Public Sector : Local Authority News

Development partner agreed to deliver £500m Wythenshawe Civic regen

Development partner agreed to deliver £500m Wythenshawe Civic regen

National placemaker, Muse has been named as the delivery and investment partner that will work with the Council to deliver the transformational investment in Wythenshawe town centre.   The procurement exercise began in October 2023 to find a private sector partner that could invest and develop Civic at scale to meet

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MULTI-MILLION COMMUNITY HUB HITS KEY MILESTONE IN SURREY

Multi-million community hub hits key milestone in Surrey 

TRANSFORMATIVE redevelopment plans are underway in Weybridge, Surrey, that will place educational, commercial and wellbeing opportunities at the heart of the community.  The new Surrey County Council Weybridge Hub, located on the existing Weybridge Library site on Church Road, will include a new library, youth support service, activity area, and business space in a modern

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Housebuilding boost ‘urgently needed’ – London Councils responds to planning reforms announcement

Housebuilding boost ‘urgently needed’ – London Councils responds to planning reforms announcement

Responding to the Deputy Prime Minister’s announcement on reforming the National Planning Policy Framework, London boroughs have reiterated their strong support for housing growth. London faces the most severe housing pressures in the country. London Councils estimates one in 50 Londoners is currently homeless and living in temporary accommodation, including

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Southwark Council opens brand new homes development in Bermondsey

Southwark Council officially opened its brand new homes development in south Bermondsey on Tuesday 23 July 2024. The development is named Folajimi Apartments, to commemorate the life and bravery of Folajimi Olubunmi-Adewole (Jimi), who tragically drowned in the River Thames in April 2021 after jumping in to rescue another person

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Plans approved for Salford’s Crescent Innovation

Plans approved for Salford’s Crescent Innovation

Scheme set to enhance Salford’s global reputation for industry and innovation Plans to bring forward Crescent Innovation, a pivotal element of the wider £2.5bn, 252-acre Crescent Salford masterplan, have been approved by Salford City Council.  The proposals are being brought forward by the Crescent partnership, comprised of Salford City Council,

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Holt Town vision takes shape as Council looks ahead to major consultation

Holt Town vision takes shape as Council looks ahead to major consultation

The Council’s executive committee will be asked to approve the move to consult on a Neighbourhood Development Framework (NDF) for the east Manchester neighbourhood.  Earlier this year, Studio Egret West were chosen to lead a multi-disciplinary team to develop the neighbourhood regeneration plan that will guide investment in Holt Town

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BDC 321 : Oct 2024

Public Sector : Local Authority News

Development partner agreed to deliver £500m Wythenshawe Civic regen

Development partner agreed to deliver £500m Wythenshawe Civic regen

National placemaker, Muse has been named as the delivery and investment partner that will work with the Council to deliver the transformational investment in Wythenshawe town centre.   The procurement exercise began in October 2023 to find a private sector partner that could invest and develop Civic at scale to meet the regeneration ambitions set out in the the town centre.   The appointment will help accelerate the long-term programme of regeneration that will see a new public square, new shops, net zero carbon commercial space, community and cultural space and more than 1,750 new homes – including significant affordable housing – over the next 10years.   The joint venture partnership has set an ambition to deliver the UK’s first Positive Energy District (PED) in Wythenshawe. By delivering highly energy efficient buildings – along with native trees, urban allotments, and roof gardens – achieving PED status at Civic is part of a clear roadmap to achieving net zero carbon and greatly improving local biodiversity.  The total investment cost is expected to exceed £500m with the initial development work commencing as early as 2025.   Kickstarting the investment, the Council was awarded a £20m grant through the Levelling Up (LUF) programme, which will be complemented by a further £11.9m from the Council to deliver a cultural and creative hub, food hall, co-working and employment space, and initial investment in new public realm.   Muse will work together with the Council and other local partners to support the delivery of this funding and maximise its impact in Wythenshawe with an exciting new arts and culture offer.  Find out more about the investment at Wythenshawe Civic  The procurement exercise was managed on behalf of the Council by Savills and DWF Group.   Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said:  “This is a key moment for our ambitious plan for long-term regeneration of Wythenshawe Civic. Bringing Muse in as development and investment partner means we can quickly progress to begin delivering on proposals that will genuinely transform the town centre in the coming years.  “Muse brings with them a wealth of experience in transformational and sustainable development projects and we look forward to working closely with them to bring forward plans for the town centre quickly.  “Regeneration is about much more than buildings, it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create jobs, deliver secure and affordable housing, tackle deprivation, strengthen community and create opportunity for the people of Wythenshawe.  “In the meantime, we are still progressing initial investment at the Civic – including the new public square, culture hub and food hall as a statement of intent around our ambition for Wythenshawe – there’s a lot to be excited about and we’ll keep the local community up to date on progress.”  Phil Marsden, Managing Director for Muse – North West, said:   “We are extremely excited to be given this opportunity to deliver a vibrant new neighbourhood in Wythenshawe. A place which is successful, sustainable and full of character. A place that people are proud to live in, and that people will love to visit.  “We will now work closely with Manchester City Council, other local partners and the local community, to deliver against an ambitious and bold strategy. One which delivers a community-centric, climate-resilient, and inclusive Wythenshawe Civic.  “Our team has engaged closely with the community and listened to local people. We will work with, and build on, what already makes Wythenshawe special. We are committed to addressing the challenges and seek to change perceptions. There is so much to be excited about.”

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Esh Construction completes major refurbishment of Dunedin House for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Esh Construction completes major refurbishment of Dunedin House for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Council employees start moving into transformed Dunedin House premises. Esh Construction has completed the major refurbishment of Dunedin House to create a new headquarters for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council. The Council purchased Dunedin House, situated in Teesdale Business Park in North Thornaby, in September 2021 and it has since undergone a major programme of remodelling and refurbishment to provide a more collaborative and flexible working environment for the Council’s employees. Esh was appointed to the contract through the NEPO framework, and the development was part of the Council’s plan to consolidate its existing buildings, allowing for better service delivery and financial efficiency. The building has been fully stripped out with bespoke mechanical and electrical works undertaken on the ground, first and third floors. Along with complete redecoration, new ceilings, toilets and kitchen facilities have been installed as well as specially designed office and collaborative learning spaces and meeting hubs. In a bid to reduce carbon emissions, more than 600 photovoltaic (PV) panels have been installed on the roof of Dunedin House. The PV panels will produce 214,650kWh of energy annually, equating to a carbon saving of 41.51tCO2e each year – the equivalent of planting 1,906 trees. Andrew Schofield, Operations Manager at Esh Construction, said: “At Esh, we pride ourselves on building and maintaining strong working relationships with our clients and we are thrilled to handover the refurbished Dunedin House to Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, aligning their vision for the headquarters by creating inspiring and accessible workspaces for their employees. “Being a local contractor, Esh committed to supporting communities near our projects by sourcing locally and reinvesting into the Tees Valley area.” Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: “The purchase and refurbishment of Dunedin House gave the Council the opportunity to look at an existing building in North Thornaby which is of a good standard and to bring it back into prime use.  “It will allow staff and visitors enjoy a fantastic new working environment and with the building being brought back into full occupancy and with its close proximity, it is certain to be a significant footfall generator in Stockton Town Centre and the wider area.” As part of its Constructing Local strategy, Esh re-invested £2.8 million in the Tees Valley region through responsible procurement on the Dunedin House project.  Stokesley-based P+HS Architects and Stockton-based Sine Consulting Ltd worked as local consultants on the project with Middlesbrough-based Maval Electrical and Mechanical Engineering delivering substantial mechanical, electrical and plumbing works. AtkinsRealis provided contract administration and quantity surveying services in partnership with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Workpattern supplied workspace design and furniture solutions. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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MULTI-MILLION COMMUNITY HUB HITS KEY MILESTONE IN SURREY

Multi-million community hub hits key milestone in Surrey 

TRANSFORMATIVE redevelopment plans are underway in Weybridge, Surrey, that will place educational, commercial and wellbeing opportunities at the heart of the community.  The new Surrey County Council Weybridge Hub, located on the existing Weybridge Library site on Church Road, will include a new library, youth support service, activity area, and business space in a modern multi-use environment.  Integrating closely with the local community, lettable tenants will be able to make use of the commercial areas, with a bookable co-working system in place for local businesses and visiting guests. Regional broadcaster Brooklands Radio will also be a part of the new Weybridge Hub when it opens in Spring 2025.  Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard is working with Surrey County Council and AtkinsRealis on the project, delivering principal design, interior design, architecture and landscape architecture services. The firm is also operating as lead designer via the Surrey Framework for RIBA Stages 1-3, and now as technical advisor for RIBA Stage 4.   Sainaja Feroz, associate at Pick Everard, said: “This is an exciting project that will make a real difference to local people in Weybridge and anyone travelling to this part of Surrey. Having a central community space is so important for the future of our towns and cities, and this new hub is a perfect example of the way in which old spaces can be reshaped and revitalised to meet modern needs, with a host of services under one roof.  “The project builds on our extensive working knowledge operating under the Surrey Framework, and we’re looking forward to the hub taking shape and becoming a welcoming environment for families, businesses, and a host of local organisations for generations to come.”  Natalie Bramhall, Surrey County Council cabinet member for infrastructure, property and waste, said: “We are pleased to be working with Pick Everard on our new Weybridge Hub. We have been reviewing existing spaces within the county to ensure we are making the most of our assets, investing in infrastructure and providing modern, accessible and sustainable spaces for the future benefit of residents both young and old.   “The new Community Hubs form part of this, with the offering at each hub tailored to the specific needs of the surrounding neighbourhood.”   Flexibility and accessibility have been key to the design of the new community hub in Weybridge, with the site sitting within a conservation area and adjacent to listed buildings, including St. James Parish Church, which is view protected.  The external fabric of the new building will be enhanced to modernise and increase its longevity, while also complying with recommendations given by heritage and planning consultants.  Devika Parmar, director at Pick Everard, said: “The scheme at Weybridge has relied on close stakeholder management, which has enabled us to produce an aesthetic that enhances the building’s layout and uses while retaining its existing character.   “Early engagement with building control has allowed the programme to really accelerate, gaining valuable feedback during design development stages that will deliver a fantastic new space for the community of Weybridge.”  The design will also consider sustainability objectives, with an aim to achieve the highest energy efficiency and carbon reduction targets under LETI guidance.  Following a TM54 assessment, the building improvements are predicted to result in a 68% reduction in energy consumption and a 78.3% reduction in total carbon emissions.   The project also forms part of Surrey County Council’s 2030 vision and asset management strategy, which aims to enhance community spaces for people of all ages while promoting services and activities for the community, including ‘safe spaces’ and 24/7 requirements.   For more information on Pick Everard and the services it provides, visit https://www.pickeverard.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Bellrock Signs £50m Hard FM Contract with West Sussex County Council

Bellrock Secures £50 Million Hard FM Contract with West Sussex County Council

Bellrock Group has been awarded a significant five-year hard FM (Facilities Management) contract with West Sussex County Council, valued at up to £10 million per annum. The contract, which spans over 200 corporate sites across nine property categories, will see the Bellrock team delivering planned preventative maintenance, reactive maintenance, and project support services. This partnership underscores Bellrock’s commitment to maintaining a diverse and complex portfolio of properties with precision and care. West Sussex County Council selected Bellrock for this contract due to the company’s emphasis on long-term maintenance strategies and its commitment to reducing the council’s reactive maintenance expenditure. The mobilisation phase began on 1st July, with full-service delivery set to commence in October 2024. Paul Bean, CEO of Bellrock, expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership, stating, “This is a significant achievement and a pivotal new client for us. Safeguarding such a varied range of properties is a considerable responsibility, but one we are proud to undertake. We have strategically grown our business and enhanced our capabilities to deliver top-tier services where they are most needed.” In addition to its core FM services, Bellrock has pledged to collaborate closely with West Sussex County Council to develop social value initiatives aligned with the council’s Social Value Framework. These initiatives are designed to generate positive impacts for the local community and environment. Jeremy Hunt, Cabinet Member for Finance and Property at West Sussex County Council, commented, “We are delighted to award this contract to Bellrock, whose tender was both highly competitive and comprehensive. This represents a significant shift in how West Sussex County Council will approach the delivery of hard FM in the future. I particularly welcome Bellrock’s commitment to working with us on our shared social value objectives. I anticipate a long and mutually beneficial relationship.”

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Surge in London Office Retrofits: City Planners Approve Major Projects in the Square Mile

Surge in London Office Retrofits: City Planners Approve Major Projects in the Square Mile

London’s Square Mile is witnessing a significant surge in office retrofits, with City planners recently approving several key projects that reflect a growing demand for modern, sustainable workspaces. This movement towards upgrading existing buildings, rather than constructing new ones, is not only reshaping the City’s skyline but also contributing to the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing public spaces. In July alone, the City of London Corporation granted approval for a series of major retrofit projects, signalling a strong commitment to sustainable development. Among these, the £250 million renovation of Winchester House at 75 London Wall, formerly the headquarters of Deutsche Bank, stands out as a flagship project. The renovation, which will add three additional floors to the existing structure, aims to create a total of 320,000 square feet of high-quality office space. The project team includes architect Orms, M&E consultant Hoare Lea, and structural engineers London Structures Lab, with Multiplex being a potential contender for the contract. Notably, the project aims to retain 90% of the existing building, significantly expanding its capacity while minimising environmental impact. Another key project is the retrofit of the former Standard Chartered Bank headquarters at 1 Basinghall Avenue, near Moorgate Tube station. This 10-storey building will undergo extensive upgrades, including a new rooftop terrace and significant mechanical and electrical refitting. The project, designed by Stiff & Trevillion Architects, is set to be managed by Overbury and will span 69 months. These developments are not only transforming the office landscape but are also likely to be central topics at upcoming property and construction networking events in London. The City of London Corporation’s “retrofit-first” policy is the driving force behind these initiatives, reflecting a broader strategy to meet the City’s net zero goals. Shravan Joshi, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee, emphasised the City’s leadership in this area: “Attention is always drawn towards the latest large new office developments in the City, but when it comes to retrofitting, the City is leading the way on both policy and delivery, accounting for around half of all major retrofit applications across Greater London.” In addition to the projects at Winchester House and Basinghall Avenue, other notable retrofits approved include St Magnus House on Lower Thames Street and the refurbishment of 1 Old Jewry. The St Magnus House project, designed by Buckley Gray Yeoman for developer Pegasi, will enhance green terraces and improve the building’s energy performance, while also delivering a new riverside destination complete with public art, play spaces, and urban greening. This project will include a public lift to a fully accessible podium level, offering panoramic views across the Thames and new step-free access between the Thames Path and the Grade I Listed St Magnus the Martyr Church. The retrofit at 1 Old Jewry, undertaken by developer Deka Immobilien and designed by Sheppard Robson, will add a new top floor with outdoor terraces, providing 70,000 square feet of Grade A office space and 5,000 square feet of retail space. These developments underscore the City’s commitment to creating high-quality, sustainable office spaces that also enhance the public realm. These projects are part of the City Corporation’s broader objectives outlined in its local plan, City Plan 2040, which seeks to increase the availability of A-Grade office space while driving footfall into the Square Mile. The emphasis on retaining and reusing existing structures is expected to save thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions that would otherwise result from demolition and new construction. Furthermore, these retrofits include significant energy efficiency upgrades, such as LED lighting, heat pumps, and sustainable landscaping features like rain gardens and wildflower green roofs, all of which contribute to the City’s climate action strategy. As the Square Mile continues to evolve, these retrofit projects not only meet the demand for modern office spaces but also reinforce the City’s role as a leader in sustainable urban development. The successful delivery of these projects will not only attract future tenants but also enhance the experience of residents and visitors, further solidifying London’s status as a global financial hub committed to sustainability. Working in the UK is another key contractor, Vanguard. Offering office fit outs, commercial fit outs, refurbishments and design and build projects, they promise that their internal and external solutions are as innovative, buildable and cost-effective as possible within the brief. Take a look at Vanguard’s Office Fit outs to see more. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Housebuilding boost ‘urgently needed’ – London Councils responds to planning reforms announcement

Housebuilding boost ‘urgently needed’ – London Councils responds to planning reforms announcement

Responding to the Deputy Prime Minister’s announcement on reforming the National Planning Policy Framework, London boroughs have reiterated their strong support for housing growth. London faces the most severe housing pressures in the country. London Councils estimates one in 50 Londoners is currently homeless and living in temporary accommodation, including at least one homeless child in every London classroom. More than 320,000 households are on waiting lists for social housing in the capital.  Boroughs have long sought to turbocharge housebuilding to encourage economic growth and address the homelessness crisis. London Councils points to the pipeline of 286,000 homes that have already been granted planning permission in London but are waiting to be built, while reiterating concerns about serious challenges to housing delivery.   The cross-party group welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister’s declaration that councils will have more freedom over how they use the money raised from Right to Buy council house sales. Boroughs have called for fewer restrictions on the use of these sales receipts, arguing that they undermine boroughs’ ability to invest locally in replacement homes and that too much funding is redirected to the Treasury. Cllr Peter Mason, London Councils’ Executive Member for Planning & Skills, said:  “There is no doubt that more homes are urgently needed in London and indeed around the country. Boroughs are strongly pro-housing growth and welcome the government’s focus on boosting housebuilding – including affordable homes and social housing. “New flexibilities over how we use Right to Buy sales receipts are a big step in the right direction. Reducing restrictions will help ensure more money raised from council house sales is better invested locally in building replacement homes. “London boroughs have a good record in granting planning permission, but construction of new homes has seriously stalled in the capital and we’re keen to work with the government in addressing this. As well as improving the planning system, we also need action on the other major factors undermining housebuilding – including the lack of local infrastructure, construction skills shortages, and insufficient long-term funding for affordable homes.”

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Boroughs welcome Spending Review opportunity for ‘desperately needed’ stability and growth powers

Boroughs welcome Spending Review opportunity for ‘desperately needed’ stability and growth powers

London Councils has welcomed the Spending Review announced by the Chancellor as an opportunity to bring “desperately needed” stability to council finances. Responding to the Chancellor’s speech, the cross-party group said that a stable financial footing will “strengthen boroughs’ role as drivers of local growth”. Boroughs are making the case for action to stabilise the local government funding system. Priorities include: Cllr Claire Holland, Chair of London Councils, said: “We welcome this Spending Review as an opportunity to bring desperately needed stability to town hall budgets and strengthen our role as drivers of local growth. “Turning the tide on the council finance crisis is crucial for tackling so many of the UK’s most pressing challenges. Whether boosting housebuilding, making faster progress on net zero targets, or arranging social care support that keeps people out of hospital, councils and the services we provide for residents and businesses are essential. “Insufficient and unpredictable funding has resulted in unsustainable pressures on council finances, as London’s population has grown and demand for services – particularly social care and homelessness support – has skyrocketed. “Restoring stability to boroughs’ finances will put us in a much stronger position to work in partnership with the government on our shared priorities and help make a positive contribution to its national missions.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Southwark Council opens brand new homes development in Bermondsey

Southwark Council officially opened its brand new homes development in south Bermondsey on Tuesday 23 July 2024. The development is named Folajimi Apartments, to commemorate the life and bravery of Folajimi Olubunmi-Adewole (Jimi), who tragically drowned in the River Thames in April 2021 after jumping in to rescue another person who had fallen in. The Folajimi Apartments development provides 56 new homes, made up of 26 council homes and 30 homes for private sale. Folajimi’s family attended the opening ceremony to celebrate the opening of the building and to remember Folajimi, alongside Southwark councillors and developer Higgins. Cllr Helen Dennis, Southwark’s Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development, said, “I’m delighted to see these fantastic new homes completed and ready to open their doors to residents. This is a high-quality, spacious new development which will provide wonderful new homes for the local community here.  “I’m also incredibly proud to be here today with the Olubunmi-Adewole family to commemorate Jimi and the selfless act of bravery he displayed which is an inspiration to all of us, and which the name of this new building represents.” Ayodeji Olubunmi-Adewole, Jimi’s brother said, “Southwark and Bermondsey in particular was really significant to Jimi because he grew up in this area. This community was Jimi so when we heard that the building would be named after him we were full of joy as a family.  “Seeing the building from the start to the finish today means a lot to us and when we are gone this development will still be here and be a testament to what Jimi has done. I know he will be smiling down on us today. We are really grateful and thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”   Will Higgins, Group Executive Director from Higgins Group, said, “We are really proud of what has been accomplished here and are honoured that Jimi’s family could join us today to witness the naming of these new homes after him.  “Alongside providing these much-needed new homes, we have actively engaged with the local community throughout the development process. This engagement includes delivering meaningful initiatives such as employment and training opportunities, volunteering with local charities, and engaging with schools.” As a family-owned business with over 60 years in the industry, Higgins is committed to building better, stronger, safer and more sustainable communities, that not only deliver high-quality homes for local residents, but also leave a legacy of positive impact. Through its partnership with organisations such as Joe Brennan Training, Southwark Construction Skills Centre, and Southwark Works, Higgins has provided employment and training opportunities, giving residents a foot in the door into the construction industry or the chance to return to it. This includes three local apprentices, seven long term unemployed residents into sustained jobs and training for eight local residents.  The company has also engaged with 13 Southwark schools and colleges, achieving 127 school engagement hours. Working closely with partners like the Construction Youth Trust, Higgins has participated in a variety of beneficial employability events that support and prepare young people for the world of work. It has also given back to the local community and the wider borough by working with local charities and schools to deliver beneficial initiatives and offer our support to those in need, including supporting Southwark homeless charity Robes through financial and volunteering and providing additional support across the borough through 157 community and volunteering hours.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Plans approved for Salford’s Crescent Innovation

Plans approved for Salford’s Crescent Innovation

Scheme set to enhance Salford’s global reputation for industry and innovation Plans to bring forward Crescent Innovation, a pivotal element of the wider £2.5bn, 252-acre Crescent Salford masterplan, have been approved by Salford City Council.  The proposals are being brought forward by the Crescent partnership, comprised of Salford City Council, the University of Salford, and ECF – a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse.  The scheme comprises 933 new homes, 1.7m sq ft of new commercial innovation, academic, and research floorspace, active ground-floor space, and a new movement hub, along with significant improvements to public spaces.  Creating a high-quality innovation ecosystem around the University of Salford, Crescent Innovation will build on existing world-class research and development capabilities; help drive further economic growth in the city and wider region; and facilitate enhanced links between academia, research, and business.  Spanning 29 acres between Broughton Road East and University Road, Crescent Innovation will be linked to the wider masterplan by Salford Rise – a near five-acre podium which will span Frederick Road. Laying the foundations for connectivity and collaboration, Salford Rise will act as a key gateway between the University of Salford’s campus and the wider innovation zone.  Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, said: “With our Crescent partners – ECF and University of Salford – we are pushing ahead with our vision to create world-class research and development facilities that local people and businesses can benefit from. The Crescent Innovation proposals are a key element of the wider vision for the Crescent area and will change the face of the area through the creation of a high-quality innovation environment, where people can achieve their full potential. I am delighted to see that this important planning application has been approved and look forward to seeing our vision delivered on the ground.”     Vice-Chancellor of the University of Salford, Professor Nic Beech, commented: “This is a major milestone in our shared mission to transform Salford into a global hub for innovation and groundbreaking research. Working alongside our Crescent partners, we are committed to advancing our vision of creating world-class facilities that will benefit local residents and businesses. I am thrilled that this significant planning application has been approved and eagerly anticipate seeing our shared vision come to life.” Max Bentham, Development Director at ECF, said: “The approval of the plans for Crescent Innovation marks a significant step forward in our collective mission to make Salford a global hub for innovation and groundbreaking research. The city has always been a pioneer of industry, and the creation of Crescent Innovation will equip Salford – and the wider region – with the facilities and opportunities to make an impact on the world stage, as well as driving growth and prosperity.” Crescent Innovation forms one aspect of the Crescent masterplan being delivered by ECF in partnership with Salford City Council and the University of Salford. It will bring together industry, education, and the local community by delivering more than 3,000 homes, 1m sq ft of offices, retail, leisure, a new multi-model transport hub, and vast areas of green space. The site is located within Salford’s Innovation Triangle, which is made up of Salford Quays and MediaCityUK, the University of Salford, and Salford Royal Hospital.  The go-ahead for Crescent Innovation follows the completion of three world-leading university facilities – the North of England Robotics Innovation Centre, the Science, Engineering, and Environment (SEE) building, and Energy House 2.0.  CBRE advised ECF on planning for Crescent Innovation, while Make Architects is leading on design. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Holt Town vision takes shape as Council looks ahead to major consultation

Holt Town vision takes shape as Council looks ahead to major consultation

The Council’s executive committee will be asked to approve the move to consult on a Neighbourhood Development Framework (NDF) for the east Manchester neighbourhood.  Earlier this year, Studio Egret West were chosen to lead a multi-disciplinary team to develop the neighbourhood regeneration plan that will guide investment in Holt Town over the next decade and more.   Holt Town presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform 74 acres (30ha) of brownfield land to create a link between Manchester’s city centre and Sports City and the Etihad Campus in east Manchester – two key economic drivers for the city – and presents a natural extension of the ongoing, long-term regeneration in Ancoats and New Islington.   The NDF will present:  The proposals will look to deliver a major mixed-used, residential led programme of regeneration that will have the capacity to deliver 4,500 new homes, with significant affordable housing alongside a range of tenures and housing types to help diversify the housing offer in the city.   The vision presents a low carbon, sustainable neighbourhood that will take a nature-based approach to development. The investment will change the face of the area from post-industrial to modern urban district while celebrating the existing heritage buildings and canal waterways.   The pockets of nature that have persisted against the backdrop of industrial decline will be enhanced and woodland regrown as part of the ambition to create 15 acres of new and enhanced public and green space, including a 1km play link for you people to enjoy outdoor activities safely.   Investment in new commercial space has the potential to create around 1,500 new local full-time jobs and the growing neighbourhood will include a new cultural and community space for local residents.   The community will enjoy low-car principles, underpinned by safe walking and cycling routes connecting the emerging district to the surrounding communities and the city centre – and supported by a new mobility hub to help limit the number of cars in the area.   The development framework also considers the need for new health and education services for the community to meet a growing need in the area. And the Council is also exploring how digital technologies can be embedded into the fabric of urban regeneration projects to modernise the way residents can access public services – from traffic management, waste collection and neighbourhood management to health and social care.   Following executive approval, a six-week consultation is expected to begin later this summer.   Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of the Council, said:  “The evolution of East Manchester over the last two decades is driving forward our exciting plans for Holt Town. The neighbourhood is an under loved area of the city and investment in this community will create that vital missing link between the city centre, Ancoats and New Islington and the ongoing investment at Sport City and the Etihad Campus.   “Holt Town  is an ambitious opportunity to create the equivalent of a new town in the city. A brand new district showcasing innovation, culture and sustainability – including 4,500 new homes, with a focus on affordable housing – that will support continued and sustainable economic growth for our city. “The momentum to deliver our ambitions follows the successful regeneration of Ancoats and New Islington and this platform is already driving the regeneration ambitions for Holt Town – which will drive innovation, create new jobs and support population growth, new high quality green spaces, and a new era for urban renewal in Manchester.”  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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