Rockwell has submitted proposals, designed by architects Farrells, to redevelop an underused brownfield site in Battersea, Wandsworth, aiming to deliver 142 much-needed new homes. As one of the oldest buildings in the Ransomes Dock area, the Glassmill (1 Battersea Bridge Road) is no longer fit for purpose in modern London.
Amro Partners has announced the acquisition of Lewisham Retail Park in Southeast London, marking the start of their largest and most ambitious project to date. The company plans to transform the site into a landmark residential-led development with an estimated gross development value (GDV) of £400 million. The new development
Pennyfarthing Homes has created a partnership with VIVID to construct 106 affordable homes within its development in Fordingbridge, Hampshire. Covering nearly seven acres of land, this deal signifies a step towards addressing housing needs in the local community, allowing VIVID to make an impact on affordable housing provision. This deal
A long-established housing developer has launched a new range of house types at one of its most popular developments. Russell Armer Homes has introduced 11 new house types to the market for the first time as it announces the release of the second phase of homes for sale at its
289 Homes, Commercial Space and ‘Sizeable’ Green Space to be Created Next to Famous Salt Mills World Heritage Site in Shipley. Construction of ‘Saltaire Riverside’ – a vibrant new residential neighbourhood composed of 289 sustainable homes, commercial space and a large riverside park on the edge of the Salts Mills
Caddick Construction has completed work on SOYO neighbourhood’s two newest residential blocks in Leeds city centre on behalf of Hestia, the residential platform of Federated Hermes Real Estate. Located south of York Road in Leeds, SOYO comprises two new residential buildings, known as Madison East and Mercer West, featuring 331
Work has started on site at Cordia UK’s latest project and inaugural build-to-rent (BTR) development, The Lampworks. The Birmingham-based property developer has appointed Shropshire-based construction management practice buildfifty5 to deliver the main construction works for the project in partnership with residential general contractor Pedrano UK. The Lampworks will incorporate a total of 148 apartments and is
Award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group has launched Canalside Quarter, its highly-anticipated collection of new homes in Oxford North. The inaugural phase will deliver beautiful and contemporary homes that will place residents in the centre of the innovative new district; offering savvy buyers an exciting opportunity to become part of a
A Northumberland-based housing developer has announced plans to double its turnover to £80m and further increase its workforce. Having recently grown from 40 to now 70 employees it now has ambitions to take this to over 100 employees within the next year. To hit its targets, Ascent Homes will add
Hines has secured plans from Southwark Council to build a new, landmark office and residential development at 18 Blackfriars Road. The approval secured working with architects Foster + Partners, and Lipton Rogers, allows Hines to breathe new life into a two-acre brownfield site that has remained undeveloped for 20 years.
Rockwell has submitted proposals, designed by architects Farrells, to redevelop an underused brownfield site in Battersea, Wandsworth, aiming to deliver 142 much-needed new homes. As one of the oldest buildings in the Ransomes Dock area, the Glassmill (1 Battersea Bridge Road) is no longer fit for purpose in modern London. It is highly energy inefficient and struggling for commercial viability, with the building either vacant or occupied on short term licenses below market rates. Wandsworth faces an urgent need for new, high-quality homes, with over 3,600 households classified as ‘homeless’ in the borough. Rockwell’s proposals address this issue by committing to a significant portion of affordable homes within their scheme. Of the 142 new homes planned, 35 per cent will be affordable housing, with 70 per cent of these designated for social rent. The development will include a mix of 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom residences, providing up to 20 large family homes to help alleviate the local housing pressures. This regeneration will provide over 5,700 sq. ft of modern, flexible affordable office floorspace, alongside a new community hub and public realm improvements, including a new ‘Waterfront Plaza’. Designed in consultation with local residents and stakeholders, these spaces are shaped to meet the needs of local businesses and charities – including SMEs and start-ups – and bring new jobs to the area. With a new riverside restaurant at the base of the building, these plans will unlock the Battersea Bridge south side, rendering it a destination in its own right, with new visitors boosting the local economy. Nicholas Mee, Managing Director of Rockwell, said: “London – and especially Wandsworth – is in desperate need of more homes, so we are very excited to bring forward these proposals at One Battersea Bridge to regenerate an underutilised site and enable the creation of new housing for the borough. However, our vision is to deliver a multi-use area which delivers more than just homes. “A long-overdue revitalisation of the public realm along this section of the Thames, and brand-new community space will benefit existing and future generations of local people. We hope to secure permission for these proposals to futureproof this area for generations to come.” Peter Barbalov, Partner at Farells, stated: “We are delighted to collaborate with Rockwell on the development of One Battersea Bridge Road, an important site situated on the south bank of the Thames, serving as the gateway from Wandsworth to Battersea Bridge. “Our proposal provides substantial public benefits, including the provision of safe, accessible public realm along the River Thames and Battersea Bridge Road, activation of the ground floor with diverse uses, and provision of much-needed housing for the Wandsworth community. “To achieve these goals on this brownfield site, we have designed a high-quality building, with high quality homes, that contributes to the surrounding townscape along the River Thames while also addressing the climate emergency by achieving Net Zero in both operation and construction phases.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Amro Partners has announced the acquisition of Lewisham Retail Park in Southeast London, marking the start of their largest and most ambitious project to date. The company plans to transform the site into a landmark residential-led development with an estimated gross development value (GDV) of £400 million. The new development will deliver approximately 1,000 residential homes, becoming one of the final major pieces of the 20-year Lewisham regeneration plan. Over the past 18 months, Amro has acquired various adjoining land holdings from private landowners, culminating in the acquisition of the retail park site and remaining land from Legal & General. This comprehensive redevelopment aims to significantly contribute to the regeneration of Lewisham by providing high-quality housing and improving connectivity with the train station, town centre, and central London. The project will also enhance the public realm with new green spaces, cycle paths, and permanent community spaces. The ground floor will feature flexible commercial space to support local SMEs and independent businesses. Amro is committed to working closely with the London Borough of Lewisham to secure permission for an ESG-leading development with the highest possible sustainability ratings, including BREEAM Outstanding, Fitwel 3*, WiredScore Platinum, and ActiveScore Platinum. Located adjacent to Lewisham Train Station, with a connectivity rating of PTAL 6b, the development offers excellent transport links: 9 minutes to London Bridge, 20 minutes to Bond Street, and 31 minutes to London Liverpool Street. The project is scheduled to launch with phased openings during 2028/29, meeting strong local demand for a variety of residential uses. Raj Kotecha, Chairman and CEO of Amro Partners, commented: “This acquisition is the culmination of two years’ hard work piecing together this incredibly complex site. It’s an honour to play a part in the regeneration of this bright and thriving neighbourhood, with a site that has such vast potential. We look forward to working with the council and the people of Lewisham to bring forward a landmark development that sets a new bar for placemaking, sustainability, and brings long-term value to the local community.” Adam Cradick, Head of London Residential Land at CBRE, who advised Legal & General on the sale, added: “Amro has the ability to deliver an exceptional development with outstanding placemaking and much-needed housing. This transaction is another example of the current positive sentiment within the London residential land market and the demand we are seeing for best-in-class sites.” Amro currently has over 2,500 residential homes under development across Greater London, including projects in Ealing, Kingston, Sutton, and Croydon. Guided by its NZC2025 pledge, it aims to create the most sustainable living portfolio in Europe, with every new project targeting a full suite of sector-leading ESG credentials. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pennyfarthing Homes has created a partnership with VIVID to construct 106 affordable homes within its development in Fordingbridge, Hampshire. Covering nearly seven acres of land, this deal signifies a step towards addressing housing needs in the local community, allowing VIVID to make an impact on affordable housing provision. This deal strengthens an ongoing relationship between Pennyfarthing Homes and VIVID, following the sale of 14 affordable homes in its Whitsbury Green development. Matt Dukes, Managing Director of Pennyfarthing Homes, comments: “This housing transaction is poised to start a new chapter of affordable, high-quality homes for Fordingbridge, promising lasting benefits for the town and its neighbouring areas. Working in collaboration with VIVID, we are committed to building residences that epitomise the high standards of any Pennyfarthing home, ensuring that the VIVID customers enjoy quality and comfort. We look forward to working with VIVID on this development and hope we can continue to work closely with this leading housing provider in Hampshire.” Construction of the affordable homes will commence in November this year preceded by groundworks starting in June. VIVID will take delivery of a mixed-tenure development which will include market housing, shared ownership and affordable rent options. The scheme will include a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments, two-, three- and four-bedroom houses and two- and three-bedroom bungalows, appealing to a wide customer profile. Surrounded by open space, including an area of play and a natural recreational green space, residents will enjoy easy access to walking and cycling paths across the community connecting to the town centre and schools safely. Each property will come with allocated parking, with larger homes boasting a garage or carport, while every house or bungalow will include a private rear garden. Tristan Samuels, Group Development and New Business Director of VIVID, comments: “We are really pleased to be working in partnership with Pennyfarthing Homes on this project. We firmly believe that everyone deserves a safe and secure place to call home and this investment is a step towards addressing the shortage of affordable homes in the south. We are committed to making a positive impact on communities by providing accessible housing solutions that enhance lives and creating communities to thrive in”. This phase of new homes in Fordingbridge will also include six First Homes which will be available directly from Pennyfarthing Homes. The Government’s initiative supports home ownership for local first-time buyers and key workers living and working in the New Forest area. Completions are expected from Autumn 2025. This development sits alongside Pennyfarthing’s current scheme at Whitsbury Green. These interlinking phases in Fordingbridge ensure there is something for the whole community to enjoy, with expansive outside space on the doorstep, including a trail play area, comprising an obstacle course to promote fitness and outdoor activity for young people. This is combined with extensive accessible countryside alongside footpaths with beautiful vistas and attractive walkways for strolling to the village. With 140 miles of cycle tracks and footpaths close by residents will have no shortage of options for enjoying all the New Forest has to offer. For more details on the homes available from Pennyfarthing please visit https://www.pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk/developments/ or call 01425 541818. For more details on VIVID visit VIVID | Leading providers of affordable housing (vividhomes.co.uk) Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A long-established housing developer has launched a new range of house types at one of its most popular developments. Russell Armer Homes has introduced 11 new house types to the market for the first time as it announces the release of the second phase of homes for sale at its Bowland Fold development in the Lancashire village of Halton. With just a handful of properties left in the initial phase, the new home builder is releasing a total of 22 three to four bedroom homes. The new phase of properties will be created at an elevated position on the site to give stunning views out towards Morecambe Bay, the city of Lancaster and the Forest of Bowland. The first of the new properties available for sale include the four-bedroom detached Howgill and Sanderling houses, and the three-bedroom detached Middleton home. Nicky Gordon, the Managing Director of Russell Armer Homes, said: “Launching brand new house types which have never been on the market before is a significant milestone for the company, and the team is really excited to see the reaction to the new homes. “Our houses at Bowland Fold have been an instant hit because of the high quality of build and energy efficiency levels, coupled with its location in the desirable village of Halton and its close proximity to the city of Lancaster. “The new homes we are rolling out guarantee the same excellent level of workmanship and will provide customers with modern features and extra comfort throughout the property. This is an extremely exciting development in Russell Armer’s long history.” In addition to its development at Halton, Russell Armer Homes has homes available at its Meadow Rigg development in the Lake District town of Kendal and is soon to launch new homes as part of the second phase of sales at Lunesdale Rise, in Kirkby Lonsdale. The company was founded in 1961 and is now owned by Penrith-based Genesis Homes following an acquisition deal in 2021. Find out more about the new developments at Bowland Fold in Halton by visiting www.russell-armer.co.uk/developments/bowland-fold. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
289 Homes, Commercial Space and ‘Sizeable’ Green Space to be Created Next to Famous Salt Mills World Heritage Site in Shipley. Construction of ‘Saltaire Riverside’ – a vibrant new residential neighbourhood composed of 289 sustainable homes, commercial space and a large riverside park on the edge of the Salts Mills World Heritage Site in Saltaire, Shipley – is on track to start in early summer. Urban regeneration specialist Artisan Real Estate is currently progressing the homes-led transformation of the 11-acre site sandwiched between the River Aire and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, which was formerly home to an HMRC office complex that closed in October 2021. Demolition of the existing buildings on site – which mainly consist of two large five-storey hexagonal office blocks – is expected to be completed in the coming six weeks, followed by ground preparation works in advance of construction. Material from the demolition will be recycled and used to raise the levels of the site as part of major flood defence works, which will immediately follow the demolition programme. Welcoming the progress on site, James Bulmer, Managing Director for Leeds-based Artisan Real Estate England, said: “Our local contractor, Metropolitan, has been doing excellent work of taking down the existing buildings, and we will soon be moving to processing materials which will be crushed and recycled for re-use on site as part of the forthcoming construction project. We are now hosting regular design team meetings, working on the detailed technical drawing requirements needed to turn our ambitious vision into a reality. Our commercial teams will shortly be going out to tender to find suitable trade sub-contractors to partner with for the project.” Michael Hirst, Managing Director at Metropolitan added: “This has been a great project for Metropolitan. The former HMRC building was a substantial reinforced concrete structure, but our highly skilled teams have been effective, diligent and professional throughout. Artisan is an important client to us and we are working with them on multiple developments across England and Scotland. We look forward to a long lasting relationship.” Artisan’s plans for the new Saltaire Riverside development include the provision of 289 new homes, more than 5,000 sq. ft. of commercial office space designed for flexible working and a café facing on to a new ‘pocket’ park and piazza. A sizeable riverside park will seamlessly link the development to the River Aire, providing woodland, grasslands and lawns to act as a natural flood water storage area whilst pedestrian links will provide direct access to Saltaire Rail Station and the canal towpath. Looking forward to the forthcoming launch of the first new homes phase at Saltaire Riverside, Mr Bulmer confirmed that a new Saltaire Riverside home-sales website will be launched shortly, allowing potential purchasers of to register their interest. He added: “We are excited about starting our initial homes phase, which will deliver a mix of apartments and townhouses to create a much needed sustainable and low carbon residential community. “Our completed development will become a modern interpretation of the adjacent Saltaire Village, bringing much needed sustainable family housing in an accessible, well connected and environmentally responsible setting. It will spectacularly open up a large riverside area, bringing interest and investment to the area and providing a natural, contemporary extension to the existing Saltaire footprint. This is a genuinely groundbreaking homes-led project in an area that is regularly voted as one of the best places to live in the UK.” The neighbouring Saltaire Village is named after Sir Titus Salt who built a textile mill known as Salts Mill and the supporting village overlooking the River Aire in the second half of the 19th century. Designed by architects, Lockwood and Mawson, Saltaire has beautiful Italianate architecture and a rich history and was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001. The village was recently named as one of the 72 best places to live in the UK by the annual Sunday Times ‘Best Places to Live Guide’ for 2024. The Sunday Times’ expert judges visited all the locations and assessed factors from schools to transport, broadband speeds to culture, as well as access to green spaces and the health of the high street. Describing Saltaire Village, the judges said: “It was a model village when it was built and two centuries later, Saltaire is a model address for 21st-century living. Now it’s all about artisan coffee hang-outs, cool cafés and restaurants in atmospheric surroundings, along with a snappy commute to the centres of Leeds and Bradford.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Caddick Construction has completed work on SOYO neighbourhood’s two newest residential blocks in Leeds city centre on behalf of Hestia, the residential platform of Federated Hermes Real Estate. Located south of York Road in Leeds, SOYO comprises two new residential buildings, known as Madison East and Mercer West, featuring 331 built-to-rent apartments, two commercial retail units, car parking facilities and sustainable public spaces for the local community. The project, focused on delivering quality modern living, has been developed by Caddick Construction through close collaboration with Hestia and joint enterprise partner Caddick Developments. The £57.4m project follows the completion of an earlier phase at SOYO, New York Square, where Caddick Construction delivered two 16 and 17-storey, build-to-rent apartment developments, housing 515 unique one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments for Moda Living. SOYO is the newest multi-use neighbourhood in Leeds city centre and once complete the state-of-the-art quarter will offer over 1m sq ft of space to live, work and enjoy. The new development includes some of the largest green public spaces within the city, high-quality residential buildings and a hub for local artistic exhibitions, enhanced by its location at the heart of the city’s cultural district. Hestia is focused on delivering affordable residential assets that will have a positive impact on the environment and communities in which they reside. Since its inception, Hestia has embodied Federated Hermes’ Responsible Property Investment agenda by sourcing and developing homes in neighbourhoods people want to live in, to a specification enhanced by an eight-year operational track record and all aligned to the Hestia Net Zero Carbon Pathway. The project’s contribution towards creating vibrant and authentic communities has been emphasised by the recent appointment of local artist EV Hardaker (Emma) as SOYO’s ‘Artist in Residence’. Having worked with Emma for almost five years, Caddick Group recently cemented this partnership with the launch of THE ARCH, a major temporary art installation embodying the area’s identity. Emma will be further animating the area as the major regeneration project enters its final phase. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Work has started on site at Cordia UK’s latest project and inaugural build-to-rent (BTR) development, The Lampworks. The Birmingham-based property developer has appointed Shropshire-based construction management practice buildfifty5 to deliver the main construction works for the project in partnership with residential general contractor Pedrano UK. The Lampworks will incorporate a total of 148 apartments and is set to be one of the most energy-efficient projects in Birmingham – offering exclusively A and B EPC-rated dwellings. As the first building in Cordia UK’s BTR portfolio, it will offer a combination of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and affordable homes, alongside contemporary commercial units on the ground floor set in a series of striking landscaped courtyards. Residents will have access to high quality communal facilities, including a co-working space, individual meeting rooms, a shared lounge and a communal kitchen/diner, fit out with modern designs and the latest technologies. Located at the intersection of Great Hampton Street and Harford Street, The Lampworks will reflect the industrial heritage of the Jewellery Quarter. It forms part of Cordia UK’s wider vision for Great Hampton Street, a masterplan to transform the area into a thriving residential and commercial destination. András Kárpáti, CEO at Cordia UK, said: “The Lampworks is the first development in our build-to-rent portfolio and a unique addition to Birmingham’s rental market – offering contemporary architectural design and amenities in a setting that maintains and reflects the Jewellery Quarter’s renowned heritage. “We are excited to be working with our construction partners buildfifty5 and Pedrano UK on the project and look forward to seeing our vision for Great Hampton Street continue to come to life with new residents and independent businesses.” As a member of one of the largest residential real estate development and investment groups in Europe, Cordia International (Member of Futureal Group), Cordia UK benefits from a vast track record of international projects and is driving forward innovative practices in the UK residential market. Construction at The Lampworks is being supported by Cordia International’s key strategic partner, Pedrano Group. With 15 years of experience in apartment developments across Europe, Pedrano will work closely with local contractor buildfifty5 to provide strategic direction on the project. Gábor Szulyovszky, CEO at Pedrano Group, added: “At Pedrano Group, we have a long track record of delivering high quality apartments for Cordia International in Central Europe. “We are thrilled to be working with Cordia UK to deliver their first BTR development in Birmingham and will be supporting the project strategically from start to finish.” Garry Whiting, Managing Director of Buildfifty5, commented: “Buildfifty5 is delighted to be partnering with Pedrano UK on the delivery of The Lampworks in the Jewellery Quarter. “Our appointment as construction manager and delivery partner brings together buildfifty5’s core strengths as an organisation focused on collaborative and practical solutions for our key sector clients.” Financial support for the development has been provided by Octopus Real Estate, part of Octopus Investments and a leading specialist real estate investor and lender, with assistance from financial advisor BBS Capital. The loan was provided as part of its Greener Homes Alliance with Homes England, which pledges to commit £172 million in finance and expert support to SME housebuilders ─ enabling them to build more high-quality, energy-efficient homes throughout England. Nick White, Head of Development Origination, Octopus Real Estate, said: “We’re thrilled to have provided Cordia UK with the funding needed to develop this exciting project, conveniently located close to Central Birmingham. It’s a fantastic example of the impact our Greener Homes Alliance has in supporting developers to pursue greener initiatives, and reflects Octopus Real Estate’s commitment to providing quality, sustainable homes.” With the new residential units in the development set to achieve outstanding energy efficiency ratings, this partnership will benefit both future residents and the building operator. Residents of Great Hampton Street will benefit from nearby amenities such as Tesco, Morrisons, and popular restaurants and bars including Hockley Social Club and The Church Pub. The development is also just a five-minute walk from St Paul’s tram stop and ten minutes from Snow Hill train station. To find out more about Cordia UK, visit: https://cordia.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Award-winning housebuilder, The Hill Group has launched Canalside Quarter, its highly-anticipated collection of new homes in Oxford North. The inaugural phase will deliver beautiful and contemporary homes that will place residents in the centre of the innovative new district; offering savvy buyers an exciting opportunity to become part of a transformative destination within a world-class city. Designed by visionary architects Pollard Thomas Edwards, this impressive collection of 207 sustainable homes ranges from one to three-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom family homes set within eight acres of open green space. Confident and striking, the streetscape at Canalside Quarter represents a new era of building style and a distinct departure from earlier 21st century architecture. Canalside Quarter is part of Oxford North, a revolutionary new district built on 64 acres of prime land within the city. Connecting invention and investment to create opportunity, this stimulating extension to one of the word’s most famous cities will become a flagship destination. Providing an estimated 4,500 new jobs with incredible workspaces, state-of-the-art laboratories, cafes, bars, a hotel, a nursery, green space and cultural amenities, Oxford North will also prioritise sustainability, smart technology and diverse natural habitats. Canalside Quarter residents will benefit from this remarkable and unique environment, with all the essential elements to foster an exceptional lifestyle. Rebecca Littler, Group Sales and Marketing Director at The Hill Group comments: “At Canalside Quarter, you will be able to connect to one of the world’s greatest cities, while also being immersed within a revitalising green space that promotes a healthy lifestyle and community. Boldly modern in design, the architectural aesthetic and the inspiring new neighbourhood set a fresh standard for modern living. Hill is very excited to be a part of the evolution of this new district and vibrant setting.” Defined by exemplary natural surroundings and luxury contemporary design, the new homes have been thoughtfully crafted to the signature quality that Hill has become known for. Embracing a modern way of living, the homes feature warm brick detailing and large expanses of glass that invite breathtaking vistas and flood interiors with an abundance of natural light. Continuing this focus on the natural world, every residence has been designed to place emphasis on outdoor living and offers captivating views. Each apartment has been positioned to ensure that all balconies face onto the Neighbourhood Square, the development’s central hub, giving each home a view of the central green space. Every opportunity to connect with the natural environment has been maximised, from porches, gardens, patios, balconies and roof terraces to living spaces that open directly to private outdoor spaces. Advanced insulation, energy-efficient appliances, water-saving technology and electric car charging points across the development also promote green living. Crafted to promote walking and cycling, lush verdant parks, historic woodlands, scenic canalside walks, leafy streets and eye-catching pavement planting bring nature to Canalside Quarter and create a restorative environment. The Neighbourhood Square will be a landscaped park with beautiful views where the community can come together and thrive. Play areas for children to explore and learn, and meadow grasslands where residents can relax, will also be incorporated into this remarkable new neighbourhood. Located close to the scenic Oxford Canal and Canalside Park, the area will be a dynamic new gateway to Oxford. At just under a 15-minute cycle ride away from the iconic spires, residents will be able to embrace this mode of transport and many other opportunities to have an active lifestyle in Oxford North and beyond. The city offers excellent sports facilities and open green spaces that are ideal for running and walking, including Christ Church Meadow which is in the heart of the city and the Botanic Gardens, which feature rare and exotic plants. In addition, the River Thames and the River Cherwell are home to days spent kayaking, paddleboarding, and of course, punting. The historic city of Oxford is lined with magnificent, mediaeval architecture and is well-known for its rich culture. Residents of Canalside Quarter will be able to access first-class theatre in venues such as the Oxford Playhouse and New Theatre Oxford and experience impressive live music throughout the year at The O2 Academy and more intimate classical concerts at the Town Hall and University of Oxford colleges. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Oxford Literary Festival, the Foodie Festival and the Oxford Bike Festival, to name just a few. For more information, please visit www.hill.co.uk/canalside-quarter Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A Northumberland-based housing developer has announced plans to double its turnover to £80m and further increase its workforce. Having recently grown from 40 to now 70 employees it now has ambitions to take this to over 100 employees within the next year. To hit its targets, Ascent Homes will add four new sites across the North East. This expansion will bring the developer’s portfolio of sites to 14 by 2027, equalling approx. 1,300 homes – a significant milestone in the organisation’s growth journey. Paul Errington, Director at Ascent Homes, said: “With our homes being in the stunning county of Northumberland, we have seen people across the UK showing an increased interest in our beautifully located developments, especially since the pandemic. “This has fuelled our ambitions for sustainable expansion, not just in Northumberland but across the wider region. Our growth is supported by newly secured land opportunities, which will enable us to introduce new and affordable housing solutions to more communities across the region.” “Our turnover was circa £30m last year, and we are confident that we can double that in the next few years.” Ascent Homes is the housebuilding arm of Advance Northumberland. It is an agile Northumberland-based housing developer dedicated to delivering developments that have a genuinely positive impact on those who live in and around them. Ascent Homes has built 600 properties in the North East, including over 100 affordable homes, making it a significant contributor to the regional economy, creating jobs and strengthening local supply chains. Current developments are located in Alnwick, Blyth, Choppington, Ellington and Wooler, with plans to develop more in Berwick-upon-Tweed, Bellingham and Hadston this year. Paul continued: “A key part of our growth plan is focused on the expansion of our skilled team. By the end of the year, we’re aiming to increase our headcount to over 100 employees. “It’s a very exciting time for Ascent Homes. Our next chapter presents lots of opportunities for locals, buyers, suppliers, and landowners. As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to providing the right housing, in the right areas, at the right price for the people of the North East.” To find out more about Ascent Homes, visit: www.ascent-homes.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hines has secured plans from Southwark Council to build a new, landmark office and residential development at 18 Blackfriars Road. The approval secured working with architects Foster + Partners, and Lipton Rogers, allows Hines to breathe new life into a two-acre brownfield site that has remained undeveloped for 20 years. 18 Blackfriars Road is designed to be fossil fuel free, 100% electric and Net Zero Carbon in operation, with 95% of the site heat demand served by ground source heat pumps that share, store and offset energy. Beyond decarbonisation, it is set to deliver affordable homes, free workspace for local businesses and entrepreneurs and a cultural hub for locals as it aims be the first high-rise scheme in the UK to achieve the WELL Community Gold Standard, which certifies developments that support health and wellbeing. Ross Blair, Senior Managing Director and Country Head of Hines UK, said: “Our plans will transform an undeveloped piece of land, most of which has lain empty for over 20 years, into much needed new homes and first class, sustainable and tech-enabled offices, built around a central hub which we hope will become a brand new convening space for the local community.” The location benefits from fantastic transport connectivity and proximity to numerous cultural landmarks as well as being a stone’s throw from the River Thames. The new scheme will consist of three buildings, two delivering over 400 new homes, with 40% being affordable. The third will create 800,000 square feet of office space featuring a series of bustles that provide space with exceptional quality natural light inside and outdoor terraces on every third floor. Plans also include 20,000 square feet of new affordable workspace for local and socially minded enterprises, assembly rooms for use by the local community, modern educational space with links to local institutions, children’s play areas and a new, central public space with retail and food outlets situated at the heart of the development. A 150% increase in biodiversity is also planned for the site, including the planting of around 100 new trees. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
