Fellowship by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the highest grade of membership and a globally recognised mark of professional excellence. Fellowship is awarded in recognition of the significant contribution engineers have made to the profession and is an endorsement of leadership, knowledge, skills and experience. The list includes Georgia Thompson, who, at the age of 30, is the youngest woman ever to have achieved Fellowship. A chartered civil engineer and design manager currently working as part of Costain’s role as major project partner on the Heathrow Airport terminal asset renewal programme, Georgia has had previous engineering roles on HS2, Network Rail and Transport for London. Since 2023 Costain has successfully supported and coached 13 engineers through the ICE Fellowship application process as part of their career development. This is in addition to many other professional qualifications Costain supports across all levels and disciplines, with more than 450 chartered engineers across the organisation. In addition to Georgia, Costain professionals Simon Chaffer, Richard Helme, John Holding and Clive Glasspool also achieved ICE Fellowship last year. Georgia Thompson, civil engineer at Costain, commented: “It’s an honour to have achieved the highest level of ICE membership. At Costain, our purpose is to improve people’s lives and I’m incredibly proud to be recognised among a peer group of world class engineers that have made such a difference to society.” Katherine Etheridge, ICE regional director, London, South East, and East of England, said: “It’s a privilege to be part of our members’ professional journeys. The ICE’s purpose is to ensure people and planet have the infrastructure they need to thrive, and we can’t do that without our members expertise. Seeing them achieve Fellowship status is always exciting.” Andrew Threlfall, group chief engineer at Costain, said: “Congratulations to Georgia, Simon, Richard, John and Clive for achieving Fellowship status. At Costain, we place great importance on personal and professional growth and developing all our people to be the best they can be. Our engineering-led approach is vital to ensure we continue to deliver predictable, best-in-class sustainable infrastructure solutions for our customers.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, has announced the acquisition of an 11.8-acre site in Bognor Regis, marking its fourth strategic land purchase in the South Coast region in the past two years, following acquisitions in Crawley, Burgess Hill, and Brighton, all along the M23 corridor. Amid a scarcity of land for new developments and the growing trend of repurposing older Grade B facilities, this new site aims to address the significant mismatch between supply and demand in the South Coast region. Purchased from Hanbury Developments, the site will form part of Panattoni’s expanding mid-box development programme, designed to target undersupplied markets with sustainable and versatile logistics solutions. Located adjacent to established units occupied by Amazon and Rolls Royce, the site offers access to 3.8 million unique addresses within a 50-mile radius. This proximity, combined with excellent transport links via the A29 dual carriageway, positions the development as a key logistics hub for businesses. Plans have been submitted for the speculative development, with construction expected to commence in June 2025 and completion anticipated in Q3 2026. The site will host three industrial units measuring 30,534 sq ft, 58,328 sq ft, and 111,137 sq ft, with a combined footprint of 200,000 sq ft, offering exceptional flexibility to accommodate diverse tenant needs. Sustainability remains a key focus for Panattoni, with the logistics park targeting a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and an EPC ‘A’ energy efficiency standard. Key features include roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, rainwater harvesting, 15% rooflights to maximise natural daylight, and electric vehicle charging points. These initiatives demonstrate Panattoni’s focus on reducing environmental impact while enhancing operational efficiency. David McGougan, Development Director at Panattoni commented on the news, saying: “The acquisition of this prime site in Bognor Regis is a step forward in delivering our South Coast strategy, offering strategically located logistics solutions in unsupplied market. Situated in a prime Sussex location with access to millions of consumers, this development offers an exceptional opportunity, combining cost-efficient units for future tenants. “As part of the strategy this will be our fourth acquisition in the last two years, developing our mid-box speculative portfolio in the South Coast, we commit to continuing our mid-box developments with further acquisition in the near future.” Panattoni was advised by LSH on the acquisition of the Bognor Regis site, while Hanbury Developments was represented by SHW. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
BW: Workplace Experts has completed the major Cat B fit out of Virgin Media O2’s London headquarters in Paddington – the new home for its London-based teams and its first major office space investment since the two brands merged in June 2021. The ambitious 81,750 sq. ft office spans six floors, plus additional ground floor space, and includes large areas for team collaboration, hosting visitors and a variety of private and open work areas. Standout features include a prestigious ground floor client experience area, and a space on the ninth floor focused entirely on collaboration, with a conference suite, boardroom, multi-functional dining and social space, and a 130-capacity event studio. Every floor further includes areas designed to facilitate naturally occurring conversations. These ‘accidental meeting points’ are opposite the lift lobby of each floor and serve to bring employees closer together into one team – a key goal for the new office and cornerstone of the merger. BW: Workplace Experts delivered each floor to reflect the wide range of services offered by Virgin Media O2 and what its customers use its connectivity for, from gaming and music-themed floors, through to sports, streaming and more. This resulted in over 350 individual finishes and 75 light fitting types, 22 being feature lighting, to match the individual look and feel of each floor. All existing services were then carefully managed by the team to achieve both aesthetics and functionality. This included overcoming challenges presented by the highly congested ceiling when applying acoustic spray to the soffit. This was achieved through excellent RCP site coordination to meticulously arrange the exposed services and attain the impressive clear ceiling heights. Diversity and inclusion was also a key consideration from the start, and the site features gender-neutral toilets, study and retreat spaces for neurodivergent colleagues, and multi-faith rooms with Wudu facilities. Colour schemes were also reviewed to ensure tonal contrast and improve the experience for any employee who is partially sighted, while sufficient space has been provided in meeting rooms and other spaces to ensure wheelchair access. Committed to supporting Virgin Media O2’s ESG strategy ‘the Better Connections Plan’, BW: Workplace Experts met criteria for acoustics, material selection, air quality and waste management, and the building is on track to achieve the highest levels of sustainable certifications in the UK; BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum. The team also added social value by creating a local partnership with the nearby Edward Wilson Primary School, investing 98 volunteering hours as well as local materials, including those repurposed from the Virgin Media O2 project, to paint the playground walls, deliver new bug houses to encourage biodiversity, and reimagine the dated library for pupils to enjoy. The library refurbishment includes a new stage that can also be used for drama performances, whiteboards, beanbag seating and new book shelving. Paul Kavanagh, Operations Director at BW: Workplace Experts, comments: “Our work has completely transformed Virgin Media O2’s new London office headquartersin Paddington. Through extensive attention to detail and dedicated workshops with the client, we delivered numerous individual finishes to help achieve the unique look and feel of each floor. The result is a workspace that reflects the collaboration of the Virgin Media O2 teams, bringing their vision to life through every individual fit out detail. We are blown away by the seamless end result and we are also proud to have worked closely towards achieving sustainability targets and leave a positive impact on the local community by fostering a relationship with the Edward Wilson Primary School in Paddington, which the Virgin Media O2 office team can continue to build on.” Rodney Hogg, Property Director at Virgin Media O2, said: “Moving our London HQ to Paddington is an important milestone for us, providing a vibrant, state-of-the-art office space for our people to get together in person and collaborate, while also supporting our flexible working culture. “BW: Workplace Experts and Gensler have more than met our expectations in the design and delivery of this bespoke site, with floors that reflect the entertainment services we provide to millions of customers, and supporting our Better Connections Plan through being on track to achieve the highest possible levels of certifications for sustainability.” Harry Noble, Director, CBRE Occupier Project Management, said: “We are proud to have played a pivotal role in the acquisition and establishment of Virgin Media 02’s new London headquarters, from transaction management and brokerage through to project management. As strategic partners from the outset, our service lines have ensured a seamless process from property search through to successful project delivery.” The project was completed by BW:Workplace Experts alongside project partners CBRE, Gensler, MIX and Ramboll UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
2024 felt the lasting impact that regulatory change has had on the facilities management sector. The introduction of the Fire Safety Act 2021, the Building Safety Act 2022 and the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 fundamentally reshaped responsibilities, focus areas and challenges for facility maintenance professionals, establishing new compliance requirements and standards that will continue to influence the direction of the industry this year. Jason Instrell, Industry Lead at SFG20, the industry standard for building maintenance, has shared his insights regarding how the facilities management industry will continue to evolve in 2025 and the changes he believes will be particularly impactful for those working in the industry. 1. Sustainability at the forefront in the race to net-zero The landscape of the UK’s built environment is set for a profound environmental transformation. With the Prime Minister announcing an 81% reduction in carbon by 2035, the race toward carbon neutrality is accelerating, propelled by technological efforts, evolving government policies and heightened public climate awareness. As we look towards 2025, the need for sustainable building maintenance practices will only grow. As the global urban population continues to expand rapidly, construction and, ultimately, carbon emissions will follow suit. 40% of global carbon emissions are from the built environment, with 30% coming from building construction, operation and demolition. To mitigate this, businesses and building owners must consider and implement ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings, through sustainable maintenance, and ensuring that new buildings incorporate this into their initial design is one way to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Training and competence remain firmly in the spotlight, with businesses needing to develop the knowledge and experience to help hit their carbon reduction strategies in 2025. 2. Building compliance in the spotlight Regulations and legislation are constantly evolving. These changes, whether small or large, can lead to confusion and can change requirements around the design, installation, verification and maintenance of buildings. This can have an effect on maintenance tasks and frequencies. With the ongoing developments in the RAAC scandal across UK schools and Universities, and the final report from the Grenfell Inquiry, 2025 will likely see an even greater spotlight placed on competence and compliance in line with the Building Safety Act 2022. The industry’s barrage of building and structural integrity issues means it comes as no surprise that compliance has risen to the top of many priority lists. Building owners, property managers and contractors will need to ensure that regular risk assessments are undertaken (especially in relation to higher-risk and high-rise residential buildings), statutory works are being scheduled, a principal accountable person (PAP) is appointed, and that all maintenance information is evidenced as part of a golden thread. 3. AI integrations Recent developments in AI create an opportunity to revolutionise how the industry approaches building maintenance. The biggest challenge for facility managers is identifying what tasks must be performed on each asset in a building to preserve life, reduce cost, and stay compliant with current regulations. This can sometimes be costly and time-consuming, and essential maintenance can be missed, leading to an increased risk of equipment failures and faults. IoT, internet of things, technology relies on sensor technology mounted on assets to monitor statuses such as energy consumption, pressure, vibration and flow rates. Its adoption can allow businesses to accurately plan maintenance tasks in an efficient and cost-effective way. Digital twin technology provides a virtual model of an asset that can mimic the installed equipment, allowing for real-time data and facilitating efficient, data-driven decisions for facility managers. Businesses are still under pressure to develop the necessary skills and teams to successfully work alongside AI technology, such as IoT and Digital twin technology, for predictive maintenance, data analysis and a cost-effective allocation of FM budgets. The construction industry is reported to have one of the lowest adoptions of AI technologies, with only 12% of businesses currently using some form of artificial intelligence. 2025 will see a continued push to overcome these challenges and take full advantage of AI assistance within the FM space. This will likely continue through training and development opportunities for all those involved in the facility management process, to best integrate new AI technologies into business strategies. 4. Adoption of digital-led maintenance strategies With 43% of FM companies naming systems integrations as the most significant problem in their business in 2024, 2025 will not see this changing. Digital integration of mechanical, electrical and building services systems remains a top priority. The reluctance to adopt digital-led maintenance was initially due to the effort and high costs of hardware and software. However, the landscape is changing as more options become available. Yet challenges remain, as businesses work to develop the necessary skills to install sensors, monitors, and interpret the generated data effectively. Overcoming these hurdles will be essential over the next year to unlocking the full potential of digital maintenance. 5. Enhanced connectivity Property managers have to collaborate with multiple stakeholders, from building owners to facility management consultants and engineers, who all play a crucial role in the safe and legal maintenance of a facility. Managing extensive workforces, with a mix of internal and external resources, tends to make streamlined collaboration much trickier. In particular, ensuring the right people receive the necessary information at the right time becomes a challenge. In a recent poll conducted by the experts at SFG20, 66% of asset owners and property managers revealed that maintaining the ‘golden thread’ and ensuring all the information is captured and accurate, remains a concern for their business. This shows that many current FM systems are not aligning in a way that helps facilitate efficient, collaborative working. Developing and providing software solutions that enable teams to share data and work efficiently will continue to characterise industry changes throughout this year. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Allegro acquisition marks a significant step in expanding UK property portfolios Global real estate powerhouse QuadReal Property Group and Canadian investment firm Realstar have announced the acquisition of Allegro, a prominent Build-to-Rent (BtR) development in Birmingham’s One Exchange Square. This joint venture adds the impressive 345,662 sq. ft scheme to their portfolios, featuring 603 modern rental units across three interlinked buildings. A standout feature of the development is the expansive central garden podium, complemented by ground-floor retail and leisure spaces. Residents also benefit from a range of premium amenities, including a gym, co-working areas, a roof terrace, and 150 car parking spaces. Situated in the heart of Birmingham, One Exchange Square enjoys a prime location near key transport links, employment hubs, university campuses, and a wealth of shopping, dining, and leisure options. The scheme addresses Birmingham’s increasing demand for high-quality rental housing. With the city’s population expected to grow by approximately 3.9% between 2018 and 2028, and a student population of nearly 100,000, mid-market rental properties are in particularly high demand. Jay Kwan, Managing Director, Head of Europe, International Real Estate, at QuadReal, highlighted the strategic value of the acquisition:“The purchase of Allegro reflects our conviction in the living sector and our strategy of acquiring high-quality assets in prime locations like Birmingham. This sector remains a global priority for us, and Allegro strengthens our growing portfolio of BtR investments across Europe.” Ryan Prince, Vice Chairman of Realstar, added:“Allegro is a fantastic addition to our UK portfolio. We are excited to invest further in the property to align it with our UNCLE brand standards. This will enhance its appeal and integrate it into our wider portfolio of over 5,000 UNCLE-branded rental apartments across London, Manchester, and Leeds.” Allegro represents a significant milestone for both QuadReal and Realstar, underscoring their shared commitment to investing in vibrant, growing cities and delivering high-quality, tenant-focused living spaces. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bioregional, a pioneer in sustainable development, yesterday announced the release of its latest guidance document, Goals and guidance for new-build communities in the UK. Tailored specifically for housing developers, this essential guide provides practical strategies for designing and delivering sustainable communities using the renowned One Planet Living framework. With this updated guidance, made available for free, Bioregional offers UK developers a clear pathway to create thriving, people-centred communities that regenerate local ecosystems, tackle the climate emergency, and enhance social well-being. One Planet Living is a globally recognised framework used in real estate development world-wide. One Planet Living simplifies sustainability for developers and their partners, and integrates seamlessly with existing development processes and certification schemes such as BREEAM and LEED. “One Planet Living offers a unique approach for developers, local authorities, and communities to co-design sustainable communities within planetary boundaries.” said Sue Riddlestone OBE, CEO and co-founder of Bioregional. “It simplifies the process, engaging key stakeholders to create a shared vision while fostering the regeneration of nature. This approach leads to faster sales, fewer voids, longer tenancies and improved wellbeing. Most have found that once they embrace it, they never look back.” Jon Di-Stefano, CEO of sustainable housebuilder, Greencore Homes adds “One Planet Living is a key part of our approach to creating thriving, sustainable communities. Its flexibility allows us to set ambitious, site-specific goals while addressing every aspect of sustainability — not just carbon reduction — in a truly holistic way. The new guidance is timely, given the UK government’s push for more housebuilding. It is well-structured, practical, and connects to other standards that stakeholders value. For us, it’s an invaluable tool in delivering developments that meet the needs of people, planet, and investors alike.” The new document responds to feedback from developers seeking clarity on best practices and the expectations required to achieve One Planet Living Leadership recognition. Key updates include: The new guide is the result of extensive collaboration with industry experts, drawing on insights from leaders in the built environment to ensure that the guidance is both robust and achievable. Adopting the One Planet Living framework is not just an environmental imperative but a business opportunity. Developers who embrace these principles can enhance the appeal of their projects through faster sales, reduced vacancies, and longer tenancies. Download the new guidance, for free, https://www.bioregional.com/resources/one-planet-living-goals-guidance-uk-housing-developers If you would like support in developing your sustainability plans or would like to learn more about One Planet Living Leadership recognition, contact places@bioregional.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
