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

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

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

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

The regeneration of Wythenshawe town centre continues to accelerate as the Council decides on the appointment of a new development delivery and investment partner – in a report to the Council’s executive committee yesterday. The opportunity is to transform the 1970s shopping centre and surrounding areas through an aspirational project that will deliver a new public square, new shops, net zero carbon commercial, community and cultural space, and more than 1750 new homes built on Council-owned land. The housing will be a mix of typologies and tenures to match local housing demand and will include affordable homes along with supported accommodation.   Earlier this year, the Council was awarded £20m grant funding through the Levelling Up Fund (LUF) programme. The Council will now complement this with a further £11.9m of match funding to deliver a new Culture and Creative hub, food hall, co-working and enterprise employment space, and investment in the Civic’s public realm.   However, over the lifespan of the long-term regeneration programme, the total investment will exceed £500m over the next 10 years with initial development work commencing as early as next year.  Culture Hub  A professional team has already been appointed to design a new Culture Hub, including an operational business model to ensure the hub is financially and operationally sustainable along with being able to support local people on a long-term basis. Following initial consultation in July this year, a feasibility study has now been approved and emerging plans will be subject to further public consultation.   Once the principles of the Culture Hub have been agreed, the Council will begin a process to appoint an operator to run and manage the hub. This will process will likely begin later this year.   Public Realm  A landscape design team has now been commissioned to map out opportunities to deliver a new public square, new connections, sustainable drainage and significant new green planting and play equipment. This work is currently at RIBA stage 2 and the Council has already commenced procurement of a contractor to deliver the works, subject to public consultation on the final designs. The Council is on track to appoint the contractor to deliver the new public square later this summer.   Work is ongoing on the feasibility options to deliver the food hall and co-working and employment spaces.  Joint Venture Delivery & Investment Partner   Following the acquisition of the Civic by the Council in 2022, it was envisaged that a private sector partner would be required to invest into and develop the Civic at scale to meet the regeneration ambitions set out in the development framework for the shopping centre.   The formal procurement process is now complete subject to approval by the Councils Executive. If approved, the successful partner will be announced in August following the formal call-in period.  The joint venture partner will:  A formal announcement of the successful partner will be made in the next four weeks.   In the meantime…  The Council has also been working with community organisations and enterprises to widen the offer at Wythenshawe Civic to increase footfall within the town centre and drive momentum ahead of the major investment beginning.   Monthly Makers Markets will begin from 3 August offering a range of independent stalls – from crafts to street food. The Maker Market brings together artisans, makers, bakers and other businesses in pop-up markets that have previously been held in Ancoats and Chorlton.   Following hosting an event earlier in the year, the Civic will also host regular bike workshops hosted by the Bike Kitchen, providing training, servicing and sales.  Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said:   “We know this will be welcome news to the people of Wythenshawe as we stand at the dawn of a new era for their town centre.   “However, we also know that areas like Wythenshawe have seen higher rates of deprivation – and this extends to poorer health outcomes – but through strategic investment such as this, we can begin to create opportunities for these communities to share in the economic success of the city.  “This means the right housing – including council, social and genuinely affordable homes – new jobs, new shops and a neighbourhood that both meets their needs and a place they can be proud to spend time in. These are the building blocks for successful communities and this programme of regeneration will deliver for local people.”  Cllr Gavin White, Manchester City Council’s executive member for housing and development, said:   “Regeneration programmes of this size and ambition take some time to bring forward and although we understand that local people are very keen to see this investment take shape – as we are too – the work we are doing now will make sure we have a long-term, sustainable proposal that will benefit Wythenshawe people for years to come.  “In the meantime, we are working hard to bring forward impactful investment that will kick-start the long-term development of the Civic, including the Culture Hub and public realm improvements. Alongside plans to increase footfall to the town centre and attract new visitors to the area, such as bike repairs and local markets.  “We are fully committed to the regeneration of Wythenshawe and we can’t wait to show local people what we have been doing so far and get their feedback.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals