Public Sector : Local Authority News
Hillingdon declares its ‘open for business’ at inaugural conference

Hillingdon declares its ‘open for business’ at inaugural conference

Last week Hillingdon Council showcased its plans to work alongside partners and businesses to build a thriving economy at its first investment conference.   The ‘Hillingdon Takes Off’ event, supported by SEGRO and held at the Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre, Uxbridge, celebrated the borough’s burgeoning reputation as a

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Etruscan Square Regeneration Moves Forward as Development Partner Named

Etruscan Square Regeneration Moves Forward as Development Partner Named

A major step forward has been made in the multi-million-pound regeneration of Etruscan Square, as Stoke-on-Trent City Council announces Genr8 Kajima Regeneration Limited (GKRL) as the preferred development partner. GKRL plans to work with partners, including PfP Igloo, to deliver a mix of high-quality, affordable housing alongside leisure and commercial

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GMI Construction Group begins work on major Grimsby regeneration project

GMI Construction Group begins work on major Grimsby regeneration project

GMI Construction Group has started work on one of the largest regeneration projects in Grimsby’s history – the transformation of Freshney Place into a dynamic leisure, retail, food hub and complimentary market. This landmark investment, backed by the Government and North East Lincolnshire Council, aims to revitalise the shopping area

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Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority to begin work

Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority to begin work

The long-awaited Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority can now officially begin its work after the final steps were taken by the Government to create the new body. The signing of the relevant order by the minister moves the area closer to unlocking a £400 million investment fund, alongside powers

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New chief executive Stannard "ambitious" for Manchester

New chief executive Stannard “ambitious” for Manchester

Manchester City Council’s new Chief Executive Tom Stannard starts in the role today, Monday 3 February 2025.  Tom becomes only the third Chief Executive in more than 25 years in a city which prides itself on stability and long-term strategic planning.  He brings with him considerable experience, having served as

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Plans submitted for £70m Greater Manchester Passivhaus Low Energy scheme

Plans submitted for £70m Greater Manchester Passivhaus Low Energy scheme

A two-tower residential development, designed by London and Manchester-based AEW Architects, has been submitted to Stockport Council as part of the town’s ongoing regeneration plans. The £70m project features two connected blocks of eight and 20 stories, designed to meet The Passivhaus Institute Low Energy Building Standard. The focus is

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Latest Issue
Issue 326 : Mar 2025

Public Sector : Local Authority News

Manchester Digital Campus and latest city centre park gets planning green light

Manchester Digital Campus and latest city centre park gets planning green light

A major government office complex bringing 7,000 civil service jobs to Manchester alongside a new urban park have been given planning consent to be built in Ancoats. Manchester Digital Campus The campus will be a state-of-the-art hub constructed on the former Central Retail Park in Ancoats after the city’s planning committee approved the Government Property Agency’s (GPA) scheme at Manchester City Council planning committee yesterday (Thursday 20 February) The campus will bring together a number of Civil Service departments with a focus around digital skills and create significant employment opportunities and economic benefits in the region. The state-of-the-art campus will bolster Manchester’s digital and tech sector, driving economic growth and new employment opportunities for the city.   New City Centre Park Alongside the new campus, the new park will improve access to quality green space in Manchester city centre, creating a connection to the existing Cotton Field Park behind and through to Ancoats and New Islington. The park space has been designed in collaboration with landscape architects Planit-IE following public consultation. A central lawn and plaza will create a green buffer to Great Ancoats Street, with various tiered gardens navigating the different level changes across the site, alongside play areas, paths and tranquil areas to escape the noise of the city. The park has been designed to make sure that it is fully accessible. The site will accommodate new walking and cycling routes, helping to link to other city centre active travel investment in Ancoats, Northern Quarter and out towards the Etihad Campus. Mark Bourgeois, CEO at the GPA, said: “We are delighted with the decision and are grateful for the support of the many stakeholders in Manchester. The GPA team is proud to be working on this exciting project in support of the Government’s growth mission.” The GPA exchanged contracts to acquire five-and-a-half acres of the former Central Retail Park in Ancoats from the city council in May last year with a view to constructing a state-of-the-art digital campus. Both the agency and Manchester City Council have been working together on the plans for Ancoats, culminating in a parallel proposal for the digital campus and an adjacent public park. The council and the GPA held a joint consultation around emerging plans for the former retail site in August and September last year, inviting local residents, businesses and other stakeholders to help guide proposals to create the new government digital campus – delivered by the GPA – and a new city centre park space, delivered by the council. Mark added: “We are pleased to be working with Manchester City Council on these regeneration plans, and look forward to creating fantastic and sustainable workplaces to support the transformation of the Civil Service. “This proposed development, builds on the work MCC and the GPA undertook last year in putting in place an updated Strategic Regeneration Framework, and the shared ambition to regenerate the Ancoats former retail site, creating employment and wider business opportunities, supported by the digital campus.” Leader of the Council Bev Craig said: “Gaining planning approval for both the GPA’s digital campus and the latest city centre park is the launchpad for the transformation of this site.   “Our ambition has long been to bring the former retail park back into active use and working in partnership with the GPA we are delivering a quality, low carbon development that will bring 7,000 civil service jobs to Manchester in the coming years.  “The new digital campus plays to Manchester’s strengths. We have fostered one of the fastest growing tech and digital communities in the UK, with a growing international reputation. The transformation of this brownfield site supports our ongoing growth in the sector, which translates into quality employment and development opportunities for our residents.   “We stand ready to work with this Government to bring forward other ambitious investments in Manchester that can continue our path of sustainable economic growth, supporting our residents to thrive.  “At the same time, the new park is a welcome addition to our city centre green spaces and a reimagining of the former retail site that has for many years acted only as a barrier to the community behind – and an eyesore in one of the most exciting parts of our city.”   Find out more about the redevelopment of the former retail site.  Read the planning applications here Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Have your say on plans to transform Seafield into a new environmentally friendly neighbourhood

Have your say on plans to transform Seafield into a new environmentally friendly neighbourhood

The City of Edinburgh Council is inviting residents to share their views on the regeneration of Seafield to make sure it responds to the needs and wishes of the local community. As a key site for delivering the goals set out in the Edinburgh City Plan 2030, plans for the narrow stretch of land include a new promenade, GP surgery and opportunities for new shops and workplaces. The coastal site could also include as many as 2,700 new homes, with 35% of homes being affordable, to address the Capital’s housing emergency. Future residents will benefit from the provision of a heat network which will help keep energy bills down whilst contributing to the city’s net zero targets. The consultation, which closes on Wednesday 30 April 2025, will build on the first two stages of engagement and consultation carried out to date. Residents can attend a drop-in session to discuss the plans, or they can take part in an online survey via the Consultation Hub. Planning Convener James Dalgleish said: Our draft plan to transform Seafield into a new environmentally friendly neighbourhood will take us one step further to tackling our housing emergency and reaching net zero by 2030. This is a chance for residents to shape the future of the area – whether it’s about improving transport links, preserving green spaces or introducing new community facilities and we’re eager to hear everyone’s ideas for a Seafield that serves the whole community. I’d encourage everyone to share their views with us by filling in our online survey or coming along to one of our consultation drop-in events.  The in-person events will take place on the following dates and times: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hillingdon declares its ‘open for business’ at inaugural conference

Hillingdon declares its ‘open for business’ at inaugural conference

Last week Hillingdon Council showcased its plans to work alongside partners and businesses to build a thriving economy at its first investment conference.   The ‘Hillingdon Takes Off’ event, supported by SEGRO and held at the Battle of Britain Bunker Exhibition and Visitor Centre, Uxbridge, celebrated the borough’s burgeoning reputation as a key hub for London business and invited more organisations to engage with the council and invest in Hillingdon as part of its efforts to further drive economic growth.    More than 100 representatives from 70 different business sectors came together to find out what the borough has to offer and its ambitious plans for future prosperity.   Following an introduction from the Leader of Hillingdon Council, Cllr Ian Edwards, three panel discussions took place chaired by Majeed Neky from the West London Alliance, Matthew Battle from UK Property Forums and Andy Sharma from Hillingdon Chamber of Commerce and featuring representatives from the council, Greater London Authority, Transport for London, Heathrow Airport, Brunel University London, SEGRO, Colt Data Centre Services, Altair, MACE and Higgins Group.   The seminars covered a range of topics, including the challenges presented by housing, transport and investment; success stories from established investors about their experience and why they chose Hillingdon; and how the council is shaping a new Local Plan and its key investment areas.   Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing and Growth, said: “We were delighted to welcome so many attendees to this special event to herald that Hillingdon is very much open to new investment opportunities and looking to capitalise on its position as west London’s gateway for business.   “Our priority is fostering economic growth and creating an environment where businesses can thrive.   “We want to work with our business community, new and existing investors and partners to drive innovation and development in the right places, ensuring the local economy continues to flourish which will improve the lives of our residents and make Hillingdon an even better place to live, work, study and do business.  “There are plenty of exciting opportunities for growth, so I encourage anyone wanting to invest in Hillingdon to get in touch.”  To find out more, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/Invest-in-Hillingdon Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Etruscan Square Regeneration Moves Forward as Development Partner Named

Etruscan Square Regeneration Moves Forward as Development Partner Named

A major step forward has been made in the multi-million-pound regeneration of Etruscan Square, as Stoke-on-Trent City Council announces Genr8 Kajima Regeneration Limited (GKRL) as the preferred development partner. GKRL plans to work with partners, including PfP Igloo, to deliver a mix of high-quality, affordable housing alongside leisure and commercial opportunities to attract new businesses and residents to the city centre. Following the formal selection process, site surveys and investigations are expected to begin later this year. The site will be prepared for development in 2026, with construction of new homes targeted for 2027. The project is a key part of the wider city centre masterplan, designed to transform Hanley into a vibrant place to live, work, shop, and visit. Etruscan Square is one of the Midlands’ largest cleared regeneration sites, spanning around seven acres. Backed by £20 million in Government funding, it sits on the former bus station and East-West Precinct site, adjacent to Hanley Bus Station and close to Smithfield and the Potteries Museum & Art Gallery. GKRL, a joint venture between Genr8 Developments LLP and Kajima Partnerships LLP, has a strong track record in delivering major regeneration projects, including the Rochdale Riverside mixed-use development. The partnership also has existing ties to Stoke-on-Trent, with Genr8 leading the Smithfield development and Kajima delivering the £60 million Stoke Extra Care scheme. Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, Cabinet Member for Transport, Infrastructure and Regeneration, emphasised the importance of progress, stating: “For too long, people have been promised action but have seen little progress. That is going to change. This partnership is a vote of confidence in Stoke-on-Trent’s future. We are working with a developer that has a strong track record, and together, we will deliver high-quality homes and new opportunities for businesses and residents.” Richard Ingham, Director at GKRL, added: “Etruscan Square is a unique opportunity to revitalise the city centre. Our passion is creating sustainable environments where communities can thrive. We look forward to working closely with the Council to deliver long-term economic and social value.” With a clear plan and an experienced development partner in place, the long-awaited transformation of Etruscan Square is set to take shape. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Work starts on new sheltered housing schemes after £7.8million grant is secured

Work starts on new sheltered housing schemes after £7.8million grant is secured

East Riding of Yorkshire Council has been awarded a £7.8 million grant from Homes England, the Government’s Housing and Regeneration Agency, to develop two new sheltered housing schemes and work is now underway. The two sheltered housing developments benefiting from the funding are Moat Hill in Anlaby and Deira Court in Driffield. The Council has committed £25.7 million to demolish and rebuild the accommodations, to meet modern standards and aspirations. Demolition and construction contracts have been awarded to Hull-based developers Hobson & Porter. A groundbreaking ceremony was held at Moat Hill, Anlaby which was attended by representatives from the council and Hobson & Porter, to celebrate the start of the project. The new sheltered schemes will feature a mixture of one-and-two-bedroom flats with generous open-plan layouts. The homes will be adaptable to meet residents’ needs as they age, thereby helping them to live independently for longer. Additionally, there will be a communal resident lounge for social activities, and each scheme will be equipped with the latest digital telecare equipment connected to the Council’s ‘Lifeline’ support service. This funding is part of the Affordable Homes Programme (2021-26), which received an additional £400 million in the Autumn budget. To qualify for this funding, projects must commence by the end of the financial year, with priority given to regeneration developments and those offering social rent. Councillor Anne Handley East Riding of Yorkshire Council leader said “These grants will play a key role in ensuring that the council can continue to invest in its sheltered housing stock. It’s great to see the work in progress, and I look forward to seeing the first new residents move into the accommodation, when the project is completed.” Shahi Islam, Homes England Director of Affordable Housing Grant said “As the Government’s housing and regeneration agency, increasing the supply of quality affordable homes remains one of our key objectives and we are committed to supporting East Riding of Yorkshire Council to achieve their ambitions. “Projects like Moat Hill and Deira Court are key examples of how the agency works collaboratively with partners through the Affordable Homes Programme to achieve our mission to build much needed new communities that people can be proud of.” Mark Smee, Director at Hobson & Porter: “We are delighted to be starting on site with this project in Anlaby. Our business was established back in 1971 principally to provide construction services to local authority housing projects, so its great to be working with one of our longest-served clients in this sector to deliver a flagship, local project like this. We can’t wait to see it develop.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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GMI Construction Group begins work on major Grimsby regeneration project

GMI Construction Group begins work on major Grimsby regeneration project

GMI Construction Group has started work on one of the largest regeneration projects in Grimsby’s history – the transformation of Freshney Place into a dynamic leisure, retail, food hub and complimentary market. This landmark investment, backed by the Government and North East Lincolnshire Council, aims to revitalise the shopping area in the heart of the port town to secure its long-term economic future. GMI, appointed principal contractor by the council’s regeneration manager Queensberry,  will construct a modern market hall with refreshed facades, featuring internal upgrades, and a new five-screen cinema and adjacent leisure facility, developed as shell-only units providing greater flexibility for tenants. It will also deliver three commercial units designed for food and beverage operators, a newly designed public square serving as a central focal point, upgraded shopfronts and bulkheads within Market Square, as well as the refurbishment of three existing retail units. The initial phase involves an internal strip-out followed by the demolition in summer of the existing market hall and rooftop carpark. There will also be a partial demolition of the former BHS store on Flottergate and several commercial units in Flottergate Mall and the Bullring. Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Cllr Philip Jackson, joined representatives from GMI Construction Group on site to formally launch the project. He said: “We’re on a hugely ambitious journey, with significant investment of public funds across our towns and borough. We’re investing in one of the largest schemes this council has ever invested in, and I’m pleased to be working with GMI on this significant contract. “Our Freshney Place regeneration scheme is, in my firm belief, the most important regeneration project we have seen in North East Lincolnshire. It is key to the future of our town centre – underpinning the other regeneration taking place as well as securing the future of Freshney Place and the 1,700 local jobs it supports” Ed Weston, GMI’s Commercial Director, said: “We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will breathe new life into the town centre. Our expertise in delivering both urban regeneration projects and high-quality mixed-use developments will ensure that Freshney Place becomes a vibrant destination for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.” Paul Sargent, founder of Queensberry, and the Council’s Development and Asset Manager for Freshney Place, added: “We are looking forward to working with GMI’s team on this critical regeneration project that is vital to the continued success and popularity of Freshney Place. This is the sort of placemaking everyone talks about, but not everyone gets the opportunity to create.” The scheme has already attracted strong interest from key tenants, with local operator Parkway Cinema pre-let on the five-screen venue and Starbucks confirming its return, while discussions continue with a leading food outlet. The investment builds upon wider regeneration efforts across Grimsby, complementing projects such as the Onside Youth Zone and a new housing development at Garth Lane. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority to begin work

Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority to begin work

The long-awaited Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority can now officially begin its work after the final steps were taken by the Government to create the new body. The signing of the relevant order by the minister moves the area closer to unlocking a £400 million investment fund, alongside powers that will move from Westminster to local decision-makers. The Combined Authority will be led by an elected Mayor, with voters going to the polls on Thursday 1 May 2025. Elections will then take place every four years. The Combined Authority has been created after Hull City Council and East Riding of Yorkshire Council agreed a devolution deal with the Government. The Leader of Hull City Council, Councillor Mike Ross, said: “I’m delighted that we have got to this stage in the process after years of hard work by many people. “For too long our area has been left behind, but it’s now time for us to reach our full potential. “The creation of the Combined Authority unlocks vital empowerment and investment, and I believe we have the talent and drive to make the most of what devolution brings.” The Leader of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Councillor Anne Handley, said: “This is fantastic news and serves as a significant landmark in the devolution process. “It’s great to receive official confirmation that devolved powers will be coming to our area, with an elected mayor, and the ability to unlock investment and opportunities for our region.” Representatives from both councils will now put in place the necessary arrangements to operate the Combined Authority, including the delivery of May’s Mayoral election. The new Combined Authority does not replace either Hull City Council or East Riding of Yorkshire Council. Both local authorities will retain their independence and continue their work as normal. Residents will, for instance, still see council-branded bin wagons collect their household waste. The new Combined Authority will take on powers relating to transport, where it will become the Local Transport Authority for the area, allowing it to develop a single strategic transport plan for the North Bank of the Humber. For more information on the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority, visit Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority – Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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New chief executive Stannard "ambitious" for Manchester

New chief executive Stannard “ambitious” for Manchester

Manchester City Council’s new Chief Executive Tom Stannard starts in the role today, Monday 3 February 2025.  Tom becomes only the third Chief Executive in more than 25 years in a city which prides itself on stability and long-term strategic planning.  He brings with him considerable experience, having served as Chief Executive in neighbouring Salford City Council for the past four years – overseeing achievements including the transformative regeneration of Salford, an ambitious council housebuilding programme and high-performing children’s services – and held a number of senior posts in a long local government career.   Tom is nationally recognised as a leading voice in local government, public service reform and delivering inclusive growth and currently holds the lead chef executive brief for Greater Manchester in the economy, business and international portfolio.    He joins the Council at a pivotal moment as it gears up to bring forward the 2025-2030 Our Manchester Strategy which will guide the city in the decade ahead. The new vision will aim to build on the achievements of the 2015-2025 plan, delivering economic growth that benefits everyone – including by addressing inequalities through the Making Manchester Fairer action plan and pursuing ambitious housebuilding and zero carbon programmes.   As well as driving forward this long-term strategy, Tom will ensure the Council stays focused on providing high quality day-to-day services and supporting clean, green and vibrant neighbourhoods across the city.   Tom will also be the place-based lead for Manchester and its locality health arrangements within the Greater Manchester Integrated Care system.   Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Tom brings experience, energy and ideas to this important role for the city and will oversee the delivery of our vision for Manchester’s next decade.   “The city is on a positive trajectory, making an impact on the world stage while continuing to improve its neighbourhoods and create opportunities for its residents, and I’m looking forward to working with Tom in the years ahead to take these achievements to the next level.”   Tom Stannard, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, said: “I’m highly ambitious for Manchester and the people who call it home.   “I’ve lived and worked in Greater Manchester for much of my career so I know the area well and have a deep personal commitment to it. But at the same time, there’s always more insight to gain and I’m looking forward to getting to know more of those who make up Team Manchester – from the elected members and council staff to partner organisations, businesses and residents who all have a part to play in the city’s success.   “This is an incredible job in a remarkable city and I’m delighted to be here to get working on behalf of Manchester and its people.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Plans submitted for £70m Greater Manchester Passivhaus Low Energy scheme

Plans submitted for £70m Greater Manchester Passivhaus Low Energy scheme

A two-tower residential development, designed by London and Manchester-based AEW Architects, has been submitted to Stockport Council as part of the town’s ongoing regeneration plans. The £70m project features two connected blocks of eight and 20 stories, designed to meet The Passivhaus Institute Low Energy Building Standard. The focus is on creating sustainable homes that enhance the local neighbourhood and create a vibrant new community for the people of Stockport. Located in a busy area in Stockport town centre, the development will transform a derelict office building and car park into much-needed new homes in one of the North West’s most up-and-coming areas. The design puts people first, with features that make everyday living better. These include clever positioning to make the most of natural sunlight, bright and airy staircases, shared laundry areas, and a rooftop garden with community allotments and solar panels. At the heart of the development sits a 100m² flexible space which can be used for various events and workshops for residents and non-residents. The project will create 245 new homes, including 12 townhouses and 233 apartments, offering a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom properties—a great mix of options for the area which has grown substantially in popularity of late.  Phil Hepworth, director at AEW Architects, said: “This is a prominent site surrounded by major infrastructure, so we’ve created a simple, elegant building that rises confidently into the sky. “The curved brick façade offers a timeless aesthetic that fits with the local area and we’ve adapted the distinctive oval shape to work with the challenging ground levels, which change by up to six metres in places.” The scheme recently secured Brownfield funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA), highlighting its importance to the region’s housing plans. “We wanted to create a development that’s a good neighbour and sets high standards for future projects,” Phil added. “The building changes as you walk around it, creating interesting views from different angles. “We’re focused on creating homes that work for people of all ages and fit naturally into the area. We’ve followed guidance from both the ‘Stockport Town Centre Residential Design Guide’ and ‘Creating Age-Friendly Developments’ by the Greater Manchester Housing, Planning, and Ageing Group to achieve this.” As well as the project’s striking visual look, the homes and apartments will meet National Subscribed Space Standards (NDSS) and approximately 10% of the apartments are designed to meet M4(3) standards for wheel chair users and the positioning of these apartments has been carefully considered to make them attractive to potential residents. On behalf of developer, Progressive Living, the building will be professionally managed by Picture This. The project is supported by a highly experienced delivery team, including Euan Kellie Property Solutions, Re-Form, renaissance, Zerum, OFR, GIA, Novo, Our Studio, Jameson Acoustics, SK Transport, Turley and Oxford Archaeology.   Subject to approval, work should start in Summer 2025, with completion expected by June 2027. David Fairclough, director at Progressive Living, commented: “We committed to Stockport six years ago, purchasing Victoria House with a clear vision of the town’s potential as a vibrant place to live and invest. After collaborating with the Council to integrate the two sites, we are excited to play a key role in Stockport’s growth story and its continued economic success.” Shannon Conway, co-founder of Picture This, added: “We gave AEW a difficult brief in that we wanted a green building that was designed to be practical and appeal to all ages, with a choice of homes for wheelchair users. We also wanted to ensure non-residents could access the roof gardens without compromising the safety and security of the residents. At various points, design was put on hold as we tested AEW’s design with user groups. The final design is a testament to true collaboration between designer and user.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Next phase of Kirklees Council’s Our Cultural Heart development approved

Next phase of Kirklees Council’s Our Cultural Heart development approved

Plans for the second phase of Kirklees Council’s Our Cultural Heart development received a green light today, paving the way for a flagship new museum and art gallery in Huddersfield town centre. Construction on Phase One of Our Cultural Heart, led by contractor BAM, is now well underway, with the former Queensgate Market building being transformed into a vibrant food hall and adjoining new community library. The approved ‘Section 73’ planning application focusses on Phase Two of the masterplan, which includes the major refurbishment of the Grade II Listed building on Princess Alexandra Walk that, until recently, housed the town’s library. Plans for the second phase of Kirklees Council’s Our Cultural Heart development received a green light today, paving the way for a flagship new museum and art gallery in Huddersfield town centre. Construction on Phase One of Our Cultural Heart, led by contractor BAM, is now well underway, with the former Queensgate Market building being transformed into a vibrant food hall and adjoining new community library. The approved ‘Section 73’ planning application focusses on Phase Two of the masterplan, which includes the major refurbishment of the Grade II Listed building on Princess Alexandra Walk that, until recently, housed the town’s library. The designs by architect FCBStudios will see the historic four-storey building become a flagship museum and art gallery, helping to attract more visitors to the town and creating exciting opportunities for local businesses and the region’s culture sector. A sympathetically designed extension to the north will enhance accessibility and create uninterrupted connections to the surrounding spaces. Public access will be via a new ramp unlocking universal access to the historic entrance to the south and level access to the new extension. Cabinet have also just approved the release of around £5.4m from the overall Our Cultural Heart project budget, which will be used to progress the procurement of a construction contractor and final design work for Phase Two, with a view to starting on site in early 2026. Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: “This is another important milestone for Our Cultural Heart. The new museum and art gallery will become a key cultural destination for Yorkshire and showcase the huge mix of talent we have across the region. Not only will this project attract more visitors to our town centre and boost Kirklees’ economy, it will also ensure the long-term preservation and vitality of one of our most cherished buildings. “Regeneration is not just about bricks and mortar. Our ambition is to give local people and visitors more reasons to spend time in the town centre. By increasing footfall, and in turn commercial opportunities, our plans will also benefit existing and future businesses from all sectors. Thriving businesses in turn provide employment opportunities for our communities. “Huddersfield has a bright future, and I am proud to be part of it.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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