Plans are advancing for a major AI data centre development at the Teesworks site in Northeast England, with the UK government aiming to position it as Europe’s largest AI infrastructure hub. But behind the headlines of digital transformation and investment, the project is fast becoming a focal point for debates
Construction has officially commenced on one of the world’s largest electric arc furnaces (EAF) in Port Talbot, Wales — a cornerstone project in the UK’s move toward sustainable steel production. Senior executives from Tata Steel, alongside UK Government ministers and leading contractors, gathered on site today for the groundbreaking ceremony
CONSTRUCTION has completed at Molson Coors Brewing Company’s new UK headquarters in Burton-on-Trent. Delivered by main contractor Clegg Food Projects, the project successfully transformed the former historic site, which included the construction of a modern atrium link building and a new office block, into a state-of-the-art 10,300m² facility to support Molson
Ashfield District Council has named Lindum Group as the construction partner for the Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC), a pioneering facility that will anchor the £100 million Ashfield Innovation and Technology Park in Sutton-in-Ashfield. Construction of the ADMC is set to begin this summer, with completion expected by late
The British Antarctic Survey’s (BAS) new scientific support and operations facility, the Discovery Building, is now coming into operational use at Rothera Research Station in Antarctica. Marking a major milestone for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP), the facility consolidates the UK’s position in global polar research. Built to operate
A bold new proposal for what would be the UK’s largest data centre development has emerged, with plans submitted for a £7.6 billion hyperscale AI campus in North Lincolnshire. Located at the former RAF Elsham Wolds airfield near Scunthorpe, the ambitious Elsham Tech Park project would span 176 hectares and
The Oxford Science Park has secured planning permission for a new 80,000 sq ft best-in-class laboratory and office building, unlocking the next major phase of growth at the Park. The approved development will see the construction of a state-of-the-art four-storey building offering high-specification laboratory and office space tailored to the
Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor for the £180 million Fabrica development in Oxford, a major new addition to the city’s rapidly expanding West End innovation district. Set to begin construction in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will deliver five storeys of high-quality laboratory and
Enabling works at Prologis Park Luton are well underway, marking the start of an exciting transformation for the former Vauxhall site on Osborne Road. With demolition and groundworks progressing on schedule, the site is set to be fully prepared for redevelopment to commence on site by Q3 2025. This major regeneration
Award-winning construction specialist McPhillips has successfully delivered a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for press manufacturer Bruderer UK. The 10,000 square metre bespoke factory and showroom at Hortonwood in Telford was completed on schedule and serves as the company’s new world class ‘competence centre’, replacing its former base in Luton. The facility
Plans are advancing for a major AI data centre development at the Teesworks site in Northeast England, with the UK government aiming to position it as Europe’s largest AI infrastructure hub. But behind the headlines of digital transformation and investment, the project is fast becoming a focal point for debates around sustainability, governance, and planning priorities. Teesworks Ltd submitted a planning application in June for a proposed hyperscale campus covering nearly 500,000 square metres. The facility would anchor the UK’s second AI Growth Zone, complementing the existing site at Culham in Oxfordshire. The development forms part of the government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan and Compute Roadmap, both designed to increase the UK’s sovereign computing power. Backed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), the project is seen as essential for scaling AI workloads, providing dedicated energy access, and embedding the infrastructure into wider industrial and academic ecosystems. Early interest from leading tech firms suggests strong commercial momentum, with site selection favouring Teesside’s ample brownfield space, utilities access, and regeneration incentives. Yet the project faces mounting tension from within government and beyond. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has flagged environmental risks, especially around the expected energy draw and water usage of large-scale AI centres. These concerns are amplified by a parallel proposal at the site: BP’s blue hydrogen and carbon capture (CCUS) facility. Local authorities and Teesworks Ltd have previously expressed opposition to the CCUS scheme, citing incompatibility with the data centre plan. This clash of priorities sets up a critical decision for Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, who is due to rule on the CCUS proposal by 28 August. The outcome could determine whether Teesworks becomes a national flagship for digital infrastructure or encounters prolonged planning conflict. Adding further complexity, Teesworks has come under scrutiny for its governance practices. A 2024 independent review raised questions about transparency and public value. This led to a best value notice issued in April 2025 and the creation of an improvement board to oversee development and accountability. With public-private collaboration at the core of the site’s ambition, confidence in management practices is crucial. For the building, design, and construction sector, the Teesworks data centre raises major questions about how future infrastructure projects balance innovation with environmental stewardship. As AI becomes more embedded in everyday systems—from smart cities to automated construction tools—the physical spaces that support this technology must align with broader sustainability goals. Constructing a site of this scale will demand integrated approaches across civil engineering, energy planning, facilities management, and digital systems architecture. Whether in HVAC systems tailored for server cooling, or sustainable power sourcing to mitigate emissions, design choices made now will influence long-term outcomes for both climate impact and operational resilience. If approved, the Teesworks campus could offer a blueprint for integrating hyperscale compute infrastructure into post-industrial landscapes. But it also highlights the increasing pressure on developers and public bodies to deliver technological progress without compromising environmental integrity or public trust. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction has officially commenced on one of the world’s largest electric arc furnaces (EAF) in Port Talbot, Wales — a cornerstone project in the UK’s move toward sustainable steel production. Senior executives from Tata Steel, alongside UK Government ministers and leading contractors, gathered on site today for the groundbreaking ceremony at the state-of-the-art facility. The new EAF will melt UK-sourced scrap steel to produce three million tonnes of steel annually, significantly reducing reliance on traditional blast furnaces. As part of Tata Steel UK’s wider decarbonisation strategy, the project also includes advanced ladle metallurgy systems and major infrastructure upgrades. The scheme, led by principal contractor Sir Robert McAlpine, is backed by a robust supply chain including Darlow Lloyd & Sons, Mii Engineering, Skelton Thomas, Wernick Buildings, Andrew Scott Ltd, and Systems Group. With a total investment of £1.25bn — including £500m of support from the UK Government — the transformation aims to deliver low-carbon steelmaking at scale. Once operational by the end of 2027, the EAF is expected to cut Port Talbot’s carbon emissions by around 90%, the equivalent of five million tonnes of CO₂ annually, while safeguarding 5,000 UK jobs. Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Tata Group Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran said: “This is an important day for Tata Group, Tata Steel, and the UK. Today’s groundbreaking marks not only the beginning of a new electric arc furnace but the dawn of a cleaner, greener era of manufacturing in Britain. At Port Talbot, we are laying the foundations for a more sustainable future — supporting jobs, driving innovation, and demonstrating our commitment to responsible industry leadership.” “This initiative is part of Tata Group’s wider investment in the UK — spanning steel, automotive, and technology — and reflects our deep and enduring partnership with the country.” Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, added: “The UK Government acted decisively to secure the future of steelmaking in Port Talbot. With £500m invested in Tata’s transition and £80m to support workers and the wider community, we’re ensuring this vital industry thrives for generations to come.” “This project is just one element of our wider Steel Strategy, which includes £2.5bn in investment to rebuild the UK’s steel sector, protect jobs, and drive growth. With new opportunities in floating offshore wind, the Celtic Freeport, and local regeneration, Port Talbot has a bright and promising future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CONSTRUCTION has completed at Molson Coors Brewing Company’s new UK headquarters in Burton-on-Trent. Delivered by main contractor Clegg Food Projects, the project successfully transformed the former historic site, which included the construction of a modern atrium link building and a new office block, into a state-of-the-art 10,300m² facility to support Molson Coors’ growing operations across the UK and Ireland. Works got underway in the summer of 2023, with the project team working closely with Molson Coors and BHB Architects. The conservation of the historic structure while integrating contemporary building services to meet 21st-century regulations required careful planning and expertise. The team also ensured that the new additions complemented the character of the area, reflecting Burton upon Trent’s deep brewing heritage. “We’re extremely proud to have been involved in this project,” said Oliver Jenkins, business development manager at Clegg Food Projects. “Our team worked closely with the entire project team to preserve the building’s heritage while delivering a modern, sustainable workplace. “The new HQ not only cements Molson Coors’ rich legacy in the brewing industry but also reflects the company’s commitment to the future.” The new HQ will provide office and amenity spaces for more than 500 staff members. Key features include a striking double-height entrance and reception area, alongside a contemporary glazed atrium with social breakout spaces. The design incorporates formal and informal meeting rooms cantered around a tap bar, reflecting the company’s branding and product lines. A large staff food and drink facility has also been added, along with improved car parking, EV charging and cycle storage. Generous landscaping enhancements will further enrich the external environment, providing a welcoming and functional space for all employees. Molson Coors Brewing Company is the UK arm of Molson Coors Beverage Company, the brewer behind some of the biggest beer and cider brands including Carling, Madrí Excepcional, Coors, Rekorderlig, and Aspall Cyder. For further information visit www.cleggfoodprojects.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ashfield District Council has named Lindum Group as the construction partner for the Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC), a pioneering facility that will anchor the £100 million Ashfield Innovation and Technology Park in Sutton-in-Ashfield. Construction of the ADMC is set to begin this summer, with completion expected by late 2026 and the first businesses moving in by early 2027. The 2,800-square-metre purpose-built facility will serve as a national centre of excellence for automation, supporting businesses of all sizes in developing and implementing bespoke automation strategies. By driving productivity, competitiveness, and innovation, the centre is expected to significantly boost long-term economic growth in the region. Modelled on the UK’s Catapult Centres, the ADMC will offer access to cutting-edge technology, skills development, and independent expertise. Its operations will focus on four key pillars: In addition to technical facilities, the centre will include space for networking, events, and collaboration. It will be staffed by a dedicated team of researchers, engineers, and technical specialists. Several strategic partners are already involved in shaping the centre’s offer, including Nottingham Trent University, Vision West Nottinghamshire College, Swiftool Precision Engineering, and ECS Engineering. Their involvement aims to ensure that the ADMC meets real-world industry demands and aligns with the needs of the region’s manufacturers and logistics operators. Situated on Lowmoor Road, close to the A38, M1, and Sutton Parkway Station, the ADMC is ideally positioned to serve the Midlands’ strong industrial base. The broader Innovation and Technology Park, backed by the government’s Towns Fund, is a key part of Ashfield’s regeneration strategy and will play a vital role in delivering high-skilled employment opportunities across the district. Freddie Chambers, Co-Chair of Lindum Group, said: “We are pleased to be appointed as the construction partner for the ADMC. This centre represents a bold vision for the future of UK industry and will create a legacy for Ashfield. As a construction company with strong Midlands roots and a commitment to social value, we are proud to be helping to bring this transformational facility to life.” Councillor Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, added: “Once the ADMC is completed and functioning, it will become a magnet for businesses who recognise the need to embrace new technology to drive growth and improve. It should provide a legacy for generations to come and one we firmly believe will attract more high skilled jobs to Ashfield. “The economic benefits of this project are incredible and will allow the Council to unlock the district’s true potential. This is all part of our broader regeneration strategy to make Ashfield a fantastic place to live, work, study, play and visit.” The project is being delivered through the SCAPE Regional Construction framework, chosen to provide early contractor engagement, cost efficiencies, and a streamlined procurement process. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The British Antarctic Survey’s (BAS) new scientific support and operations facility, the Discovery Building, is now coming into operational use at Rothera Research Station in Antarctica. Marking a major milestone for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme (AIMP), the facility consolidates the UK’s position in global polar research. Built to operate year-round in one of the planet’s most extreme environments, the Discovery Building serves as the beating heart of Rothera. It brings together advanced facilities and critical services all under one roof, and will support science focused on climate, biodiversity and the Southern Ocean, ensuring Rothera’s polar research capabilities for decades to come. Features of the new Discovery Building include: The achievement comes as the AIMP continues to make progress with the final phase of construction ahead of the building’s formal handover later this year. The Discovery Building is already generating its own power and water, also acts as an IT hub, and is now distributing these essential site-wide services to other buildings across Rothera. These upgrades will help contribute towards BAS’ aim to reduce Rothera’s carbon emissions by an estimated 25%. As a result, BAS teams can operate safely and efficiently from the Discovery Building over the upcoming Antarctic winter, where staff can spend up to 24 hours in darkness. A core team will remain on station throughout the winter to prepare the building for full handover during the 2025/2026 season. The new facility will also improve the quality of life for BAS staff based in Rothera. New, modern shared spaces, updated amenities, and smarter building systems will make daily routines, easier, more efficient and safer, supporting the productivity and camaraderie of the Rothera community that is essential to life in such a remote and isolated environment. Elen Jones, AIMP Programme Director, British Antarctic Survey, said: “This is a defining moment for the Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme. An operational Discovery Building marks the culmination of years of planning, collaboration, and innovation. This new facility is set to transform how we operate to enable science in the region and ensures BAS remains at the forefront of global efforts to understand and protect our changing planet.” Huw Jones, Executive Director at BAM, said: “Delivering a building of this stature in such a beautiful yet demanding environment is truly remarkable. Seeing the Discovery Building come to life is a testament to the precision, planning and commitment of everyone involved. With critical systems in the facility now operational, this milestone demonstrates the real-world impact of construction in Antarctica — supporting science, sustaining life and setting new standards in remote delivery. It reflects our commitment to building a sustainable tomorrow.” The AIMP is a long-term programme to support the UK’s polar research capabilities. Commissioned by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the AIMP will enable the UK to continue to deliver climate, biodiversity and ocean research and innovation in Antarctica. Together with the commissioning of the RRS Sir David Attenborough, the AIMP represents the largest Government investment in polar science infrastructure since the 1980s. The programme is delivered in partnership with construction partners BAM, Ramboll, Sweco, G&A Barnie Group, Turner & Townsend and Hugh Broughton Architects. Find out more: https://www.bas.ac.uk/polar-operations/aimp/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A bold new proposal for what would be the UK’s largest data centre development has emerged, with plans submitted for a £7.6 billion hyperscale AI campus in North Lincolnshire. Located at the former RAF Elsham Wolds airfield near Scunthorpe, the ambitious Elsham Tech Park project would span 176 hectares and deliver over 1.5 million square metres of data centre floorspace. The masterplan includes 15 high-capacity data halls, a major new energy centre, and supporting infrastructure designed to position Lincolnshire at the forefront of the UK’s digital and AI revolution. The development, led by Elsham Tech Park Ltd, seeks to support an IT load of 1,000MW—one of the highest targets ever proposed for a UK-based digital campus. It is designed to serve the exponential growth in demand for artificial intelligence processing, cloud computing, and high-volume data storage. Alongside the tech infrastructure, the campus is also being pitched as a green energy innovation hub. Plans include an on-site energy centre capable of generating up to 49.9MW, a large-scale battery storage compound, substations, a district heating facility, and flexible commercial space. A particularly novel element is the integration of heat reuse: surplus heat from server operations could be redirected to energy-intensive greenhouse agriculture, creating year-round food production opportunities and circular energy efficiencies. The proposed site would include new spine roads linking the 15 data zones, each capable of standalone delivery, offering flexibility in construction sequencing and operational rollout. Access would be via a primary route from the Flarepath industrial estate. Buildings are planned to range from 7 to 23 metres in height and would be visually softened by bunds up to 10 metres high and new woodland planting to help the project blend with the surrounding landscape. Construction is expected to span a 10-year period, creating between 2,600 and 3,600 full-time equivalent jobs annually across on-site and off-site activity. While the capital build cost is estimated at £7.6 billion, this figure excludes the high-value IT infrastructure that will be installed within the data halls. Breakdown of major cost areas includes: North Lincolnshire Council is actively seeking government recognition of the area as an AI Growth Zone—a designation that would fast-track planning, infrastructure delivery, and energy support. If successful, Elsham could soon become a key node in the UK’s digital infrastructure network. Should the scheme receive planning approval, the Elsham Tech Park would not only redefine Lincolnshire’s role in the digital economy but also mark a significant milestone in the UK’s race to build the next generation of AI-ready infrastructure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Oxford Science Park has secured planning permission for a new 80,000 sq ft best-in-class laboratory and office building, unlocking the next major phase of growth at the Park. The approved development will see the construction of a state-of-the-art four-storey building offering high-specification laboratory and office space tailored to the needs of cutting-edge science and technology companies. Located at the eastern edge of The Oxford Science Park, the site is near the proposed new Cowley Branch Line, with a new station scheduled to open in early 2030, bringing direct links to central Oxford and London. Yong Shen, Director at The Oxford Science Park, said: “This is fantastic news for the Oxfordshire ecosystem and for the companies shaping the future of science and technology. This development allows us to offer more world-class facilities in an established setting that promotes collaboration, sustainability and discovery, further cementing The Oxford Science Park’s reputation as a leading destination for science and technology companies. My thanks go to everyone who worked on the planning application.” Designed with sustainability and community integration in mind, the development includes a 5.86% biodiversity net gain, extensive landscaping, improvements to the adjacent wildlife site, and enhanced cycle and pedestrian connectivity. Alongside 168 car parking spaces (25% with EV charging) and 104 bicycle spaces, the building itself will feature upgraded façades with anodised aluminium, high energy efficiency standards, and rooftop photovoltaic panels. The development will also deliver significant heritage enhancements. These include a public space showcasing archaeological discoveries and contributing to the setting of the nearby Grade II listed Minchery Priory. The unanimous decision by Oxford City Council follows extensive public engagement and marks another milestone in the park’s growth, following the unanimous approval of the 450,000 sq ft Daubeny Project in 2023. The expansion ensures Oxford remains competitive against global science hubs whilst enabling local communities to benefit from investment and employment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bowmer & Kirkland has been appointed as main contractor for the £180 million Fabrica development in Oxford, a major new addition to the city’s rapidly expanding West End innovation district. Set to begin construction in May 2025, the 180,000 sq ft scheme will deliver five storeys of high-quality laboratory and office space. Located on Botley Road, Fabrica is being developed by science and innovation specialist Mission Street and real estate investment manager BGO. The project is being hailed as a significant milestone for the UK’s science and technology sector, marking the largest construction start in the field during the first half of 2025. Groundworks and site preparation are already underway, carried out by Colemans, with completion of the building anticipated in early 2027. Fabrica is also set to break new ground in sustainability and social impact. It is the first commercial science building in the UK to target a BREEAM Outstanding rating, and it will become Oxford’s first Living Wage building—ensuring that all employees working within it earn at least the Living Wage. Colin Brown, development director at Mission Street, said: “Following a collaborative, positive procurement process, Bowmer & Kirkland will shortly take forward the science and innovation sector’s biggest construction start of 2025 so far. As science companies increasingly look to central Oxford for its extensive amenities and unrivalled transport connections—including the future East West Rail link—Fabrica’s delivery represents a major vote of confidence in the UK market.” The scheme is the second phase of Oxford’s Central Science District, following the recent completion of Mission Street and BGO’s Inventa project. The wider pipeline from the joint venture spans 1.5 million sq ft across Oxford, Cambridge, and Bristol. Neil Brook, group construction director at Bowmer & Kirkland, added: “Our teams approached this project collaboratively from the outset, allowing us to complete the tender process in just 10 weeks. We look forward to starting on-site at the end of May with a 96-week programme.” Bowmer & Kirkland is also supporting Mission Street and BGO’s District East development in Cambridge, where it is engaged under a pre-construction services agreement for the 23-acre science campus. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Enabling works at Prologis Park Luton are well underway, marking the start of an exciting transformation for the former Vauxhall site on Osborne Road. With demolition and groundworks progressing on schedule, the site is set to be fully prepared for redevelopment to commence on site by Q3 2025. This major regeneration project will breathe new life into the area, delivering high-quality logistics space, job opportunities and a site that is accessible to and celebrates the history of the local community. The units can be delivered for occupation by September 2026. Prologis UK has been working closely with local heritage groups and Vauxhall enthusiasts to ensure the site’s rich automotive history is commemorated. Careful removal and preservation of ‘The Wheel’, originally built into the structure of Griffin House’s design studios, will allow for history to be honoured in the site’s next chapter. Former employees and car enthusiasts were given a final opportunity to bid farewell to Griffin House, a key part of Vauxhall’s legacy, before its demolition and visited the site recently to mark the moment with a parade of a number of landmark models, which were designed and developed at the location on display, including the Silver Bullet, Black Magic and Silver Aero. Vauxhall enthusiast, Adam King said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Prologis for opening the doors to Griffin House and giving us the opportunity to visit this important piece of Vauxhall’s history one last time. It means a great deal to our members and the wider community to mark the legacy of the site before its next chapter begins. “Our sincere thanks also go to the Winvic construction team for their support and care in making the visit possible.” The preservation of The Wheel is just the beginning of an ambitious placemaking strategy designed to connect Prologis Park Luton with the wider town. Additionally, a new pedestrian and cycle-friendly route will be created, providing direct access from Osborne Road to Luton’s town centre, further integrating the site into the local community and enhancing connectivity. Looking forward, Prologis Park Luton is set to become a centre for training and employment in the logistics sector. With planning permission recently granted for The Hub, a new flexible training facility dedicated to skills development that will support the growth of the industry and provide valuable training opportunities for local residents. Prologis Park Luton is projected to create 615 jobs, with The Hub facilitating apprenticeships, upskilling programmes and career development pathways for people looking to enter or progress within the logistics sector. Simon Perks, Capital Deployment Director at Prologis UK, said: “Prologis Park Luton offers an exciting opportunity for businesses looking to establish themselves in a prime logistics location. With cutting-edge facilities, excellent transport links and a strong focus on sustainability and skills development, this site is set to become a key hub for the logistics sector. We invite interested businesses to reach out and discover how they can be part of this transformative development.” For further information, visit https://www.prologis.co.uk/properties/our-parks/prologis-park-luton Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award-winning construction specialist McPhillips has successfully delivered a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for press manufacturer Bruderer UK. The 10,000 square metre bespoke factory and showroom at Hortonwood in Telford was completed on schedule and serves as the company’s new world class ‘competence centre’, replacing its former base in Luton. The facility enables the manufacturing leader to offer live demonstrations of new presses, certified pre-owned machines and fully integrated turnkey solutions. McPhillips, which is also based in Telford, led the construction project as the main contractor, working in collaboration with local partners including Cyril Orchard Group for project management and Design & Planning Associates from Oswestry for architectural design. The new facility has been designed to showcase Bruderer’s advanced high-speed presses while supporting its workforce expansion to 14 employees. For the first time in 57 years of operating in the UK, the company has a purpose-built location to give customers a first-hand insight into its latest technology, as it looks to drive innovation in the production of pressed parts and components for the critical automotive, aerospace, construction, electronics, EV, food, medical and renewables sectors. Paul Inions, managing director of McPhillips said: “We’re pleased to have built this fantastic facility for Bruderer right here in Telford. “As a local firm ourselves, it’s great to see such significant investment in our area. Working alongside other Shropshire businesses on this project shows just what our region can deliver – world-class facilities that support manufacturing jobs and growth.” Adrian Haller, managing director of Bruderer UK, commented: “This isn’t just an investment in our business, it’s an investment in UK manufacturing. We want to show companies that we are here for the long haul, and we are serious about supporting our wide array of domestic clients for another five decades. “Being able to build a factory from scratch is a fantastic opportunity. We’ve brought together the best engineering minds and the latest technology to create what we believe is a true centre of excellence for presses and associated products.” This project continues McPhillips’ track record of delivering high-quality facilities across the Shropshire region. In the last five years, the company has delivered more than 140 projects as principal contractor with a value of £300million. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
