The transformation of the historic Brabazon Hangars at Filton Airfield has taken a major step forward, with demolition contractor John F Hunt completing the strip-out to unlock full construction of the 20,000-capacity YTL Arena. At the heart of the scheme, the central hangar has been pared back to its original 1940s steel frame, revealing the building’s vast proportions. The iconic Esavian sliding hangar doors have been removed, opening sightlines straight through the structure that once witnessed the birth of Concorde. Enabling works are now under way to remove seven major structural trusses along with the existing roof. This will clear the volume for the new seating bowl, the core of the venue’s live events offer. Surrounding outer buildings have already been demolished, making room for the next phase of development, including a new bridge that will connect the arena complex to the wider Brabazon new town. Main contractor YTL Construction UK, incorporated in 2023 as a subsidiary of YTL Land & Property, is leading delivery. Chief executive John Thompson, who joined in November 2024 after 17 years with Wessex Water, said: “Demolishing parts of the hangar has been a delicate operation, as we know how important it is to preserve its structure both for its legacy as the birthplace of Concorde and its bright new future. The project team and I are delighted to be delivering this exciting new venue, which promises to put Bristol on the world stage.” The works at Filton, in north Bristol, mark the shift from heritage-sensitive demolition to major build. With the shell now exposed and approaches cleared, the programme will pivot to heavy construction, façade interventions and fit-out to create a contemporary arena within an historic envelope. The YTL Arena is expected to open in 2028, anchoring the wider Brabazon regeneration and adding a flagship cultural destination to the city’s skyline. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Yorkshire-based GMI Construction Group has been appointed to the North Eastern Universities Purchasing Consortium (NEUPC) Refurbishment Framework, marking a significant step forward in its public sector growth strategy. The company has secured a place in the £4m-£10m project value band for the Yorkshire and Humber region, with projects to be delivered from its Leeds office. The four-year framework supports refurbishment schemes across NEUPC’s network of members, associates, and affiliates, including universities, further education colleges, schools, NHS Trusts, and other public sector organisations. NEUPC is one of six regional purchasing consortia that form the UK Universities Procurement Consortia (UKUPC), which collectively manage collaborative procurement agreements across the UK’s higher education sector. It also marks an early success for Ken Rawe who recently joined GMI as Head of Frameworks. The newly created role is central to the company’s strategy to expand its footprint across public sector frameworks and strengthen long-term relationships with institutional clients. He brings more than 20 years of experience in framework management, procurement, and project delivery, having previously held senior roles at Kier Group, mac-group, and Shaylor Group. Ken Rawe said: “We are proud to have been selected by NEUPC to deliver high-quality refurbishment projects that support the continued development of education, healthcare, and public service environments. “NEUPC is a recognised leader in collaborative, client-focused procurement, and its values are closely aligned with our own. This appointment demonstrates our commitment to supporting the public sector and creating lasting value for the communities we serve.” GMI’s inclusion on the NEUPC framework builds on a strong track record within the public sector. The company already holds positions on several major procurement frameworks, including Pagabo, Procure Partnerships, North East Purchasing Organisation (NEPO), and the University of Manchester Construction Works framework. Andy Hughes, Deputy Head of Operational Procurement and Category Manager, said: “We are pleased to award a long term framework that is open to all members of the NEUPC, covering a diverse range of requirements in refurbishment works that we hope will provide savings as well as quality work for our members.” Gareth Jones, GMI’s Group Managing Director, added: “Ken’s experience in navigating national and regional frameworks is already helping strengthen our presence in this vital sector. “Being added to the NEUPC framework is a valuable addition to our growing public sector portfolio and a strong endorsement of GMI’s capabilities and collaborative approach.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Willmott Dixon has been appointed by Brighton & Hove City Council as the preferred contractor for the £65 million transformation of the King Alfred Leisure Centre. The landmark seafront project will replace the city’s ageing leisure centre with a modern, accessible and sustainable facility designed to set new standards for coastal leisure provision. Plans include pools, a gym and café offering sea views, as well as improved landscaping that connects with a revitalised public realm. Work is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the new centre expected to open in spring 2028. The current King Alfred Leisure Centre will remain open for as long as feasible during construction. The redeveloped complex will feature a larger fitness suite, a leisure water area with a family entertainment zone, and full accessibility throughout. Sustainability will be embedded in the design, with innovative technologies aimed at delivering environmental resilience and reducing carbon impact. Richard Poulter, Managing Director in the South at Willmott Dixon, said: “We are excited to be appointed as the preferred contractor for this transformational project. Having recently delivered the successful transformation of Brighton Metropolitan College, we understand the importance of creating facilities that truly serve this vibrant coastal community. “The new King Alfred Leisure Centre presents an exciting opportunity to create a world-class facility that maximises its unique seafront location through innovative design and sustainable construction practices. Drawing on our extensive experience of delivering over 160 leisure facilities nationwide – including 108 swimming pools – we bring proven expertise in complex waterfront developments and environmental resilience. We’re particularly excited to integrate cutting-edge sustainable technologies and accessibility innovations that will set new standards for coastal leisure facilities. Working alongside Brighton & Hove City Council and our expert partners, we’re committed to delivering not just a building, but a community hub that will serve residents and visitors for generations to come.” The project will be delivered through a collaborative partnership, with Willmott Dixon working alongside Brighton & Hove City Council’s main delivery partner Alliance Leisure. The scheme is being procured through the UK Leisure Framework, with the design team including GT3 Architects, DHA Planning Group, Engenuity Ltd, VZDV Consulting Engineers and Hadron Consulting as project manager. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Domis Construction has broken ground on Podium, a £120m build-to-rent scheme in Trafford, Greater Manchester. Delivered by developer Glenbrook, the project will provide 440 new homes across four buildings and a central podium, with the first phase scheduled for completion in Q2 2026 following start on site in early 2024. The development is being funded through a joint venture between Moorfield Group, on behalf of Moorfield Real Estate Fund V, and the Greater Manchester Pension Fund, advised by CBRE. The scheme forms part of Trafford’s 55-acre Civic Quarter masterplan, close to Old Trafford’s football and cricket grounds, which will bring forward up to 4,000 new homes, commercial space, public realm and green areas. Charles Ferguson-Davie, Co-CEO & Chief Investment Officer, Moorfield Group, said: “Our joint venture with Greater Manchester Pension Fund sees us partner with a forward-thinking UK institutional investor who understand the long-term benefits high-quality purpose-built rental housing can bring to local communities and economies. “This transaction enables us to recycle capital into other compelling opportunities we are seeing within UK living real estate. There is a long-standing structural demand-supply imbalance, and a need for new housing of different tenures and typologies.” Podium will deliver a mix of apartments and townhouses aimed at young professionals and families. Residents will have access to a range of amenities including lounges, co-working areas, a gym and studio, roof terrace, cycle storage and a 200-space car park. The landscaped communal areas will be the largest of any build-to-rent development in Manchester. The project also incorporates extensive sustainability measures under an ESG-linked development agreement between Moorfield and Glenbrook. At least 95% of the homes will achieve a minimum EPC B rating, with the scheme designed for net zero operational carbon through full electrification. Construction methods will include the use of cement replacements and recycled materials, alongside the installation of photovoltaic roofing, EV charging points and measures to deliver biodiversity net gain. For Moorfield, Podium marks its third build-to-rent investment in Manchester, following The Trilogy in Castlefield and Duet in Salford Quays. GMPF continues to support housing delivery across Greater Manchester, with previous commitments including £100m into Legal & General’s Affordable Housing Fund and a joint venture with Manchester City Council’s housing company, This City, to bring forward 1,600 affordable homes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Neville Special Projects, the long-established specialist Luton-based contractor and part of the Neville Trust Group of Companies, has secured a new £11.6 million contract – for the design and build refurbishment of Hangars 60, 127, and 9 at London Luton Airport (LLA). This contract award follows a highly competitive tender process and reflects Neville’s reputation and presence in the region, where it has been delivering construction excellence for generations. In 2025, the group celebrates its 150th anniversary, marking a century and a half of continued investment in the local community, workforce and economy. Ben Knight, Construction Director at Neville Special Projects, commented: “This was a tough, highly competitive tender, and the effort the team put in behind the scenes was exceptional. From early engagement through to final submission, the level of collaboration, technical input, and sheer tenacity was second to none. It’s wins like this that really highlight what we can achieve when we pull together with a clear focus and shared purpose. A huge thank you to all involved – this is a fantastic result and a great opportunity to further strengthen our presence with London Luton Airport.” The refurbishment will bring three previously vacant hangars – once operated by Monarch Aircraft Engineering Ltd – back into active use. Built by our founding company T & E Neville Ltd for Monarch in the 1990s, Hangar 60 is set to house a new EasyJet aircraft maintenance facility and apprenticeship training campus, creating over 30 highly skilled engineering roles and supporting up to 40 apprentices annually. As a long-standing employer in Luton, with a previous history of works at the airport backdating to the 1960’s, Neville Special Projects remains committed to creating local opportunities. The company employs a workforce drawn primarily from the surrounding area and runs its own in-house apprenticeship programme, training the next generation of skilled tradespeople and construction professionals, many of whom stay with the business to progress their careers. With a strong track record in delivering complex projects in live operational environments, Neville Special Projects specialises in high-quality refurbishment and new-build schemes across a wide range of sectors including aviation, education, healthcare and commercial. This latest contract reflects the business’s strategic growth and its continued commitment to infrastructure investment in its hometown. The Neville Trust Group of Companies, established originally in Luton by Thomas and Edward Neville in 1875, has been employing people across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire for nearly 150 years. For information about Neville Special Projects, head to the website at https://www.nevillespecialprojects.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Abergavenny railway station has marked a major milestone in accessibility with the opening of its first-ever step-free footbridge, providing easier movement between platforms for all passengers. Installed by Network Rail in partnership with Centregreat, the new structure is the UK’s first covered version of the Beacon footbridge design — a sleek, modular style developed to combine functionality with modern visual appeal. The bridge is intended to improve travel for people with mobility challenges, parents with prams, and passengers with heavy luggage. Designed by Arcadis and built in Cardiff by Centregreat Engineering, the bridge features bespoke steelwork tailored to the station’s layout. Its design was developed in collaboration with Monmouthshire Council’s conservation team to ensure it complements Abergavenny’s historic setting and listed status. Key features include: The project forms part of a wider investment in the Wales and Borders network to enhance passenger experience, safety, and inclusivity. An official opening ceremony is scheduled in the coming months. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Work has officially begun on site to prepare Eston Precinct for demolition, marking a significant milestone in the regeneration of the area. The process, which initially includes the safe removal of asbestos, paves the way for a major redevelopment project aimed at delivering high-quality retail facilities for both residents and visitors. The transformation will not only provide retail services but also enhance the overall appeal of Eston as a vibrant and welcoming destination. Planned improvements to the surrounding area include new paving, trees, benches, lighting, and upgraded power infrastructure to support events and markets, creating a more attractive environment for shoppers and businesses. As part of the first phase, Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council will oversee the construction of seven new retail units, totalling 14,600 square feet, alongside the creation of a new outdoor space. The project is being funded by Government and Tees Valley Combined Authority. Phase one is expected to be completed by summer 2026. Following a public consultation held last month, it has been confirmed that the site will retain its name ‘Eston Precinct’. Councillor Lynn Pallister, Cabinet Member for Growth and Enterprise at the council, speaking at the site today (Thursday 3 July), said: “This is an important day for the local community, who have waited a long time for this to happen. “The demolition is set to be completed by early October, and the construction of seven new, high-quality retail units will follow. “I’d like to thank everyone involved in bringing this project to Eston, and to the local community for their patience. I can’t wait to be back next summer to celebrate its opening.” Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “Eston Precinct has been in dire need of improvement for years so it’s great to see demolition work now getting underway. While there’ll be memories left behind, the precinct will be getting a much-needed modern makeover – and I’m looking forward to seeing work finished next year.” Esh Construction has been appointed as the principal contractor for both the demolition and the new build. Andy Radcliffe, Chief Executive at Esh Construction, said: “We are proud to be delivering the first phase of Eston Precinct and playing our part in this important regeneration project for the area. “As a local contractor, we are committed to maximising the social and economic benefits throughout the scheme by procuring locally, delivering award-winning school engagement initiatives, and supporting charitable and voluntary initiatives within the community.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Recently on 25 June 2025, representatives from McLaughlin & Harvey joined client BAE Systems to celebrate the official opening of the Janet Harvey Hall. The project combined expertise from McLaughlin & Harvey’s construction and civil engineering teams to deliver a new, more efficient and safe shipbuilding facility for BAE Systems.   In phase one, civil engineering experts drained and infilled the wet basin where the Janet Harvey Hall would be situated. Over 430,000 tonnes of sand and stone was used to infill the site, including around 318,000 tonnes of sand dredged directly from the River Clyde. Before constructing the foundations with reinforced concrete, 5000 metres of steel piles were installed.  John Mariner, Operations Director – Civils at McLaughlin & Harvey, said: “This is a brilliant example of the emphasis on collaboration at McLaughlin & Harvey. Our ability to take what was once a wet basin, infill it and create a solid structure for our construction team to build on demonstrates McLaughlin & Harvey’s ability to work across disciplines seamlessly.”   After the initial civil engineering works, phase two was completed by McLaughlin & Harvey’s construction team. Using over 6,000 tonnes of steel and over 20,000m3 of concrete, this vast shipbuilding facility houses two electric overhead travelling cranes and two Goliath cranes weighing an incredible 280 tonnes in total. “A project of this scale offers many challenges, but working together as one team with BAE Systems, our supply chain partners and internal teams, we have built a significant structure that will be part of the next chapter in Glasgow’s shipbuilding legacy.” Martin Keys, Operations Director at McLaughlin & Harvey. Named after the World War II shipyard electrician, Janet Harvey, the hall is situated on the banks of the River Clyde. Spanning 170 meters in length and 80 meters in width, it is sure to become a staple on the Glasgow skyline. At the end of the ceremony Janet’s nieces joined the Lord Provost to cut the ribbon across the towering 33m long by 54m wide hall door- a symbolic gesture that officially opened the facility and marked a new era for shipbuilding in Scotland. Simon Lister, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Naval Ships business, said: “The Janet Harvey Hall marks a major step forward for shipbuilding in Glasgow and will help enable efficient and safe shipbuilding for decades to come. It’s a symbol of pride not just for our skilled workforce who bring these ships to life, but for the entire city.” This project is another example of McLaughlin & Harvey’s expertise in the defence sector and its ability to deliver complex infrastructure projects to support the UK armed forces and supply chain. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Work has officially begun on a major £65 million refurbishment of the Grade II-listed Haringey Civic Centre in north London, as contractor John Sisk & Son moves ahead with the much-anticipated upgrade. A ground-breaking ceremony held recently marked the start of construction on the project, which will see the 1950s civic building reimagined as a modern, sustainable workspace and community hub. Originally built in 1958 and granted listed status in 2018, the Civic Centre is being redeveloped with a sensitive yet forward-thinking approach. The scheme, approved by Haringey Council’s planning sub-committee in September last year, will include the creation of a new annex, improved office space, and restored civic areas. Council leader Peray Ahmet described the refurbishment as a pivotal moment for the borough. “This project will re-establish the Civic Centre as the heart of public life in Haringey. It’s not just about upgrading a building — it’s about creating a welcoming, inclusive space that reflects our ambitions for a greener and more collaborative future,” she said. The refurbished centre is set to provide high-quality, accessible office accommodation for up to 900 council staff. It will also offer public-facing spaces and community facilities designed to support civic engagement and partnership working. Sustainability is a cornerstone of the redevelopment. The project forms part of Haringey Council’s wider commitment to achieving a zero-carbon estate. As part of the works, Sisk will introduce energy efficiency upgrades across the site, including insulation enhancements and the installation of solar panels. Steven McGee, chief operating officer for Sisk in Ireland and the UK, highlighted the significance of the scheme. “This is a landmark project for the borough and for us as a contractor. The team is bringing innovative techniques to the table and keeping sustainability front and centre,” he said. “A new central courtyard and extensive landscaping will help reframe the Civic Centre as an open, accessible place for residents and staff alike. We’re proud to be part of this transformation and look forward to delivering a result the community can take pride in.” Once complete, the revitalised Civic Centre will embody a blend of architectural heritage and modern performance standards, reflecting the council’s drive to preserve the borough’s past while planning responsibly for its future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals