Bellway has submitted a detailed planning application for 176 new homes on land at Jacksons Lane in Hazel Grove, Stockport. Half of the homes planned for the 19-acre site would be affordable housing, while new publicly accessible open space would also be created as part of the development. The application, which has been developed by Bellway’s Strategic Land team and Manchester division, follows the site’s inclusion in the draft allocation of land for new residential development in the emerging Stockport Local Plan. The land sits to the south of Jacksons Lane, on the southern edge of Hazel Grove. Sebastian Burrow, Bellway Strategic Land Director for the North West, said: “We have worked closely with the landowners and Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council to develop proposals which make effective use of this site and respond positively to local planning policy, helping to deliver much-needed new homes in the borough. “The project would include 50 per cent affordable housing, with a mix of rented and shared ownership properties, contributing towards meeting identified local housing needs and supporting the delivery of mixed, balanced communities in Stockport. “This is a highly sustainable location for new homes, with shops, schools and bus stops all within walking distance. The development has been designed to promote walking and cycling, with new pedestrian and cycle links proposed as part of the site layout to ensure the development connects with surrounding footpaths. “The proposals also provide significant areas of public green open space and a children’s play area, alongside a range of measures to protect and enhance biodiversity, including new planting and the creation of wildlife habitats. These will deliver environmental benefits as part of a high-quality, sustainable development.” The plans include a range of two, three and four-bedroom houses for private sale and two and three-bedroom affordable houses, with a mix of terraced, semi-detached and detached designs. The proposals also seek to enhance the site’s landscape features, retaining existing hedgerow and mature trees, including the tree-lined corridor along the site’s southern and south-western boundaries, and two ponds. In addition, there will be new planting incorporating native species to maximise biodiversity improvements, and new wildlife habitats including bat and bird boxes. As part of the planning process, it is anticipated that Bellway will make financial contributions towards improving local infrastructure, which could include schools, healthcare services and open space, sports and recreational facilities. Sebastian said: “As well as providing new housing and open space for people in the area, this project will enhance the vitality, viability and accessibility of Hazel Grove, bringing jobs and inward investment into the local economy.” More information about the work of Bellway Strategic Land can be found at https://www.bellwaystrategicland.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Build to Rent developer PLATFORM_ is preparing to move its major Bristol city centre scheme into procurement, following planning approval secured just before Christmas. In December, Bristol City Council resolved to grant planning permission for the large-scale regeneration project, marking a key step forward for the former sawmill site. With the approval now in place, PLATFORM_ is gearing up to tender for a main contractor in the second quarter of 2026, ahead of a Gateway 2 submission planned for the end of the year. The development will deliver 352 Build to Rent homes and is designed by Allford Hall Monaghan Morris. It is positioned as a significant regeneration scheme that will transform a previously inaccessible riverside location into a new residential neighbourhood with strong public realm credentials. Central to the proposals is a new riverside park that will open up access to the River Frome to the public for the first time in generations. The landscaped space will be supported by a new pedestrian bridge across the river, improving connectivity and creating a more permeable route through the area for both residents and the wider community. Since planning approval was secured on 20 December 2025, the project team has been progressing pre-construction activity, refining technical design and preparing the scheme for market engagement. The upcoming contractor tender will represent a major milestone as the developer transitions from planning into delivery. PLATFORM_ chief executive Jean-Marc Vandevivere said the planning decision represented a significant step forward for one of Bristol’s most important regeneration sites. He said the scheme would provide much-needed new homes while delivering high-quality public spaces and amenities that support long-term placemaking. The project is expected to play a meaningful role in addressing housing demand in the city, particularly within the professionally managed rental sector, while also enhancing the riverside environment and reconnecting the site with its surroundings. With contractor procurement scheduled for Q2 and regulatory submissions planned later in the year, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the scheme. PLATFORM_ said it remains focused on working closely with the council and its advisory team to ensure the project progresses smoothly towards construction and delivery, helping to establish a vibrant new riverside community in the heart of Bristol. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Slovakian developer Penta Real Estate has officially entered the UK market, launching its first London projects through a new 50/50 joint venture with urban regeneration specialist Ballymore. Together, the partners will deliver more than 680 new homes across two major residential schemes, marking a significant milestone in Penta’s international expansion. The developer has recently established a London office and is moving ahead with its initial developments after both secured full planning consent. Construction is already under way on the schemes, which have a combined gross development value of more than £700m. The first project, Cuba Street, is a 52-storey residential tower located on the edge of Canary Wharf. Designed to bring contemporary homes to one of London’s most dynamic business districts, the scheme is set to become a new landmark in the area. The second development, The Capston, forms the final phase of Ballymore’s ambitious Embassy Gardens regeneration in Nine Elms. The project will deliver 247 apartments across two buildings rising 11 and 22 storeys, completing one of London’s best-known regeneration masterplans. Pavel Streblov, managing director of Penta Real Estate UK, said the partnership marks an exciting moment for the business as it enters what he described as the world’s leading real estate market. He said the joint venture reflects a shared ambition with Ballymore to deliver high-quality homes and create positive outcomes for London’s communities. Streblov added that both organisations are committed to shaping distinctive and inspiring residential environments, and he looked forward to bringing forward new opportunities for Londoners. John Mulryan, group managing director at Ballymore, said securing the investment for the two schemes is a major achievement given current market conditions. He emphasised that with housing supply under pressure across the capital, progressing projects at pace is essential, and the partnership with Penta Real Estate will help ensure delivery continues. Mulryan noted that the two companies are aligned in both approach and ambition, and he welcomed the opportunity to establish what is expected to be a long-term collaboration in London’s residential sector. With construction under way at both sites, the joint venture is set to play a meaningful role in meeting demand for new homes in highly sought-after parts of the capital. For Penta, the developments mark the beginning of what is expected to be a wider programme of UK activity, following years of growth in Central Europe. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The Lewisham Strategic Planning Committee has unanimously approved Lewisham Council’s ambitious regeneration plans for Achilles Street in New Cross. The scheme is set to deliver greater security for existing residents, substantial investment, and new economic opportunities for local businesses and the wider community. The regeneration initiative is designed to strengthen the neighbourhood for the long term by providing an increase in affordable homes, improved public spaces, and safer streets—all of which have been directly shaped by local people. The approved scheme will deliver a total of 278 high-quality new homes, with 60% allocated as affordable housing. This includes 122 homes for Council-owned social rent—an increase from the current 87—and 44 homes for shared ownership. Further housing specifications include: In addition to housing, the plan sets out significant community and economic benefits: The project has been heavily influenced by residents since 2016, with engagement efforts including a Resident Steering Group, a youth panel, and workshops with local schools. This resident involvement was formalised in a 2019 estate ballot where 92% of eligible residents voted, with a majority of 73% in favour of the plans. The Council has committed to continuing collaboration with residents to shape their new homes as the project progresses. The design prioritises a strong neighbourhood feel, featuring secure bicycle parking and accessible public spaces. New maker spaces along Pagnell Street and the Makers’ Yard are intended to offer affordable, flexible space for local artists and entrepreneurs, bolstering New Cross’s role as one of Lewisham’s most creative districts. The Achilles Street scheme is expected to be completed by 2033 and marks a major milestone for Building for Lewisham, the Council’s programme backed by the Mayor of London to increase affordable housing and support local jobs. Councillor James-J Walsh, Lewisham Council’s Cabinet Member for Inclusive Regeneration and Planning, commented: “Achilles shows what regeneration should be: rooted in the community, improving everyday life and helping local people stay in the neighbourhood they love. With 60% affordable homes, safer public spaces, better connections and new opportunities for local businesses, we’re delivering the Good Growth vision in our Local Plan – creating a thriving New Cross shaped by its residents, for the future of Lewisham.” Councillor Will Cooper, Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness, emphasised the focus on social housing: “With the Achilles Street Estate regeneration, we’re putting social rent homes first. We know some of our estates and homes are not up to standard and need regeneration, and we are doing that regeneration with social housing tenants at the heart of our plans. The increase in social homes on this site means that families stuck in temporary accommodation or overcrowded in their properties will get the opportunity to move in to secure, safe and well-designed homes, giving them the chance to thrive at the heart of our community.” Jo McCafferty, Director at Levitt Bernstein, praised the community involvement: “It’s testament to an incredible working collaboration between the community, our client, ourselves, WR-AP Architects and ZCD Architects and the wider design team including Max Fordham and Price & Myers. The Achilles Estate steering group have been at the forefront of all decision-making and have shown such personal commitment to the project over this period, from the original ballot in 2019.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Leading affordable housebuilder, Orbit Homes, has started construction on 272 new homes in the East at Victoria Gardens, a new development in Great Plumstead. At Victoria Gardens, Orbit Homes is delivering 138 affordable homes for social rent and Shared Ownership, alongside 134 homes for market sale. The new development will comprise a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes. All homes at Victoria Gardens will follow Orbit Homes’ tenure-blind approach, meaning that regardless of whether a customer moves into their new home via market sale, shared ownership or social rent, they will receive the same commitment to sector-leading design, specification, and safety, alongside outstanding customer service. Victoria Gardens is designed to embrace sustainability and support Orbit’s wider commitment to The Wildlife Trusts’ 30by30 campaign to enable nature’s recovery by 2030 with large areas of public space including an orchard. With works underway on the Smee Lane site, the first homes are set to be available for purchase in Spring 2026. Brian Nearney, Chief Development Officer at Orbit, said: “We are delighted to have started on site at Victoria Gardens, where we’re working to build 272 quality new homes that will be ideal for those at all stages of life. We’re also very proud to be delivering over half of these homes in affordable tenures to support the local housing need and further our commitment to building thriving mixed-tenure communities. “Our team is excited to share more details about Victoria Gardens in the coming months, and we encourage anyone interested to register their interest now and be the first to find out more.” Victoria Gardens is supported by grant funding from Homes England for the delivery of affordable homes. The new development is situated in Great Plumstead, a parish village on the outskirts of Norwich, where locals can enjoy the best of both worlds with the beautiful countryside and a range of amenities nearby, including Norwich city centre and Norwich train station less than five miles away. For more information about Victoria Gardens and to register your interest, visit: www.orbithomes.org.uk/victoria-gardens Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

SNG (Sovereign Network Group) is advancing its flagship regeneration project, Northwick Parkside in Harrow, located directly next to Northwick Park Hospital and the University of Westminster. The development is designed to serve the thousands of NHS staff and other public sector employees who work in the surrounding area, offering a hub of high-quality, affordable housing. Northwick Parkside offers two main pathways for key workers seeking a home: Shared Ownership apartments and low-cost rental accommodation. Brand new, modern one- and two-bedroom apartments are available through Shared Ownership, enabling buyers to purchase a share of a home with deposits starting from as little as 5%. These apartments are built with greener living in mind, featuring eco-friendly construction, superior insulation, and energy-efficient appliances from brands like Indesit and Bosch to help reduce bills. As an added benefit, NHS workers who purchase a Shared Ownership home will receive a complimentary £500 Love2Shop voucher upon moving in. SNG is also offering key worker rental accommodation at Northwick Park, with rooms available from around £800 per month inclusive of bills, a rate well below typical market rents. Eligibility for this secure, well-managed accommodation extends to anyone who meets the financial criteria (with an upper salary limit of £66,000), particularly those in the public sector, including: While applications are open to all public sector employees, people who live or work in Brent are prioritised. Northwick Parkside is the result of an ambitious partnership between SNG and Countryside Partnerships, part of Vistry Group. Once complete, the development will provide a thriving new neighbourhood featuring landscaped courtyards, green open spaces, and a community hub with shops, cafés, and a nursery. Kalumba Musambachime, Head of Sales for London & East at SNG, commented: “Northwick Parkside demonstrates our commitment to providing affordable housing options that meet the needs of the local community… our aim is to support those who are doing the jobs that support society.” Charles Culling, Head of Specialist Housing at SNG, added that the dedicated key worker accommodation offers rental rates that are 20% lower than local market rates, enabling workers to save for a deposit to buy their own home in the future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Contractor Midgard has been given approval to begin work on a £145 million twin tower residential development in Birmingham after the project successfully passed the Gateway 2 safety stage. Developer Sphere Group, working with strategic partner Select Property, is delivering the Edition Birmingham scheme, which has become the first residential skyscraper project in the city to secure sign off from the Building Safety Regulator. The development will deliver 581 new homes beside Centenary Square, split between the 46 storey Centenary Tower and the 15 storey Park Residence. Midgard, part of the JRL Group, plans to use modular construction methods to accelerate progress, with phase one expected to complete in 2027. Thomas Taylor, managing director of Sphere Group, said:“The new Building Safety Act Gateway 2 introduces some of the most stringent safety requirements in the world, making the UK a market leader and one of the safest places to invest.“Securing Gateway 2 approval is a major milestone and underlines our commitment to ensuring Edition Birmingham is built to the very highest standards of safety and quality.” Residents will benefit from an extensive range of amenities, including a swimming pool suspended 20 metres above ground, a hydro pool, plunge pool, sauna and steam room. Further features include a sky lounge with private dining on the 44th and 45th floors, a co working space known as The Study, and a 9,000 square foot outdoor terrace with cinema screen and BBQ area. Engineering consultancy is being led by SOM, with Futureserv acting as MEP consultant. Interiors are being designed by Weedon Architects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A major new waterfront neighbourhood is taking shape in Salford after developer Bentry Capital completed a £12 million acquisition of the Irwell Gardens site. Its in-house construction firm, Mellior Group, is set to begin work in the first quarter of next year, starting with 50 three and four bedroom townhouses. This will mark the launch of phase one of the £80 million development. The three acre brownfield site off Regatta Street, which sits along the River Irwell, is earmarked for 100 modern townhouses and 100 apartments to be delivered across two phases. Mellior is now progressing the planning application for phase two, which will bring forward a further 50 houses and 100 flats once approved. Phase one is expected to take around 18 months to complete and will cost approximately £35 million to build. The deal bolsters Bentry Capital’s expanding £500 million UK residential pipeline and follows the success of its nearby Willow Court project, a 119 apartment scheme where the final homes are now being handed over to owner occupiers. Located close to Salford Quays, MediaCity and the University of Salford, the Irwell Gardens site also overlooks the historic location of a 1944 Lancaster bomber crash, which continues to be commemorated by the local community. David Cain, co founder and chief development officer at Bentry Capital, said:“Mellior Group is excellently placed to lead the construction of Irwell Gardens, and we look forward to starting on site in the new year. Despite wider market challenges, we have delivered premium quality homes at nearby Willow Court, and this trusted, experienced team will now bring the Irwell Gardens vision to life.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Henry Boot Construction has been appointed by Chesterfield Borough Council to deliver 18 brand-new energy-efficient homes in Mastin Moor, marking a key step in the council’s commitment to expanding its affordable housing supply. Work is now underway on site. This project marks one of the first housing developments to be supported by the East Midlands Combined County Authority’s (EMCCA) Brownfield Housing Fund. This initiative, funded by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government and delivered in partnership with Homes England, will unlock stalled residential developments and breathe new life into under-used land across the region. The development will see 13 new council homes built on Miller Avenue, whilst a further five houses will also be constructed on Edale Road. In total, Henry Boot Construction will deliver seven four-bedroom homes and eleven two-bedroom homes, all allocated to families on the council’s housing register. Each home is designed to achieve A-rated energy performance, with sustainability measures built in from the start of construction. Solar PV panels and air-source heat pumps will be installed across all plots, helping reduce running costs for future tenants and reducing carbon emissions across the borough. External works will provide private gardens and off-road parking for residents, while both locations are situated close to public transport routes for easy access to local services. Additional environmental features include bat and bird boxes on every plot and electric vehicle charging points. Mat Clarke, Head of Construction at Henry Boot Construction, said: “We’re proud to be supporting Chesterfield Borough Council in its mission to deliver affordable, energy-efficient homes for families across the borough. “It’s great for us to be back in Chesterfield after recently working with the council on its largest housing development in decades at Badger Croft, and we’re delighted to continue playing our part in increasing the local housing supply.” Councillor Jean Innes, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing, said: “As a council, we remain committed to increasing the supply of affordable housing for local people and this latest project is helping us to achieve this. “We are really pleased that EMCCA has allocated part of its Brownfield Housing Fund to help deliver this project that will provide much needed homes for local families. We look forward to working with EMCCA and Henry Boot Construction and watching the project progress. “With the cost of living continuing to rise, we know how important it is to our tenants to keep homes warm but energy costs down, so we’re really pleased to be delivering new properties with the top energy efficiency rating.” To mark the start of the project, Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, joined the Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Councillor Tricia Gilby, and the council’s cabinet member for housing, Councillor Jean Innes for a site visit hosted by Henry Boot Construction. Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “This project is a powerful example of how we’re turning our vision for inclusive growth into reality. Through the Brownfield Housing Fund, we’re creating high-quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of local families while supporting greener, more sustainable communities. By investing in places like Mastin Moor, we’re making the East Midlands a region that everyone is proud to call home.” EMCCA has secured a devolved allocation of Brownfield Housing Fund investment from the UK Government to support the delivery of housing on brownfield sites in the East Midlands. The funding commitment will deliver more than 2,000 high-quality homes, supporting Mayor Claire Ward’s ambition to build 100,000 new homes in the region by 2035. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Chalegrove Properties (CPL) has revealed two new duplex penthouses at One Thames Quay, the recently completed residential landmark on South Quay in Canary Wharf. Positioned on the 47th and 48th floors, the penthouses—named The Merchant and The Mariner—take inspiration from the Docklands’ maritime heritage and offer expansive views across London’s skyline. The two homes have been designed to reflect the landscape and character of their surroundings. Both feature double-height balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing that frame views across Canary Wharf, the River Thames and the wider city. Inside, the residences include refined herringbone flooring, contemporary integrated kitchens and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Facing Canary Wharf is The Merchant, a fully dressed penthouse now open for private viewings. Its design draws on the area’s transformation from an 1800s trade hub handling goods such as sugar and spices into the global business district it is today. Split across two levels, the home features an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area with a corner balcony on the lower floor, and two en-suite bedrooms arranged on the upper floor in a calm, neutral palette that mirrors the surrounding towers. The Mariner, an east-facing apartment, offers sweeping views over the O2 Arena, the Greenwich Peninsula and the Thames as it curves toward the sea. Designed with subtle nautical influences and blue and bronze accents, this light-filled home features two generous bedroom suites, a bright open-plan living space and a private balcony. Residents of One Thames Quay also have access to the newly completed lifestyle amenities located just below the penthouses. These include a 5,795 sq ft indoor–outdoor garden space, a sky lounge and bar, co-working areas, a private dining room and a sky gym fitted with Technogym equipment. Further facilities on the second floor include a canopy garden, children’s play area, a bookable bowling alley, games room and media lounge. Rami Atallah, Director at Chalegrove Properties, said the penthouses represent the most exclusive homes within the development, combining panoramic views with high-quality facilities and sustainable design principles. Each residence incorporates integrated zero-fossil-fuel heating and cooling, triple glazing and rainwater harvesting systems to support long-term energy efficiency. Residents also benefit from a five-star concierge service, 24-hour security and secure parcel management. Situated moments from the shops, restaurants and leisure offerings of Wood Wharf and the wider Canary Wharf estate, One Thames Quay is well connected, with the DLR, Underground and Elizabeth Line all within walking distance. Travel to key locations across London—including Heathrow and London City Airport—is achievable in under 40 minutes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals