Speedy Hire, the UK’s leading tools and equipment hire company, is proud to have partnered with WellChild’s Helping Hands programme to complete a life-changing garden transformation for 14-year-old Daisy in Huddersfield. Daisy has a chromosome disorder and epilepsy, which affects her mobility, meaning she requires specialist care. The new outdoor
Morson Group has joined this year’s Big Construction Diversity Challenge as its Headline Sponsor. The company, which has built on its 55+ year history in recruitment to develop engineering, consultancy, training services and more across the UK, US and Canada, says it’s delighted to offer its support to the BCDC in this, its inaugural year.
Kingspan, the global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions, announces today that it is collaborating with Buildner and Hapi Homes, on the tenth edition of the MICROHOME competition, offering a 100,000 EUR prize fund and the unique opportunity for one winning project to be constructed. This global competition invites
SP Energy Networks has donated eight laptops to Community Veterans Support (CVS) in Glasgow, fast-tracking the centre’s tech upgrade plans. This donation will help the charity replace its outdated IT systems while ensuring that disused technology is usefully repursued. Community Veterans Support has been a lifeline for veterans in the
St John Ambulance launches Hi Vis Stress Vest campaign and new mental health first aid course. St John Ambulance has today launched a campaign to get construction workers to open up about their mental health after new research* found nearly seven in 10 have suspected a colleague was seriously depressed
An England football legend, backed by local sports stars, is spearheading a new charity encouraging construction workers to talk about mental health. Former England and Everton hero Trevor Steven’s Mindflow initiative has been endorsed by football legends Gary Lineker, Robbie Fowler, Stuart Pearce, Ally McCoist, Peter Reid and Viv Anderson.
Women in construction are breaking barriers, driving change, and shaping the future of the industry. Their voices and experiences prove that progress is happening – but there’s still more to be done. This International Women’s Day, British Gypsum and Isover – businesses that are part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions –
While construction often brings to mind images of building sites and hard hats, the industry is powered by a vast network of professionals working behind the scenes to bring developments to life. This International Women’s Day, Harron Homes is celebrating the women who play crucial roles in shaping its success—driving
A local Priors Hall Park School student is over the moon following an ‘out of this world’ gift from a housebuilder. Last year, 9-year-old pupil Jasper won a competition to design a bedroom, held by housebuilder Davidsons Homes for its stunning showhome at Kirby Woodlands. As part of his prize,
A new development of key worker accommodation has been officially opened at the John Radcliffe Hospital (JRH) in Oxford, which forms part of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH). Colleagues from housing association A2Dominion, housebuilder The Hill Group, OUH, and Oxford Hospitals Charity came together for an official opening
Speedy Hire, the UK’s leading tools and equipment hire company, is proud to have partnered with WellChild’s Helping Hands programme to complete a life-changing garden transformation for 14-year-old Daisy in Huddersfield. Daisy has a chromosome disorder and epilepsy, which affects her mobility, meaning she requires specialist care. The new outdoor space created is designed to be safe, accessible, and stimulating, allowing her to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with her family and friends. Daisy loves being outside, but her garden was previously inaccessible. Over the course of the project, a dedicated team of Speedy Hire volunteers from Huddersfield and the surrounding areas worked alongside WellChild to level the ground, install secure fencing, and introduce sensory-friendly features such as artificial grass, sensory lighting, and accessible play equipment. In addition to volunteering their time and expertise for Daisy’s garden renovation, Speedy Hire also provided free tool hire to support the successful completion of the project, as they do for all WellChild Helping Hands projects across the UK. The WellChild Helping Hands programme enriches the lives of children with complex medical needs across the UK by creating safe, sensory and accessible environments for them and their families to truly thrive at home. Daisy’s Mum Jenny said: “This garden has transformed Daisy’s experience of being outdoors. She now has a safe and enjoyable space where she can relax, play, and interact with nature. We can’t thank Speedy Hire and WellChild enough for making this possible.” Amelia Woodley, ESG Director at Speedy Hire, commented: “We are delighted to support WellChild’s Helping Hands initiative. At Speedy Hire, we believe in making a positive impact in our communities, and this project is a perfect example of how we can use our resources to create meaningful change. Seeing Daisy enjoy her new outdoor space is truly rewarding.” Kieran Cullen, Helping Hands Programme Manager at WellChild, added: “The success of projects like this relies on the generosity and dedication of corporate partners like Speedy Hire. Their commitment to helping children and families across the UK is invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful for their support.” This initiative reflects Speedy Hire’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and community support, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability and social impact. For more information about WellChild and the Helping Hands programme, visit www.wellchild.org.uk. Watch video now Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Morson Group has joined this year’s Big Construction Diversity Challenge as its Headline Sponsor. The company, which has built on its 55+ year history in recruitment to develop engineering, consultancy, training services and more across the UK, US and Canada, says it’s delighted to offer its support to the BCDC in this, its inaugural year. The Big Construction Diversity Challenge aims to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) across the construction sector. It also supports the importance of EDI and how inclusivity can be tackled collaboratively and collectively to create stronger cultures and broader empathy. The event promotes inclusive practices and highlights the benefits to be gained from them. Gary Smithson, Director for Morson Group, says, “Morson Group is supporting The Big Construction Diversity Challenge to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion within the construction industry. “As a leading technical recruitment company, we recognise that fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for driving innovation and achieving sustainable success. In an increasingly competitive skills market, employers need to focus on widening talent pools rather than limiting the number of applicants. By participating in this event, we aim to showcase the positive impact that diverse teams have on business performance and encourage collaborative efforts in creating inclusive workplace cultures. “Allied with our work with the Big Rail Diversity Challenge and our continued involvement in engaging students from diverse backgrounds in STEM subjects as part of our STEM Foundation, we committed to highlighting pathways and expanding inclusion across the sectors in which we operate.” Organised by multi-media specialists Nimble Media Ltd, the 2025 BCDC will be held at Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire, on Friday, June 27. Like its sister events, The Big Rail Diversity Challenge and The Big Logistics Diversity Challenge, it will feature a collection of physical and mental team tests and keynote speeches from industry influencers. It is an opportunity for organisations within the industry to share best practices, network, and help shape a more inclusive sector. It also recognises and rewards employees with a fun and entertaining day. Vicky Binley, Nimble Media Ltd Director, says: “The success of our previous events has been shown by how much they have grown and how much they are anticipated each year by their respective industries. “We are truly excited to extend them to the construction industry so that it too can enjoy what is a fantastic, action-packed day, carrying the key message that an inclusive culture breaks down barriers and reaps rewards for everyone.” BCDC 2025 will also raise funds for CRASH, a charity founded in 1996 that helps homeless charities and hospices with vital construction projects. CRASH brings together companies and their professional expertise to help renovate and refurbish hospices, hostels, and day centres, improving not only the buildings and their environments but also the quality of life for those who need them. For more information about getting involved in The Big Construction Diversity Challenge 2025 or to support the event, call to speak to a member of the Nimble Media team on 01780 432930 or email bigconstruction@nimblemedia.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kingspan, the global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions, announces today that it is collaborating with Buildner and Hapi Homes, on the tenth edition of the MICROHOME competition, offering a 100,000 EUR prize fund and the unique opportunity for one winning project to be constructed. This global competition invites architects, designers, and creative thinkers to redefine the concept of microhomes and develop cutting-edge, sustainable solutions for compact housing. The MICROHOME 10 competition marks a significant milestone in Buildner’s exploration of small-scale living. This is the third year of the special collaboration between Buildner and Kingspan and this year’s competition introduces a groundbreaking opportunity with Hapi Homes, a company revolutionising homebuilding with tech-driven, sustainable, and customisable solutions. Hapi Homes will select one winning project for construction and award a €15,000 prize to its designer. As part of the competition, entrants will have the opportunity to incorporate a range of Kingspan’s energy efficient products within their designs, including PowerPanel – the company’s newly launched integrated roofing and photovoltaic solution. Buildner, Kingspan, and Hapi Homes share a commitment to innovation in residential architecture. This partnership aims to foster visionary design and transform one concept into a real-world solution for micro-living. The Challenge Participants are tasked with designing a modular, self-sufficient, and energy-efficient microhome with a maximum footprint of 25m². Designs should push boundaries in innovation, functionality, and sustainability while addressing real-world challenges such as urban density, affordability, and environmental responsibility. The competition is open to all, including professionals and students. Key Objectives 4. Adaptability: Explore designs that can adapt to various urban, rural, or off-grid settings. Prize Fund and Recognition The 100,000 EUR prize structure is as follows: ● 1st Prize: 20,000 EUR ● 2nd Prize: 10,000 EUR ● 3rd Prize: 5,000 EUR ● Buildner Student Award: 5,000 EUR *Participants must use at least one of the Kingspan products listed in the competition brief to be eligible. Special Prize: Hapi Homes Award and Construction The Hapi Homes Award is a €15,000 special prize recognising a project that best aligns with Hapi Homes’ vision of tech-driven, sustainable, and customisable homebuilding. Hapi Homes will select one winning project for construction, bringing the design to life as a real-world microhome prototype. Competition Schedule ● Final Registration Deadline: September 25, 2025 (23:59 GMT) ● Submission Deadline: October 29, 2025 (23:59 GMT) ● Winners Announced: December 9, 2025 Visit the competition site to register: https://architecturecompetitions.com/microhome10/ksp Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SP Energy Networks has donated eight laptops to Community Veterans Support (CVS) in Glasgow, fast-tracking the centre’s tech upgrade plans. This donation will help the charity replace its outdated IT systems while ensuring that disused technology is usefully repursued. Community Veterans Support has been a lifeline for veterans in the Glasgow area and beyond for over 12 years. Located in the historic Pearce Institute in Govan, CVS offers a welcoming environment where veterans can access essential services and find a sense of community. Officially opened on 28th May 2015 by Veterans Minister Keith Brown MSP, the centre supports around 400 veterans every month. Providing daily essentials such as hot meals and emergency food parcels, the centre also offers a wide range of additional services, including housing assistance, benefits, pensions, medical support, education, training and employment support. Beyond its front doors, the charity extends its support to veterans who are unable to physically access the centre, including those who are hospitalised, ensuring that even the most vulnerable veterans receive the help they need. Previously, veterans struggled with outdated technology, and those outside the centre had limited access to necessary tools. With the new laptops, veterans regardless of their location will now have access to better tools to upskill and stay connected to their community. Rohan Baruah, part of the SP Energy Networks’ Community Liaison team and a veteran himself, presented the laptops to the centre. Rohan said “As a veteran, I know how important it is to have access to the right tools and resources. These laptops will make a big difference in the lives of many, giving them more opportunities for training and connection.” David Devenney, former Royal Marine and Director of the centre said “This tech upgrade marks a significant leap forward for our centre. Now, our veterans will be able to access training and engage in hybrid working. This is particularly important for our hospitalised veterans and will ensure that they remain connected and continue to develop essential skills.” This initiative is part of SP Energy Networks ongoing efforts to support the local community within its operating areas. For more information about Community Veterans Support and their services, please visit their Facebook here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
St John Ambulance launches Hi Vis Stress Vest campaign and new mental health first aid course. St John Ambulance has today launched a campaign to get construction workers to open up about their mental health after new research* found nearly seven in 10 have suspected a colleague was seriously depressed but felt it too difficult to talk about. Such is the taboo around the topic that 71% of research respondents admitted to giving their employer a different reason, such as a physical illness, for taking time off for mental health. Nearly four in 10, 39%, would rather quit their job than tell someone at work. The health charity has released the stark findings as it introduces a mental health first aid course that uses real-life scenarios to train workers to spot hidden signs, start difficult conversations and create workplaces where colleagues feel safe to share their problems. It hopes to kickstart these vital conversations by sharing limited edition “Hi Vis Stress Vests” with construction companies and celebrities including TV builder Tommy Walsh and construction entrepreneur Daniel Ashville Louisy. The back of each high-visibility jacket features a statement, such as “No-one will miss me when I’m gone”, to express some of the invisible mental distress that many builders don’t feel able to talk about. The research of 500 construction workers also revealed nearly a third, 31%, describe their current state as “struggling”, “overwhelmed” or “suicidal”, while 82% say they’ve suffered with a mental health challenge at some point in their career in the trade. Nearly a tenth, 8% have left their job as a result of mental health challenges, while 28% have considered leaving; more than a fifth, 21%, have taken over five sick days for the same reason. Nearly half, 48%, say their current levels of stress and anxiety are having a negative impact on their work. Peer pressure Although nearly two-thirds of respondents, 65%, agree it is healthier to share struggles about stress, anxiety or depression, nearly half (48%) think they’ll lose the trust and respect of their colleagues if they don’t put on a brave face. More than a fifth, 22%, believe doing so would be letting the team down, a fifth are too embarrassed and 14% believe they’ll be laughed at. However, more than half, 54%, of respondents said they would be more likely to share their problems if they had a trained mental health first aider on site. Six in 10, 60%, would like to see their employer do more to support mental health in their workplace. Lisa Sharman, head of education and commercial training at St John Ambulance, says: “We know that opening up about a mental health problem with someone who’s ready to listen is the first step towards getting vital help. Our research shows that those working in the construction sector find it particularly difficult to share what they’re going through. We’re confident that our Hi Vis Stress Vests will help get the conversation started. “However, we urge construction leaders to go further and equip themselves and employees with the skills to spot signs and start the difficult chats. St John’s new face-to-face mental health first aid course is interactive and practical, meaning employees find it engaging and leave with the tools to make a real difference to the wellbeing of the people around them.” Wellbeing manager at construction giant BAM, Rhianwen Conron, recently used the Hi Vis Stress Vests at a session for 10 workers. She says: “The messages on the back of the vests are very powerful and proved to be effective conversation starters. “I’m fully in support of this campaign. Anything that prompts our people to start opening up is valuable and having something physical to focus on, like these Hi Vis Stress Vests, is hugely helpful. “I think every construction company should be training people to hold these kinds of wellbeing conversations.” Jon Clayden, former project lead at construction giant ISG, which went into administration last year, says: “The building site is a tough and stressful environment, and whilst over the 30 years I’ve been in the industry, I’ve seen some improvements in mental health conversations, we still have a long way to go. “I’ve known people struggling with mental health issues, and the silence often comes from them simply not knowing how to approach it. “Mental health first aid training has been a critical experience for me, as it’s allowed me to spot signs and support my colleagues who find it challenging to speak up. It’s also given me the skillset to approach them first and show that someone is looking out for them. Having someone to speak to in confidence can be life-saving.” For more information visit sja.org.uk/hivis. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
An England football legend, backed by local sports stars, is spearheading a new charity encouraging construction workers to talk about mental health. Former England and Everton hero Trevor Steven’s Mindflow initiative has been endorsed by football legends Gary Lineker, Robbie Fowler, Stuart Pearce, Ally McCoist, Peter Reid and Viv Anderson. It was launched at the National Football Museum in Manchester on 20 March and attended by Mindflow Ambassadors: Manchester City’s David White, Paul Dickov and Paul Lake, Tottenham Hotspur’s Paul Stewart, and Sheffield United’s Curtis Woodhouse. Through Mindflow’s ‘Talk Football Talk Mental Health’ programme, current and ex-football players will visit construction sites to deliver mental health awareness sessions, encourage conversation, and recruit volunteers from each session to train as mental health first aiders. The Ambassadors have all publicly shared their challenges around mental health and have firsthand experience to support the construction industry. Research conducted on-site by Trevor Steven, supported by construction software company Causeway Technologies, found that more than half (56%) of site workers are either currently experiencing or have experienced mental health problems. The industry is especially vulnerable due to factors like long irregular hours, many workers being self-employed, and high-pressure working environments. The survey found that many workers in the industry (67%) are football fans, and the charity aims to create a culture of proactive support and early intervention by joining the dots between construction, mental health, and football. Trevor said: “Football, and sport in general, has made great strides in destigmatising issues around mental health. Whereas in construction, the statistics around suicide rates tell an opposing story. “Getting people talking is widely cited as being key to tackling poor mental health. Football offers a potential route in; it is a sport that brings people together and starts conversations. We hope that through football, Mindflow can help site workers to speak more freely about their mental health.” Through its Charter, Mindflow will introduce a consistent, and measurable, standard for mental health provisions onsite, set out by the local authority on publicly funded projects. As it stands, the level of mental health support for workers is left up to the contractor, whereas the Charter will mean contractors have to meet set standards to secure the work. Phil Brown, Executive Chairman at Causeway Technologies and Chair of Trustees at Mindflow added: “We’ve worked closely with Trevor for years on research into the mental health crisis in construction. The findings are clear – construction is an industry where mental health struggles are common yet go unspoken. “That’s why it’s so important that Trevor is launching Mindflow and combining football and construction to initiate meaningful conversations and provide real, practical support. “Causeway is proud to be backing Mindflow and looks forward to seeing how the power of football can create meaningful change in the industry.” Visit Mindflow to find out more. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Women in construction are breaking barriers, driving change, and shaping the future of the industry. Their voices and experiences prove that progress is happening – but there’s still more to be done. This International Women’s Day, British Gypsum and Isover – businesses that are part of Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions – are proudly celebrating the women who are making an impact in the construction sector. By sharing their stories, we’re championing their achievements, amplifying their voices, and paving the way for an even more inclusive industry. Katie Anderson is Performance Manager at British Gypsum East Leake Works which produces bagged plaster and plasterboard. She has seen the business take proactive steps to help more women into its workforce. “We have got a lot more women coming through which is great,” she said. “It will take a while to change but I definitely see positive movement in that regard.” Katie joined British Gypsum in 2019 as a project leader and has progressed rapidly through the ranks. She is encouraging other women to consider construction manufacturing as a fulfilling career. “British Gypsum has really helped me with my training,” she added. “So even if you don’t have the skills initially, they can help you to develop those skills.” However, Katie says she still occasionally encounters gender bias. “Sometimes it can take a bit more time to build up a rapport or respect with people, it’s important to get to know people as individuals and learn to communicate with them in the most appropriate way.” Last year, Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions supported the launch of I am a Housebuilder. Founded by a cross-parliamentary group, it aims to grow the number of women working in the housebuilding industry. It is fronted by seven women who hold prominent roles in construction – dubbed the Magnificent 7. One of them is Xuan Meng, CEO of Cozy Haus. She started in property development after taking maternity leave from an investment fund. “It took me a lot of effort and mental determination to plunge myself into building Cozy Haus because it is something I’ve never done,” she said. “I thought to myself, if I could make this a success, it could give me the flexibility to be my own boss and also the flexibility to look after my daughter and the financial stability I wanted for my family. This was my chance, I took it, and I think that it was the best decision I ever made.” Cozy Haus now employs over 30 people and has more female staff than male. “I think that 60% of our staff members are female and a lot of them are single mums,” added Xuan. “I believe that, because you are a mum, you have more reasons to work hard not only because you have to provide financially but also because you have to lead by example.” As part of their mentoring programme, each of the Magnificent 7 will give one-to-one mentoring to women taking their first steps into the housebuilding sector. Georgina Hammond, Co-Founder of Beau Property, has taken 21-year-old graduate Abbi Bird under her wing as her mentee. Abbi saw the Magnificent 7 announced on LinkedIn and reached out to them about mentorship. She first became interested in construction aged 13 when her dad asked her to help with a building project. As a teenager she relentlessly pursued her passion, even switching schools to study construction and engineering before going on to complete a university degree. She is now shadowing Georgina while looking to start her career in construction management. “I really want to help her to navigate her career, to grow within her next role and be able to set goals for what her career is going to look like,” said Georgina. “I hope that she achieves becoming an MD of a PLC housebuilder because I know that she’s got it in her. She’s incredibly determined, she’s so enthusiastic, and she loves building houses. She’s incredibly technically minded. “It is so amazing and encouraging that people from that next generation have the enthusiasm and want to get into this industry because they feel so passionately about it and love it. So, I think from Abbi’s perspective, the sky is the limit and she can achieve anything. “Women need this support in an industry that is male dominated. I think that if we had this conversation again in ten years’ time, that would look very different. But while we go through that transition period, there needs to be role models and support for women that are making the move to enter this industry, to help them thrive.” The theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is Accelerate Action, focusing on driving progress for gender equality. Rachel Kelly, Head of Brand for British Gypsum and Isover said: “We are proud to support International Women’s Day and are accelerating our efforts to bring talented women into our workforce. “Women remain underrepresented in construction, facing barriers such as gender bias, lack of career visibility, and limited opportunities for progression. We are committed to addressing these challenges by amplifying female voices, promoting inclusivity and providing pathways for women to thrive in the sector.” The Building Better Hub provides resources and talking points on workforce gender diversity and other major industry issues. To hear more from some of the industry leaders featured in this article or to discover more about what women in construction have to say, visit the Building Better hub: https://www.saint-gobain.co.uk/building-better-hub/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
While construction often brings to mind images of building sites and hard hats, the industry is powered by a vast network of professionals working behind the scenes to bring developments to life. This International Women’s Day, Harron Homes is celebrating the women who play crucial roles in shaping its success—driving projects forward, supporting customers, and ensuring seamless operations. With 18 years of experience in the industry, Kirsty Wilson plays a vital role in Harron Homes’ design team. She is responsible for creating site layouts that balance viability with compliance, ensuring each development meets the highest standards. Kirsty attributes her success to early mentorship from a female architect and notes the increasing presence of women on construction sites. “Gender equality should be the norm,” says Kirsty. “One of the biggest barriers for women is awareness. Young women may not realise the variety of roles available in construction. “To women who are interested in the construction side, don’t be put off by it being male-dominated. People no longer make a big deal about women being on site, you’ll find the majority are friendly and helpful, regardless of gender.” Stacy Law transitioned into the construction industry two years ago after a diverse career in operations and business development. As a PA to the Managing Directors and Office Manager at Harron’s Yorkshire office, Stacy ensures smooth operations and provides essential support to the leadership team. “I’ve seen a real shift in attitudes towards women in construction,” Stacy shares. “Traditionally, it was seen as a male-dominated field, but there is now a greater emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Implementing clear policies and providing equal growth opportunities will further accelerate progress and inclusion.” Her advice to women considering a career in housebuilding? “Go for it! There are so many departments to start your career in beyond the building site, from finance to design to customer service, and the industry is full of opportunities.” With 18 years in property and seven in construction, Laura Higginbottom ensures that every homebuyer receives top-tier support as an Assistant Customer Service Manager. She values the strong support network within the company and believes social media has played a significant role in highlighting the achievements of women in the industry. “I’ve always felt supported and heard at Harron,” Laura explains. “The company hires the right person for the role, which has naturally led to women stepping into leadership positions. The more we promote women in senior roles, the more we can inspire others to follow.” Like Kirsty, Stacy feels a wider knowledge of the various career paths could encourage girls to join the industry. “Social media is doing a lot to showcase women in the industry, but promoting those available career paths from a much younger age could encourage women to explore construction a lot sooner. Some people are too shy to approach certain roles in life so by offering the information initially it might spark a positive conversation.” While the construction industry has made significant progress in gender equality, Kirsty, Stacy, and Laura agree that increasing representation, fostering an inclusive workplace, and promoting diverse career opportunities are key steps forward. Group Operations Director, Sarah Marsden added, “At Harron Homes, we are committed to supporting women in the workplace and celebrating their contributions. As Harron’s inaugural Group Operations Director, I’ve been given an amazing opportunity to not only leave my own mark on the company, but to encourage other women aspiring to do the same. Success comes from the hard work of people across every part of the business. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women behind the scenes who make it all happen.” For more information on Harron Homes please visit https://www.harronhomes.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A local Priors Hall Park School student is over the moon following an ‘out of this world’ gift from a housebuilder. Last year, 9-year-old pupil Jasper won a competition to design a bedroom, held by housebuilder Davidsons Homes for its stunning showhome at Kirby Woodlands. As part of his prize, Jasper’s bedroom design was replicated in one of the showhome bedrooms – a room that Jasper was excited to visit and explore for himself. Following a surge of sales including the showhome itself, Davidsons Homes decided to gift all the furniture from the space-themed bedroom to Jasper. The treat was carefully planned between the housebuilder and Jasper’s mum, Annabelle, giving the youngster a surprise that rendered him speechless on the day. Simon Tyler, Sales Director for Davidsons South, said: “Gifting the furniture to Jasper from the bedroom he designed feels like the perfect ending to this lovely story. Originally, we tasked students from Priors Hall Park School to design a bedroom for our new showhome, and we were absolutely blown away by the results. From models made of the room, through to stories that accompanied entries, we have genuinely never seen such high-quality entries from children. “Jasper’s design won our hearts though, with so many carefully-considered details – a galaxy-themed ceiling, Doctor Who and Star Wars elements and a slide reaching from the bed, surely every child’s dream. “Now, we’re delighted that following the sale of the showhome, we are able to gift all the furniture from this bedroom to Jasper. We very much hope he enjoys his revamped bedroom and that it’s a little reminder to him of this project, which has certainly been one we’ve all thoroughly enjoyed here at Davidsons Homes.” As part of his prize, Jasper also won a £500 Merlin voucher for him and his family to enjoy. Not only that, but Jasper was the first to visit the showhome and see the bedroom, before it was open to other visitors. Jasper’s mum, Annabelle, said: “Jasper has been so excited about his bedroom design being chosen, in fact he even took his grandparents to visit it over Christmas last year. Now, it’s the icing on the cake that we have been given the furniture from the bedroom for Jasper to take home and enjoy. “It was wonderful to visit the showhome again with Jasper, along with his sisters, and see him receive the news that he is able to take the furniture home with him. We really cannot thank you all enough.” People are invited to visit Kirby Woodlands for themselves. To make an appointment or to find out more, visit davidsonshomes.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new development of key worker accommodation has been officially opened at the John Radcliffe Hospital (JRH) in Oxford, which forms part of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH). Colleagues from housing association A2Dominion, housebuilder The Hill Group, OUH, and Oxford Hospitals Charity came together for an official opening on Wednesday 29 January. A2Dominion appointed The Hill Group in 2022 to deliver the scheme. OUH is one of the largest NHS teaching trusts in England constituting four major hospitals in Oxford and the project at the JRH is one of many supported by the Oxford Hospitals Charity. Customers recently moved into the new modern apartments in Ivy Lane from the previous flats following the completion of the first phase of the project. The ribbon cutting marked the completion of phase one, which will ultimately replace the previous accommodation with seven modern apartment buildings. The ribbon was cut by Dorcas, an NHS nurse and Ivy Lane resident, along with senior representatives from all four organisations. Dorcas, 42, said: “I was previously in the old Ivy Lane flats and recently moved in here along with rest of the tenants. The new flats are definitely an upgrade – I really love it. “These new flats are well designed, spacious, and well-ventilated with bigger windows for more natural light. The facilities are excellent. “I was surprised to see how this has made a significant improvement in the comfort and wellbeing of my family and I. When I’m back at home, I’m comfortable, what I need is available for me. So, when I go back to work it has enabled me to work effectively.” The completion of phase one includes 90 new homes in total, comprising 12 self-contained one-bed apartments, 11 studios, 23 two-bed self-contained family apartments, 16 four-bed and 25 five-bedroom shared apartments, and three homes specially configured for disabled tenants. The second and final phase is due to complete in 2026. Once phase two is completed, the seven new apartment buildings will house at least 340 key workers across 125 high quality residential properties. Chris Ives, Managing Director of Development and Regeneration at A2Dominion, said: “We are delighted that phase one of our transformative project at Ivy Lane, aimed at building modern homes for key workers, is now complete. This achievement was made possible through our collaboration with OUH, Oxford Hospitals Charity, the Hill Group and our employers agent John Rowan and Partners. “A2Dominion has a strong track record of providing homes for our remarkable key workers, and we are pleased to have recently moved the last tenants from the previous flats to the new accommodation. “We are now focusing on phase two, which will deliver more high-quality homes for OUH staff at Ivy Lane, with completion expected next year.” Professor Sir Jonathan Montgomery, Chair of OUH, said: “We know that many staff face challenges in finding high-quality, affordable accommodation near the hospital. This is particularly true for new staff arriving in Oxford for the first time, as arranging suitable housing can be both daunting and time-consuming. “We are therefore delighted to be able to provide affordable homes for our new staff. Helping them settle into the area is crucial. Being within walking distance of work, public transport routes, shops, and parks is very important and being able to quickly establish friendship groups within the buildings also makes settling into Oxford much easier too. “Homes play a vital role in supporting both mental and physical health. On behalf of the Trust, I extend my gratitude to A2Dominion, The Hill Group, and Oxford Hospitals Charity for their essential support in making this project a reality. “We are now looking forward to more staff moving in once the second and final phase is completed.” Douglas Graham, Chief Executive Officer of Oxford Hospitals Charity, said: “We are incredibly proud to have worked with A2Dominion to deliver the new flats in Ivy Lane for OUH. This is a development that will provide much-needed, good-quality accommodation for our dedicated hospital staff for many years to come. “The high cost of housing in Oxfordshire presents a real challenge, so having an affordable place to live that is close to work will be a great boost for many hard-working staff. Supporting those who care for us is at the heart of our charity, and it is wonderful to see it come to life. “It’s been fantastic to see this development come together over the last couple of years and seeing the excitement of those who have recently moved in reminds us just how important and impactful projects like this are.” Ryan Harris, Regional Director (Western) at The Hill Group, said: “The completion of this first phase at Ivy Lane is another significant milestone for the project. We are proud to be delivering excellent energy-efficient accommodation for key workers at the John Radcliffe Hospital. “We have utilised modern methods of construction on this scheme, mixing off-site light weight steel frame with pre-assembled bathroom pods, to enhance quality and reduce our carbon footprint. “The use of Modern methods of construction (MMC) has helped reduce the quantum of labour required to deliver this project, easing pressure on constrained hospital footprint and parking, which benefits the wider community and stakeholders. “We look forward to completing a development that all stakeholders can take huge pride in.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
