The Building Research Establishment (BRE) is now inviting entries for its 2026 BREEAM Awards – a celebration of the projects, people and organisations leading the way in sustainable building design, development, operation and management. This year’s awards introduce eight new categories, reflecting BREEAM’s commitment to recognising forward-thinking approaches to sustainability – from resilience and digital innovation to social value and sustainable cities. The awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday 30 September at the BREEAM-certified Peninsula London hotel, bringing together industry leaders and innovators from across the globe to celebrate the transformative power of buildings in shaping a sustainable future. BREEAM has been the world-leading sustainability assessment method for planning projects, infrastructure and buildings for over 30 years, with over 2.9 million buildings now BREEAM-registered. This year’s award categories are: The 2026 awards will be the first to incorporate BREEAM New Construction Version 7, which introduces an updated framework integrating whole-life carbon, resilience, and biodiversity metrics in line with growing market demand. Industry practitioners across the globe are invited to submit nominations for projects, organisations and individuals that push the boundaries of sustainability and accelerate the transition to net zero. The deadline for submissions is 31 March 2026. Tom Wilson, Director of Building Performance Services at BRE, said: “The 2026 BREEAM Awards introduce new categories that recognise leadership in areas such as climate resilience, digital sustainability, social value, and sustainable cities — where data, technology and community impact are central to delivering measurable outcomes. “By showcasing projects setting new benchmarks in these areas, the awards reaffirm BREEAM’s role in driving innovation across the built environment. “We look forward to seeing entries that demonstrate how organisations are shaping a more sustainable future.” Travel accreditation company ActiveScore will mark its third year as headline sponsor of the awards, with sustainability consultants JWA and agradblue sponsoring the In-Use Performance and Climate Resilience Excellence categories respectively. Further sponsorship opportunities are available. Entries to the BREEAM Awards 2026 can now be made here. Full descriptions of the BREEAM Awards categories are as follows: For further information about the BREEAM Awards 2026, please see here. All BREEAM certifications can enter the awards, including Infrastructure, Communities and New Construction V7. Where relevant, projects must have been certified between 1 January 2025 and 31 March 2026 for a valid entry. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) proudly celebrated the industry’s leading innovators at its annual Awards Gala on Friday evening at the Natural History Museum, recognising 16 Rising Stars and 12 major category winners who raise the bar for responsible, innovative and inclusive construction. From climate champions to community heroes, this year’s winners prove that construction isn’t just about building structures, it’s about building a better future. Highlights from the Winners’ Circle Community Engagement Award (sponsored by Male Allies UK) – Gallaway Construction Gallaway Construction is turning construction into a catalyst for change. Through its Construction for Women programme, the company has empowered over 400 girls and women with hands-on skills and mentoring, while raising tens of thousands for local causes. A true example of how construction can be a force for good. Climate Champion – General Demolition General Demolition is rewriting the demolition playbook with bold circular strategies, recycling hundreds of tonnes of materials and slashing carbon emissions. From Northampton to London, their work sets a new standard for sustainability. Employer of the Year (sponsored by the National Federation of Builders) – John Sisk & Son With leadership programmes, apprenticeships and inclusion initiatives, John Sisk & Son is shaping a workplace where people thrive. Over 3,000 young people supported – proving that the future of construction starts with investing in talent today. Social Value Leader – Christina Nichols, John Sisk & Son Christina Nichols has delivered measurable impact: 3,600+ hours of career support and £54.6 million spent with local supply chains. Her work ensures construction leaves a lasting positive mark. Considerate Client – Marks & Spencer For 18 years, M&S has championed safety, sustainability and respect for communities, influencing contractors and setting the gold standard for client leadership. Supplier Recognition – O’Neil & Brennan (ONB) ONB’s seamless logistics and proactive problem-solving make them an indispensable partner, elevating every project they touch. Excellence in Construction (Large) – McLaughlin & Harvey From carbon monitoring to mental health support, McLaughlin & Harvey delivers excellence on every front. Excellence in Construction (Small) – Harmonix Construction Ltd Harmonix combines community engagement, environmental responsibility and workforce wellbeing – building with care and integrity. Legacy Award – Pevensey Bay Coastal Defence Two decades of protecting communities and managing coastal flood risks across 18,000 properties – a legacy of resilience. Innovation of the Year – Curo Construction AI meets safety: Curo’s real-time monitoring system sets a new benchmark for tech-driven site safety. Icon Award (sponsored by Building a Safer Future) – Luke Hands, Ardmore Group A mental health champion reshaping how construction cares for its people. Rising Stars 16 Rising Stars were celebrated, showcasing the next generation of leaders driving the future of construction: Matthew Barnes (VolkerHighways), Joel Blanchflower (Laing O’Rourke), Liam Cater (Ardmore Group), Nicol High (Octavius), Daniel Hilton (Kier Transportation), Liam Jackson (McLaughlin & Harvey), Megan McDonald (KPH Deconstruction Services), Chris O’Hagan (McLaughlin & Harvey), David Okorhi (Knight Build Limited), Kate Parsons (Kier Transportation), James Preston (McLaren Construction), Kit Robinson (Kier Transportation), Megan Smith (McLaughlin & Harvey), Cian Webb (Clegg Construction), Katie Webster (Kier Construction), Abigail Wilkinson (Sir Robert McAlpine). Champion of Construction (sponsored by Construction Industry Council) – Colin Robinson With 50 years of service, Colin Robinson, Senior Site Manager at GRAHAM Group, has demonstrated leadership and compassion that have transformed lives – from saving a colleague to creating safer spaces for children. Desiree Blamey, Managing Director for Considerate Constructors Scheme, said: “The winners represent the very best of our industry, proving that construction can be innovative, inclusive and a powerful force for good. Their achievements set a standard that inspires us all to build responsibly and leave a lasting positive impact.” The event was supported by our sponsors, with Build Warranty as headline sponsor and Mates in Mind as the evening’s charity partner. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, is celebrating a triple win at the Construction Awards of Excellence ceremony held in Birmingham by the National Federation of Builders (NFB), taking home the title spots for three prestigious categories – Rising Star, Innovation in Construction Technology and the Remarkable Heritage and Conservation Project. The awards, held annually by the NFB, celebrate outstanding achievements across the UK construction sector, recognising excellence in construction, innovation, sustainability, collaboration and individual contribution. The Rising Star award recognises emerging talent demonstrating exceptional potential, innovation, and leadership within the construction industry. G F Tomlinson had two shortlisted out of the four finalists, with Amy Kelly and Harry Gilsenan who had been selected from 300 applicants. Amy Kelly was triumphant on the night, standing out for her journey from Technical Trainee to Assistant Site Manager in under six years, showcasing technical skill, environmental responsibility and a commitment to community engagement. Amy has made an impact through mentoring young people, promoting sustainability on-site, and driving improvements in operational efficiency. Her passion for social value and outreach has connected hundreds of local students and residents with live construction projects – including the high-profile Sherwood Observatory scheme. The Innovation in Construction Technology award celebrates projects that use advanced digital tools and modern methods of construction to transform the way the industry delivers. G F Tomlinson received this award for its work on the Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield – a £6.8 million world-class STEM facility that has reimagined a disused Victorian underground reservoir into a cutting-edge educational and community destination. By merging heritage, science, and technology, the contractor delivered a landmark scheme that not only celebrates engineering excellence but also fosters educational opportunities and community pride. The project demonstrated outstanding innovation through its use of 3D laser scanning, Building Information Modelling (BIM), off-site manufacturing and real-time digital engagement tools to achieve precision, quality and sustainability. Stephen Spiegelhalter, G F Tomlinson’s Project Manager for the scheme was on hand to receive this prestigious award. The Remarkable Heritage and Conservation Project award recognises outstanding craftsmanship, sensitivity, and innovation in the preservation and restoration of historically significant sites, and the nominated scheme recognised G F Tomlinson’s exceptional work on the restoration and refurbishment of the Grade II Listed Central Building at the University of Nottingham’s Castle Meadow Campus. A landmark project that has transformed a unique 1990s tensile-roof structure into a modern education and events hub, the restoration involved the sensitive preservation of one of the UK’s youngest listed buildings, including the complex renewal of its 4,500 sq. metre PTFE roof, extensive structural repairs and refinishing of over 900m² of glass and aluminium cladding. Through innovative engineering solutions, collaborative heritage stewardship and a commitment to carbon reduction, the team delivered major programme, cost and sustainability benefits for the university, while breathing new life into a building of significant architectural importance. Lee Roberts, G F Tomlinson Site Manager, who has worked for the company for over 30 years, proudly received the award on behalf of the project team. This triple success reflects G F Tomlinson’s continued commitment to excellence, innovation, and community impact across its diverse project portfolio throughout the region. Andy Sewards, Chairman at G F Tomlinson, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been recognised with three prestigious awards at this year’s Construction Awards of Excellence organised by the NFB. Each win is a testament to the dedication, talent and collaborative spirit of our team. “These accolades celebrate not only our technical excellence but also our purpose to build responsibly, sustainably and with long-lasting benefit for the communities in which we operate.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

STARK Building Materials UK has won the prestigious HR Excellence Award for Best HR Technology Strategy, in partnership with AdviserPlus. The Award was made in recognition of the successful collaboration between STARK UK, one of the UK’s leading group of builders’ merchants and materials distributors, and technology partner AdviserPlus, who together delivered a bespoke digital Employee Relations (ER) solution to support the company’s branch managers to self-serve people matters. Over the past two and a half years, STARK UK has been undertaking a comprehensive organisation transformation to provide the form of modern merchant proposition that general builders and the professional trades need. Central to the company’s improvements has been simplifying the organisation to put branch teams at the heart of its now highly efficient operations so that they are in the best position to support customers with their business and project needs. Providing branch teams with the right technology solutions has helped make line managers’ people management tasks easier and quicker to complete. Giving managers a technology-enabled approach to ER has also boosted their capability and confidence, as part of a transformed colleague experience. Carol Kavanagh, STARK UK’s HR Director said: “Focusing on the things that service our branch colleagues is core to our HR transformation strategy. Increasingly, we are working in partnership with branch teams to make sure the solutions we develop match their needs. There’s still lots to do and I am hugely proud of how the team continues to deliver at pace, engaging the business and always with our colleagues and customers in mind.” Simon Fowler, CEO of AdviserPlus and Empowering People Group, added: “This award is a brilliant recognition of the power of combining technology and partnerships that align with business goals. Working with STARK UK to build a solution that genuinely empowers their managers and transforms their employee experience perfectly aligns with our mission. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when innovation and trust come together to simplify complex HR challenges.” With 70% of employee relations tasks now manager-led, the outsourced ER advice has helped to ensure that HR support can be focused on the other important people areas that will help branch managers the most. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The comprehensive redevelopment of the iconic Television Centre site in White City, West London—the former headquarters of the BBC—has progressed significantly as Mitsui Fudosan celebrated the topping out of its Phase 2 structures. The buildings structurally completed are The Ariel, a 25-storey residential tower providing 167 homes designed by AHMM, and Scenery House, a mid-rise residential block containing 180 homes designed by dRMM. The milestone was observed with a traditional Japanese Sake Barrel Breaking Ceremony, known as ‘kagami-biraki’. Adhering to this custom, representatives from the client, Mitsui Fudosan, the development manager, Stanhope, and the main contractor, Multiplex, used a wooden mallet to break open the lid of the sake barrel before raising a celebratory toast to the progress achieved on site. Once finished, these two developments will collectively deliver 347 new homes, which range from studio apartments to larger townhouses intended for local families, totalling 470,000 sq ft of residential space. Both buildings are currently scheduled for completion during Q3 2027 and introduce the distinct creative visions of two Stirling Prize-winning architectural firms to the White City area. These join the recently completed Macfarlane Place, which was delivered at the end of 2024 and provides 142 affordable homes for Peabody across two buildings, having been designed by Maccreanor Lavington, who is also a recipient of the Stirling Prize. The overall scheme, which will ultimately deliver nearly 1.5 million sq ft of development across the former BBC site, represents one of Mitsui Fudosan’s most significant and ambitious projects globally. The masterplan, conceptualised by AHMM, is fundamentally focused on the reinvention of the iconic Grade II listed Television Centre building and its immediately recognisable rotunda, complemented by the creation of new outdoor spaces by landscape architects Gillespies. The buildings forming Phase 2 of the masterplan have been consciously designed to possess unique character while complementing both each other and the structures already established throughout the wider estate. These specific buildings will finalise the masterplan and further integrate the site with the local community by creating a new pedestrian connection through interlinking streets leading directly to Hammersmith Park. Takeshi Iwama, Chief Executive of Mitsui Fudosan UK, commented: “The topping out of Phase 2 of the Television Centre masterplan marks a significant milestone in both the realisation of the original masterplan for the site and the wider White City regeneration area vision to deliver homes throughout the area. Television Centre is part of a regeneration project which includes Westfield shopping centre, White City Place (formerly the BBC’s headquarters) and Imperial College London which seeks to bring together a rich mix of communities across the area. It demonstrates Mitsui Fudosan’s continuing commitment to London, the living sector, quality design and sustainable construction.” The expansive 14-acre Television Centre site is held by a joint venture partnership between Mitsui Fudosan and AIMCo, with Stanhope acting as the asset manager. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

2025 has become one of the most significant years of recognition for the Study Inn Brand, as the high quality serviced student accommodation provider secures wins on both the National and European stage, including best private hall in four top UK Cities and Best in Class Resident Wellbeing Programme in Europe. Study Inn achieved exceptional results in the Student Crowd Awards 2025, where winners were selected from 22,179 verified student reviews across 37 UK locations. Study Inn Bristol; Study Inn Exeter; Study Inn Leeds; and Study Inn Loughborough were each awarded Best Property in their respective cities. These awards are especially meaningful as they reflect real student sentiment, highlighting consistent excellence in service, safety, facilities, location, value for money, experience, and overall satisfaction. Study Inn was awarded Best Resident Wellbeing Programme 2025 at The Class Foundation’s Best in Class Awards, held in Lisbon. In a highly competitive field of leading UK and pan-European operators, the judges recognised Study Inn’s commitment to creating a student living experience that prioritises mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. The Group’s sector-first wellness spas, meditation rooms, housekeeping service, free English lessons, vibrant events calendar, and 24/7 on-site teams played a significant part in securing the accolade. Matt Shakespeare, Managing Director of Operations, commented: “Winning these awards is an incredible honour and a true reflection of our teams’ passion and dedication. It demonstrates that our focus on wellbeing, service, community and value for money is making a very real difference for our residents, and that is where it matters most.” Study Inn continues its momentum at the Property Week Student Accommodation Awards 2025 next month, where the Group is shortlisted for five national awards; Operator of the Year; Best Student Experience in Accommodation; Developer of the Year; Best Health and Wellbeing Initiative; and Halls of Residence Awards. This follows last year’s national success, where Study Inn won Best Student Wellbeing Programme 2024 at the same event. Since its formation in 2009, Study Inn has continued to elevate the student accommodation experience through a hotel-style service model that includes 24/7 on-site staff and concierge, regular housekeeping, wellness spas, meditation rooms, yoga studios, gyms, cinema rooms, superfast Wi-Fi, all-inclusive bills, secure key-card access, and a curated social programme that helps residents build community. With major award wins now spanning local, national, and European levels, it reinforces Study Inn’s position as one of the leading operators in the student accommodation sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Clegg Construction bid manager Cian Webb has received a shining accolade after being highlighted as a Rising Star at the Considerate Constructors Scheme Awards. Cian, 24, who joined Clegg Construction six years ago as an apprentice, received his award at a gala evening held at the Natural History Museum in London. MD of Clegg Construction Michael Sims said: “In his time at Clegg Construction, Cian has made a remarkable impact that sets him apart as a potential future leader in the construction industry. “He exudes the energy, curiosity and integrity that define a true rising star. He inspires others through his work ethic and commitment to excellence. It’s rare to find someone who combines talent, humility and drive the way Cian does. “We’re thrilled that he has been recognised in the national Considerate Constructors Scheme Awards as a Rising Star and congratulate him on his success.” After joining Clegg Construction’s Nottingham head office, Cian undertook a fully funded part-time Construction Management degree course at Nottingham Trent University. He quickly progressed from construction trainee to assistant site manager before making the move into the pre-construction department as an assistant bid manager. Following completion of his undergraduate degree in 2024, he was promoted to bid manager. Since then, Cian has contributed to all aspects of Clegg Construction’s tender submissions, working closely with key specialists in his team to develop robust and transparent tender proposals. Over the past 12 months he has been involved in successful bids totalling more than £100m. Clegg Construction pre-construction director Christian White said: “Since I have known Cian, he has poured himself into every opportunity and grown into someone we all rely on. His bids are always delivered to the highest standard and his natural drive to win sets him apart. Promoting Cian wasn’t just recognition of his skills – it was recognition of his character. I’m proud to see how far he has come and to have him on our team.” The Considerate Constructors Scheme Awards recognise exceptional companies and individuals who have demonstrated remarkable leadership, innovation, and contributions to the construction industry. Actor Stephen Mangan hosted the CCS gala awards. With its headquarters in the Lace Market, Nottingham, Clegg Construction is a Midlands, East Anglia, and Yorkshire-based construction firm specialising in the delivery of public and private sector projects. The company works with organisations of all sizes and specialities across a comprehensive range of sectors. For more information visit www.cleggconstruction.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

In 2026, dare to think bigger just like the dramatist turned architect did, as Blenheim Palace announces an all-new immersive visual experience for visitors. The Blueprints of Power exhibition will run from 14th February until 10th April next year, marking the tercentenary of the death of Sir John Vanbrugh (1664–1726). The significant new experience will shine a light on Sir John Vanbrugh’s brilliant mind, his rivalries and ambitions and take visitors on an interactive journey from his early life and theatrics as playwright all the way to his high-stakes partnership with Sarah Churchill, first Duchess of Marlborough. Blueprints of Power will combine immersive visual experiences with rare archival material, recognisable outfits and costumes and the dramatic stories behind them. Visitors will be able to step back in time and discover how this flamboyant architect’s ties to high society helped define an age. From a building site in the early 1700s to Britain’s Greatest Palace as we know it today, the tailor-made exhibition will span the Palace encompassing the Great Hall, China Anteroom, Dining Room, Drawing Rooms, State Rooms, Saloon and more, right up to the rooftop. Often described as ‘The Rockstar of English Baroque’, Vanbrugh was one of the most prominent architects of his time and is celebrated for his design of Blenheim Palace and his many other achievements including his work as a dramatist and political activist.  Blueprints of Power forms part of the national celebration coordinated by the Georgian Group that will take place in 2026, his tercentenary year. This national collaboration benefits from a £193,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with additional support from the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art. Vanbrugh 300 will feature a variety of events, exhibitions and activities at six of the architect’s most significant creations including Blenheim Palace, Castle Howard, Seaton Delaval Hall, Grimsthorpe Castle, Kimbolton Castle and Stowe House.  For more information about the upcoming Blueprints of Power exhibition, visit www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events/blueprints-of-power.html Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals