Kajima Properties Europe (KPE) has appointed Carter Gregson Gray (CGG) as architect for the redevelopment of 1 St John’s Square, following KPE’s recent acquisition of the prime Farringdon office site on behalf of investors. Subject to planning approval, KPE intends to undertake a comprehensive reimagining and sensitive expansion of the
Leeds’ rapidly expanding build-to-rent market is set for another major boost after Winvic Construction secured a £130m contract to deliver two landmark residential towers close to the city centre. The scheme, which has recently cleared the Building Safety Regulator’s Gateway 2 approval process, will provide 578 professionally managed rental apartments
Transformative plans for Piccadilly Gardens are being shared with Manchester people ahead of a full planning application being submitted this summer. The vision behind the scheme – to make Piccadilly Gardens more colourful, more vibrant, safer and more inviting – was announced by the Council last autumn, with indicative images released to
OCU Group today announces the acquisition of Volta Energy Group (“Volta”), an Australian energy advisory, design, project delivery and high-voltage commissioning business specialising in the development and delivery of major energy infrastructure projects. The acquisition further strengthens OCU’s growing presence across Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) and expands the Group’s capability across the full energy project
Bellway has completed a deal to buy two additional land parcels at Linmere in Houghton Regis, Bedfordshire, with plans to build 236 more homes in the new neighbourhood. The housebuilder has already built 307 homes across two developments within Phase 1 of the project, and has submitted detailed plans for
When Geoff and Christine Stephenson decided to downsize to a new build bungalow, they knew it would be a positive move for their health and independence. What they didn’t expect was to find themselves reconnecting with old friends – and becoming part of a close‑knit community almost as soon as
Flexible workspace provider, Canvas Offices, has announced the appointment of Kit Naidoo as its new Finance Director. Bringing a wealth of experience from both the ‘big four’ and flexible office space sector, Kit boasts a proven track record in leading finance teams to advance and scale businesses at different stages
Glenigan’s Summer 2026 Construction Forecast indicates sector resurgence in 2027, despite a painful start to the year Today, Glenigan | A Hubexo Product, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases its widely anticipated UK Construction Industry Forecast 2026-2028. Predominantly focused on underlying starts (<£100m in value),
Salboy Group, the nationwide property development and funding company, has launched sales at Duke’s Row, a £12.6m GDV boutique scheme in Camden, central London. Named after the Duke of Bedford who created the square on which the scheme is located, Duke’s Row is Salboy’s fourth design-led boutique London scheme since
Major milestone as new 12-bay ultra-rapid Electric Vehicle (EV) charging hub opens at Hatton Cross, the first of 25 planned to open across London by the Places for London and Fastned partnership Taxis, cars and commercial vehicles benefiting from easier ultra-rapid 24/7 charging, powered entirely by 100 per cent renewable energy,
Kajima Properties Europe (KPE) has appointed Carter Gregson Gray (CGG) as architect for the redevelopment of 1 St John’s Square, following KPE’s recent acquisition of the prime Farringdon office site on behalf of investors. Subject to planning approval, KPE intends to undertake a comprehensive reimagining and sensitive expansion of the 27,000 sq ft building. CGG will lead the architectural design, working closely with KPE’s in‑house development team to deliver a modern, sustainable and future‑focused workplace. CGG brings a strong design ethos and proven capability to the project. The practice specialises in the design and delivery of complex, technical buildings at all scales and consistently challenges convention through innovative and sustainable solutions. Its experience spans both emerging and historic contexts, with a focus on creating confident, contextual architecture that delivers meaningful social and environmental impact. CGG’s recent work includes securing planning approval for the transformation of the London Stock Exchange, a milestone that underscores the practice’s ability to deliver high‑profile, sensitive and design‑led commercial schemes. The architectural design of the 1 St John’s Square project will be led by an experienced core team from CGG (see notes to editors for full bios): Located just a few minutes’ walk from Farringdon Station and benefitting from exceptional connectivity via the Elizabeth Line, Thameslink and the London Underground, the area continues to attract leading financial, technology and creative occupiers. The scheme will reflect KPE’s commitment to ESG‑driven development and best‑in‑class design, building on the company’s strong track record in delivering high‑quality workspace. The acquisition and architect appointment further strengthen KPE’s expanding central London portfolio, which includes 77 Coleman Street, 16 Berners Street and 27 Soho Square. About Kajima Properties Europe (KPE) KPE is an established UK and European development and investment management business supported by the global strength of its parent company, Kajima Corporation. Founded in Japan in 1840, Kajima Corporation has grown into one of the world’s leading real estate and construction groups, giving KPE the heritage and global reach to deliver with confidence. KPE specialises in developing, repositioning, and investing across sectors where long-term value is identified, spanning logistics, living, and workspace. The business originates and manages investments for both its own balance sheet and investor clients. KPE has an exceptional track record in managing core+ and value-add strategies, outperforming respective benchmarks to ensure investors exceed target returns. kajima-properties.co.uk About Carter Gregson Gray Carter Gregson Gray are London based architects with international experience and a global outlook. We design thoughtful places to live, work, learn and play. We work within emerging and historic settings and have demonstrated our ability to deliver confident buildings in sensitive locations. We have in depth experience of designing and delivering complex, technical buildings at all scales and use this experience to challenge and question the norm with innovative, sustainable solutions. We are committed to delivering useful, beautiful architecture with a positive social and environmental impact. www.cartergregsongray.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leeds’ rapidly expanding build-to-rent market is set for another major boost after Winvic Construction secured a £130m contract to deliver two landmark residential towers close to the city centre. The scheme, which has recently cleared the Building Safety Regulator’s Gateway 2 approval process, will provide 578 professionally managed rental apartments on the former International Swimming Pool site, further strengthening Leeds’ position as one of the UK’s most active regional residential development markets. Winvic has been appointed by Lisbon Street Developments, a joint venture between Marrico Asset Management and Helios Real Estate, to deliver the project, with construction expected to commence during the fourth quarter of this year. The development will comprise two residential towers rising 33 and 22 storeys above a shared podium and basement structure. Alongside the new homes, residents will benefit from a range of amenities including roof terraces, balconies, communal facilities and commercial space designed to enhance the vibrancy of the wider neighbourhood. The project forms part of the ongoing regeneration of a strategically important city centre site that is being transformed into a thriving mixed-use destination. Winvic is already familiar with the location, having completed a 548-bed purpose-built student accommodation scheme there just six months ago. The build-to-rent development represents the third major phase of investment on the site, following the student accommodation project and an aparthotel currently under construction. Sustainability has been placed at the heart of the design, with the scheme targeting a Home Quality Mark 3.5-star rating. Environmental features will include photovoltaic solar panels, decentralised air source heat pumps and enhanced building fabric designed to reduce operational energy consumption and improve long-term performance. Mark Jones, Managing Director for Multi-Room at Winvic, said the project would deliver high-quality homes in a thriving city centre location while contributing to Leeds’ continued growth and regeneration. The latest investment reflects growing confidence in Leeds’ residential market, where demand for high-quality rental accommodation continues to rise. With strong employment growth, significant inward investment and a thriving city centre economy, Leeds is increasingly attracting institutional investment and large-scale residential development, helping to reshape the city’s skyline and support its long-term growth ambitions. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Transformative plans for Piccadilly Gardens are being shared with Manchester people ahead of a full planning application being submitted this summer. The vision behind the scheme – to make Piccadilly Gardens more colourful, more vibrant, safer and more inviting – was announced by the Council last autumn, with indicative images released to give a flavour of improvements. Since then, a delivery team has been appointed to design and build the scheme. The team has developed a detailed scheme to make that vision a reality. Newly-released images show for the first time how the designed scheme will look. Key elements include: A pre-planning consultation around the plans starts today, Wednesday 17 June, and will run until Wednesday 15 July with a view to a final planning application for the scheme being made this summer. Previous consultations have captured people’s opinions on Piccadilly Gardens, its challenges and what people want to see there – and these views have been heard loud and clear. This pre-planning consultation does not repeat what has gone before. Instead it sets out how the designs have responded to those views and asks for feedback on them to help inform the final planning submission. Council Leader Cllr Bev Craig said: “We’re getting on with sorting out Piccadilly Gardens. We all want to see a space which Mancunians can be proud of – a welcoming and attractive environment which people want to spend time in. “So as well other initiatives which are delivering more police and more CCTV, we’re bringing forward this scheme to transform the public space. That means investment in more flowers, more greenery, a new welcome pavilion, a new and bigger playground and an altogether more inviting Piccadilly Gardens. A bright new chapter is just around the corner.” The Council and partners know that delivering a better Piccadilly Gardens cannot just be about physical improvements but requires improvements to how the area is managed and maintained – ensuring that it is not just better-looking but also better looked-after. This process has already started with changes including a strengthened police presence through GMP’s dedicated neighbourhood policing team, set up to tackle issues and concerns in Piccadilly Gardens, and improvements underway to CCTV. A new management model for Piccadilly Gardens is being developed in tandem with the physical plans and more details will be announced in due course with a fresh approach to public – private partnerships, community involvement and civic pride. Once the physical works are completed, the Council aims to ensure a regular stream of bespoke family-friendly activity and seasonal events to enjoy. The new scheme will complement other changes taking place in the immediate vicinity of the Gardens, including the major Rylands redevelopment (of the Grade II-listed former Debenhams building) which is creating a new office, retail and leisure destination, and the recently-approved plans to refurbish and improve One Piccadilly Gardens . Further planned improvements to the area around Piccadilly Gardens in the coming years will include a multi-million pound investment by Transport for Greater Manchester to create a new, modern transport interchange. The consultation runs until Wednesday 15 July with a view to a planning application for the transformed Piccadilly Gardens being submitted in the coming weeks. More information can be found at www.manchester.gov.uk/piccadillygardens In addition, people will be able to view the proposals, talk to the team involved and provide feedback during three half day drop-in sessions at Manchester Art Gallery in Mosley Street, just down the road from Piccadilly Gardens. Sessions will be held on Tuesday 23 June (1pm-5pm), Friday 26 June (10am-2pm) and Saturday 27 June (11am-3pm.) Engagement sessions around the plans for an enlarged play area will also be held in early years settings and schools. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
OCU Group today announces the acquisition of Volta Energy Group (“Volta”), an Australian energy advisory, design, project delivery and high-voltage commissioning business specialising in the development and delivery of major energy infrastructure projects. The acquisition further strengthens OCU’s growing presence across Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) and expands the Group’s capability across the full energy project lifecycle, from early-stage development and advisory services through to project delivery and operational support as an integrated end-to-end solution provider for clients. With offices in Melbourne and Sydney, Australia, Volta has established a strong reputation for supporting large-scale renewable energy, transmission, datacentre, and energy infrastructure projects through a combination of technical expertise, commercial insight and practical delivery experience. Volta is an Approved Contractor in the state of Victoria, enabling the company to work on regulated electricity networks. The accreditation process is highly selective, with only a small number of companies achieving the exacting standards required for approval. The acquisition adds upstream grid connection, power systems studies and early-stage advisory capability – improving visibility of pipeline, grid constraints and project origination, alongside scarce downstream expertise in commissioning, substations, BESS and system integration. The addition of Volta to the Group further positions OCU as being able to offer a broader integrated service proposition across Australia and New Zealand, combining strategic advisory and design, project development and delivery expertise. “Volta adds an important capability to our growing Australia & New Zealand operations” said Sheldon Upton, CEO of OCU Group (ANZ). “The team brings deep expertise in energy project development, commercial advisory and project delivery, complementing the construction and engineering capabilities already established within OCU. Together, we are creating a stronger proposition for clients seeking support across the entire infrastructure lifecycle.” Ryan McKenzie, Managing Director of Volta added: “Volta was founded on the belief that successful energy projects require a combination of technical excellence, commercial understanding and practical delivery experience. Joining OCU Group gives us access to a broader international platform while allowing us to continue supporting clients with the same specialist expertise and collaborative approach that has underpinned our growth.” Australia’s energy market continues to evolve rapidly, creating demand for partners that can support projects from concept through to delivery. Volta’s experience in development, grid connection and project advisory adds significant value to OCU’s existing offering and strengthens the team’s ability to support clients as projects continue to become increasingly complex. The move further supports OCU’s disciplined international expansion strategy and continues to build the Group’s capability across renewable energy, power infrastructure and the wider energy transition market throughout Australia and New Zealand. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway has completed a deal to buy two additional land parcels at Linmere in Houghton Regis, Bedfordshire, with plans to build 236 more homes in the new neighbourhood. The housebuilder has already built 307 homes across two developments within Phase 1 of the project, and has submitted detailed plans for a further 161 homes within Phase 3. The new land parcels are within Phase 4 of Linmere and are covered by the outline planning permission in place for the wider project. Bellway will now finalise its detailed plans for submission to Central Bedfordshire Council, which will bring the total number of homes it is delivering as part of the scheme to more than 700. Neil Grainger, Land Director for Bellway Northern Home Counties, said: “We have been part of the Linmere project since the start, and this latest land acquisition confirms our commitment to the delivery of high-quality housing in Houghton Regis. “We have completed over 300 homes to date within Phase 1, and are now looking forward to starting work on homes within Phase 3 subject to detailed planning consent. “Linmere is already becoming a well-established community, thanks to the focus on placemaking and provision of new facilities at an early stage within the neighbourhood. “Primary and secondary-age children are already benefitting from modern new school buildings, while the Farmstead community hub and Lidl supermarket put day-to-day amenities within walking distance for residents and provide a focal point for the community. “Linmere also features extensive areas of attractive open space with trees, footpaths and cycleways, enabling people to spend leisure time outdoors, which is so important for health and wellbeing.” Outline planning permission for Linmere was granted in 2014 and covers a development of up to 5,150 homes, a mixed-use local centre, schools, community facilities and public open space. Bellway received detailed planning permission for 153 homes at Bellway at Linmere, off Sundon Road, in 2020, while plans for a further 154 homes at Linmere Gateway, off Waterslade Way, were approved in 2021. The final homes here are now available to reserve. Detailed plans for Linmere Mews, in Phase 3 off Woodside Link Road, were submitted in August last year. This part of the project has been planned to comprise 161 houses and apartments, including 137 two-bedroom apartments and two, three and four-bedroom houses for private sale, and 24 affordable one to four-bedroom homes for low-cost rent or shared ownership. For more information about Bellway’s homes at Linmere, visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/northern-home-counties/linmere-gateway Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
When Geoff and Christine Stephenson decided to downsize to a new build bungalow, they knew it would be a positive move for their health and independence. What they didn’t expect was to find themselves reconnecting with old friends – and becoming part of a close‑knit community almost as soon as they moved in. The couple, both 74, moved into a believe housing home at Bishops Park in Bishop Auckland in 2024, drawn by the comfort and convenience of a bungalow. Although sad to leave their previous home and neighbours, Geoff and Christine quickly began uncovering connections with new neighbours, including Allyson and John Gibson and Trudie and Melvin Thompson, who had also moved into believe housing bungalows. Some of those connections stretch back decades. Allison and Trudy were firm friends at school, attending St Helen’s Primary and King James, where they remember sitting together in class and occasionally playing truant. Years later, they worked together at the nearby Claremont clothing factory, along with Christine, who spent more than 35 years of her working life there during its time as Steinberg’s and Sara Lee Courtaulds. Together, these shared histories, alongside new friendships, have helped create a supportive, caring community, giving neighbours a real sense of safety, belonging and connection. Geoff said: “We had a good relationship from about day five, and it’s stayed strong. It makes a real difference to how you feel about where you live. We’re alright here, we’ve certainly got good neighbours and it’s a lovely place.” Trudie added: “It’s just nice to know you can call on each other, rely on each other and watch out for one another.” Bishops Park is being developed by Vistry (Linden Homes) and will eventually provide around 500 new homes. Of these, 200 are being delivered by not-for-profit housing association believe housing, offering a mix of homes for social and affordable rent as well as others through affordable routes to home ownership. Kate Abson, Director of Assets and Development at believe housing, said: “We’re seeing firsthand how the right home, in the right place, can support people’s health, independence and quality of life. “From first homes to family houses and accessible bungalows, this development is already making a positive difference to the people who live here, and it’s fantastic to see how well residents are now settling into their new homes and their new community. “We work closely with our partners to deliver high‑quality, energy‑efficient new homes for customers, but it’s also just as important to us to see such a strong sense of community forming so quickly, where people feel safe, settled and proud of where they live.” For more information about believe housing’s new build homes, including at Bishops Park, visit developments | believe housing. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Flexible workspace provider, Canvas Offices, has announced the appointment of Kit Naidoo as its new Finance Director. Bringing a wealth of experience from both the ‘big four’ and flexible office space sector, Kit boasts a proven track record in leading finance teams to advance and scale businesses at different stages of development. Established in 2018 by founding partners, Yaron and Oren Rosenblum, Canvas Offices provides bespoke, design-led flexible workspaces throughout London. Since the company launched, it has sourced, refurbished and launched 16 office buildings in prime locations including Mayfair, Shoreditch and Holborn. Now focused on increasing market share across London and overseas – while ensuring the Canvas brand is positioned at the forefront of the flexible workspace sector – Kit’s appointment comes at an exciting time for the business. Here, she will play a key role in integrating new technologies and in incorporating strategic finance leadership to ensure the business can keep pace with industry trends and developments, all while driving continued growth and expansion. Commenting on her new role, Kit said: “The role of finance is continuously evolving and has now moved beyond just numbers. For me, it’s about working closely with the leadership team to help deliver a proactive strategy that really shapes and helps drive growth. “Canvas Offices is at a really exciting stage, where one of my initial priorities will be building core financial and operational foundations that will support the business as it continues to scale. This includes embedding more agile systems to enable faster, smarter decisions, while allowing the business to respond proactively to industry trends and developments. I am already enjoying working with the team and look forward to playing a key role in this next growth phase.” Yaron Rosenblum, Co-Founder of Canvas, added: “We’re excited to welcome Kit to Canvas Offices. She brings impressive financial expertise, together with a modern and collaborative approach to leadership that aligns perfectly with our culture and ambitions for future growth and development – particularly when it comes to technology. Having already made an early impact, we are in no doubt that her people-focused mindset and strategic approach will be invaluable as we continue to expand the Canvas brand and strengthen our position within the flexible workspace market.” Headquartered in High Holborn, Canvas boasts an average 92% occupancy rate across its portfolio, with its spaces home to hundreds of thriving businesses – including leading brands such as Rough Trade, Stockx, Football Co, and Augustinus Bader. For further information please visit: https://canvasoffices.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Glenigan’s Summer 2026 Construction Forecast indicates sector resurgence in 2027, despite a painful start to the year Today, Glenigan | A Hubexo Product, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases its widely anticipated UK Construction Industry Forecast 2026-2028. Predominantly focused on underlying starts (<£100m in value), unless otherwise stated, it contains a comprehensive overview of the current state of the construction industry. Glenigan’s Summer 2026 Forecast is published against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of domestic and international events, which have shaken global markets to their foundations and rocked the entire UK business and industry landscape. Construction was already one of the hardest hit sectors. Yet when Glenigan released its last Forecast in the back end of 2025, it had been looking forward to a relatively stable 12 months with modest recovery. Still, no one could have predicted what would happen over the past six months and, with little sign of these phenomena resolving any time soon, figures have had to be revised. However, the good news is the impact is expected to be short-lived. Glenigan’s latest numbers predict that, whilst the year will end in negative growth of -1%, this will be offset by an 11% activity increase in 2027, and 4% in 2028 (+13% on 2025). This is dependent upon a gradual re-strengthening of the UK economy which, although fragile, appears to be withstanding considerable external pressures. Considering the Forecast’s findings, Glenigan’s Economics Director, Allan Wilen, says, “It’s been a turbulent few months for the UK construction sector, with investors and developers reassessing and rescheduling planned projects. However, the economic outlook is expected to improve once the current fog of war dissipates, supporting a strengthening in construction activity from 2027 with an uplift across almost all private and public sector verticals. He continues, “As our Forecast shows, there are some particularly exciting growth areas as Government funding is released and investor appetite starts to return to the market. Contractors will need to be quick off the mark as more favourable conditions are finally felt. There will be no time for hanging around and the quicker the sector’s reaction, the sooner momentum will return and stick.” Looking at the highlights from the Forecast, despite the here and now remaining tough, key drivers for growth over the next two years include increased consumer spending and higher public sector investment, as well as an expansion in infrastructure and utilities work. Gearing-up for renewed growth In the private sector, financial viability and economic uncertainty are still key constraints to project progress near term. However, there are likely to be some big winners in the non-residential verticals over the next few years. Industrial and commercial office projects are set to significantly boost private sector activity, with strengthening project starts as UK economic growth gathers pace, supported by increased business investment. Although, the former will see a 9% downturn this year, improving market conditions and firm demand for logistics space, backed by the Government’s National Planning Policy and Infrastructure Strategy, will help deliver increases of 16% in 2027 and 5% in 2028. Offices have been one of the outliers amid a particularly gloomy first half of the year; this upward trajectory is set to rise further, resulting in an impressive 21% lift by the end of 2026. It’s expected to then slow in 2027 after two years of rapid growth, slipping back 11% before returning to growth in 2028 (+4%). The key reason for this impressive resilience is a healthy appetite for high-quality, sustainable office space, as occupiers prioritise energy-efficient and flexible working spaces. Simultaneously, the rapid proliferation of AI is prompting greater demand for data centres (which are covered by this vertical). Prognosis positive for Health and Education Whilst there have been recent delays, non-residential performance is forecast to increase with schemes such as the New Hospital Programme and the School Building Programme set to drive activity over the Forecast period. Education is destined for a season in the sun, climbing 8% by the end of the year and by 20% in 2027, followed by a further 5% rise in 2028. School construction continues to dominate activity, as a clearer funding pipeline unlocks investment to rebuild and renovate a large swathe of tired and crumbling stock. Health’s diagnosis is also positive, with recovery predicted by the year end (+9%) and by an equal level in 2027 (+9%) before increasing exponentially in 2028 (+14%). Propelled by increased capital funding and the release of deferred schemes, NHS trusts will be able to address the extensive repair backlog across existing estates. Furthermore, additional funding targeted at modernisation and capacity expansions (including diagnostic and community care hubs) will provide a shot in the arm to construction output. Civils is on the Up(grade) Civils is likely to remain flat by the end of the year (0%), no surprise given the significant activity decline in the vertical over the past 18 months. A 15% surge is predicted in 2027 before flattening out in 2028 (0%). Water sector investment programmes are gaining momentum, with Ofwat green-lighting £104bn investment in upgrades and repairs between 2025-2030. Strong growth across electricity networks and renewables are being driven by continued investment to deliver the Government’s Net Zero energy push; offshore wind and nuclear projects, including Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C will underpin activity. Transport infrastructure also gets a look in, strengthening from next year, supported by Spending Review funding for road maintenance and rail upgrades, including HS2 and the TransPennine Route. Residential set to rise-high from 2027 Housebuilding experienced a disappointing start to 2026 after a lacklustre second half of 2025, so it’s little surprise that both the private (-5%) and social (-3%) verticals will finish the year in the red. Whilst the immediate outlook is unavoidably subdued, both are set for a solid revival in the remainder of the Forecast period. Private housebuilding is expected to rebound 13% in 2027 and by 5% in 2028, this is driven by an expected decrease in borrowing costs and improved consumer confidence.
Salboy Group, the nationwide property development and funding company, has launched sales at Duke’s Row, a £12.6m GDV boutique scheme in Camden, central London. Named after the Duke of Bedford who created the square on which the scheme is located, Duke’s Row is Salboy’s fourth design-led boutique London scheme since 2022. Construction is already well underway and the scheme is scheduled to complete on time and on budget by August 2027. Duke’s Row will be a six-storey building made up of 10 one/two/three-bed apartments as well as a three-bedroom penthouse. Property sizes range from 52 sqm to 135 sqm. All of the apartments come with private terraces or balconies, and the penthouse benefits from a 75sqm, west-facing wraparound terrace. Duke’s Row was designed by Studio Power, one of Salboy’s long-term architectural partners, whose attention to design detail complements the scheme’s position within the Camden Town Conservation Area as well as the architectural history of the adjacent Harrington Square Gardens which were laid out in the 1840s. The scheme will bear all the hallmarks of Salboy’s high quality finish. A brick and cast stone façade will give the building a historically sensitive yet contemporary look, complete with arched openings at ground level. Internally engineered timber flooring, quartz worktops, brushed brass ironmongery and expansive glazing feel refined and considered, while rooftop solar panels, air source heat pumps and a likely ‘B’ band EPC ensure that the building fully adheres to modern design and engineering expectations. Duke’s Row is located in the heart of north London’s busy Camden Town neighbourhood, popular with young professionals and young families who want close proximity to the city centre. A lively shopping, entertainment and restaurant scene is available on the residents’ doorstep; Regent’s Park can be reached on foot in 18 minutes, and King’s Cross’ regeneration scheme Coal Drops Yard (home to the new Google HQ) is only 20 minutes away on foot or less than 10 minutes by bike. The scheme is also a two-minute walk from Mornington Crescent underground station with fast links into central London, the City, Canary Wharf and Heathrow. Salboy is developing Duke’s Row in partnership with Forge Homes, an experienced boutique residential developer operating across London, Essex and Kent. Established in 2022, Forge Homes has built a track record delivering carefully designed small-scale residential schemes, including completed and live developments in Rochford, Walderslade, Orsett, Wanstead and Camden. Forge Homes partnered with Salboy to optimise and diversify its offer by entering the higher-value central London residential market. Duke’s Row is one of Salboy Capital’s active partnership-led development sites, delivered as part of a national platform supporting developers across the UK. It is also one of two Salboy residential schemes currently under construction within a 10-mile radius of central London, alongside Old York Mews in Wandsworth. Simon Ismail, Co-Founder & MD of Salboy, comments: “Developing a scheme in central London comes with many complexities such as planning, site accessibility, and the premium cost of labour and materials. For many smaller-scale developers these challenges have proven time and again to be prohibitive. Joining the Salboy community as a joint venture partner opens up access for these developers to economies of scale that bring down costs, as well as over 12 years’ planning, cost and project management expertise, enabling them to bring their central London ambitions to life. We’re delighted to be bringing forward this scheme in Camden with Forge Homes, another Salboy footprint on prime London living. Duke’s Row blends our standards for high quality finishes with Forge Homes’ dedication to craftsmanship. We look forward to seeing the results and welcoming buyers to make their homes there.” Dan Harvey & Harry Bushrod, at Forge Homes, add: “Duke’s Row is exactly the type of scheme where detail matters. Camden is a highly sensitive location, so every decision, from the brick and cast stone façade to the internal specification and the way the building responds to Harrington Square, has had to be carefully considered. Our approach has been hands-on throughout because boutique residential schemes depend on close control of quality, workmanship and delivery. Working with Salboy has allowed us to bring that approach into a central London setting, supported by the funding, experience and market reach needed to do the site justice.” Sales of the properties are being led by Salboy’s own sales team. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Major milestone as new 12-bay ultra-rapid Electric Vehicle (EV) charging hub opens at Hatton Cross, the first of 25 planned to open across London by the Places for London and Fastned partnership Taxis, cars and commercial vehicles benefiting from easier ultra-rapid 24/7 charging, powered entirely by 100 per cent renewable energy, with toilet facilities, extra wide bays and two fully accessible charging spaces to ensure EV charging is sustainable and accessible for everyone To celebrate the official opening, the Hatton Cross charging hub will offer five days (a ‘working week’) of free charging from Monday 15 June to Friday 19 June 2026 The Fastned and Places for London partnership has officially opened its first state-of-the-art ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging hub at Hatton Cross Underground station, marking a major milestone for London’s green transport infrastructure. Launched by Seb Dance (Deputy Mayor for Transport), Mete Coban MBE (Deputy Mayor for Environment and Energy), and Andy Lord (London’s Transport Commissioner), alongside Fastned Co-founder and CEO Michiel Langezaal and Fastned UK Director Tom Hurst, the event also featured a zero-emission capable black cab, ambulance, and TfL van, showcasing the growing range of electric fleet capability now available. To celebrate the official opening, the new Hatton Cross charging hub will offer five days of free charging, from Monday 15 June to Friday 19 June 2026. Drivers just need to turn up, authorise their charge with their normal payment method and then enjoy free charging on Fastned. The new EV hub, part of work to deliver on the Mayor’s manifesto target of up to 40,000 charge points in London by 2030, is the first of 25 planned to be delivered across London by the partnership, has been designed with accessibility and comfort in mind. It includes extra-wide bays and two fully accessible charging spaces in line with the latest British Standards Institution guidance, alongside weather protection provided by Fastned’s signature yellow solar canopies. The hub also has CCTV coverage throughout the site and 24/7 multilingual customer support, ensuring a safe, easy and enjoyable experience for all users. Open 24/7 and powered entirely by renewable energy, the hub features 12 ultra-rapid (400kW) charging bays, capable of delivering up to 100 miles (around 160 kilometres) of range in just five minutes. It is strategically located within easy access to Heathrow Airport, the M25, M4 and A30, making it a convenient stop for airport commuters, residents, taxi and private hire drivers, and business fleets. Many drivers, particularly in London, depend on public charging, with the UK having around 2 million battery electric vehicles on the roads now, and around 40 per cent of UK households lacking off-street parking. Designed for vehicles of all sizes, from cars and taxis to vans and smaller commercial vehicles, the hub helps tackle London’s space constraints, providing a welcome option where home or depot charging is not available. The capital leads the way in EV uptake nationally, with more than 175,000 battery electric cars and vans already registered in the capital. EV numbers on the road in London are projected to reach to over 1 million by 2030, making up to 36 per cent of London’s car and van fleet. This hub contributes directly to 2030 forecasts for EV infrastructure and marks a tipping point for London as over half of the high-powered chargers needed by the end of the decade have now been delivered. The partnership aims to make ultra-fast charging more accessible by creating a city-wide network of hubs which are thoughtfully designed for all users, with planning already in place for a flagship 36-bay location at Hanger Lane and an 8-bay hub at East Finchley Underground station car park. Three other sites are within the planning process across Newham, Haringey, and Barking and Dagenham, with a further seven sites due to be submitted for borough review by the end of the year. Alongside accessible charging, every site will also deliver community benefits, with a share of revenue supporting local projects and climate initiatives. The partnership is also dedicated to tackling the growing “green skills” gap, providing apprenticeships, work experience placements, and employment opportunities to help upskill Londoners and secure the future of the city’s green transition “Hatton Cross is a landmark moment for our joint venture with Places for London, and a major step in powering up the capital where it matters most. Positioned on a key route near Heathrow, this hub is built for constant movement and for the switch to electric to happen at pace. “With ultra-rapid charging, weather-protected bays and effortless access, this site is designed around people on the go. Whether you’re commuting, visiting, running a fleet or living with or without a driveway, we’re making charging simpler, faster and more reliable for everyone.”Tom Hurst, Fastned UK Country Director “Opening our first hub at Hatton Cross with Fastned shows what collaboration can achieve. This is a sustainable, inclusive infrastructure that drivers can rely on where it’s needed most. This is just the start of a city-wide network of ultra-rapid hubs, which sets a benchmark for future EV charging developments, supporting a cleaner, more sustainable transport network across the capital with Hatton Cross perfectly positioned to serve the high volumes of traffic around Heathrow in a safe and comfortable environment.” John Colgan, Places for London Electric Vehicle Charging Hubs Project Manager “The opening of this new charging hub is an important step in helping more Londoners switch to electric vehicles and play their part in tackling the climate crisis. As more people choose electric cars, vans and taxis, it’s vital that we provide the charging infrastructure needed to support them, reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and supporting our transition to a net zero city. “This is the first of 25 new ultra-rapid charging hubs planned across London, helping make charging easier and more convenient, particularly for people who don’t have access to off-street parking. These new hubs also represent important progress towards delivering on the Mayor’s manifesto commitment to support the rollout of up to 40,000 electric vehicle charge points across London by 2030.