South Quay Regeneration: Breathing New Life into Pembroke’s Historic Heart Pembrokeshire County Council has embarked on an ambitious regeneration programme, awarding Andrew Scott Ltd the transformative redevelopment of the historic South Quay site adjacent to Pembroke Castle. The project, progressing in two distinct phases, promises to revitalise the area with a sustainable mix of uses, enhancing the town’s appeal and functionality. Phase One: Honouring Pembroke’s Tudor Legacy The initial phase of this £18m initiative, supported by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme and the Transformation Capital Grants Scheme, celebrates Pembroke’s rich history as the birthplace of the Tudor dynasty. This phase will introduce a Henry Tudor visitor centre, a modern library and information hub, a café, and beautifully landscaped gardens, creating a vibrant cultural and community space. Phase Two: The Pembroke Hwb The second phase, known as ‘The Pembroke Hwb’, is funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up programme and the Welsh Government’s Integrated Rebalancing Capital Fund. This phase centres around the regeneration of numbers 7 and 8 Northgate Street and will deliver an integrated three-storey community hub. Facilities will include spaces for day opportunities, learning, and skills development aimed at fostering independent living across all age groups. Additionally, it will offer supported employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity at its core. Enhancing the Environment and Accessibility The project will restore South Quay’s historic buildings while introducing a new sunken garden and upgraded parking facilities. Improved pathways will enhance connectivity between the Henry Tudor visitor centre and the waterfront, further enriching the site’s accessibility and aesthetic appeal. Leadership and Vision Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Council and Cabinet Member for Place, the Region, and Climate Change, remarked: “Pembrokeshire’s leadership and financial investment of over £10 million into the South Quay development will provide a civic and social asset with lasting benefit to Pembroke and the county as a whole.” Preserving Heritage for Future Generations Mark Bowen, Managing Director of Andrew Scott Ltd, shared his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to have been awarded this project by Pembrokeshire County Council. We will collaborate with the Council to help conserve Wales’s heritage by breathing new life into the historic South Quay site, sensitively refurbishing and repurposing it for the 21st century.” The South Quay regeneration is set to become a cornerstone of Pembroke’s future, preserving its history while fostering growth and inclusivity for generations to come. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

City of Edinburgh Council unanimously grants planning consent ‘in principle’ for 205-acre west Edinburgh site Plans include space for 7,000 new homes – plus two schools, a hotel and commercial, retail & community facilities. One of the most significant and sustainable urban expansions of Edinburgh in a generation is set to proceed following planning approval by the City of Edinburgh Council (CEC). Councillors at CEC’s Development Sub Committee on Wednesday (4 December) voted unanimously to grant planning consent ‘in principle’ for the entire 205-acre ‘West Town’ site in a move which is set to significantly tackle Edinburgh’s well publicised housing emergency. Developed by West Town Edinburgh Ltd, the site is located between Ingliston Park and Ride and the Gogar Roundabout at the capital’s western gateway and is regarded as one of the most strategically important development areas anywhere in the UK. The £2-billion project will become the biggest, single homes-led development in Edinburgh in modern times, whilst providing an outstanding quality of life in a brand-new, sustainable ‘20-minute’ neighbourhood. Development plans follow guidelines set out by CEC’s City Plan 2030 which identifies the area as having the potential to become a vibrant, high-density city extension with a capacity for 7,000 new homes. This includes the largest investment in social housing for Edinburgh in recent years, delivering some 2,500 new affordable homes. Proposals for West Town also span the necessary employment, commercial, leisure and community facilities required for a modern mixed-use community. This includes space for a primary school for up to 630 pupils and a high school for up to 1200 pupils, a 300-bed hotel and 300-apartment student accommodation. There will also be 450,000 sq. ft. of mixed-use amenity space including medical provision, civic and community areas – plus bars, restaurants, cafes, retail, commercial and office space. Transport provision will focus on a new tram stop in the centre of the development linked to the Edinburgh Tram route running directly through the site, together with an integrated bus service.  There will also be 27-acres of open green space – including a 5.5-acre central park, several pocket parks and a wildlife corridor criss-crossed by cycle, running and walking tracks. West Town Edinburgh Ltd was formed in April 2021 by Drum Property Group to progress development of the site.  Welcoming the planning approval, Graeme Bone, Drum’s Group Managing Director said: “This planning consent is the next significant milestone in our journey to realise the ambition we share with the Council, as agreed in the City Plan 2030, to deliver a major transformation of the west of Edinburgh. We now have the once-in-a-generation opportunity to make West Town an exemplar, sustainable 20-minute neighbourhood on a par with the best new developments taking place anywhere across the UK and Europe. “The amount of space on the site, combined with its superb location, allows for a natural extension of the city, providing 7,000 mixed-tenure homes and new jobs in a well-designed 20-minute neighbourhood. West Town also has direct access to some of the best public transport in Scotland – the tram line travels through the site and there are integrated rail, cycle and road connections, creating a strategic gateway for the west of Edinburgh.” He added: “Drum has a proven track record of delivering high quality large-scale communities across Scotland and our ambition for the area matches that of the City of Edinburgh Council. We look forward to continuing to work with the Council to advance our shared vision to create a new, sustainable urban quarter for the city.” The phasing of development will be determined through the submission of a ‘phasing framework’, as required in CEC’s proposed conditions. Once this framework is agreed, West Town Edinburgh will submit detailed planning applications for each construction phase, subject to appropriate consultation and eventual CEC determination. Initial phases will be focused on the new tram stop, creating a town centre early in the development together with homes, a new school and commercial, community and amenity spaces. The West Town planning approval followed a successful 12-month consultation programme which included online and public consultation events and a programme of local stakeholder meetings. For more information on West Town, visit www.west-town-edinburgh.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Liverpool City Council has taken a major step in its regeneration efforts by acquiring the 4.55-acre Great George Street brownfield site. Positioned at the gateway to the city’s historic Chinatown and adjacent to the thriving Baltic Triangle district, the site sits close to Liverpool Cathedral, making it a prime location for transformative development. Unlocking a Long-Stalled Opportunity Development of the Great George Street site had been stalled since 2017 due to complex legal challenges surrounding leaseholds. The situation was further complicated when the former owner, The Great George Street Project Limited, entered administration in February 2022. Since then, Liverpool City Council has been working with administrators Cowgills Limited and Farleys Solicitors LLP to finalise the acquisition. In a landmark achievement, the council successfully secured ownership of the site, clearing the way for future development. The sale required approval from the High Court due to the complexities involved, which was granted on 15 November 2023. Just two weeks later, the transaction was completed, bringing the site under unified ownership. Support from Government and Regional Authorities The acquisition was supported by a £10 million funding allocation from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA). This financial backing reflects a shared commitment to unlocking Liverpool’s potential and reinvigorating stalled development sites, including nearby projects like Festival Gardens and Central Docks at Liverpool Waters. This move also underscores the council’s determination to address a legacy of failed developments following its successful exit from statutory government intervention. Regenerating Chinatown and Beyond Liverpool City Council is now drafting proposals to catalyse regeneration in the wider Chinatown area. This effort builds on recent engagement with local businesses, student entrepreneurs, community groups, and investors, who came together to discuss strategies to revive the district’s business, cultural, and visitor economy. The Great George Street site also ties closely to ongoing developments in the Baltic Triangle, where the new Liverpool Baltic Station has secured £96 million in funding from the LCRCA and is set to open in 2027. The proximity of these projects creates a unique opportunity to transform the area into a thriving hub of activity. A Vision for Growth and Opportunity Councillor Nick Small, Cabinet Member for Growth and Economy at Liverpool City Council, expressed optimism about the project’s potential:“The acquisition of the stalled Great George Street development is a hugely significant step in resetting the story of this major gateway site. Its proximity to the Baltic Triangle, which is undergoing huge change, means its development is critical to Liverpool’s future. I’m looking forward to delivering new opportunities, homes, and businesses to create a vibrant and positive future for our historic Chinatown district.” Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, echoed this sentiment:“I’m really pleased to see Liverpool City Council break through the many legal hurdles that have held this important site back for far too long. With that cleared, we’re now in a position to crack on with bringing new homes and jobs to the area, creating genuine opportunities for local people. Along with the new Liverpool Baltic Station, this is one of the most exciting development projects in the country.” A Bright Future for a Historic Neighbourhood The successful acquisition of the Great George Street site marks a turning point in Liverpool’s regeneration efforts. By unlocking the potential of this key location, the city is set to deliver much-needed homes, jobs, and opportunities while breathing new life into its historic Chinatown and vibrant Baltic Triangle district. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Edinburgh City Council has greenlit the transformative £1.3 billion Granton Waterfront Regeneration Project, a bold initiative that aims to redefine the northern coastline as a vibrant, sustainable community. Collaborating with Cruden Homes, the development will bring 847 net-zero-ready homes to life, establishing it as Scotland’s most ambitious brownfield redevelopment. A Sustainable Vision for Urban Living Set for delivery between 2025 and 2032, the first phase of the project will introduce a variety of housing options, including homes for sale, social rent, and mid-market rent. These will be complemented by a new primary school, commercial units, expansive public and open spaces, and enhanced sustainable transport links. At its core, the development embraces environmental responsibility, featuring a cutting-edge low-carbon heat network and active travel routes that prioritise cycling and walking, supporting a greener way of life for residents. Honouring Heritage While Building the Future Beyond sustainability, the Granton Waterfront project celebrates the area’s rich industrial and cultural heritage. The iconic Granton Gasholder, a striking remnant of the city’s gasworks past, will be repurposed into a dynamic public park, offering residents and visitors a distinctive recreational space. Similarly, the restoration of the historic Granton Station will create a vibrant cultural and community hub, complete with a new square to foster social connections. A Catalyst for Change The Granton Waterfront regeneration aligns with Edinburgh’s broader goals of creating inclusive, climate-conscious neighbourhoods while addressing the city’s housing needs. As part of the council’s commitment to tackling the climate emergency, the project represents a landmark moment in combining urban development with environmental stewardship. Once complete, this landmark regeneration will not only enhance the city’s northern coastline but also establish a blueprint for sustainable, community-focused developments across Scotland. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Knowsley Council has approved funding for the first phase of an ambitious 10-year redevelopment plan that will reshape Huyton town centre. The transformative project includes a new council headquarters, a 130-room hotel, and 72 affordable one- and two-bedroom apartments, laying the foundation for a revitalised community hub. Set to inject up to £50 million into the local economy, the redevelopment is expected to create approximately 1,700 new jobs. The project spans over seven acres, replacing outdated 1970s council buildings with modern, purpose-built infrastructure that reflects the needs of a growing and dynamic population. The council’s masterplan doesn’t stop there. Future phases could include additional office spaces and up to 300 new homes, cementing Huyton’s place as a vibrant destination for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. With this bold initiative, Huyton town centre is poised to become a modern and thriving focal point for the region, ensuring a bright future for its community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A significant milestone has been reached in the regeneration of Hayes Town Centre, where a topping out ceremony was held to celebrate the highest structural point of construction in the first phase of two major developments. Delivered by Higgins Partnerships in collaboration with Hillingdon Council, these developments are set to transform the heart of Hayes Town Centre and Avondale Drive, delivering much-needed housing and public spaces to the community. The first phase includes 110 new homes, with 80 homes located at Hayes Town Centre and an additional 30 properties at Avondale Drive. Once fully completed, the two developments will provide a minimum of 740 new homes across social rent, shared ownership and private sale tenures. The delivery of affordable homes has been prioritised in the programme, helping to address local housing needs promptly. Declan Higgins, Chief Executive Officer at Higgins Group said, “We are delighted to reach this important milestone at Hayes Town Centre. This achievement brings us closer to delivering high-quality, sustainable homes, along with high-quality public spaces that will enhance the lives of residents and create a thriving, inclusive community.” Both Hayes Town Centre and Avondale Drive developments will feature new high-quality public open spaces, improved pedestrian and cycle routes, secure car parking, landscaping and children’s play areas. At Hayes Town Centre Estate a new community centre will also replace the existing one, providing enhanced facilities for residents. Cllr Steve Tuckwell, Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning, Housing said: “Our priority was to ensure that the affordable homes for local people were included in the first phases of development.  “Council properties are in high demand, and creating new homes is a key part of our strategy to create safe and strong communities and prevent homelessness, so I’m delighted to see these works progress.”  In line with its commitment to social value, Higgins Partnerships has actively engaged with the local community through its Community Charters, creating apprenticeship and training opportunities for residents. It has also partnered with organisations such as Minet Nursery and Primary School, Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge College and Austin Sewing Club to deliver meaningful community support and opportunities for skill development. The masterplans for both estates were approved by Hillingdon Council’s planning committee in March 2022 after extensive consultation with residents on the designs. In a ballot held in May 2021, residents strongly supported the redevelopment, with 94 per cent in favour at Avondale Drive, and 79 per cent in favour at Hayes Town Centre Estate. The redevelopment of the two Estates is expected to take approximately seven to nine years to accommodate decant and phased construction strategy, allowing as many residents as possible to stay on-site with minimal disruption. For further information about Higgins Partnerships please visit www.higginspartnerships.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Sunderland is undergoing significant regeneration, with several key projects aimed at revitalising the city and its economy. Notable developments include the following: Riverside Sunderland Masterplan This ambitious project envisions the creation of a sustainable urban quarter featuring: The master plan’s ambitious vision to double Sunderland’s city centre population not only promises economic growth but also a more dynamic and diverse community. This growth is particularly beneficial for the Erobella team, as the increasing number of residents presents opportunities for local sex workers and escorts to thrive. With the influx of professionals, students, and families moving into the area, the demand for various personal and social services is expected to rise – particularly those centred around the adult entertainment industry. Services such as erotic massage, companionship, and intimate encounters are sure to rise with new residents. Enhanced infrastructure, such as improved transportation and leisure facilities, complements this growth, fostering a more inclusive and vibrant city where businesses and individuals alike can flourish in the revitalised urban environment. Vaux Site Redevelopment The former Vaux Brewery site is being transformed into a mixed-use development, including: International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP) Located near Nissan’s Sunderland plant, IAMP is a significant development hub for manufacturing, featuring: Stadium Village Development Surrounding the Stadium of Light, the Stadium Village area is set for redevelopment, including: Crown Works Studios An ambitious project aims to establish Sunderland as a major film production hub by developing: These projects collectively represent a transformative period for Sunderland, focusing on sustainable development, economic growth, and enhanced quality of life for residents.