After eight years of uncertainty, Manchester’s Central Retail Park is on the brink of a major transformation, with plans for a nine-storey office development and a new public park expected to get the green light this week. A New Era for Great Ancoats Street The £37m site, previously home to
Exciting plans to revitalise the former Chorlton Cross Shopping Centre are set to be submitted to Manchester City Council, paving the way for a vibrant new neighbourhood in the heart of the community. The ambitious regeneration project is being led by Manchester-based developer PJ Livesey in partnership with the Greater
Developer Regal has successfully secured a £115 million development loan from specialist finance provider Maslow Capital. The loan will fund the construction of a 264-bed Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) project, alongside 30 affordable residential units and nearly 9,000 square feet of commercial space, all located in the heart of Camden,
Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands will present its draft masterplan for Bristol’s Western Harbour on Monday 10thFebruary, setting out detailed proposals for the city’s western gateway. Western Harbour is one of the most iconic places in the UK with supreme views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge and its spectacular harbour
Quadrant has welcomed three new food and beverage tenants to YY London, its newly refurbished 415,000 sq ft office development in Canary Wharf. Leading the lineup is Brother Marcus, the acclaimed Eastern Mediterranean restaurant group, which will bring its signature brunch, mezze, cocktails, and wines to the destination. The brand
Meenan Square re-development has taken a major step forward with the submission of a full planning application to Derry City & Strabane District Council (DCSDC). This exciting development marks the culmination of many years of hard work, determination and local engagement to revitalise and re-establish the local area as a
Kier has been selected by Sheffield City Council to restore the Grade II listed Adelphi Cinema, bringing the historic building back into public use as a mixed-use cultural space. Originally opened in 1920, the Adelphi Cinema was a key community hub in Attercliffe, serving as a venue for the latest
LaSalle Investment Management’s ambitious plans to transform Bristol’s Galleries Shopping Centre into a vibrant mixed-use development have been given the go-ahead by city councillors. The redevelopment—proposed in partnership with Deeley Freed on behalf of Centrica Pension Fund—will replace the 1990s shopping centre with a dynamic blend of residential, student accommodation,
Broadgate REIT, equally owned by British Land and GIC, has announced a landmark joint venture with Abu Dhabi-based Modon Holding. This partnership will spearhead the development of 2 Finsbury Avenue, a 750,000 sq ft world-class project set to redefine the Broadgate area in the City of London. The development will
Legal & General (L&G) has submitted a £350 million planning application for the regeneration of Bristol’s Temple Island, promising to transform the site into a thriving urban district. This ambitious project forms part of the broader Bristol Temple Quarter initiative, a flagship development aiming to deliver 10,000 new homes and
After eight years of uncertainty, Manchester’s Central Retail Park is on the brink of a major transformation, with plans for a nine-storey office development and a new public park expected to get the green light this week. A New Era for Great Ancoats Street The £37m site, previously home to Toys R Us, Argos, and other retailers, has stood vacant since 2019. Initial proposals to turn it into a pay-and-display car park were overturned by a High Court challenge, and in the years since, the abandoned space has been a battleground for different visions—including a DIY skatepark nicknamed GooseSide, after goslings that moved in when the shops closed. However, after years of setbacks and town hall debates, the project gained momentum in 2023 when council leader Bev Craig announced that half the site had been sold. Now, with planning officers recommending approval, the long-running saga could finally reach its conclusion. A ‘Flagship Development’ for Manchester The new plans include:✅ A nine-storey office building to accommodate 7,000 civil servants✅ A one-hectare public park featuring 96 trees and three play areas✅ New retail spaces to enhance local amenities The Government Property Agency (GPA) has hailed the project as a “flagship development”, stating: “This building will set the standard for new government hubs through this decade and beyond, with flexibility, function, and collaboration at its core.” Dubbed the ‘Manchester Digital Campus’, the project is expected to create 6,000 construction jobs and fill a key gap on Great Ancoats Street. Final Decision Looms Manchester City Council’s planning committee is set to deliberate on the proposals at 2pm on Thursday, 20th February. If approved, it will mark the end of an era for Central Retail Park—and the beginning of a new chapter for Manchester’s urban landscape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Exciting plans to revitalise the former Chorlton Cross Shopping Centre are set to be submitted to Manchester City Council, paving the way for a vibrant new neighbourhood in the heart of the community. The ambitious regeneration project is being led by Manchester-based developer PJ Livesey in partnership with the Greater Manchester Pension Fund. The proposal aims to deliver a diverse mix of homes and revitalised retail spaces, breathing new life into the area. Following extensive public consultation throughout 2023, the plans have been refined to reflect local feedback, with several key improvements: Georgina Lynch, Managing Director at PJ Livesey, commented: “Engaging with the local community has been vital in shaping our plans. We’ve had strong interest from people keen to live here and others who wanted to see more shops included. “We’re particularly excited about introducing the Makers Yard, which will offer space for independent retailers. We believe our final plans strike the right balance—delivering much-needed new homes, including affordable options, while also creating inviting green spaces and a thriving retail scene.” With a prior notice for demolition submitted in December 2024, work to clear the site is expected to begin soon, lasting approximately six months. The redevelopment will only proceed once the council grants approval. The submitted plans outline: PJ Livesey, a family-run company with over 45 years of experience, is known for its expertise in transforming historic properties and regenerating brownfield sites. The firm has recently been selected as one of Homes England’s preferred delivery partners, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in innovative and sustainable urban development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developer Regal has successfully secured a £115 million development loan from specialist finance provider Maslow Capital. The loan will fund the construction of a 264-bed Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) project, alongside 30 affordable residential units and nearly 9,000 square feet of commercial space, all located in the heart of Camden, London. The development will be situated on Chalk Farm Road, a prime spot next to the iconic Grade II-listed Roundhouse. This strategic location places the project in one of London’s most vibrant and culturally rich districts, with a design that aims to enhance both student and residential living. The scheme will include four blocks, with heights reaching up to twelve storeys. Focusing on both student housing and affordable residential options, the development will feature cutting-edge amenities, such as an external study courtyard, breakout spaces, a gym, and dedicated study areas. With over 2.06 square metres of internal amenity space per room, the project is designed to cater to modern living standards. It also aims to achieve top-tier ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) certifications, including BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Platinum, and WiredScore Platinum. The Regal development, which received a loan from Maslow Capital, is strategically positioned for easy access to central London, with Chalk Farm Underground Station just a two-minute walk away. This provides direct links to major transport hubs like King’s Cross and Euston, along with several key university campuses across the city. The site is also close to Primrose Hill and Camden’s famous entertainment and cultural venues, making it an appealing location for both students and residents. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands will present its draft masterplan for Bristol’s Western Harbour on Monday 10thFebruary, setting out detailed proposals for the city’s western gateway. Western Harbour is one of the most iconic places in the UK with supreme views of the Avon Gorge and Clifton Suspension Bridge and its spectacular harbour infrastructure dominated by three huge, listed Bonded warehouses. Following Monday’s briefing with key community representatives and local councillors, there will be a period of public engagement from 11th February to 9th March 2025 to gather views and feedback. Alex Lifschutz, Founding Director of Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands says: “We are tremendously excited about the future of this amazing place and the next chapter in its rich history. Within the development area just next to the vibrant communities of Hotwells and Southville are incredible engineering artefacts – historic dock gates, the double decker Ashton Avenue Bridge, Plimsoll and Junction swing bridges, Brunel’s lock and Swivel Bridge. We want to make the area more accessible and enjoyable for those taking a leisurely stroll and for commuters or cyclists. We will vastly improve the green open space and waterside walks, planting hundreds of trees and improving ecology, at the same time installing flood defences to protect against the effects of climate change. This plan builds on the assets of Western Harbour and surrounding communities creating a dynamic place that will encourage movement through beautiful landscapes.” The masterplan proposes between 750 and 1200 new homes addressing Bristol’s acute housing need. A single tree lined road will replace the tangle of ramps and routes that cover much of the 33-hectare area at the westernmost end of Bristol’s Floating Harbour – removing the equivalent of 5 football pitches of tarmac. Under and around the new homes there will be community and cultural spaces, workplaces, independent shops and restaurants. The Bond warehouses will be upgraded and repurposed as improved Bristol archives open to the public and as loft homes. Pedestrian and cycle routes and greenspaces between the buildings will transform the area from a car dominated to people friendly place. Councillor Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, said: “We’ve listened to feedback and have adjusted our proposals for Western Harbour based on how people felt about the initial ideas shared back in the autumn. “We’re delighted to be able to retain Riverside Garden Centre in its current location and look forward to continuing our work with them to develop plans for how the garden centre will look in the future. “Ashton Meadows will remain a green open space linking Greville Smyth Park to the river and to the recreational spaces of Ashton Court and Leigh Woods beyond. The masterplan also sets out proposals to restore the wonderful heritage buildings of Western Harbour for public and residential use. Councillor Dyer said: “The Grade II-listed bonded warehouses, with refurbished and repurposed interiors, remain the dominant features of the skyline to the west of the city.” Councillor Andrew Brown, Chair of the Economy and Skills Committee and Harbour Committee, said: “By bringing together the well-established assets, heritage and communities in the area with a mix of new shops, cafés, cultural uses, creative workspaces and homes we can create a vibrant and sustainable neighbourhood.’’ Visit www.harbourhopes.co.uk for full details. The Western Harbour project is funded by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority through the Investment Fund, administered by the Mayoral Combined Authority. The Lifschutz Davidson masterplan team includes: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Quadrant has welcomed three new food and beverage tenants to YY London, its newly refurbished 415,000 sq ft office development in Canary Wharf. Leading the lineup is Brother Marcus, the acclaimed Eastern Mediterranean restaurant group, which will bring its signature brunch, mezze, cocktails, and wines to the destination. The brand has signed a 20-year lease on a 2,861 sq ft unit, with plans to open this summer. Joining the development is Hagen, the Danish espresso bar concept, which has taken a 1,141 sq ft space on a 10-year lease. This will mark Hagen’s seventeenth outlet, further expanding its presence in London’s specialty coffee scene. Both Brother Marcus and Hagen will be located on YY London’s ground floor, overlooking Jubilee Plaza, directly opposite the Jubilee Line underground station and the new waterfront Eden Dock. Quadrant has also secured a 9,500 sq ft letting with a major restaurant chain, set to be announced soon. Tristram Gethin, Founding Partner at Quadrant, commented:“We are delighted to welcome these exceptional brands to YY London. Their commitment to the development is a testament to the quality of the building and its growing role within the Canary Wharf community.” Quadrant acquired YY London in 2019 in a joint venture with funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management. The comprehensive refurbishment was completed in 2023, solidifying its position as a premier destination for businesses and hospitality alike. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Meenan Square re-development has taken a major step forward with the submission of a full planning application to Derry City & Strabane District Council (DCSDC). This exciting development marks the culmination of many years of hard work, determination and local engagement to revitalise and re-establish the local area as a thriving community. The project is being delivered by the Executive Office’s Urban Villages initiative in conjunction with Apex Housing Association (Apex) and Meenan Square Developments Ltd. It will see the construction of a mixed-use development, comprising community services, housing and essential local economic amenities which will include retail, commercial and office space. Sheena McCallion, Chief Executive of Apex Housing Association, commented: “We would like to express our thanks to all residents, community stakeholders and elected representatives who took the time to provide their feedback and support for this important project during the consultation process. The regeneration of Meenan Square is about more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about building a more vibrant and sustainable community and transforming a significant area of the city for the generations to come.” A separate local planning application, for the development of eight social homes on the wider site, has also been submitted by Apex to the council with a proposed housing mix of two-bed and three-bed homes. Ciaran O’Donnell, Project Co-ordinator, Meenan Square Developments Ltd added: “The Meenan Square transformation project will provide a space for all communities to live and thrive in. The submission of the planning applications to the council marks a vital step in the development process and we look forward to engaging positively with DCSDC planners and consultees as the applications make their way to planning committee in the near future. “I am extremely grateful for the support and feedback that local residents and interested parties have provided the team during the consultation process as we sought to deliver real and lasting impact in the local community through the revitalisation of Meenan Square.” The applicants have been supported by GM Design acting as the Project Architects, and Turley, providing independent Planning and Strategic Communication services. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Kier has been selected by Sheffield City Council to restore the Grade II listed Adelphi Cinema, bringing the historic building back into public use as a mixed-use cultural space. Originally opened in 1920, the Adelphi Cinema was a key community hub in Attercliffe, serving as a venue for the latest news, local events, and entertainment. The cinema operated for nearly 50 years, even surviving bomb damage during World War II, before closing in 1967. Since then, the building has had various uses, including as a bingo hall, a nightclub, and most recently, a storage facility before falling into disrepair. Sheffield City Council purchased the Adelphi Cinema site in March 2023 using Levelling Up funding, with plans to revitalise the space for leisure, arts, and music while preserving its historic character. Councillor Ben Miskell, chair of the transport, regeneration and climate policy committee, said: “This building holds a very special place in people’s heart in Attercliffe, and rightly so. It was once a focal point.” The Adelphi Cinema restoration is part of a broader regeneration effort in Attercliffe, which includes: Kier Places, appointed via the YORbuild construction framework, is now taking the first steps in transforming the building while retaining key original features, including its art-deco frontage. The initial phase of the project will prepare the site for major works, set to begin this spring. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
LaSalle Investment Management’s ambitious plans to transform Bristol’s Galleries Shopping Centre into a vibrant mixed-use development have been given the go-ahead by city councillors. The redevelopment—proposed in partnership with Deeley Freed on behalf of Centrica Pension Fund—will replace the 1990s shopping centre with a dynamic blend of residential, student accommodation, office space, retail, hospitality, leisure, and cultural facilities. The plans include the potential for a nightclub, cinema, and live music venue, adding to the city’s entertainment landscape. The project is set to deliver up to 450 new homes alongside 750 purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) beds. In line with sustainability goals, the scheme will be car-free, marking the removal of over 1,000 parking spaces to encourage greener modes of transport. The proposals also include public realm enhancements, a community hub, and an energy centre to support the development’s environmental commitments. The Galleries Shopping Centre, once a key retail hub, has seen significant shifts in its valuation, having been acquired by LaSalle Investment Management after previous ownership changes. The redevelopment is viewed as a major regeneration opportunity, with Bristol City Council recognising the need to replace the outdated centre with a forward-thinking urban space that better serves the city’s evolving needs. With approval now granted, the transformation of this central site is set to redefine Bristol’s city centre, creating a modern, multi-purpose destination for residents, workers, and visitors alike. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Broadgate REIT, equally owned by British Land and GIC, has announced a landmark joint venture with Abu Dhabi-based Modon Holding. This partnership will spearhead the development of 2 Finsbury Avenue, a 750,000 sq ft world-class project set to redefine the Broadgate area in the City of London. The development will feature two iconic high-rise towers, a 36-storey East Tower and a 21-storey West Tower, connected by a 12-storey podium. At its heart will be a 7,000 sq ft winter garden, offering green spaces, leisure areas, and publicly accessible facilities, making it a standout addition to the London skyline. Construction is already in progress under the leadership of Sir Robert McAlpine, with completion anticipated in 2027. Notably, the project has secured a major pre-let agreement with Citadel and Citadel Securities, leasing a minimum of 261,000 sq ft of workspace with options for an additional 121,000 sq ft, achieving record rental rates for the City. The development places sustainability at its core. Once completed, it will be a fully electric, smart-enabled building, ensuring operational energy efficiency and aligning with the growing demand for sustainable office spaces in London. H.E. Jassem Mohammed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, Chairman of Modon Holding, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, calling it a key milestone in Modon’s international growth strategy. Bill O’Regan, Group CEO of Modon Holding, highlighted the project’s exceptional quality and potential, describing it as a compelling entry into London’s prime real estate market. Simon Carter, Chief Executive of British Land, commented, “This partnership with Modon demonstrates confidence in both Broadgate and the City. With limited supply forecasted in 2027, this project is well-positioned to meet high demand for premium office space, driving strong rental growth.” This exciting collaboration underscores the enduring appeal of London’s real estate market and showcases innovative approaches to urban development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Legal & General (L&G) has submitted a £350 million planning application for the regeneration of Bristol’s Temple Island, promising to transform the site into a thriving urban district. This ambitious project forms part of the broader Bristol Temple Quarter initiative, a flagship development aiming to deliver 10,000 new homes and thousands of jobs to the area. A Vision for Transformation Temple Island will feature 520 new homes, state-of-the-art office buildings, flexible workspaces, retail outlets, and a hotel with conference facilities, creating up to 2,000 new jobs. The development, located in the heart of the regeneration zone, aims to foster innovation and economic growth while providing inclusive opportunities for Bristol’s knowledge economy. Ben Rodgers, Head of Regeneration at L&G Asset Management, explained:“Legal & General is committed to delivering transformative mixed-use communities that meet local needs. Our plans for Temple Island aim to revitalise the urban landscape, delivering much-needed housing and the infrastructure businesses, universities, and the public sector require to thrive.” Affordable and Inclusive Housing A core focus of the Temple Island regeneration is to address Bristol’s pressing housing needs. Working closely with Bristol City Council, the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, and other public sector partners, L&G has prioritised social and affordable housing. Forty percent of the 520 new homes will be dedicated to social and affordable rents, shared ownership, and keyworker accommodation at sub-market rates. This approach reflects insights gained from extensive community consultations, ensuring the development is inclusive and tailored to local priorities. Sustainability at the Heart of the Project L&G’s masterplan prioritises long-term sustainability and environmental responsibility. Commercial buildings will target BREEAM Outstanding certification, and the development will enhance biodiversity with green spaces, planting, and habitat creation. The project also encourages low-carbon lifestyles, minimising car use through new pedestrian and cycle routes and improving connectivity to neighbouring areas. Renowned architects Zaha Hadid, in collaboration with LDA Design, are leading the design of the masterplan, balancing architectural innovation with community-focused public and landscaped spaces. Community Engagement Driving Success The planning application follows an extensive period of community consultation, including three rounds of engagement with local residents and stakeholders. These sessions shaped the final proposals, with public feedback highlighting the importance of inclusive public spaces, exemplary building design, and improved connectivity. Tony Dyer, Leader of Bristol City Council, celebrated this milestone:“Temple Island will play a vital role in the Bristol Temple Quarter’s vision to deliver thousands of new homes and jobs. This planning application is an exciting step forward and a testament to the hard work and collaboration between L&G and the Council.” A Catalyst for Change Legal & General’s strong track record in urban regeneration, with successful projects in Newcastle, Cardiff, and Sunderland, positions it well to deliver this transformative initiative. By leveraging its expertise and partnerships, L&G is creating a place-based solution that addresses Bristol’s unique needs while contributing to the city’s long-term growth and sustainability goals. As plans progress, Temple Island is set to become a landmark destination that redefines Bristol’s urban core, providing a blueprint for inclusive, sustainable regeneration across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
