While construction often brings to mind images of building sites and hard hats, the industry is powered by a vast network of professionals working behind the scenes to bring developments to life. This International Women’s Day, Harron Homes is celebrating the women who play crucial roles in shaping its success—driving
Investec Bank plc (“Investec”), a leading international financial services provider, announces that its Real Estate team has provided The James, a fast-growing UK rental accommodation provider, with a £17 million loan to fund the development of a 150-unit co-living scheme in Birmingham city centre. It furthers Investec’s exposure to a sector
Vistry Group and Bloor Homes are joining forces to create a new community at Leighton West in Crewe, delivering 791 homes as part of a major development that aligns with Cheshire East’s Local Plan. Vistry will build 408 of the homes on the site. Of these, 208 will be forward-sold
Keon Homes has hailed being named on the £1billion Wolverhampton Housing Development Framework as a transformational moment for its business. The specialist in affordable housing and extra care schemes beat off intense competition to be granted preferred contractor status on all sites over 20 plots in the city and surrounding
A major build-to-rent (BTR) scheme is set to transform the Kirkstall Road area of Leeds, delivering 618 new homes as part of a multi-million-pound investment backed by an unnamed US insurance company. The five-acre site, located next to the River Aire and just a mile from the city centre, will
Castlemere Developments has officially broken ground on a new residential project consisting of six luxury four-bedroom townhouses in Dulwich. The Windsor-based developer, known for its portfolio of high-end properties across London, has started groundworks on the site of a former doctor’s surgery on Melbourne Grove. The project is expected to
A major housing development in South Wokingham has been approved, paving the way for 1,434 new homes, a primary school, public spaces, and a local centre. The project, a collaboration between Miller Homes and Kier Property, forms part of the South Wokingham Strategic Development Location (SWSDL) in Berkshire. Wokingham Borough
Latimer has appointed JJ Rhatigan as the principal contractor for the much-anticipated Twyford Abbey redevelopment in west London, marking a major step forward in transforming the historic site. Twyford Abbey, a derelict Grade II-listed manor house in Ealing, has long been on Historic England’s ‘at risk’ register. After acquiring the
73 new affordable homes are being developed on the historic Ripleyville estate. New pictures have been revealed to showcase the progress at the Ripleyville estate in Bradford, where North of England contractor Esh Construction is delivering an affordable housing project. Esh Construction was appointed by Accent Housing to manage the
Housebuilder Story Homes is delighted to announce exchange of contracts for a new site for residential development on Dialstone Lane in Offerton, Stockport. Proposals for the site would see the delivery of 112 high quality homes, including 50% affordable housing, which would contribute positively towards meeting Stockport’s recognised housing need.
While construction often brings to mind images of building sites and hard hats, the industry is powered by a vast network of professionals working behind the scenes to bring developments to life. This International Women’s Day, Harron Homes is celebrating the women who play crucial roles in shaping its success—driving projects forward, supporting customers, and ensuring seamless operations. With 18 years of experience in the industry, Kirsty Wilson plays a vital role in Harron Homes’ design team. She is responsible for creating site layouts that balance viability with compliance, ensuring each development meets the highest standards. Kirsty attributes her success to early mentorship from a female architect and notes the increasing presence of women on construction sites. “Gender equality should be the norm,” says Kirsty. “One of the biggest barriers for women is awareness. Young women may not realise the variety of roles available in construction. “To women who are interested in the construction side, don’t be put off by it being male-dominated. People no longer make a big deal about women being on site, you’ll find the majority are friendly and helpful, regardless of gender.” Stacy Law transitioned into the construction industry two years ago after a diverse career in operations and business development. As a PA to the Managing Directors and Office Manager at Harron’s Yorkshire office, Stacy ensures smooth operations and provides essential support to the leadership team. “I’ve seen a real shift in attitudes towards women in construction,” Stacy shares. “Traditionally, it was seen as a male-dominated field, but there is now a greater emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Implementing clear policies and providing equal growth opportunities will further accelerate progress and inclusion.” Her advice to women considering a career in housebuilding? “Go for it! There are so many departments to start your career in beyond the building site, from finance to design to customer service, and the industry is full of opportunities.” With 18 years in property and seven in construction, Laura Higginbottom ensures that every homebuyer receives top-tier support as an Assistant Customer Service Manager. She values the strong support network within the company and believes social media has played a significant role in highlighting the achievements of women in the industry. “I’ve always felt supported and heard at Harron,” Laura explains. “The company hires the right person for the role, which has naturally led to women stepping into leadership positions. The more we promote women in senior roles, the more we can inspire others to follow.” Like Kirsty, Stacy feels a wider knowledge of the various career paths could encourage girls to join the industry. “Social media is doing a lot to showcase women in the industry, but promoting those available career paths from a much younger age could encourage women to explore construction a lot sooner. Some people are too shy to approach certain roles in life so by offering the information initially it might spark a positive conversation.” While the construction industry has made significant progress in gender equality, Kirsty, Stacy, and Laura agree that increasing representation, fostering an inclusive workplace, and promoting diverse career opportunities are key steps forward. Group Operations Director, Sarah Marsden added, “At Harron Homes, we are committed to supporting women in the workplace and celebrating their contributions. As Harron’s inaugural Group Operations Director, I’ve been given an amazing opportunity to not only leave my own mark on the company, but to encourage other women aspiring to do the same. Success comes from the hard work of people across every part of the business. This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the women behind the scenes who make it all happen.” For more information on Harron Homes please visit https://www.harronhomes.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Investec Bank plc (“Investec”), a leading international financial services provider, announces that its Real Estate team has provided The James, a fast-growing UK rental accommodation provider, with a £17 million loan to fund the development of a 150-unit co-living scheme in Birmingham city centre. It furthers Investec’s exposure to a sector that is benefitting from a number of compelling tailwinds, including a growing shortage of high-quality rental homes and ongoing homeownership affordability challenges. The development will see the transformation of Richmond House, a 67,000 sq ft former university building, into The James Birmingham, the city’s first co-living scheme, designed to meet the need for high quality rental units from postgraduate students and young professionals working in the area. The development will include a two-storey rooftop extension and the provision of shared facilities including a communal kitchen and dining areas, podcast studio and work lounge, gym, games room, cinema, external terrace and socialising area. Other features include air source heat pumps throughout the building and 166 bike parking spaces. Founded in 2018, The James currently has 302 apartments in operation across three fully occupied assets in Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield. A further 406 are in development, including The James Birmingham as well as a future scheme in Manchester. Knight Frank’s 2024 UK co-living report revealed that since 2020 investors have deployed nearly £1 billion funding or acquiring co-living developments, and further acceleration in the growth of the sector is anticipated[1]. Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield and Birmingham are the most established regional markets as a result of their large and growing populations of young professionals, strong graduate retention rates and expanding employment markets, which make them viable locations for developers and investors[2]. Ian Burdett at Investec, commented: “The appeal of co-living is rapidly expanding across the UK. Having initially gained traction in London, the sector is now increasingly reaching other major regional cities, where housing supply and the ability to get on the housing ladder is a challenge for many. Students and young professionals are also increasingly drawn to the sector’s vibrant amenity and community offering. “The James’ established track record of delivering high quality schemes across several UK cities made them a natural partner as we look to grow our exposure to the sector. We look forward to working with them again as they build out their portfolio further.” Grant Sulkin, Co-Founder at The James, added: “We are thrilled to be bringing our product to Birmingham and to be working with Investec on this exciting development. The city’s strong demand for high-quality rental housing aligns perfectly with our vision to create vibrant, well-connected communities for young professionals and postgraduate students. We look forward to delivering an exceptional living experience at The James Birmingham.” [1] Knight Frank: The Co-Living Report 2024 [2] ibid Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vistry Group and Bloor Homes are joining forces to create a new community at Leighton West in Crewe, delivering 791 homes as part of a major development that aligns with Cheshire East’s Local Plan. Vistry will build 408 of the homes on the site. Of these, 208 will be forward-sold to affordable housing provider Plus Dane Housing, while the remaining 200 homes will be marketed for sale under Vistry’s Linden Homes and Bovis Homes brands. Bloor Homes will contribute 383 homes to the development, 39 of which will be affordable housing. The new Leighton West neighbourhood will not only provide much-needed housing but also offer a variety of public amenities, including allotments, community orchards, footpaths, cycleways, formal and informal play areas, outdoor gyms, and green corridors. The development will also contribute £5.6 million to enhance local infrastructure and community services. This will fund a new mixed-use local centre with community and leisure facilities, a pub, a children’s day nursery, and space for a new primary school. Additional contributions will support improved cycle links, highway works, NHS services and Travel Plan monitoring. Joe Turner, Managing Director of Vistry Manchester and Cheshire East, commented: “Leighton West will not only address the local demand for high-quality housing, including affordable homes, but will also deliver a host of community benefits – from green spaces to new commercial, retail, and educational facilities – helping to create a vibrant, sustainable neighbourhood for Crewe.” James Clark, Managing Director for Bloor Homes’ North West region, added: “We are very much looking forward to delivering high quality homes, significant green spaces and several other key benefits to the local community in this exciting collaboration with Vistry.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Keon Homes has hailed being named on the £1billion Wolverhampton Housing Development Framework as a transformational moment for its business. The specialist in affordable housing and extra care schemes beat off intense competition to be granted preferred contractor status on all sites over 20 plots in the city and surrounding areas. It is about to start construction work on the £40m New Park Village remodelling project in the summer and is shortly getting underway with the first phase of 99 new bungalows at Lincoln Green in Bushbury. Five new jobs have been created at the Burntwood-based developer with tens more expected to follow indirectly in the supply chain. Importantly, the Housing Development Framework also included a Direct Award for Keon Homes, providing authorised users with a streamlined process to procure works for the next four years. This is open to any local authority or registered provider across Cheshire, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Northamptonshire, and the West Midlands. Matt Beckley, Partnerships Director, commented: “This is arguably the biggest deal in our history, with the opportunity to support the redevelopment of some key housing sites in Wolverhampton and, then potentially, further afield. “Our track record for bringing challenging schemes to market and then completing them on time and to budget played a key role in the award, that and our passion for creating communities where individuals and families can thrive. It’s more than bricks and mortar to us.” He continued: “New Park Village and Lincoln Green are two sites that drastically needed remodelling, especially the latter where old, prefabricated accommodation was coming to the end of its lifecycle in terms of structural integrity and energy efficiency. We’re replacing these with highly energy efficient properties that will be built using the latest construction techniques and with green spaces at their heart, meeting the needs of local residents.” Councillor Steve Evans, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Our new Housing Development Framework is helping speed up the delivery of good homes in well-connected neighbourhoods across Wolverhampton, while providing affordable housing to residents. “It will also allow our housing team to plan estate regeneration and gain advice from contractors and developers, like Keon Homes, on buildability and viability as we work in partnership to ensure value for money. “This will prove to be an effective way to deliver new homes and, crucially, increases the city’s housing stock when it needs it most.” The Wolverhampton Housing Development Framework is in place for four years initially with the opportunity for it to be extended if the agreement is going well. It marks another significant year of growth for Keon Homes, who recently announced it is bringing the £35m Phase 3 of Port Loop in Birmingham back to life and successfully completed its first extra care scheme in Newport nine months ahead of schedule. “We have slowly, but surely been building a reputation in the East and West Midlands as a developer that organisations can trust and this means we are now working with eleven housing associations and the City of Wolverhampton Council on this landmark Framework,” added Richard Williams, Managing Director of Keon Homes. “The Direct Award is also very important. In essence, it means other local authorities can come to us direct with a site award, without having to go through the time-consuming and costly procurement process.” For further information, please visit www.keonhomes.co.uk or follow the company across its social media channels. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major build-to-rent (BTR) scheme is set to transform the Kirkstall Road area of Leeds, delivering 618 new homes as part of a multi-million-pound investment backed by an unnamed US insurance company. The five-acre site, located next to the River Aire and just a mile from the city centre, will feature a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments spread across five buildings. Residents will have access to over 10,000 sq ft of shared amenities, including a lounge, co-working space, gym, two private roof terraces, and 3,800 sq ft of commercial space. Designed with sustainability in mind, the development will incorporate air source heat pumps and solar panels, targeting HQM 4* and EPC ‘B’ certifications. Glenbrook co-founder Ian Sherry said: “We are thrilled to be partnering again with Barings Real Estate on this impactful project. This development not only addresses the urgent need for housing in Leeds but also contributes to the revitalisation of the Kirkstall Road area. We believe creating high-quality living spaces is essential for fostering thriving communities.” Ben Pile, head of European residential investment and asset management at Barings Real Estate, highlighted Leeds as a key market for institutional residential investment. He said: “Given the stabilising economic and political environments in the UK, and as we enter a new real estate cycle in Europe, we expect the picture for residential property—and our other preferred sector of logistics—to become even more positive. We are seeking further opportunities to deploy capital on behalf of our partners.” This latest funding deal marks the fourth collaboration between Glenbrook and Barings. Allsop Letting and Management will oversee operations at the Leeds site upon completion. CBRE advised Glenbrook on the transaction. Construction is now underway, with the scheme expected to be completed by the end of 2027. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Castlemere Developments has officially broken ground on a new residential project consisting of six luxury four-bedroom townhouses in Dulwich. The Windsor-based developer, known for its portfolio of high-end properties across London, has started groundworks on the site of a former doctor’s surgery on Melbourne Grove. The project is expected to be completed by September 2025, with each townhouse priced at £1.6 million. Each of the townhouses will offer 1,700 square feet of living space spread across three floors, including a basement and a roof terrace. The properties will feature state-of-the-art smart home technology, German designer kitchens, oak flooring, bespoke lighting, underfloor heating powered by heat pumps and solar panels, as well as electric car charging points. The external areas will include a courtyard with structural glass flooring designed to bring natural light into the basement. Kris Collett, managing director of Castlemere Developments, is confident the townhouses in Dulwich will attract significant interest from potential buyers. He said: “We are creating homes that dovetail perfectly with the location to be the ideal family home. “Given the high quality aspect of these properties combined with the location of Dulwich, which offers an excellent lifestyle, I do expect to see a lot of interest in these six properties. “The area is known for superb schools, easy connections to central London and has that village feel with independent shops and cafes in the midst of the capital.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major housing development in South Wokingham has been approved, paving the way for 1,434 new homes, a primary school, public spaces, and a local centre. The project, a collaboration between Miller Homes and Kier Property, forms part of the South Wokingham Strategic Development Location (SWSDL) in Berkshire. Wokingham Borough Council initially resolved to grant planning permission in May 2021 and has now given the final go-ahead. Construction is set to begin this spring, subject to reserved matters applications and planning conditions. The development also includes plans for a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) to help offset environmental impacts. David Brown, managing director of Miller Homes Southern, said: “This project marks an important step in delivering much-needed housing, infrastructure, and amenities for South Wokingham. The addition of a new primary school and public spaces will create a thriving community for future residents. Our commitment to sustainable and timely delivery will ensure the success of this strategic development.” Kier Property managing director Leigh Thomas added: “By working closely with Miller Homes, Wokingham Borough Council, and the local community, we aim to provide not only essential housing but also sustainable infrastructure and vibrant public spaces that serve both current and future generations.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Latimer has appointed JJ Rhatigan as the principal contractor for the much-anticipated Twyford Abbey redevelopment in west London, marking a major step forward in transforming the historic site. Twyford Abbey, a derelict Grade II-listed manor house in Ealing, has long been on Historic England’s ‘at risk’ register. After acquiring the site in 2023, Latimer – the development arm of Clarion Housing Group – is working with Redington Capital to restore and repurpose the landmark. JJ Rhatigan will lead the construction of 296 homes across a series of five-storey residential blocks within the abbey grounds. Alongside this, the project will see the restoration of the Grade II-listed walled garden for community use, while the main building will be carefully refurbished in collaboration with Picture Property Developments to create 30 unique apartments. Designed by renowned architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM), the scheme blends sustainability with heritage preservation. The development will feature renewable energy solutions, including rooftop photovoltaic panels for electricity generation, as well as air source heat pumps to provide heating and hot water. For the first time in decades, the Abbey’s 1.2-acre South Lawn will also be reopened for public enjoyment. Clarion Housing Group’s chief development officer, Richard Cook, highlighted JJ Rhatigan’s strong track record and commitment to safety, while Tom Neylon, UK managing director at JJ Rhatigan, emphasised the opportunity to “blend contemporary housing solutions with the careful restoration of an important heritage site.” With the contract now signed, construction is scheduled to commence in March, with the first homes expected to be completed by 2027. This landmark project will not only bring new homes to west London but also breathe new life into a historic treasure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
73 new affordable homes are being developed on the historic Ripleyville estate. New pictures have been revealed to showcase the progress at the Ripleyville estate in Bradford, where North of England contractor Esh Construction is delivering an affordable housing project. Esh Construction was appointed by Accent Housing to manage the demolition of the existing properties – built in the 1970s – to replace them with 73 modern affordable homes for multi-generational living. With work officially getting underway in October 2023, a selection of pictures has been released which showcase the regeneration development taking shape, as Esh works towards a handover of the first properties in the summer. Simon Woodward, Operations Director at Esh Construction, said: “The site at Ripleyville is steeped in history and holds a deep significance for the Bradford community. This redevelopment project will deliver great benefit to the community for years to come. “We are proud to collaborate with Accent Housing on this transformative regeneration and have made key progress through the last 12 months as we work to deliver a wide range of housing options for the whole community.” The project will see nine one-bedroom and five two-bedroom apartments built alongside 10 two-bedroom, 37 three-bedroom, 6 four-bedroom and 6 five-bedroom houses. So far, 26 homes and 14 apartments have been fully built with roofing installed, while flooring and plastering works are well underway internally. Major drainage works and services installation commenced at the end of January as the build phase on the remainder of the homes continues. The new homes are designed to be highly energy efficient, with no gas supply to the development. Air source heat pumps and photovoltaic (PV) panels will be installed, with each property achieving an Energy Performance (EPC) rating of A. Accent Housing worked closely with customers, Bradford Council and other external stakeholders throughout the consultation and planning stages and the development is being delivered as part of Accent’s Strategic Partnership with Homes England – the housing provider received a grant from the affordable housing programme 2021-2026. Sarah Ireland, Executive Director of Strategy and Growth at Accent, said: “We are delighted to see the progress made at Ripleyville which is a flagship development for Accent. The scheme at Ripleyville is Accent’s first large scale operational net zero affordable development meaning we’re Future Homes ready based on the current draft standard. “The redevelopment of the site underscores our continued commitment to deliver environmentally sustainable housing which meets the housing demand of the local area and enhances the community in which it stands. This project leverages advanced technologies to enhance energy efficiency which will also reduce our customers’ energy bills. “Our commitment to this project highlights our focus on both environmental responsibility and meaningful community collaboration, of which we will continue to replicate in future developments across the country.” Ripleyville was first brought to life in the 1860s as an industrial model village that included around 200 workers’ cottages, a school, church and allotments. After falling into disrepair in the 1970s, the site was flattened and rebuilt with 162 flats and two bungalows as part of the Bradford Development Plan. But with the estate being developed with post-war no-fines concrete, it became difficult to maintain, and in October 2022, Esh Construction was appointed to support the regeneration of the area, including a full site strip, removal of asbestos and the demolition of existing properties and service diversions. As part of its Constructing Local strategy, Esh has donated £5,000 to Better Lives Charity to help Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust service users get to health care appointments, educational courses, training and employment more easily. The funds were used to purchase up to 20 bikes and accessories which have been made available to the Care Trust’s service users who struggle with public transport costs. The project is due to be completed in Autumn 2025. To find out more about Esh Construction, visit www.eshgroup.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Housebuilder Story Homes is delighted to announce exchange of contracts for a new site for residential development on Dialstone Lane in Offerton, Stockport. Proposals for the site would see the delivery of 112 high quality homes, including 50% affordable housing, which would contribute positively towards meeting Stockport’s recognised housing need. Located on Dialstone Lane between Brooklyn Road and Hornbeam Close, the land is owned by Stockport Grammar School and was historically used by the school for playing sports. However, due to numerous issues including safeguarding challenges and a lack of facilities, the space has not been in active use by the school since 2015. Rather than remaining unused, the school has been exploring options to give the site a new future. A planning application for the new residential development will be submitted to Stockport Council imminently and follows on from a public consultation event which took place in February last year, which sought feedback from local residents to help shape plans for the new scheme. As part of the new development, Story Homes will work with the Council to agree a package of community measures and contributions to benefit new and existing local residents, including a sports mitigation scheme, in line with the Section 106 Agreement.* Martin Nugent, Head of Land and Planning for Story Homes North West, said: “We are pleased to have exchanged contracts on this land which could see the delivery of 112 new homes in Stockport. It is very important to us that we deliver a sustainable community that benefits new and existing residents alike, and so we were pleased to be able to engage with the local community, taking on board their feedback on our plans and working together to bring this vision for a new development to life. “In line with our commitment to the local community, our plans include dedicated public open spaces and play areas that will be accessible for both current and future residents. The new homes will be set within a green and leafy development which will support local wildlife and biodiversity and help to alleviate pressure on Stockport’s green belt zone.” This new residential development would also create benefits for the local economy during the construction phase as a result of direct and indirect employment opportunities through the sub-contractor and supply chains, as well as an increased demand for local services when the new homes are occupied. Hazel Tritschler, Chair of Governors at Stockport Grammar School, said: “We are delighted to partner with Story Homes on this residential development, which will provide benefits for both the school and the local community. “The proceeds from this transaction will significantly increase the school’s bursary program, thereby further expanding opportunities for local children, and maintain the 537 year ethos of providing education. Additionally, a substantial portion of the funds generated will be invested in upgrading the school’s existing facilities, helping to offset rising costs of maintaining our historic buildings and investing in measures to improve the environmental performance of the campus.” The housebuilder will aim to commence works on this site in late 2025, subject to approval of the planning application. For more information, please visit www.storyhomes.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals