A major milestone has been reached in the transformation of Edgware town centre, as a joint venture between Ballymore and Places for London secures outline planning permission for its ambitious masterplan. Approved by Barnet Council’s Strategic Planning Committee, the regeneration scheme covers a 10.3-hectare site, including the Broadwalk Shopping Centre,
The Crown Estate has acquired the headlease of 100 Regent Street, a prominent mixed-use building in London’s West End, for £95 million. The purchase was made from a vehicle managed by Federated Hermes Real Estate and further cements The Crown Estate’s long-term commitment to revitalising the capital’s iconic retail and
The Crown Estate has continued to enhance its West End portfolio with the acquisition of the headlease of 100 Regent Street from a vehicle managed by Federated Hermes Real Estate, for a purchase price of £95 million. The vehicle is jointly owned by a client of Federated Hermes Real Estate
The City of Westminster Council has appointed Altius Real Estate as its delivery partner for the comprehensive redevelopment of Huguenot House, a prominent site nestled between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The 1960s-era building is set to be replaced with a vibrant mixed-use scheme, including a cinema, hotel, new residential
The City of London Corporation has granted planning permission for two major high-rise schemes at opposite ends of the City’s historic skyscraper cluster, reinforcing the Square Mile’s reputation as a global business and cultural hub. The approved projects, a 45-storey tower at 63 St Mary’s Axe and a 32-storey development
Architectural practice Stephen George + Partners (SGP) has announced that work has completed on a scheme in Salford, Greater Manchester, that has seen the redevelopment of previously derelict railway arches into new destinations for businesses to occupy. Triton Construction was appointed as main contractor for the scheme late last year,
Construction has officially commenced on a major residential-led development in Basildon, as contractor Ernest Park begins work on a £100 million-plus project for Orwell Real Estate and Canadian firm Starlight Investments. Following months of demolition and site preparation, building work is now underway on the transformative scheme, located within Basildon’s
Waitrose has confirmed that its first new flagship full-line supermarket in seven years will be built at Brabazon in North Bristol. The 30,000 sq ft store at Brabazon will create around 150 new jobs and is expected to open in 2027. It will be located approximately 500m from a new train station which is
John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has received the official go-ahead to redevelop its Waitrose site in West Ealing, paving the way for hundreds of new homes and a modernised retail space as part of a major investment in the capital’s housing landscape. The scheme, which proposes the transformation of an existing
Downing has secured planning approval for a major twin-tower development in North Acton, West London, marking another milestone in the area’s transformation into a high-density urban centre. The Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) has given the go-ahead for a 668-unit scheme that will replace the existing Holiday
A major milestone has been reached in the transformation of Edgware town centre, as a joint venture between Ballymore and Places for London secures outline planning permission for its ambitious masterplan. Approved by Barnet Council’s Strategic Planning Committee, the regeneration scheme covers a 10.3-hectare site, including the Broadwalk Shopping Centre, Edgware Bus Station and Garage, a Sainsbury’s supermarket, Redhill Medical Centre and Deans Brook Nature Reserve. The £1.7 billion redevelopment will deliver around 3,500 new homes, alongside 460,000 sq ft of commercial space. This is expected to include a mix of retail, leisure, and community uses such as an integrated healthcare hub and library. One of the cornerstones of the plan is the creation of a modern public transport interchange, complemented by 11.9 acres of green and open spaces to enhance liveability and biodiversity in the area. Designed by leading architectural firm Howells, the masterplan offers a comprehensive approach to urban regeneration, seeking to make better use of brownfield land while supporting London’s ongoing need for housing, infrastructure and inclusive growth. Savills, which advised Barnet Council, played a key role in navigating the planning process. Iyabo Johnson, associate director in Savills’ London Planning team, commented: “The Edgware masterplan offers a sustainable, plan-led response to London’s pressing need for housing and growth. It unlocks a significant package of public benefits that will shape the future of the area for generations to come.” Next steps include the finalisation of the Section 106 Agreement and securing Stage II approval from the Mayor of London. Stakeholders hope to see the first phases of the development move forward in the near future, helping to breathe new life into one of North London’s key town centres. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Crown Estate has acquired the headlease of 100 Regent Street, a prominent mixed-use building in London’s West End, for £95 million. The purchase was made from a vehicle managed by Federated Hermes Real Estate and further cements The Crown Estate’s long-term commitment to revitalising the capital’s iconic retail and business corridor. The Grade II-listed property spans more than 53,000 square feet of retail and office accommodation. Already holding the freehold interest through the Regent Street Partnership—its joint venture with Norges Bank Investment Management—The Crown Estate will now gain full operational control of the building. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to unlock the site’s full potential, both commercially and environmentally. The Crown Estate has confirmed plans to enhance the office interiors, refresh the retail offering, and invest in sustainability upgrades to improve the building’s overall energy performance. Dominic Packwood, investment manager at The Crown Estate, commented: “This important acquisition marks a key step in delivering our long-term vision for Regent Street and the wider West End. Direct ownership of 100 Regent Street will help us to realise our ambitious plans across our portfolio, including the delivery of our development pipeline and public realm investment, alongside our wider goal to create a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable West End.” Property consultancy Savills acted on behalf of The Crown Estate during the transaction. As part of its wider strategy, The Crown Estate continues to focus on modernising key assets across its central London holdings—enhancing both their commercial value and contribution to the city’s urban regeneration. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Crown Estate has continued to enhance its West End portfolio with the acquisition of the headlease of 100 Regent Street from a vehicle managed by Federated Hermes Real Estate, for a purchase price of £95 million. The vehicle is jointly owned by a client of Federated Hermes Real Estate and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments). Situated in the heart of Regent Street, the Grade II-listed building comprises over 53,000 sq ft of prime retail and office space. The Crown Estate already owns the freehold as part of The Regent Street Partnership; its longstanding joint venture with Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM). The acquisition enables the partnership to take direct control of the entire building, supporting a long-term strategy to invest in and evolve Regent Street. Plans will include enhancing the office accommodation, curating the retail offer, and improving the building’s environmental performance. This long-term strategy also includes The Crown Estate’s ambitious development pipeline, which it continues to progress across the West End. Dominic Packwood, Investment Manager at The Crown Estate, said: “This important acquisition marks a key step in delivering our long-term vision for Regent Street and the wider West End. Direct ownership of 100 Regent Street will help us to realise our ambitious plans across our portfolio, including the delivery of our development pipeline and public realm investment, alongside our wider goal to create a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable West End.” Today’s announcement follows the recent news that The Crown Estate, alongside its partners at Westminster City Council, has launched its latest proposals for the future of the public space across Regent Street, Haymarket and Piccadilly Circus. It acts as another example of how the business is taking a holistic approach to how it best strengthens its London portfolio, which grew in value over the last financial year, as reported in its 2024/25 Annual Report. Savills acted for The Crown Estate. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The City of Westminster Council has appointed Altius Real Estate as its delivery partner for the comprehensive redevelopment of Huguenot House, a prominent site nestled between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. The 1960s-era building is set to be replaced with a vibrant mixed-use scheme, including a cinema, hotel, new residential flats, modern office space, and significant improvements to the surrounding public realm. Altius Real Estate will collaborate with contractor Erith and world-renowned architects Foster + Partners to bring the project to life. With design work now underway, a planning application is expected to follow a period of public consultation. The council first identified full-scale redevelopment as the preferred approach in 2021, following extensive studies and community engagement over several years. Councillor David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, commented:“The redevelopment of Huguenot House represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform a key site in the heart of the West End. Altius has demonstrated a clear commitment to delivering high-quality homes, including much-needed affordable housing, alongside vibrant community spaces and a reimagined public realm.” The scheme aims to revitalise this strategic location with a mix of cultural, commercial and residential uses, helping to reinforce the West End’s role as one of London’s most dynamic and liveable districts. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The City of London Corporation has granted planning permission for two major high-rise schemes at opposite ends of the City’s historic skyscraper cluster, reinforcing the Square Mile’s reputation as a global business and cultural hub. The approved projects, a 45-storey tower at 63 St Mary’s Axe and a 32-storey development at 85 Gracechurch Street, will jointly deliver over 110,000 square metres of Grade A, sustainable office space, supporting more than 6,500 jobs. The developments mark a significant milestone in the City’s Destination City growth strategy, designed to attract international business and boost weekday and weekend footfall through culture, heritage, and hospitality. Both towers have been designed with respect for London’s historic skyline, maintaining protected views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. In a rare integration of new and old, the projects will also bring previously hidden archaeological finds into public view—creating two free-to-visit heritage destinations open seven days a week. The 45-storey mixed-use scheme at 63 St Mary’s Axe will provide over 85,000 sqm of office floorspace, contributing 4.2% of the City’s projected space requirement to meet economic and employment growth targets. The tower is expected to create more than 4,500 jobs, further bolstering the City’s standing as a leading global centre for financial and professional services. At street level, the scheme introduces flexible commercial spaces, cultural offerings, and the new ‘Camomile’ Park, featuring elevated walkways, retail units, and green public spaces. A standout element of the development is the unveiling of a surviving section of the London Wall, alongside 1,500 sqm of public open space, two new pedestrian routes, and extensive urban greening, including the planting of 76 new trees. The updated 32-storey scheme at 85 Gracechurch Street builds on plans first approved in early 2023. Now redesigned to incorporate the discovery of a first-century Roman Forum-Basilica, the development will include 34,000 sqm of Grade A office space, supporting around 2,200 jobs. The Roman Forum-Basilica, the administrative and commercial heart of Roman London, will be preserved and celebrated through a world-class, immersive exhibition free to the public. This focus on cultural value aligns with the City’s long-term vision of broadening access to its rich history. The broader redevelopment will rejuvenate nearby Leadenhall Market, introducing a ground-floor public hall with food, retail, and event space. A historic pedestrian route linking Gracechurch Street to Lime Street Passage will be reopened, and visitors will also have access to a fifth-floor public terrace, offering new views of the evolving City skyline. The twin approvals reflect the City of London’s ambition to carefully grow its tall building cluster while embedding public value through job creation, heritage access, green spaces and cultural destinations. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Architectural practice Stephen George + Partners (SGP) has announced that work has completed on a scheme in Salford, Greater Manchester, that has seen the redevelopment of previously derelict railway arches into new destinations for businesses to occupy. Triton Construction was appointed as main contractor for the scheme late last year, following a receipt by the Arch Company of planning consent. Alan Soper, Studio Director at SGP, comments: “We are delighted to see work complete on the transformation of these historical arch structures into spaces for businesses to develop and thrive. Located in a key area of regeneration and renewal within Greater Manchester, The Arch Company’s investment will help to provide new spaces where businesses can thrive.” As design architect for the scheme SGP has drawn on both its technical expertise and strong track record working with historic buildings to create contemporary spaces, which nod to the industrial heritage of the arches. The scheme includes new glazed frontages, new services and drainage and internal lining to make the accommodation dry and ready for new businesses to occupy. The design incorporates high-quality materials that have restored an attractive appearance to the elevations on Norton Street, creating a parade of arches that will appeal to a range of businesses. Working in partnership with SGP, multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard provided structural, civil, and MEP engineering services to support the transformation of the arches. Matt Barron, Associate Structural Engineer at Pick Everard, commented: “The refurbishment of the arches required a sensitive approach to ensure the integrity of the existing structure was maintained while enabling the modifications required for the project. With careful coordination of the structural interventions within the existing arch structures, our team worked closely with SGP to achieve the architectural design intent for the arch spaces. It’s been a fantastic project to be a part of, and we look forward to seeing these rejuvenated spaces contribute to the benefit of the local area.” SGP’s design has sought to overcome a number of technical, environmental and planning constraints that are inherent within existing urban infrastructure of this type, as Alan Soper explains: “By any standards, arches are not a ‘normal’ building type and realising the potential of these spaces takes experience and good technical know-how if we are to refurbish them to modern occupancy standards.” Norton Street is just one of several projects on which SGP is working with The Arch Company, with a number now on site or completed. In London, work has already been completed on the redevelopment of six vacant railway arches on Witan Street into high-specification commercial premises for light industrial use; while on America Street in Southwark, work has completed on the transformation of four dilapidated railway arches into commercial spaces. For further information visit www.thearchco.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction has officially commenced on a major residential-led development in Basildon, as contractor Ernest Park begins work on a £100 million-plus project for Orwell Real Estate and Canadian firm Starlight Investments. Following months of demolition and site preparation, building work is now underway on the transformative scheme, located within Basildon’s wider £600 million town centre regeneration masterplan. The development, comprising three mid-rise blocks, will deliver 492 build-to-rent homes, alongside 1,218 sqm of shared residential amenities and 1,652 sqm of commercial space. “This development marks a major step forward in the regeneration of Basildon town centre and provides exactly the kind of high-quality, future-focused housing we want to see in our borough,” said Councillor Gavin Callaghan, Leader of Basildon Council.“Our ambition has always been to create a modern, vibrant town centre that works for everyone — from young professionals and families to local businesses. This project brings that vision closer to reality, delivering hundreds of much-needed new homes and commercial opportunities in the heart of Basildon.” The scheme is being delivered by Ernest Park as the main contractor, on behalf of Orwell Real Estate and real estate investment and asset management company Starlight Investments. Technical consultancy Rund is supporting the project with pre- and post-contract due diligence, principal consultancy, and clerk of works services. “This milestone marks an exciting chapter for Basildon and in our collaboration with Starlight Investments,” said Neil Strelitz, Founder of Orwell Real Estate.“Together, we are delivering a thoughtfully designed scheme that embodies the future of rental living and supports the development of a thriving, dynamic urban community.” Starlight currently has nine build-to-rent developments underway across six UK cities, comprising a total of 4,000 rental units. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Waitrose has confirmed that its first new flagship full-line supermarket in seven years will be built at Brabazon in North Bristol. The 30,000 sq ft store at Brabazon will create around 150 new jobs and is expected to open in 2027. It will be located approximately 500m from a new train station which is under construction and which will benefit from higher frequency services as part of the Government’s £800m investment in the region’s transport network, announced earlier this month. The multi-million pound deal agreed with YTL Developments is the first major commercial partnership announced at Brabazon, which is already established as one of Bristol’s most desirable residential neighbourhoods. The arrival of Waitrose follows the YTL UK Group’s commitment to invest £4bn over the next five years and marks the next stage in the transformation of Brabazon, demonstrating its attractiveness not only to new homebuyers, but now also for commercial investment. James Bailey, Executive Director for Waitrose, said: “We are moving up a gear in store investment as we open in new locations and modernise our existing estate to bring the quality, service and value that customers love about Waitrose closer to more people. “Brabazon is one of the most exciting new city districts in the UK, driving the growth of one of the UK’s most vibrant and successful regional economies. Partnering with YTL Developments at Brabazon underlines our ambition and the opportunity we believe we have to grow our reach.” The new Waitrose supermarket will be located in a prime position on the A38 Gloucester Road at the gateway to Brabazon. It will occupy the ground floor of a seven storey office building, designed by AHR architects and be served by an adjacent multi-storey car park with space for over 1,500 vehicles. The office accommodation – located between GKN’s Global Technology Centre and the Bristol campus of Airbus UK – is set out over floorplates of 18,800 sq ft and is targeting a BREEAM Outstanding rating. Brabazon: The most exciting new urban district in the South West Brabazon is the new town for North Bristol, being built on the historic former Filton Airfield, where every UK Concorde was built. YTL Developments is now transforming this historic landmark, located at the heart of Bristol’s world-leading aerospace, engineering and technology business cluster, into a new urban community. Hundreds of award-winning new homes at Brabazon are already completed and occupied. Hundreds more are currently under construction, as well as over 1,500 beds of purpose-built student accommodation and a new community hub in a historic listed aircraft hangar. Designed to live up to the legacy of this former Airfield’s pioneering past, the approved plans for Brabazon include thousands of new homes, creative workplaces to support up to 30,000 jobs, as well as the largest new urban public park in the South West for over 50 years and a supersonic new 20,000-capacity Arena for Bristol. Brabazon will also be home to the city’s newest train station which is expected to open in September 2026. Seb Loyn, Planning & Development Director at YTL Developments said: “The arrival of Waitrose in 2027 is not only great news for the thriving community of new residents at Brabazon: It shows that this new city district is now firmly established as one of the most attractive destinations for both homebuyers and commercial investment in the South West. “In the past year, YTL Developments has announced a multi-billion pound investment package, seen work start on a new train station, and welcomed hundreds of new residents to the community. Welcoming Waitrose – one of the best-loved retailers in the UK – to Brabazon as our first commercial partnership is a signal of our intent to create a new town for North Bristol that works for people and for businesses, now and for years to come.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has received the official go-ahead to redevelop its Waitrose site in West Ealing, paving the way for hundreds of new homes and a modernised retail space as part of a major investment in the capital’s housing landscape. The scheme, which proposes the transformation of an existing Waitrose store and adjacent car park, will deliver 428 new homes, along with a public square, community facility and commercial space. Initially submitted in mid-2023, the application was stalled by delays in the local planning process, prompting JLP to appeal on grounds of ‘non-determination’ in summer 2024. That appeal has now been upheld by a government planning inspector, clearing the path for development to proceed. The approval comes amid renewed national efforts to meet housing targets, with the government recently reaffirming its goal of delivering 1.5 million new homes within five years. Under the latest update to the National Planning Policy Framework, greater weight is being given to brownfield development within established urban areas—an approach that has benefited the West Ealing proposal. JLP views the project as part of a long-term strategy to make better use of its property assets while contributing to the delivery of much-needed rental housing. The new homes will be brought forward under the build-to-rent model, with the aim of fostering long-term community engagement alongside reliable returns. Katherine Russell, director of build-to-rent at JLP, welcomed the decision, describing it as a multi-million-pound opportunity to reinvigorate a site that has served the local community for decades. “The inspector’s decision reinforces national policy support for well-located brownfield regeneration,” she said. “We look forward to working with local stakeholders to ensure the development is delivered responsibly and reflects the needs of the community.” The project is being developed in partnership with investment firm Aberdeen Group through a £500 million joint venture. Svitlana Gubriy, head of indirect real assets at Aberdeen, said the initiative reflects wider momentum in the build-to-rent sector, where long-term social value and community cohesion are becoming central to investor priorities. Construction is expected to begin following further engagement with the community and the completion of detailed designs. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Downing has secured planning approval for a major twin-tower development in North Acton, West London, marking another milestone in the area’s transformation into a high-density urban centre. The Old Oak & Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) has given the go-ahead for a 668-unit scheme that will replace the existing Holiday Inn Express adjacent to North Acton Underground station. The plans form part of the broader North Acton Town Centre Cluster masterplan aimed at revitalising the area into a vibrant neighbourhood hub. The approved project includes a 31-storey purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) tower with 609 beds, and a separate 17-storey build-to-rent (BTR) block offering 59 residential units. The scheme also incorporates 35% affordable housing and 255 sqm of commercial space at ground level. Residents will benefit from outdoor amenity areas, though no on-site parking is planned. Downing submitted revised proposals in September 2024 following extensive collaboration with the local authority. The updated designs aim to contribute positively to the evolving townscape of North Acton while addressing housing demand. The taller PBSA tower will feature anodised aluminium rainscreen cladding combined with panels of clear and patterned glazing, delivering a modern visual identity. Meanwhile, the smaller BTR building will be clad in terracotta with blue anodised aluminium detailing and clear-framed windows. Martin Fenlon, associate projects director at Downing, highlighted the strategic importance of the location: “Situated just outside of the city centre, North Acton is becoming a hotbed of regeneration. Its vibrant community, excellent transport links and close proximity to leading universities make it the ideal location for high-quality student accommodation and rental housing.” Fenlon added that the development will help meet growing demand for housing among both domestic and international students attending nearby institutions such as Imperial College London, the University of West London and the University of the Arts. The project represents a significant investment in West London’s future and reflects growing interest in the area’s regeneration potential. Downing’s scheme is expected to play a key role in shaping North Acton’s identity as a thriving, mixed-use district over the coming years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
