Hartwell Plc, the automative and property development company, has unveiled £100 million regeneration plans to deliver Phoenix Yard, a landmark mixed-use scheme at the heart of Digbeth, Birmingham. The proposals will seek to transform an outdated and under-utilised brownfield site which totals 2.8-acre (1.134 hectare) and is beside Coventry Street, Oxford Street, Meriden Street, and Digbeth High Street to deliver a new gateway to Digbeth. The site has the potential to provide 260,000 sq ft (24,228 sq m) of media and educational space, commercial floorspace, 240 new homes units, retail, public realm and high-quality landscaping. The proposals have been sensitively developed by award-winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris to pay homage to the site’s industrial history as Phoenix ironworks. This is combined with ambitious sustainability targets across the site which include BREEAM ‘Excellent’, WELL certification, WiredScore Platinum, SmartScore, NABERS and a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain. Phoenix Yard proposals will respond to Digbeth’s recognised potential as a growth area in Birmingham, which contributes to its ongoing transformation into a thriving and vibrant creative area. This includes the BBC’s new multi-million-pound Birmingham HQ at Typhoo Wharf and approval of the £1.9 billion Smithfield Market masterplan. The proposed Phoenix Yard is forecast to create circa 200 construction jobs and has the potential to create upwards of 500 FTE jobs, as well as attract a range of new residents to the area and provide a meaningful boost to the economy to support the area’s social and economic growth. Joanne Churchill, group property manager, Hartwell Plc said: “We are delighted to unveil our vision to transform an under-utilised brownfield site to deliver Phoenix Yard, a new mixed-use neighbourhood at the heart of Digbeth. Through unlocking the potential of this site, our plans promise to positively contribute to the area’s ongoing transformation into a thriving and vibrant part of Birmingham, delivering an exciting range of new opportunities and living space for the future. “In recent years Digbeth has benefitted from significant investment and is recognised by Birmingham City Council as a key growth area. This scheme has been designed with this investment and the wider ambitions for Birmingham in mind. The potential delivery of media and educational space will support the continuing growth of BBC Midlands HQ and its ecosystem following the BBC’s multi-million-pound investment into the area. Similarly, new homes will complement the site’s location in Digbeth’s creative centre. This will be supported by excellent connectivity, which is enhanced by nearby major transport investments including HS2’s Curzon Street Station and the Metro Eastside Extension. “We look forward to receiving comments on the proposals from local residents and businesses, with feedback set to help inform our final planning application.” Ahead of submitting a hybrid planning application to Birmingham City Council, Hartwell Plc has launched a public consultation for local residents and businesses to see and comment on the plans. A dedicated consultation website is now live at https://www.phoenixyard-digbeth.com/ with the deadline to provide feedback to close at 12pm on 31st March 2025. Acting on behalf of Hartwell are Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, Ridge, Cundall, Hoare Lea, Macfarlane + Associates and Newmark. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Battery manufacturer Volklec has joined forces with Chinese firm Far East Battery (FEB) as part of its long-term ambition to establish a 10GWh gigafactory in Coventry by the end of the decade. The Coventry-based company has signed an exclusive licence agreement with FEB to support the production of advanced lithium-ion batteries at the UK Battery Industrialisation Centre, where manufacturing is set to begin later this year. Phil Popham, former chief executive of Lotus Cars and now executive director at Volklec, highlighted the importance of securing the UK’s battery supply chain. He said: “There is no greater transformation today than the electric revolution in transport and mobility. The British start-up scene is thriving, but there is a substantial gap in the supply chain. Our mission is to help these innovators thrive.” Volklec plans to invest over £1bn in the development of its gigafactory, with Coventry emerging as a potential location. The company is reportedly in discussions with Coventry City Council to take over the proposed gigafactory site at Coventry Airport, which has yet to secure an investor despite planning permission being granted three years ago. The West Midlands Combined Authority recently announced a £23m funding package to unlock the site’s potential, including the installation of a dedicated energy supply to support large-scale battery production. With permission set to expire in March, the council remains confident it will secure an extension for another two years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, announces the completion of a bespoke built-to-suit (BTS) 621,000 sq ft facility and its occupation by Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, at Panattoni Park Aylesford. The completion of this project marks a significant milestone in supporting supply chain efficiency for Tesco, enabling enhanced logistics and operational capabilities. The new facility was designed in close collaboration with Tesco to meet the company’s specific operational needs. It features a 300,000 sq ft chilled section, a 100,000 sq ft freezer area, and extensive electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support Tesco’s transition to an electric HGV fleet. The state-of-the-art buildings will play a crucial role in Tesco’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of its supply chain and bolster its capacity to meet customer demand, integrating advanced technologies to optimise logistics operations while supporting sustainability initiatives. This landmark project marks a major milestone in delivering sustainable logistics infrastructure and driving significant economic growth in the region. The facility is expected to support Tesco’s operations while contributing to the local economy and generating new jobs. Panattoni’s focus on sustainability is illustrated by achieving a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification and EPC ‘A’ rating on Tesco’s. Tony Watkins, Head of Development: South East & London at Panattoni said: “The 621,000 sq ft facility is the culmination of our vision for the project to deliver cutting-edge operational capabilities for Tesco, creating jobs and generating benefits for Kent. This facility will also bring amenities such as retail, dining, and services, while driving investment in logistics and local businesses. “We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This development showcases our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and collaboration with tenants such as Tesco, the local community, and stakeholders. Together, we have delivered a facility that sets a new benchmark for modern logistics.” Stuart Moffat, Head of Development – Distribution at Tesco said: “We have worked with Panattoni over the past few years to develop a bespoke facility that meets our operational needs while supporting our distribution and sustainability goals. Panattoni has proven to be such an efficient and proactive developer, and a fantastic partner in delivering this project at Panattoni Park Aylesford. This built-to-suit facility is particularly vital for us, incorporating cutting-edge ESG features, including 90,000 sq metres of solar panels and EV charging infrastructure that we have invested in to support our vehicles and staff.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Prologis UK, a leading logistics property owner, developer and investor, announces a significant increase to its Foreign Direct Investment in Croydon & Sutton, reaching over $250 million with expansion currently underway at Prologis Park Beddington. Investing in market-leading Industrial Logistics facilities Prologis’ investments in the boroughs include eight Industrial Logistics distribution centres spanning 650,000 sq. ft., home to national and international businesses, including Royal Mail, Amazon, Oddbox, EasyShipping and Unitrunk. Expanding on this investment, Prologis UK is developing a further four additional market-leading units, covering 93,935 sq. ft as a second phase to Prologis Park Beddington on Beddington Lane. Completion is expected in May 2025, offering four BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ rated units ranging between 15,000 to 46,000 sq. ft. Details of available units can be found here. Once complete, the new development is expected to support approximately 270 full-time jobs, providing a substantial boost to local employment. Beyond job creation, the latest phase of development is projected to generate c£1.5 million in Business Rate revenue whilst aiming to deliver meaningful social impact to the local community. Simon Perks, Director of Capital Deployment at Prologis UK, said: “From the outset, our goal was to deliver real value to the communities of Croydon & Sutton. By combining employment opportunities and education outreach, we’re creating a development that will have a lasting positive impact. It’s exciting to see the social value we envisioned coming to life.” Over the past year, Prologis UK, in partnership with Winvic Construction, has led skills development sessions and educational visits for young people from Sutton, where the latest development is located. Students from local schools and training providers have toured the construction site at Prologis Park Beddington, whilst learning about careers in property, construction and logistics. Building Futures: Inspiring the Next Generation Development sessions, for recent school leavers, have included supporting people in understanding career pathways and developing their CV in preparation for job applications. To date, two apprentices have been hired by Winvic through Prologis UK’s Construction Skills Programme. Danny Nelson, Managing Director – Industrial at Winvic, said: “Our work at Prologis Park Beddington has been about more than just construction – it’s about creating opportunities and leaving a positive legacy. Through initiatives like apprenticeships and work insights, we’re helping to nurture future talent while delivering lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits for the local area.” Cassie Davis, Assistant Principal – Director of 6th Form at Harris Academy Sutton said: “Visiting Winvic’s live construction site was an eye-opening experience for our students, showcasing the diverse career opportunities and pathways into the industry. They gained real-world insight into large-scale projects and were especially engaged in learning about roles beyond engineering. Many left feeling inspired, with some even expressing interest in work experience – a fantastic outcome from an insightful and engaging visit.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned industrial developer, hosted a steel signing ceremony to commemorate the progress of the Panattoni Park Central A1[M] project. This landmark event celebrates the start of the steel erection phase of the largest speculative logistics warehouse currently under construction in the UK. Located near Junction 34 of the A1(M) on the border of Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire, Panattoni Park Central A1[M] is strategically positioned to provide seamless access to major road networks including the A1, M1, M18, and M180, making it a prime hub for national and international supply chains. The facility will span 770,000 sq ft and is designed with sustainability at its core, targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and offices rating EPC ‘A+’. The project, which is on schedule to be completed by Q4 2025. The site will feature state-of-the-art facilities including 8 level access doors, 100 dock doors, 595 car parking spaces and 217 HGV trailer parking spaces. The event included key stakeholders, project partners, and local dignitaries, including members of Bassetlaw District Council, highlighting the economic and environmental impact of Panattoni’s continued investment in sustainable logistics solutions. Panattoni is also marketing Central A1[M] 460, a cross-docked build-to-suit opportunity on the adjacent plot, offering up to 500,000 sq ft of additional industrial space to meet growing demand for high-quality logistics infrastructure across the region. Dan Burn, Head of Development for the North West and Yorkshire at Panattoni commented on the news, saying: “Panattoni Park Central A1[M] represents a bold statement about the future of logistics in the UK, and the steel signing is a momentous occasion to celebrate the collaborative efforts that have brought us to this stage. This project will not only provide state-of-the-art and highly sustainable facilities but also support regional growth through job creation and supply chain enhancements. With a workforce highly skilled in manufacturing and logistics, and competitive wage levels, the location is ideal for this large-scale development. The project is expected to attract major occupiers and drive continued investment in the region.” Cllr Charles Adams, Cabinet Member for Business and Skills at Bassetlaw District Council, also expressed his enthusiasm: “It’s fantastic that Panattoni has made such a significant investment in our community, and it is clear they have a commitment to fostering economic growth and providing job opportunities in the region. “We are especially pleased to learn about Panattoni’s plans to create highly skilled opportunities that will help to drive up wage growth in our district and maximise the skills of residents. “The Council has an ambition for Bassetlaw to become the greenest, most sustainable district in which to live and work, and Panattoni’s determination for this warehouse to be as environmentally sustainable as possible aligns with our own vision. “We are excited to see the positive impact that Panattoni Park Central A1[M] can bring to new and existing businesses, residents and our communities.” For more information on Panattoni Park Central A1[M] please visit www.panattoni.co.uk/centrala1m The agents for the scheme are DTRE, Cushman & Wakefield and M1 Agency. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A colossal 100ft-high steelworks, covering the equivalent of four football pitches, is set to rise near Meadowhall, solidifying Sheffield’s status as a powerhouse of British engineering. Forgemasters has secured planning permission for the £350m machining hall on Weedon Street, which will become the largest facility of its kind in the UK when it opens in 2028. A Game-Changer for British Defence and Engineering The cutting-edge facility will house 17 of the world’s most advanced vertical turning lathes, producing critical components for the British defence programme, including next-generation nuclear submarines. A second, smaller building will feature a state-of-the-art test-house and training facility, ensuring vital skills are passed down to the next generation of engineers. A Forgemasters spokesperson stated:“The sheer scale of this project will make it an iconic Sheffield landmark, surpassing even the UK’s largest open-die forging line, which is currently under construction at our adjacent Brightside Lane site.” Revitalising a Historic Industrial Site The steelworks will rise on a brownfield site previously owned by British Land, once earmarked for the ambitious ‘River Don District’, which aimed to create nearly 5,000 jobs but never materialised. The facility’s lathes are being produced by German engineering firm WaldrichSiegen, reinforcing Forgemasters’ commitment to cutting-edge technology. A Nationalised Future for Forgemasters Since its nationalisation in July 2021, Forgemasters is now fully owned by the Ministry of Defence and undergoing a £400m modernisation programme, securing its role at the heart of the UK’s strategic industrial and defence capabilities. With this landmark project, Sheffield’s steelmaking legacy is not just being preserved—it’s being revolutionised for the future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Hortons has been granted planning consent for the final phase of a scheme to deliver c.334,000 sq ft of premium industrial/logistics accommodation in the UK’s ‘golden triangle.’ Saxon 68, a new Grade A warehouse spanning 68,000 sq ft, will be developed at Saxon Park on Oakley Hay Industrial Estate in Corby. The development will offer modern, high-specification facilities, including 12.5m to haunch, a minimum 520 KVA power supply, first-floor offices, and enhanced PV roofing. The unit is targeting BREEAM ‘Excellent’ and an EPC A+ rating, reinforcing Hortons’ commitment to environmental sustainability. Construction is set to commence shortly, with completion expected in Q4 2025. Hortons has built a strong reputation for investing in and developing industrial/logistics assets, with more than 60% of its portfolio comprising industrial properties at key strategic locations throughout the East and West Midlands. The company acquired Saxon Park in 2023 as part of its long-term investment strategy. The broader redevelopment of the site includes the transformation of an existing building into two high-quality units, Saxon 79 and Saxon 129, which will comprise 78,500 sq ft and 129,300 sq ft respectively. Both units will be available for occupation from Q3 2025. Additionally, Hortons has successfully delivered Saxon 58, a comprehensively refurbished unit of 58,350 sq ft, which was let to Russell & Bromley in 2024. James Slater of Hortons said: “We are investing in a full-scale redevelopment programme at Saxon Park to create high-specification units that offer enhanced power and sustainability. Saxon 68 is a key part of this plan, delivering best-in-class industrial/logistics space in an established and sought after location.” Saxon Park lies four miles southwest of Corby town centre and five miles north of Kettering. It benefits from excellent road accessibility via the A6003 and A14, providing links to the M1/M6 and A1/M11. For more information, please contact retained agents, DTRE and TDB Real Estate. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Royal London Asset Management Property, in partnership with Graftongate, has announced plans to develop a prime 52-acre industrial and logistics development site in the West Midlands. A reserved matters planning application has been submitted for the speculative development of c.645,000 sq ft of new employment space at Pickford Gate, off the A45 bypass. The scheme proposes the development of 14 high-quality units ranging in size from 8,266 sq ft to 121,223 sq ft, comprising industrial and logistics, manufacturing, and research and development facilities. Units are designed to meet the growing demand for mid-box space, appealing to both local and national occupiers. The development will integrate leading ESG standards to ensure the creation of sustainable, high-performance buildings, with a target of BREEAM Outstanding. The Pickford Gate site was acquired in November 2024 from Hallam Land, marking the fourth acquisition completed by Royal London Asset Management Property and Graftongate in less than two years. Robert Kiernan at Royal London Asset Management Property, said: “This is another important milestone in our strategy to continue to grow Royal London Asset Management Property’s industrial AUM. “Multi-let developments of this scale are incredibly rare, particularly in the golden triangle. With strong occupational interest already established, the first speculative phase of the development is set to commence in Q3 2025, with these units expected to be available for occupation in autumn 2026.” Jamie Hockaday, Director, Graftongate, added: “We’re excited to deliver this much-needed ‘mid-box’ scheme, offering high-quality, flexible space for a wide range of occupiers. The site’s strategic location makes it ideally suited for industries like logistics, manufacturing, automotive, and life sciences. With Coventry and Warwick universities nearby, it’s also well positioned to attract talent and innovation. “The integration of green infrastructure and community amenities will not only enhance occupier wellbeing but also create a vibrant, sustainable working environment. It is a development that fills a key gap in the regional market, and we’re confident it will generate strong interest.” Pickford Gate offers excellent connectivity by road, rail, and air, located just five miles from the new HS2 Interchange, Birmingham International Station, Birmingham Airport, and the NEC, with direct access to the M42, M6, M45, and M40. The development will include a new road junction connecting to the A45 dual carriageway, providing easy access to Coventry, Birmingham, and other key routes. The wider masterplan also features 2,400 new homes, a primary school, local centres, and community facilities, alongside 57.8ha of green infrastructure, including green corridors, open spaces, play areas, allotments, and sports facilities. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Arrowmere Capital, part of the Hurstwood Holdings Group, has submitted a planning application for a new £15 million industrial park in Dyce, Aberdeen. The proposed scheme, designed by RGP Architects, will deliver 80,000 sq ft of high-quality industrial and warehouse space across five modern units, ranging in size from 10,000 sq ft to 18,000 sq ft. Situated on a 12-acre site within the well-established Kirkhill Industrial Estate in Dyce, near Aberdeen Airport, the development will bring much-needed, state-of-the-art industrial accommodation to the area. Hurstwood Holdings acquired the site formerly home to The Quad and previously known as Craigievar House in 2023. The office building had remained vacant for several years before being demolished last year to make way for the new scheme. Sam Ashworth, Project Director at Hurstwood Holdings, comments: “There is a continuing demand for high quality industrial, innovation and science hubs in the area. This project will breathe new life into a derelict site, significantly enhancing the landscape while delivering substantial economic benefits to Dyce. There is a continuing demand for high-quality industrial and warehouse space in Aberdeen, and this scheme directly responds to that need. Ashworth continues: “Hurstwood Holdings has a strong track record of delivering exceptional industrial parks, having most recently completed the comprehensive redevelopment of Lune Industrial Estate in Lancaster. We are committed to creating a best-in-class working environment that will not only attract businesses but also generate new employment opportunities for the local community. Following a positive public consultation, we carefully considered all feedback to produce a scheme that will be hugely beneficial for the area. As responsible developers and investors, we are focused on long-term investment, ensuring this site reaches its full potential while supporting the local economy.” The proposed development underscores Hurstwood Holdings commitment to delivering high-quality industrial schemes and supporting economic growth in key regional locations.  The Group, which has a national portfolio valued in excess of £300 million and looks after more than 1,200 occupiers in England, Scotland and Wales, already has a substantial presence in Aberdeen totalling more than 1 million sq ft including the two Aberdeen Innovation and Energy Parks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals