Queen Mary University of London has signed an agreement with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to acquire a substantial parcel of land in Whitechapel, adjacent to its current campus. The acquisition enables Queen Mary to expand its research and education footprint, creating a transformative, multi-disciplinary life sciences campus. The development aims to improve health outcomes locally and globally, while also boosting economic growth and attracting inward investment to the area. The site’s close proximity to the University’s existing facilities and its long-standing partner, Barts Health NHS Trust, will allow Queen Mary to consolidate its operations in Whitechapel—already one of its nine London locations—into a hub of education, innovation, and healthcare. The future campus will bring together researchers, clinicians, and industry partners to address some of the most pressing health challenges of the 21st century. Professor Colin Bailey CBE, President and Principal of Queen Mary University of London, said: “Queen Mary is unparalleled among research-intensive universities in combining world-leading research and education, with a profound commitment to the local communities we serve, and to social mobility and justice. In a world still facing intractable inequalities in health and access to education, universities like Queen Mary are needed more than ever. The step we have taken today future-proofs the long-term future of our University and our mission. “This major investment in Whitechapel gives us the opportunity, working with partners, to drive economic growth and healthcare benefits in an increasingly hyper-connected area of London within which we have deep historic roots, stretching back to 1785 and beyond, and long-standing and productive partnerships. “The campus we develop here will enable us to create an environment that integrates the talents of our researchers, scientists, teachers and clinicians across all our disciplines and allows them to work directly alongside other national and international partners, businesses and entrepreneurs, generating the healthcare and wellbeing solutions, and required vital broader skillsets, of tomorrow.” This latest agreement builds on Queen Mary’s initial acquisition of part of the site in November 2021, which was described by Professor Bailey at the time as “one of the largest research investments in Queen Mary’s history.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Willmott Dixon has been appointed to deliver a £48.8 million transformation of Queen Mary University of London’s School of Business & Management — marking the construction firm’s second major project for the university within a year. Located in Tower Hamlets, the redevelopment will see a brand-new, seven-storey academic building designed by Nicholas Hare Architects take the place of the current facility, which is no longer considered fit for purpose. The 6,700-square-metre scheme will also enhance the surrounding public realm, featuring new landscaped terraces and dedicated green spaces for students and staff alike. Completion is scheduled for 2027. This project follows closely on the heels of Willmott Dixon’s earlier commission in 2024 to extend the Informatics & Technology Learning building in Bethnal Green. That scheme involves a full retrofit and the addition of two extra storeys to the existing structure. Richard Poulter, managing director for Willmott Dixon in the South, commented: “Working with Queen Mary University London on both these projects presents a fantastic opportunity to deliver high-quality spaces through close collaboration. These schemes will provide long-lasting benefits for the university community.” Professor Colin Bailey, Principal of Queen Mary University of London, added: “This project represents more than just bricks and mortar. It is a bold investment in our academic future: a tangible statement of our commitment to excellence in education, research, and innovation. It will help us deliver on our mission of opening the doors of opportunity, transforming lives, addressing inequalities, and making new discoveries.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The four-storey steel frame of Bradford College’s new £17 million building is now in place—marking a key step in transforming the Thornton Road site. Led by Morgan Sindall, the new Junction Mills building will offer students specialist training in motor vehicle, advanced electrical, hybrid and hydrogen technologies, vital in supporting the growth of low-carbon skills capabilities within West Yorkshire.  The building’s framework incorporates 232 tonnes of hot-rolled steel (manufactured at high temperatures to allow the steel to be easily shaped into larger sizes). The heaviest pieces of the structure are two nine-tonne beams which support the first-floor workshop area. Precast elements such as lift shafts and stairs have been manufactured off-site using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) – innovative building techniques that improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability in construction. Metal decking and concrete floor slab works will now commence. Sustainability is central to the project. A peer review of the RIBA Stage 3 foundation and steel frame design found efficiencies that decreased steel and concrete usage, resulting in a 56-tonne reduction in carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e).  Work on the cladding and internal walls saved a further 126 tonnes. This work brings the total CO₂e saved so far to 182 tonnes – the equivalent of heating 67 UK homes annually. Pamela Sheldon, Head of Projects at Bradford College, said: “It’s exciting to see our latest capital project take a step forward — purpose-built to deliver cutting-edge automotive training for the future. With space for up to 650 students, this new facility represents a significant leap in how we equip young people with the skills needed for a low-carbon economy. It is also fitting that a building dedicated to low-carbon skills should be constructed with sustainability at its core.” The project was made possible thanks to £15 million funding from the Department for Education Further Education Capital Transformation Fund (FECTF), boosted by a £2 million College contribution. Once completed in 2026, the Bradford College automotive department will relocate from Bowling Back Lane to the new premises.  Morgan Sindall is leading the construction of the state-of-the-art building. Following a recent monitoring visit, the Considerate Constructors Scheme rated Morgan Sindall’s performance level as ‘Excellent’ for respecting the community, caring for the environment, and valuing its workforce. Ben Hall, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction’s Yorkshire business, added:  “We’re thrilled to deliver what will be a game-changing new facility for Bradford. As part of our delivery of this project, we look forward to undertaking social value initiatives that benefit the people of Bradford, ensuring this new facility has a positive impact on the city way ahead of opening.” Over the last three years, Bradford College has secured nearly £40 million in funding. This substantial investment is helping the College reshape and rebuild aspirational new facilities in the heart of Bradford.  The Junction Mills building is central to the ambitious estates strategy, designed to nurture inspiring careers in sectors that support regional economic growth.  Other recent Bradford College capital projects include the opening of Garden Mills – a flexible digital, science, and allied health training facility for higher-level students, made possible by £5.8m funding from The Office for Students (OfS) Higher Education Capital Fund. The College also remodelled new T Level training facilities for business, media, catering, and hair and beauty students, which opened following a £3.5m investment from the Department for Education. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Morgan Sindall Construction has officially handed over Phase 1 of the new Maendy Primary School to Torfaen County Borough Council. The handover took place on 27 May 2025, just over a year after work began in March 2024. The project will deliver a new two-storey primary school designed to accommodate 420 pupils across 16 classrooms within a 2,184 sq-m building. Once complete, it will replace the existing school and offer a modern, sustainable environment for learning. Phase 1 includes the completion of the main school building, a rear playground, a multi-use games area (MUGA), and individual play spaces adjoining each classroom. Phase 2 is already underway and is scheduled for completion in January 2026. It will involve demolishing the old school, and constructing further facilities, including a new access road, EV-enabled car park, expansive sports fields, and a Forest School zone. Sustainability is central to the project’s design, with the school targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating. Its all-brick clad steel structure supports 700 sq-m of solar photovoltaic panels on the southern roof pitch, while the building orientation has been optimised for energy efficiency and daylight use. The scheme forms part of Morgan Sindall Construction’s wider Responsible Business strategy. It incorporates the company’s 10 Tonne Carbon Challenge, aimed at reducing carbon emissions through innovation and collaboration. The team has already surpassed its goal, cutting 10.3 tonnes of CO₂e, with initiatives such as using reusable Kentledge blocks for site hoarding foundations—allowing materials to be transferred between phases without creating waste. Community engagement has also been a cornerstone of the project. Pupils have participated in assemblies, construction safety sessions, and sustainability workshops, including Carbon Literacy training for Years 5 and 6. The company is also backing the Healthy Dragons programme, run with the Dragons RFC Community Team, to promote wellbeing and confidence-building among pupils. Further environmental initiatives include the donation of materials to build hedgehog houses, now installed in the school’s Forest School area to enhance biodiversity and environmental education. To ease traffic congestion near the school during peak times, the project includes the development of a new internal drop-off zone. Robert Williams, Area Director for Morgan Sindall in Wales, said: “We’re making excellent progress on the new Maendy Primary School, which will provide a high-quality, sustainable learning environment for children in Cwmbran. “The successful handover of Phase 1, the main school building, marks a significant milestone in our journey to deliver net zero carbon buildings that promote both educational achievement and environmental responsibility. “Our engagement with pupils throughout the build has been particularly rewarding. Initiatives like the Carbon Literacy workshops not only enrich the curriculum but help inspire the next generation to consider careers in construction and understand the importance of sustainable practices.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Aberdeen City Council has taken ownership of its new £29 million New Riverbank School, built using a cross laminated timber (CLT) frame, following successful delivery by Robertson Construction Eastern. The 6,784m² (73,000ft²), three-stream school provides a high-quality learning environment for up to 651 primary-age pupils, alongside early learning and nursery provision for up to 60 children. Facilities include a gym hall, dance studio, dining hall, staff and administration areas, and student support spaces. Robertson led the construction phase of the two-storey school including the design, engineering and build of the frame structure using primarily CLT*. The use of CLT delivered a 2,510 tCO₂e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent) reduction in embodied carbon, placing the project as a sector-leading example of low-carbon design. The school has a draft Energy Performance Rating of A. The use of CLT also supported the diversion of 100% of construction waste from landfill. CLT panels are formed by gluing layers of timber at right angles, creating a robust, airtight structure that enhances thermal performance and contributes to consistent indoor comfort. This reduces heat gains and losses throughout the building. The use of natural materials is also associated with improved wellbeing, offering a calmer and more relaxing learning environment for pupils. Extensive soft and hard landscaping was carried out to reduce the visual impact of the two-storey building and integrate it with the existing site topography. A 3G sports pitch, outdoor play and learning spaces were delivered alongside garden areas. Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “At Robertson, we are committed to creating sustainable, innovative spaces that inspire and support the next generation. The new CLT school at Riverbank Primary is a testament to this vision, and to the commitment shown by the Council to deliver a warm, natural environment that enhances wellbeing and has been proven to enhance attainment. “Working with the Council to deliver this facility, we’ve not only reduced the environmental impact but also provided pupils and staff with an educational setting where they can truly learn, play, and achieve together.” Councillor Martin Greig, Convener of Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “I am pleased that we have now received the keys to our new Riverbank School and that council staff are working hard to ensure pupils can access the building from next month. “The new school will provide top-class facilities for all of its pupils including a 3G sports pitch and external outdoor play. It will be a fantastic learning facility for pupils at the start of their learning journey.” Built on the site of the former Tillydrone Infant School and on part of the former St Machar Primary School site, the New Riverbank opened in mid-May allowing pupils of the existing Riverbank to decant to the new school before summer recess. *3159.13 m3 CLT plus 91.01 m3 Glulam. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Henry Boot Construction, part of Henry Boot, has officially completed work on a new net-zero-carbon-in-operation sports facility and the refurbishment of teaching spaces at Minsthorpe Community College in South Elmsall. Providing high-quality facilities designed for both students and the wider community, the net-zero-carbon-in-operation facility includes two activity studios, changing rooms, toilets, storage facilities, office space, and a 6,394 sq ft main sports hall which opened in January this year. The final phase – including the installation of a new multi-use games area (MUGA) – has now been completed, marking the full handover of the project which has been funded by the Department for Education. Construction began in summer 2023 to replace the previous outdated sports facilities, alongside refurbishment works to several of the existing blocks. The sports facility has achieved an impressive EPC A+ rating and forms part of Minsthorpe Community College’s long-term strategy to enhance sports provision and establish a central hub for community engagement and physical wellbeing. In addition to meeting net-zero-in-operation standards, the facility also incorporates a green roof and integrated sustainable drainage solutions to enhance both biodiversity and environmental performance. Ryan O’Loughlin, Regional Director at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have delivered a facility that will have a lasting impact on both the students of Minsthorpe Community College and the wider South Elmsall, South Kirby, and Upton community. “From day one, this project was about more than just bricks and mortar, it was about creating a sustainable space that supports physical and mental wellbeing, learning and community engagement. “Throughout the project, we also placed a strong focus on delivering social value – adopting a student-led approach to shaping the future of their sports facilities. We believe that quality social value is achieved through genuine collaboration, and we’re confident this development leaves a positive legacy that the whole community can be proud of.” Joint Principals Mark Gilmore and Rachael Merritt, from Minsthorpe Community College, added: “We were delighted to be chosen as one of the first 50 schools to be part of the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme. “The new sports centre and surrounding works, including a new multi-use games area, is the final piece in the jigsaw in bringing the College’s facilities into the 21st century – meaning the experiences of both our amazing students and fantastic community will be enriched for years to come.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Wates Construction South has reached practical completion on the Life and Mind Building, a project for the University of Oxford and one of the largest building developments in the institution’s history. The 26,000m² facility will serve as the new home for the University’s Departments of Biology and Experimental Psychology, offering a cutting-edge environment designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and drive forward world-class research. Described as a flagship example of modern and sustainable higher education construction, the Life and Mind Building combines research, learning, and community engagement within a single, flexible space. The project represents a bold reimagining of facilities for science and education, setting a new standard for academic infrastructure. “The Life and Mind Building is a shining example of what can be achieved when vision, expertise and collaboration come together. Reaching practical completion on a project of this scale and significance is a proud moment for everyone involved,” said Mark Craig, Managing Director of Wates Construction South. “I’d like to thank our teams, partners and supply chain who’ve helped deliver a truly world-class facility that will shape the future of science, research and education at Oxford and beyond.” With practical completion achieved, the project now enters its final fit-out phase, ahead of an official opening scheduled for Autumn 2025. The project was delivered in collaboration with key partners including the University of Oxford, Legal & General, Oxford University Development, NBBJ, Hoare Lea, Ramboll, Fira, and Savills. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

With 1,080 solar panels on its roof, and a host of sustainable features, the new multi-million-pound campus, delivered by Robertson Construction North West on behalf of WEPco, is now Flintshire County Council’s first net-zero carbon in operation school. Flintshire County Council’s Climate Change Committee recently visited the Mynydd Isa Campus in Mold, along with cabinet members, school representatives and the Welsh Education Partnership Company (WEPco) to find out more about the school’s sustainability credentials.  Attendees also powered up a specially commissioned neon sign with the word ‘Croeso’ (Welsh for ‘Welcome’) to symbolise the energy that the building is creating for itself.  The state-of-the-art school is one of the most energy-efficient in Wales, demonstrating Flintshire’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and creating a greener future. Being net zero in operation means Mynydd Isa Campus has been designed to produce as much energy as it uses, thanks to a range of energy-saving features. One of the standout components is the impressive solar panel system with photovoltaic cells covering approximately 80% of the roof, an area of over 2,500m².  These panels are expected to generate over 300,000 kWh of electricity each year, reducing carbon emissions by more than 70 tonnes annually. During the summer months, any extra electricity produced will be sent back to the grid. Due to the careful selection of materials which are less carbon intensive, the campus is also low in embodied carbon. Utilising air source heat pumps for heating and hot water, rather than fossil fuels, the campus also benefits from a special drainage system to manage rainwater naturally, helping to prevent flooding and support local wildlife.  The grounds have been designed to promote biodiversity, with green spaces, wildlife-friendly landscaping, and outdoor areas that encourage pupils to engage with nature. Recycled and low-carbon materials have also been used in the construction of the outdoor spaces including a play base made from recycled tyres. Active travel is encouraged through new dedicated cycling and walking routes and electric vehicle charging points.  The two-storey, 10,500m² campus is able to accommodate 1,300 pupils, including 43 nursery-age children, 600 primary pupils, and 700 high school students. All pupils will benefit from the cutting-edge facilities designed for 21st-century learning. High school pupils were first to move to the campus earlier in May, with the remainder of pupils moving in after the summer break.  Mynydd Isa Campus is being built through the WEPco, using the Mutual Investment Model (MIM) developed by the Welsh Government to fund major capital projects.  Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “Delivering Mynydd Isa Campus as Flintshire’s first net-zero carbon in operation school marks a significant step forward for sustainable building in Wales.  “Collaborating with WEPCo and Flintshire County Council, this project underscores our dedication to delivering projects that support communities and promote a sustainable future. We will continue to maintain the campus through Robertson Facilities Management and look forward to being part of the community for many years to come.” Flintshire County Council Cabinet member for Education, Welsh Language, Culture and Leisure, Councillor Mared Eastwood said: “I was delighted to represent the Council’s Climate Change committee and see this remarkable project coming to life. It not only reflects our commitment to high-quality education but also to a greener, more sustainable future for our children.” The Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Lynne Neagle said: “I am delighted that the new Mynydd Isa Campus is open for learners. “So many pupils will benefit from these outstanding facilities which are net zero in operation, embedding our commitments towards reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change. We are not just building a school, we’re creating an environment where the next generation can learn first-hand about sustainability.” Neil Cutting, Project Director at WEPCo, said: “We’re delighted with the net zero carbon solution for this project. A first of its kind for MIM, we are thrilled with the completed building which demonstrates how state of the art education facilities can be built responsibly. “Together with our construction partners, WEPCo is proud to have been entrusted with delivering this special 3-16 education campus for Flintshire County Council and the communities of Mynydd Isa, now and into the future. Diolch yn fawr.” The school is part of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, which is focused on modernising school buildings with sustainability at its heart. The project highlights the wider commitment of Flintshire County Council to tackle climate change and ensure that public buildings are built with the future in mind. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The University of Cambridge with Jestico + Whiles and Bouygues UK have unveiled the Ray Dolby Centre, the landmark new building that serves as the home of the Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics. Designed by the award-winning architecture and interior design practice Jestico + Whiles and constructed by main contractor Bouygues UK in partnership with executive design partners NBBJ and BDP, this state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionise scientific research and education. The Cavendish Laboratory has been at the forefront of physics research for more than 150 years. With 31 Nobel Prizes emanating from it, The Cavendish Laboratory has been the grounds of numerous groundbreaking discoveries, including the electron, the neutron, and the structure of DNA. Its new home, the Ray Dolby Centre, situated at the heart of Cambridge West Innovation District, sets the stage for a new era of scientific innovation. Spanning 32,900m² across five floors, the highly technical research and learning facility is equipped with laboratories, workshops, cleanrooms, offices, and collaborative spaces, all tailored to support a diverse array of physics research. Serving as a national hub for physics it hosts the new EPSRC National Facility, CORDE. The Collaborative R&D Environment will foster cooperation collaboration between industry and university researchers and enhance public access to groundbreaking scientific endeavours. Empowering the Next Generation of Scientists The Ray Dolby Centre is designed to inspire and educate, offering extensive teaching and learning spaces for its 1,100 staff members and students, including a 400-seat lecture theatre, undergraduate teaching labs, a learning resource centre, café space, and outreach and exhibition spaces organised around six peaceful courtyards and a connecting ‘street’ to encourage collaboration and interaction between staff and students. Jestico + Whiles’ design prioritises active fronts and an inclusive public realm, featuring a lively new south-facing central garden off JJ Thomson Avenue and three pocket rain gardens. Large picture windows provide views into the laboratories and public areas, showcasing the research and learning activities within. The central garden leads guests up to an elevated piazza and into the arrival space with twin floating lecture theatres adorned in burnished bronze shingles. Drawing inspiration from Cambridge’s distinct architectural heritage, the building’s facade features a durable, timeless combination of white polished concrete, glass, and aluminium. The Ray Dolby Centre’s facilities bridge the gap between the cutting-edge research happening within the university and the wider community, promoting greater engagement, outreach and understanding. Innovative and Intricate Design Both architecturally and technically complex, the project had to meet strict specifications to provide the perfect environment for world-class scientific research. Jestico + Whiles, Jacobs and Bouygues UK worked closely with the Department of Physics to understand the set of requirements needed for each of the 173 laboratories, adapting their design and construction methods to the experiments they will host. A deep basement is the home of the most vibration-sensitive equipment: the microscopy labs have achieved a VC-H vibration control (the highest rating) through passive means only; the laser labs require very close temperature (to 0.1 degree) and humidity control. The STM and cryostats labs required electro-magnetic interference (EMI) and infrasound shielding. Some labs have anti-static and/or non-magnetic requirements, leading the structural teams to use stainless steel instead of traditional rebar and resulting in the invention of a new type of epoxy flooring, in order to meet the unique set of performance criteria. The clean rooms cover almost 2,500m² and range from ISO 7 to ISO 3. The cleanest room, the EBL (electron beam lithography ISO3) is also non-ferrous, and has very high acoustic, vibration and environmental control capacity. Services include traditional solutions such as ventilation or laboratory gases, as well as liquid nitrogen distribution, toxic gases, specialist extracts, and a network of clean earthing. Sustainability is at the core of the Ray Dolby Centre’s design. The building has achieved BREEAM Excellent certification and features a ground source heat pump system that will reduce operational energy consumption throughout the building’s lifespan, providing a robust and resilient solution for the Department of Physics’ 24/7 operations. In addition to the Ray Dolby Centre, the ground source heat pump supplies the adjacent West Hub, also designed by Jestico + Whiles and built by Bouygues UK, and has further spare capacity. The building includes 770 cycle spaces discreetly located beneath the raised public piazza, reflecting the high proportion of staff and students who use sustainable modes of transport. The Ray Dolby Centre is the centrepiece and final part of the University’s project to replace the previous facilities for the Cavendish Laboratory, which were outdated and had poor environmental performance. A Testament to Ray Dolby’s Legacy Named in recognition of a generous £85 million donation from the estate of Cambridge alumnus and sound pioneer Ray Dolby, along with £75 million support from the UK government through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the Ray Dolby Centre stands as a testament to Dolby’s enduring legacy and commitment to scientific innovation. Phillippe Bernard, Chair and CEO of Bouygues UK, said: “We are immensely proud to have delivered the Ray Dolby Centre, a project that demanded the highest level of technical expertise and precision. Through close collaboration with the University of Cambridge and our committed partners, we have created advanced facilities that will support pioneering scientific research for years to come, with a focus on building for life. Working on such a transformative project has been incredibly rewarding for our team and partners, and the end result is a testament to the dedication and skill of everyone involved. We eagerly anticipate the substantial impact this state-of-the-art centre will have on the scientific community.” Jude Harris, Director at Jestico + Whiles, said, “The Ray Dolby Centre represents a significant milestone in our 10-year journey to create spaces that will enable scientific discovery and collaboration. Our design fosters an environment where researchers and students will be inspired to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation. We are excited to see the next set of groundbreaking scientific advancements that will emerge from this remarkable facility.” Professor Mete Atatüre, Head