By James Crow – National Director of Place Long term sustainable infrastructure and facilities on a development that are essential to support communities to thrive. Two fundamental questions we regularly ask ourselves are: what happens when a developer hands over control and oversight of a site and who is best positioned to take ownership of it?  These are questions MHCLG are aiming to solve through its ongoing consultation on residential management arrangements. The issue of unadopted amenities on residential developments has become increasingly prevalent and it is particularly challenging for large scale schemes. Inherently, these often have more communal facilities and shared space, and infrastructure like a village which require long term maintenance and investment. Amenities like country parks and local centres, together with infrastructure such as roads and drainage systems, are essential to create places where communities can grow and evolve, and generation after generation can thrive.  Historically, parish councils, local authorities and utility providers rightfully took on management responsibilities. They would typically adopt roads, green spaces and other areas open to the wider public.  However, times have changed, in part driven by local authority budget pressures, and new ways of managing shared spaces have come to the fore. One question MHCLG asks, is whether mandatory adoption is the answer?  At a principal level, we support adoption and whenever we are designing a stewardship strategy for a development the first question we ask ourselves is “can this be adopted”?  But we are all aware of local authority budget pressures and the competing demands on scarce resources, often local authorities simply won’t or can’t adopt.  And where they do, commuted sums can be hyper aggressive. In recent examples we have been quoted by local authorities, a 100-year multiple of maintenance costs, undiscounted, to be used as the basis of calculation.  And yet, ironically, payment of a commuted sum does not guarantee that money will be spent on maintenance of that infrastructure at that development.  Such are local authority budgetary constraints and political pressures; it is possible these monies could be channelled into higher priority areas leaving estate management underfunded. New developments should always contribute positively towards community infrastructure and most developers remain willing to do so.  But in recent years the growing demand on developers has crossed into an unsustainable path; with s106 payments, covering aspects like affordable housing, education, healthcare, highways and open spaces, the community infrastructure levy, biodiversity net gain, the residential development property tax, the building safety levy, the landfill tax and so on.  It is also likely to once again hit developments disproportionately in lower value areas where house prices simply cannot support this collective ask.  Viability is an existing challenge many developers are already facing and the introduction of commuted sums on mandatory adoption is only likely to render yet more developments unviable, slow the delivery of housing further with the inevitable impact being to push houses prices further out of reach of many.  Is there a better option? Yes, we believe so, but firstly, is the current system really broken?  Whilst there are unfortunately some examples of poor practice where residents have received disproportionate bills for the quality of service they receive, our experience is this is not the norm across the industry and remains in the minority.  Many estates are well maintained and often to a higher standard than they would have been under local authority management regimes. They have also allowed for more freedom in design, creating more natural landscapes and beautiful places.    Another key proposal MHCLG are currently consulting on is around enhanced protections for homeowners on freehold estates.  This is something we support and most of the recommendations made are practices we have been operating across our estate for a number of years.  These reforms if implemented as proposed, may help tackle those minority cases so that further measures such as mandatory adoptions are simply not required. However, there are a range of models – some well-established and others more nascent – that could help resolve that stewardship debate.  . Residents at the heart of communities In any utopia it would be residents and local communities managing these amenities, but pressures of modern living, fractured households and mixed tenures manifest the requirement for a maintainer of last resort.  It’s widely recognised that when residents have a meaningful role in shaping their own environment, developments transform from just housing and workspaces to true communities. I have seen this personally and have seen it in the work we do at Harworth, where we have supported residents in setting up community councils, or launching sports clubs and societies that form the genesis of onward community cohesion.    For example, at our flagship site in South Yorkshire, we’ve established Waverley Community Council – a Parish Council set out to carry a range of duties to support and improve experiences for all in the community.  It’s been successful in growing the community at Waverley and will continue to have a significant impact in shaping the site moving forward. At the same time, as master developers, we are regularly thinking about how to design a scheme to provide longevity for decades to come. Having residents involved in the management of estates is therefore critical, but should residents be the sole voice?  It is often assumed bringing developments under residential control is in the best long-term interest of the estate, but in perpetuity is a very long time.  We often find that residents are most focused on reducing their estate service charge.  But as the service charge is there to look after the estate in perpetuity, it is key that it is well maintained together with an appropriate sinking fund regime in place to be able to renew and replace aging infrastructure spreading the cost over time, as opposed to the burden simply falling on future residents or worse, falling into disrepair such as the sink estates of the 1960’s.  For large-scale developments like Waverley, having professional expertise and third-party stakeholders sit alongside and in

Nationwide Platforms has supported construction works at one of the world’s most remote research facilities, supplying specialist powered access equipment to BAM UK&I at Rothera Research Station in Antarctica. The work forms part of the British Antarctic Survey’s long-term Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme, a rolling investment programme to futureproof the UK’s polar research capabilities. At Rothera, BAM UK&I has delivered a series of major upgrades, including the new Discovery Building, runway improvements and redevelopment of the station’s wharf to accommodate the polar research vessel RRS Sir David Attenborough. To support internal construction works, Nationwide Platforms supplied four scissor lifts with minimal environmental footprint for installation work within the Discovery Building. Operating in Antarctica presents a unique combination of logistical, environmental and operational challenges. Machinery must function reliably in sub-zero temperatures and high winds, while also meeting strict environmental protection standards and working within limited on-site power capacity. Within the Discovery Building itself, narrow corridors and sensitive early-stage infrastructure require low-emission, compact equipment capable of predictable, controlled operation. Working closely with BAM UK&I, Nationwide Platforms supplied Dingli JCPT0807PA hydraulic-oil free electric scissor lifts. The machines were delivered in standard ISO containers and supported with on-site spares to minimise the need for additional imports or external technical support. Despite the challenges of battery performance in extreme cold, the electric units remained in daily use through careful battery management, while their low power draw helped reduce demand on Rothera’s diesel-generated energy supply. The oil-free configuration also eliminated the risk of hydraulic leaks, supporting compliance with the stringent environmental protocols enforced by the British Antarctic Survey. Matt Parfitt, Head of Market Development at Nationwide Platforms, said, “With proven reliability in a region where margin for error is minimal, the JCPT0807PA has demonstrated the value of compact, oil-free, electric access machinery in enabling safe, low-impact progress at one of the world’s most challenging and extraordinary construction sites.” Johannes Smit, Construction Manager at BAM UK&I, said: “Working in Antarctica demands a level of planning and precision unlike any other environment. Every piece of equipment must justify its place on site, not only in terms of performance, but in sustainability, reliability and ease of maintenance. The compact, oil-free scissor lifts supplied by Nationwide Platforms have been invaluable in supporting safe, efficient progress within the Discovery Building, helping our teams deliver critical works while protecting the unique Antarctic environment.” As the Rothera modernisation programme continues, Nationwide Platforms and BAM UK&I remain in ongoing collaboration to support future phases of construction, including further infrastructure and renewable energy upgrades at the station. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The modern workplace is increasingly focused on employee wellbeing. As professionals spend long hours at their desks, companies are rethinking how office furniture can support healthier working habits. One of the most notable developments in recent years has been the rise of the height adjustable desk. Workspace experts such as Urban 411 office furniture highlight how adjustable desks are helping organizations move away from static workstations toward more dynamic and health focused environments. Unlike traditional desks that require employees to remain seated for most of the day, adjustable desks allow users to alternate between sitting and standing. This flexibility encourages natural movement and reduces the strain associated with prolonged sitting. By introducing simple positional changes throughout the day, these desks help create a workspace that adapts to the user rather than forcing the user to adapt to the furniture. Breaking the Cycle of Sedentary Work Extended periods of sitting have become a common part of modern office routines. However, remaining seated for most of the workday can contribute to fatigue, muscle stiffness, and reduced energy levels. Height adjustable desks provide a practical way to interrupt these sedentary patterns. The ability to switch between sitting and standing encourages movement and helps maintain better physical balance during the day. Better Circulation and Energy Levels Alternating between positions promotes improved blood circulation. Many users report feeling more alert and energized when they incorporate standing periods into their routine. Reduced Strain on the Spine and Joints Changing positions helps relieve constant pressure on the lower back and spinal discs. It also reduces stiffness in the hips and knees that often develops during long periods of sitting. Increased Muscle Engagement Standing activates more muscle groups than sitting alone. Even light muscle engagement can contribute to better metabolic activity and help counter the effects of prolonged inactivity. Over time, these small adjustments can significantly improve overall workplace comfort and physical wellbeing. Supporting Modern Office Design Adjustable desks are not only beneficial for health—they also align well with evolving office layouts. Many contemporary workplaces are moving toward flexible designs that accommodate multiple work styles, from focused individual tasks to collaborative team activities. Height adjustable desks fit naturally into these environments because they support adaptability and efficient space usage. Flexible Work Zones Their clean design and adaptable structure allow them to integrate seamlessly into offices that use modular furniture and flexible layouts. Adaptation to Different Work Tasks Certain activities may benefit from standing, such as brainstorming sessions or quick meetings, while seated positions may be more suitable for focused computer work. Adjustable desks support this natural variation. Efficient Workspace Planning When combined with other flexible furniture systems, adjustable desks help create workspaces that can evolve as teams grow and organizational needs change. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to modern workplace planning. Developing Healthy Usage Habits While adjustable desks offer many benefits, their effectiveness depends on how they are used. The goal is not to stand all day but to create a balanced routine that incorporates both sitting and standing. Start GraduallyBegin by alternating between sitting and standing every 30 to 60 minutes. Gradually increase standing time as your body becomes more comfortable with the change. Maintain Proper ErgonomicsWhether seated or standing, the monitor should remain at eye level and elbows should rest comfortably at approximately a 90-degree angle. Add Small Movement BreaksUse transitions between positions as an opportunity to stretch, shift your posture, or take a short walk. These small actions further improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. Furniture specialists recognise that these habits are essential for maximizing the benefits of adjustable desks. Providers such as Urban 411 office furniture design solutions that make these transitions smooth and easy within everyday work routines. Conclusion Height adjustable desks are playing an increasingly important role in the evolution of modern workspaces. By encouraging movement and reducing the negative effects of prolonged sitting, they help create environments that support both comfort and productivity. Beyond their health benefits, these desks also complement flexible office layouts and modern workspace strategies. As organizations continue to prioritize employee wellbeing, adjustable desks are becoming a central feature of forward-thinking office design. For businesses seeking to create healthier and more adaptable workplaces, exploring solutions offered by Urban 411 office furniture provides a practical starting point for integrating these innovations into everyday office environments.

The traditional boundaries between the home and the garden are increasingly blurred in modern architecture. As homeowners seek to maximise their living areas without the logistical nightmare of a full-scale brick-and-mortar extension, architects and developers are turning toward versatile, high-end structural solutions. The goal is no longer just to provide a view of the outdoors, but to create a seamless transition that allows the exterior to function as an integral part of the home’s floor plan. This shift in residential design is driven by a desire for “indoor-outdoor” living, a concept that has evolved far beyond the simple patio door. Modern developments now prioritise thermal efficiency, structural lightness, and aesthetic cohesion. By treating the garden as an additional “room,” developers can significantly increase the perceived value and utility of a property, providing the flexible spaces that the 2026 market demands. Integrating the glass sliding door into contemporary building design At the heart of this architectural evolution is the widespread adoption of the glass sliding door as a primary structural element. Unlike the heavy, framed bifolds of the past, today’s minimalist sliding systems offer expansive, uninterrupted views that effectively remove the visual barrier between the lounge and the terrace. These systems are designed to slide effortlessly, allowing for a large-scale opening that creates a fluid thoroughfare for air and light. From a construction perspective, these glass walls provide a sophisticated solution for managing natural light in narrow urban plots. They allow architects to flood interior spaces with daylight, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and improving the overall wellbeing of the occupants. When specified correctly, these systems maintain high levels of insulation, ensuring that the home remains energy-efficient during the winter while offering the possibility of a completely open-plan living experience during the summer months. Enhancing property utility with a modern carport While much of the focus on outdoor living remains on the rear of the property, the front elevation is seeing its own functional revolution. The traditional garage is often viewed as a missed opportunity for space, frequently used for storage rather than vehicle protection. Consequently, we are seeing a rise in the specification of the contemporary carport in new build developments. These structures provide a lightweight, aesthetically pleasing alternative to the enclosed garage, offering protection from the elements without the heavy footprint of a traditional building. A well-designed aluminium structure can complement the lines of a modern house, providing a sheltered area that is both practical and visually unobtrusive. This is particularly relevant in the context of the growing EV market, where homeowners require easy, sheltered access to charging points. By integrating these structures into the initial design phase, developers can offer a premium feel that maintains an open, airy street scene. The future of modular outdoor structures The trend toward modularity in construction shows no signs of slowing down. Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to customise their properties over time, and high-quality modular kits allow for this flexibility. Many industry professionals are now looking toward specialist manufacturers like Tuinmaximaal, who provide robust, professional-grade aluminium components that can be tailored to fit specific architectural requirements. This “plug-and-play” approach to high-end garden structures allows for rapid installation with minimal disruption to the site. Ultimately, the successful bridge between interior and exterior spaces relies on the quality of the materials and the thoughtfulness of the design. By incorporating expansive glass systems and functional sheltered areas, we can create homes that feel larger, brighter, and more connected to the world outside. As we look toward the future of UK residential development, these versatile structures will continue to play a pivotal role in how we define the modern British home.

The City of London Corporation has released a new CGI revealing how the Square Mile’s skyline is expected to look in around six years’ time, once the latest wave of towers under construction or with planning consent are complete. The computer-generated images illustrate the evolving cluster of tall buildings in the City’s financial district, reflecting what will be delivered following a record year for planning approvals in 2025. According to the Corporation, 2026 has already marked the busiest start to a year in seven years in terms of both planning submissions and decisions, as demand for high-quality, sustainable Grade A office space continues to grow. More than half a million square metres of office space was granted planning permission in 2025 alone – the equivalent of more than ten Gherkin-sized buildings – with roughly half of that total already under construction. The result is a development pipeline that will keep the Square Mile firmly in growth mode for the remainder of the decade. Major schemes contributing to the future skyline include 1 Undershaft, which is already progressing on site, alongside 85 Gracechurch Street and 60 Gracechurch Street, both due to start shortly. Together, these projects will add more than 200,000 square metres of commercial space. Chris Hayward, Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, said strong demand for amenity-rich, premium office space was reinforcing the City’s global appeal. He noted that vacancy rates in the City Core continue to fall, prime supply remains tight and leasing activity has reached its strongest annual performance since 2019. He added that the City continues to demonstrate its ability to deliver complex, large-scale developments while responding to evolving patterns of work. Tom Sleigh, Chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee, described commercial development in the Square Mile as “all systems go”, pointing to a particularly active start to the year and sustained investor confidence in the City’s long-term prospects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

By Daniel Austin, CEO and co-founder at ASK Partners The 2025 Autumn Budget offered limited stimulus for the housing market and, persistent headwinds such as sticky inflation, higher for longer interest rates, elevated construction costs, and slow planning processes continue to impact development viability. But there are still reasons for cautious optimism. The UK economy is forecast to grow by 1.4 per cent this year. This is expected to outperform the eurozone and should support investor confidence. The UK also remains an attractive destination for global capital, with ongoing interest from the Gulf, Southeast Asia and deepening UK United States investment links, particularly through the technology sector. ASK recently surpassed £2 billion in total lending. This milestone reflects the importance of disciplined, relationship-led financing and flexible structuring in a challenging market. It also highlights the growing appetite for income-producing real estate debt. With public equity markets at elevated levels and real estate pricing looking comparatively attractive, 2026 is likely to see increasing interest in secured credit strategies that offer predictable cashflows and downside protection. Looking ahead, several segments of the market offer clear potential for investors. The flight to quality is expected to continue as businesses compete for modern, energy efficient and amenity rich workspace that supports hybrid working. Best-in-class offices in central London continue to achieve strong rents and stable yields. Although secondary and tertiary offices face challenges linked to obsolescence and environmental compliance costs, some well-located secondary assets are becoming more investable as prime rents rise. Refinancing pressures and selective refurbishment opportunities will provide value-add prospects for well-capitalised investors able to move quickly. Buyer appetite is expected to soften due to higher taxation, reduced ISA allowances and the absence of stamp duty reform. Despite this slowdown, the UK remains structurally undersupplied in housing. With so many smaller landlords exiting the sector due to increased costs and regulatory complexity, professionally managed rental formats are becoming more important. Build-to-rent and co-living are particularly well positioned to serve younger, mobile workers who seek affordability, connectivity and community. Mid-market suburban and commuter belt schemes may outperform prime central locations, especially in areas benefiting from new infrastructure such as the Lower Thames Crossing. Storage, logistics and light industrial assets remain among the most resilient parts of the market, supported by the continued expansion of online retail, SME activity and the need for flexible urban distribution space. Alongside these uses, demand for data centres has become a major structural driver. Growing adoption of artificial intelligence, cloud services and high-performance computing is placing unprecedented pressure on power capacity and suitable land, making data centres an increasingly strategic real estate category. The combination of long-term contracted income, critical infrastructure status and limited supply of appropriate sites means this segment is likely to remain strong. Mixed-use industrial schemes that accommodate logistics, data infrastructure and urban services will offer particularly attractive, income-led opportunities in 2026. The hotel sector has rebounded strongly, supported by domestic leisure travel, international visitors and the ability to adjust room rates in line with inflation. Conversion opportunities, particularly the transformation of under-utilised office buildings into hotels, are creating new avenues for investors. The asset class continues to appeal to private investors and family offices seeking income diversification and long-term value. Operational real estate, including healthcare, specialist care, education and supported living, provides stable and often inflation linked income streams. Demographic shifts, including an ageing population and rising demand for specialist services, support the long-term resilience of these sectors. Although certain subsectors such as life sciences are recalibrating, operational assets backed by strong occupier demand remain attractive. Conclusion In 2026 the UK real estate market is likely to offer opportunities grounded in the resilience of the asset class rather than wider economic growth. As interest rates begin to edge lower and transaction pipelines reopen, investors who have been waiting on the sidelines may return. If base rates move toward 3.5 to 3.75 per cent, many schemes that have not been viable in recent years could start to work again. Those who focus on income-producing assets, structure deals carefully and navigate planning challenges with discipline will be best positioned to secure stable returns in a subdued economic environment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The UK construction sector enters 2026 facing a challenging mix of cost pressures, labour shortages, and regulatory change, but also opportunities to adapt through technology, sustainability, and operational resilience. “This year will be defined less by headline growth and more by how firms manage risk and deliver reliably,” says Laura Capper, Head of Construction at NatWest Group. Public projects anchor the market Infrastructure, healthcare, education, and energy projects continue to provide a stable foundation for construction activity. While private housing and industrial sectors are recovering, commercial demand remains uneven. “Government commitments give firms a pipeline, but converting this into work on site requires flexibility and careful planning,” Capper explains. This balance between public stability and private sector caution will shape investment, scheduling, and workforce planning throughout 2026. Cost pressures remain elevated Rising labour, material, and energy costs continue to challenge firms. Contractors are embedding contingencies into contracts and improving cost management to maintain margins. “Managing inflation isn’t just about pricing,” Capper notes. “It’s about planning, risk management, and execution on site.” Long-duration projects are particularly exposed to cost fluctuations, making accurate forecasting and early-stage procurement more important than ever. Workforce and skills under the spotlight Labour shortages remain a structural issue. Skilled trades, technicians, and supervisory roles are in short supply, with demographic trends and reduced migration inflows intensifying competition. “A future-ready workforce combines technical ability with flexibility,” says Capper. “Apprenticeships, retraining, and flexible working are essential to keep projects on track.” Retention and succession planning will be crucial for SMEs and larger contractors alike, ensuring continuity in delivery and operational performance. Digital and AI tools support delivery Technology is being adopted pragmatically, with BIM, digital twins, drones, IoT monitoring, and AI-assisted planning helping firms reduce risk, improve safety, and enhance efficiency. “Technology is about smarter delivery, not growth,” Capper explains. “Firms that use digital tools effectively can make better real-time decisions and avoid costly rework.” Digital integration across design, planning, procurement, and on-site operations is gradually becoming a differentiator. Sustainability as a delivery requirement Carbon reduction, energy efficiency, circular design, and whole-life carbon assessment are increasingly embedded in project planning. “Sustainability is now part of operational delivery,” says Capper. “Low-carbon materials, energy-efficient designs, and retrofit initiatives are expected by clients and increasingly enforced by regulators.” This is particularly true in public sector and infrastructure projects, where environmental compliance is closely monitored. Client expectations are evolving Clients are demanding more transparency, reliability, and speed. Contractors who can deliver on time, on budget, and with reduced environmental impact will stand out. “Predictable outcomes, strong communication, and responsiveness will define success in 2026,” Capper adds. Collaboration with supply chains and digital reporting tools are helping contractors meet these expectations while managing risk. Looking ahead 2026 is set to be a year of practical resilience, not headline expansion. Firms that combine strong planning, workforce development, digital adoption, and sustainability compliance are best positioned to navigate uncertainty. “Adaptability is the sector’s greatest strength,” Capper concludes. “Those who focus on delivery, risk management, and operational performance will maintain stability and reputation in a challenging year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals