Pharmacy Plus Health (PPH) has unveiled the first of a proposed 40 new pharmacy stores in West Yorkshire as part of its aim to re-invent the community pharmacy world. Devised in conjunction with the Interior Design team at AJ100 architectural practice, Stephen George + Partners (SGP), the ‘pharmacy of the
LandsecU+I, the regeneration arm of FTSE100 real estate giant Landsec, has submitted ambitious plans to transform Lewisham Shopping Centre into a vibrant, sustainable town centre. The proposed redevelopment aims to deliver a blend of housing, green spaces, and lively social areas, revitalising the site while preserving its role as a
Catella APAM, a prominent real estate asset and investment management firm, acting on behalf of Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF), has announced the successful sale of 133-137 Briggate in Leeds for a total of £4.7 million. The approximately 10,800 sq. ft. retail space was acquired by property investment and development
Lidl, the popular German discount supermarket chain, has secured a landmark £70 million sale-and-leaseback deal to fund the development of 12 new stores across the United Kingdom. This strategic move is part of Lidl’s ambitious UK expansion plan, which aims to make affordable, high-quality groceries accessible to even more communities
John Lewis has launched the first stages of a sweeping multimillion-pound investment across its stores, starting with significant upgrades to its Oxford Street flagship and stores in High Wycombe and Cheadle. These locations are among the first to showcase expanded beauty halls and refreshed shopping spaces designed to enhance the
Pradera Lateral has been appointed as the new asset manager for four major shopping centres, previously managed by Global Mutual, as SGS aims to usher in a new era of growth for these high-profile retail destinations. The centres now under Pradera Lateral’s management include the Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex,
Bensons for Beds has launched 15 new stores within three weeks, occupying former Carpetright locations across the UK. This expansion follows the furniture retailer’s acquisition of 19 ex-Carpetright sites in August, after the flooring company entered administration. The move forms part of Bensons for Beds’ long-term growth strategy, which aims
Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd confirm retail operators, Starbucks, KFC and Greggs are coming to Viking Park in Congleton. Construction has already begun as Roe Developments have initiated works on three retail units. The roadside convenience offering at Viking Park will consist of a detached 1,850 sq ft Starbucks drive through
EV infrastructure provider installs third site as part of four retail locations across Scotland, which will deliver a megawatt of power between them. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure provider, FOR EV, has launched a new site at Tesco Express on Great Northern Road, Aberdeen. The new 200kW charging hub, which is
Torridge District Council has approved the amended plans for the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre. The updated drawings and plans, submitted in July 2024, were developed in response to public feedback and evolving market demands, receiving the green light from the planning committee. The revised plans aim to maximise the
Pharmacy Plus Health (PPH) has unveiled the first of a proposed 40 new pharmacy stores in West Yorkshire as part of its aim to re-invent the community pharmacy world. Devised in conjunction with the Interior Design team at AJ100 architectural practice, Stephen George + Partners (SGP), the ‘pharmacy of the future’ pilot store in Alwoodley, Leeds, showcases a patient-focused layout, a modern, high-end aesthetic and dedicated consultation rooms for in-pharmacy non-invasive treatments that will both alleviate pressure from local doctors’ surgeries and provide a more efficient service to the patient. The rebrand of the PPH stores, comes following the innovative partnership with HubRx, who are the UK’s first large-scale automated dispensing facility designed specifically to benefit independent pharmacy. The integration of the HubRX automated dispensing system will streamline prescriptions from facility to store, and not only reduce the amount of time pharmacists spend managing prescriptions, but also reduce the need for on-site storage capacity, freeing up floorspace and placing an increased emphasis on seamless face-to-face interactions between patient and pharmacist. SGP Interiors was appointed to develop the brief for the new pilot store, with a view to rolling out the design across a number of pharmacy and retail units that PPH had recently acquired throughout West Yorkshire. Working closely with the client and shopfitting contractor PEC, SGP’s design underwent constant evolution, moving towards a modular approach, fit for all shapes and sizes with minimal changes, keeping time and therefore costs down, while also establishing a cohesive brand identity. Amy Fulford, SGP’s Principal Interior Designer, explains: “There was a clear requirement from the client to keep both costs and the install period to an absolute minimum as any down time or closure of stores could prove extremely costly. By cleverly designing the display units and reception desk to standardised key components, we created a kit of parts that could be mass produced to combat waste and cost. This off-site production method enabled the install team to achieve the tight time scales with minimal shutdown.” Having engaged with key stakeholders through various initial design reviews, it was evident the design should focus on the patient and streamline their experience. A minimalistic appearance evolved as a result, with clean lines, hidden joints, concealed fixing details and futuristic white canvas. Whilst still incorporating display islands, the intention was to keep the floor space as clean and distinct as possible, creating clear sight lines to the reception counter and reinforcing the physical relationship between patient and pharmacist. Daniel Lee, Chief Executive Officer at HubRX, in partnership with PPH, said: “As a brand we are working with innovative technologies to revolutionise the prescription process. With our automated HubRX system in successful operation, we approached SGP, with a clear vision to design the ‘pharmacy of the future’ and provide our customers with a 5-star experience. Amy & the SGP Interiors team rose to every challenge we set out and meticulously worked through the design development, working with us to extract what we really needed. This has resulted in a Design concept that truly embraces our brand identity and has transformed our customer experience”. To achieve the desired aesthetic, the concept of capsules progressed to creating an illusion of floating displays, raised off the floor on a post. The number of products on the shelves were stripped back to echo the kind of high-end experience you might encounter at a perfume counter. Although products displayed were reduced, stock replenishment was still a high priority for the daily operations of the stores. To keep the minimalist look at the forefront, hidden storage was integrated into the base of the display units, including the perimeter wall units and island capsules. Due to the success of the ‘pharmacy of the future’ pilot store, rollout has now commenced on the interior scheme and kit of parts across further stores, with a second completed and another on site. Alan Soper, SGP Studio Director, concludes: “There is a growing recognition that community pharmacies can play an important role in the delivery of primary care, as well as reinvigorating our high streets and town centres. However, many pharmacies have not been set up or designed to realise this potential. We are therefore delighted to be working with PPH on the delivery of a transformational model of modern, patient-focused pharmacies. Drawing on our strong track record of successful interior design delivery and cross-sector experience in retail, leisure and healthcare sectors, the design of these stores will transform the patient experience, creating an important healthcare hub within the local community and, in the long-term, go some way to relieving pressure on other parts of the health service.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
LandsecU+I, the regeneration arm of FTSE100 real estate giant Landsec, has submitted ambitious plans to transform Lewisham Shopping Centre into a vibrant, sustainable town centre. The proposed redevelopment aims to deliver a blend of housing, green spaces, and lively social areas, revitalising the site while preserving its role as a community hub. The plans envision 1,700 new homes, 445 co-living units, and accommodation for up to 660 students. Alongside housing, the development will introduce a pedestrianised high street with a variety of restaurants, cafés, and bars, plus a 500-person live music venue, creating a new cultural destination for the borough. At the centre of the eight-acre site, an expansive urban meadow will provide much-needed green space, offering residents and visitors an oasis amidst the lively town centre. To support continuity for the local community, the redevelopment will take a phased approach, allowing sections of the existing shopping centre to remain open throughout construction. LandsecU+I plans to retain as much of the original structure as possible, preserving key aspects of the centre’s heritage while introducing modern, sustainable elements. Mike Hood, CEO of LandsecU+I, highlighted the impact of this proposal, stating, “This submission marks a milestone in our journey to create a vibrant green heart for Lewisham. We aim to deliver a place that people will cherish, bringing social and economic transformation, thousands of essential homes, and a beautiful meadow above a revitalised shopping centre.” The masterplan follows an extensive two-decade collaboration with the Lewisham community, with thousands of residents contributing to the vision through one of Landsec’s largest public engagement initiatives. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Catella APAM, a prominent real estate asset and investment management firm, acting on behalf of Greater Manchester Pension Fund (GMPF), has announced the successful sale of 133-137 Briggate in Leeds for a total of £4.7 million. The approximately 10,800 sq. ft. retail space was acquired by property investment and development firm Augur Group Limited. The unit, which includes the basement, ground, and part of the first floor, was previously single let to the internationally renowned footwear retailer, Foot Locker. Catella APAM, through its Development Management subsidiary Bankfoot APAM, had completed significant refurbishment works to an adjacent unit in 2023 into which Foot Locker was relocated. The strategic move followed the sale of the long leasehold interest in the upper floor in November 2023, collectively optimising the asset’s total sales receipts. Nicky Newman, Senior Asset Manager at Catella APAM, commented: “We are pleased to have successfully completed the sale of Briggate on behalf of GMPF. This transaction underscores our ongoing commitment to enhancing asset value and aligning with GMPF’s broader investment strategy to meet pension liabilities.” “Our proactive management and strategic asset management enhancements have maximised returns, reflecting our dedication to delivering superior outcomes for our clients throughout all stages of the real estate cycle.” Jonathan Heptonstall, Head of UK Retail Investment at JLL, who acted as the agent on the sale, added: “It has been a privilege to advise Catella APAM and GMPF on the successful sale of this prime asset in Leeds. This achievement underscores the impact of proactive asset management and the resurgence of positive retail sentiment in the area. Briggate continues to thrive, with major retailers like Zara, Footlocker, and Frasers all establishing their flagship stores. We are proud to have supported the entire team through this significant transaction.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Lidl, the popular German discount supermarket chain, has secured a landmark £70 million sale-and-leaseback deal to fund the development of 12 new stores across the United Kingdom. This strategic move is part of Lidl’s ambitious UK expansion plan, which aims to make affordable, high-quality groceries accessible to even more communities nationwide. To bring this vision to life, Lidl has teamed up with Roadside Real Estate and Meadow Real Estate Fund, who have formed a joint venture to acquire these new stores upon completion. Under the agreement, Lidl will continue to manage and operate each location, allowing the retailer to strengthen its UK presence while unlocking capital to fuel further growth. Initially, Lidl acquired land and planning permissions for each of the 12 strategic sites. Once construction is complete, Roadside Real Estate will acquire the stores, leasing them back to Lidl under a 25-year contract. This flexible capital arrangement allows Lidl to grow its network while maintaining a robust operational foothold in key communities. The funding deal sees the joint venture contributing an initial £30 million, with a further £40 million to be provided upon the stores’ completion between late October 2024 and February 2025. These new additions will bolster Lidl’s current network of over 960 UK stores, solidifying its position as a major player in the British retail sector. Richard Taylor, Lidl GB’s Chief Development Officer, stated: “We have big ambitions for our expansion, including plans to open hundreds more Lidl stores in the future. This deal is just the latest example of how we’re continuing to grow our footprint, ensuring that more households can benefit from a Lidl store nearby. We look forward to a long and productive relationship with Roadside, Meadow, and the JV.” Charles Dickson, Executive Chairman at Roadside, added: “The Lidl portfolio perfectly demonstrates the JV’s strategy, swiftly providing targeted capital to support tenant expansion while generating management fees and opening up further income opportunities.” George Trimmer from Savills commented, “This is a valuable opportunity to forward fund the construction of 12 supermarkets let to Lidl. The 25-year leases not only provide long-term income stability with annual indexation but also enable Lidl GB Limited to unlock capital while retaining operational control.” This sale-and-leaseback arrangement is a testament to Lidl’s commitment to sustainable growth, combining an innovative funding model with operational stability. By leveraging real estate partnerships, Lidl is accelerating its store expansion across the UK, continuing its mission to invest in quality and affordability for British customers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
John Lewis has launched the first stages of a sweeping multimillion-pound investment across its stores, starting with significant upgrades to its Oxford Street flagship and stores in High Wycombe and Cheadle. These locations are among the first to showcase expanded beauty halls and refreshed shopping spaces designed to enhance the in-store experience. The Oxford Street store stands out with upgrades across all six floors, modernising departments including home, technology, jewellery, and electricals. Shoppers will also soon be able to enjoy a new Jamie Oliver Cookery School, set to open in spring 2025, marking an exciting collaboration with the renowned chef. Additionally, a Waterstones concession was recently unveiled in-store, part of an impressive £800 million investment aimed at elevating John Lewis’ offerings. Peter Ruis, Executive Director for John Lewis, shared his enthusiasm: “There’s a renewed energy in John Lewis, and we’re committed to giving customers even more reasons to shop in our exceptional stores. We’re investing heavily to ensure customers continue to enjoy the quality, service, and value they expect from our brand.” Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor for Business and Growth, added, “John Lewis’ continued investment in Oxford Street underscores London’s status as a top destination for beauty and fashion retail. The upcoming Jamie Oliver Cookery School and new Waterstones concession bring fresh, exciting elements to the Oxford Street store, enriching the experience for locals and visitors alike. This is the kind of investment we need to help revitalise Oxford Street and build a thriving, prosperous London.” These latest enhancements reflect John Lewis’ commitment to creating vibrant, immersive shopping environments that appeal to today’s customers while supporting the wider regeneration of London’s iconic retail spaces. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pradera Lateral has been appointed as the new asset manager for four major shopping centres, previously managed by Global Mutual, as SGS aims to usher in a new era of growth for these high-profile retail destinations. The centres now under Pradera Lateral’s management include the Lakeside Shopping Centre in Essex, Atria Watford, Victoria Centre in Nottingham, and Braehead Shopping Centre near Glasgow – all iconic shopping hubs in their respective regions. Lakeside Shopping Centre, a premier regional retail destination, spans 1.6 million sq ft and boasts over 250 shops and restaurants, along with a vibrant leisure offering. Major tenants include M&S, NEXT, Zara, H&M, Primark, and Apple. Atria Watford, situated in the heart of the town, covers 1.4 million sq ft and offers a variety of retail outlets, cafés, bars, restaurants, and a nine-screen Cineworld cinema. Its key tenants include M&S, Zara, H&M, Apple, Next, and Primark. Nottingham’s Victoria Centre, opened in 1972 after a regeneration project that transformed a former railway station, extends over 950,000 sq ft. This mixed-use development features 120 stores, including anchor tenants John Lewis and House of Fraser, along with residential flats and office space. Other notable retailers include Next, WHSmith, Boots, and EE. Braehead Shopping Centre, just outside Glasgow, spans 1.1 million sq ft and offers retail, leisure, and food spaces, alongside 7,900 free parking spaces and convenient public transport links. The centre welcomes 16.5 million visitors annually and is home to 120 UK and international brands. SGS believes that Pradera Lateral’s appointment will drive the growth of these shopping centres, particularly with the recent addition of Philip Wardle, who joined from British Land’s mall leasing team. Wardle will collaborate closely with Pradera Lateral and its new CEO, Claire Barber, to lead the next phase of development. Barry Cox, Managing Director of Pradera, expressed excitement for the future, saying: “We are grateful to SGS for placing their trust in us, and we’re eager to take this portfolio of prime shopping centres into a new chapter of growth. With ambitious plans in place, we look forward to working closely with Claire Barber and her team to realise the full potential of these centres.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bensons for Beds has launched 15 new stores within three weeks, occupying former Carpetright locations across the UK. This expansion follows the furniture retailer’s acquisition of 19 ex-Carpetright sites in August, after the flooring company entered administration. The move forms part of Bensons for Beds’ long-term growth strategy, which aims to establish up to 40 new stores over the coming years. In addition to these openings, Bensons has launched its first high street store in Sutton and made a return to Northern Ireland after a four-year absence with a new outlet in Belfast. The new store locations include: Nick Collard, Chief Executive of Bensons for Beds, commented: “The scale of store openings we’ve achieved in such a short period is unprecedented for us as a business, and it’s a significant accomplishment for any retailer, especially given the current economic climate. “While market conditions remain tough, Bensons is positioned to take advantage of a market recovery. This success is a direct result of our ongoing transformation into the leading bed specialist, providing expert advice and great value to help our customers enjoy a good night’s sleep.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd confirm retail operators, Starbucks, KFC and Greggs are coming to Viking Park in Congleton. Construction has already begun as Roe Developments have initiated works on three retail units. The roadside convenience offering at Viking Park will consist of a detached 1,850 sq ft Starbucks drive through facility at the front of the plot. Adjacent to Starbucks will be a semi-detached unit totalling 3,200sq ft which will house a KFC and Greggs. At the centre of the plot there will be a parking facility for up to 38 vehicles, including 4 E-V charging stations for added convenience of passing trade. The retail units are conveniently located directly off Barn Road which runs through the centre of Viking Park connecting Congleton town to the A536 link road. Starbucks, Greggs and KFC will sit next to the brand-new Aldi store which officially opened to the general public in October 2024. Marc Freeman, Director, Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd added: “It’s good to see that the roadside convenience offering is now under construction on site at Viking Park. We feel that a Starbucks ‘drive thru’, KFC and Greggs will be a welcomed addition to the business park. Following the successful opening of Aldi back in October, it’s refreshing to watch Viking Park take shape. Our construction contractor, Roe Developments, will also be starting to construct a standalone 20,000 sq ft unit for a yet to be named retailer. We anticipate all units will be open for business by the summer of 2025. Elsewhere on the mixed-use scheme, residential developer, Bloor Homes, are progressing well with the construction of their homes. On completion, Viking Park will deliver up to 175 homes, a 20,500sq ft supermarket/roadside convenience, as well as 36,800sq ft office facilities and 219,500sq ft of industrial units. Available units including Viking103 are being marketed on an all enquiries basis, interested parties are invited to contact our agents Mark Sillitoe, ms@willsill.co.uk or Andrew Groves, andrew.groves@harrislamb.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
EV infrastructure provider installs third site as part of four retail locations across Scotland, which will deliver a megawatt of power between them. Electric vehicle charging infrastructure provider, FOR EV, has launched a new site at Tesco Express on Great Northern Road, Aberdeen. The new 200kW charging hub, which is less than a 10-minute drive from the city centre, is equipped with three dual charging points and six connectors that can charge a typical EV from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. The completion marks the latest of four sites run by Cedarwood Asset Management Ltd, including recently launched charging hubs at Sainsbury’s Inverkip in Inverclyde and Toolstation Montrose. The next step of the expansion will be FOR EV’s delivery of a fourth site in Fraserburgh, securing a combined total of 22 connectors across the Cedarwood sites. Paul Jenkins, Director at Cedarwood Asset Management Ltd, said: “We are delighted to have completed another deal with FOR EV and are sure that the public and staff of the Tenants on this site will benefit significantly from this additional facility.” John Ross, Business Development Manager at FOR EV, said: “We have a strong and growing relationship with Cedarwood Asset Management. Delivering a third site enables us to provide user-friendly EV charging infrastructure to a wider range of drivers across Scotland. “It’s important for retail businesses and landowners to recognise the need for infrastructure as not only an essential provision for EV owners but also an opportunity to attract new customers.” FOR EV is Scotland’s leading charge point operator and is supported by funding from The Scottish National Investment Bank. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Torridge District Council has approved the amended plans for the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre. The updated drawings and plans, submitted in July 2024, were developed in response to public feedback and evolving market demands, receiving the green light from the planning committee. The revised plans aim to maximise the lettable area by minimising ancillary spaces, ensuring that the final structure meets both current and future market needs. In response to public consultation the height and scale of the building has been reduced. In particular, the entire second floor has been removed, the extent of the first-floor area reduced, and the first floor of the Benson Building has been removed to overcome concerns around overlooking. There will now only be one point of access to the site. In response to residents’ concerns around traffic, it has been determined that the removal of the second access onto New Quay Street (previously proposed to serve a car park) will simplify vehicle movements around the access to the site compared to the original scheme. BAM Construction has been appointed to work with Torridge District Council to secure Planning Consent and deliver completed designs. A main construction contract for the build of the Innovation Centre will be awarded in early 2025, with construction anticipated to start soon thereafter. In order to allow the works to be planned and in anticipation of a construction contract, an event will be hosted later this month in Appledore, to allow local businesses to ‘meet the contractor’ and find out more about the work available. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
