
Teesworks land deal paves the way for UK’s largest substation
Deal completed with National Grid Electricity Transmission secures 73.3 acres at Dorman Point Teesworks has completed a deal with National Grid Electricity Transmission for the purchase of 73.3 acres of land at Dorman Point, paving the way for the development of what is expected to be the UK’s largest substation. The agreement was reached 28th October 2026, marking a significant milestone in plans to deliver major new electricity infrastructure at Teesworks and support the Tees Valley’s growing industrial and clean energy ambitions. Chris Musgrave OBE, chairman of Teesworks Ltd, said: “Agreeing this deal with National Grid is a significant milestone for Teesworks and reflects the scale of the opportunity here at the Teesworks site. Making this land available for what is expected to be the UK’s largest substation is an important step in putting the infrastructure in place to support the next phase of industrial development across the site. “Our focus now is on delivering the remediation works and preparing the land for handover, helping to ensure Teesworks is ready to support the energy needs of major businesses and industries for years to come.” Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen added: “Everyone who’s tried to build a data centre or large-scale advanced manufacturing, technological or energy-intensive industrial developments in this country knows the biggest problem is getting enough power to the site quickly. “Having a contracted 1.44GW capacity, with further expansion up to 3.2GW in the near future, means we can finally compete for those projects. “If Britain is serious about having its own AI capability and other advanced manufacturing technologies, with sensitive data stored safely on British soil, it needs somewhere to physically put it, and I’d much rather that was Teesside than Texas or Abu Dhabi. “Full credit to Steel River Power, Iberdrola, Teesworks and National Grid for getting it over the line, and I’ve no doubt it’ll mean thousands of good jobs for local people over the next few years.” Teesworks is now progressing remediation works across the 73.3-acre site over the next six months, preparing the land for National Grid Electricity Transmission ahead of the next stage of development. Matt Pearce, National Grid Head of Land, said “Securing this land agreement is an important step forward in the development of the new substation. “It reflects the constructive work between all those involved to enable this vital infrastructure which is part of The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest upgrade of the electricity grid in generations, and will support the growth of AI and digital technologies and enable the region’s next phase of industrial and economic development. “We are committed to working closely with our partners to progress the development as quickly as possible.” The site will accommodate Teesside Node A, the major new substation that will be delivered by National Grid’s contractor, Balfour Beatty and from which National Grid will provide Steel River Power an additional 1.44GW (equivalent to the same amount of power as Greater Manchester and Glasgow combined). The land sits directly beneath both 275kV and 400kV overhead electricity transmission lines, providing a strategically positioned location for the new infrastructure. The substation’s initial 1,440 MVA capacity is scheduled to come online by the end of 2029, providing a major boost to electricity infrastructure at Teesworks. The capacity is contracted to Steel River Power (SRP), which owns and operates the private electricity network across the estate. SRP’s existing network has a capacity of 360 MVA, with 200 MVA currently available to support businesses and projects at Teesworks. The company has been contracted with National Grid since 2024 for an additional 1,440 MVA to meet the estate’s known future energy demand requirements as industrial development continues. SRP is a joint venture between Steel River Energy Limited and North West Electricity Networks, part of the ScottishPower/Iberdrola group. David Smith, chair of the South Tees Development Corporation (STDC), said: “This agreement is an important step forward for the site. “Having spent almost two decades working in the sector, I know how important access to power is in turning development ambitions into reality. “For potential investors, having confidence that the energy infrastructure will be there to support their plans is crucial. “This agreement is a real boost to our ability to attract future investment and move towards the development corporation’s long-term aims: bringing land back into productive use, creating opportunities for local people and ensuring the whole area benefits from regeneration for decades to come.” This land deal marks the start of a new chapter for Teesside. By paving the way for the power needed to attract major investment in AI, data centres, advanced technologies and wider energy-intensive industries, it helps kick-start the region’s next phase of industrial growth. Teesside’s steelmaking and heavy industry helped build the country. Now the region has the opportunity to power the next industrial revolution. The prize is a new generation of skilled jobs, opportunities for local businesses and lasting economic benefits for communities across Teesside. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

United Infrastructure Leads Launch of New BEAMA Infrastructure Services Group
United Infrastructure is the founding company supporting the launch of the new Electricity Network Infrastructure (ENI) Services Group within BEAMA. The new industry initiative has been established by BEAMA to represent those working in civil engineering, construction, design, specification and wider services. Formally launched on October 29 2026, the new group creates the first dedicated industry forum supported by BEAMA that will focus on the needs of the companies responsible for delivering the UK’s critical national electricity infrastructure. The launch follows the publication of the Electricity Networks Sector Growth Plan on 20 October 2026, developed by BEAMA and the Energy Networks Association (ENA) over more than a year of collaboration. The Plan sets out how network operators are investing £181bn in Great Britain’s electricity networks by 2035, and identifies key actions the industry will take to support more than 210,000 jobs and unlock £58bn for the UK economy. To implement the Plan, BEAMA and the ENA have set up the Electricity Networks Growth Partnership. Overseen by an independent Chair, the Partnership will include dedicated sub-groups driving cross-sector action on supply chains and skills. Through the new Group, services companies delivering grid infrastructure can take part directly in the Partnership, so that those at the front line of delivery help shape the actions the Plan requires. Griff Thomas, Executive Director of Energy Transition and External Affairs at United Infrastructure and Chair of the ENI Services Group, said: “Bringing a contractors perspective to the wider sector is critical to ensure that we make it as efficient as possible to deliver the infrastructure revolution that the UK is going through, by bringing together leading infrastructure delivery partners across the UK we will form a single united voice ensuring we shape policy and regulation rather than just be on the receiving end of it. The Sector growth plan for Electricity Networks gives us a springboard to demonstrate how we can bring delivery parters together to deliver on its recommendations, but the group will also cover wider infrastructure delivery across multiple disciplines” Yselkla Farmer, CEO of BEAMA, said: “This is the largest electricity network upgrade in a generation, and the scale is unprecedented. With the launch of the Electricity Networks Sector Growth Plan, we now embark on an ambitious programme of work that requires decisive action and collaboration. Bringing together the full supply chain, from manufacturing and systems design to services and delivery, is essential.” “There are huge benefits for the power grid infrastructure services industry in having a dedicated representative trade body at a time of such significant market change. BEAMA already has strong representation across other key markets including construction and transport. I am excited about the work we can now take forward with the new members joining us, as part of this historic move to expand our scope. We’re delighted to welcome United Infrastructure, Balfour Beatty and MGroup, and we’d encourage other firms to join them.” As one of the UK’s leading infrastructure solutions providers, United Infrastructure has played an instrumental role in supporting the establishment of the new group and broadening BEAMA’s representation across the sector. BEAMA, the UK’s leading trade association for manufacturers and suppliers of energy infrastructure technologies, has identified a growing need for stronger engagement with infrastructure service providers as investment accelerates. The Group will enable members to work with key partners in the energy policy space: The launch comes as Government and industry stakeholders place increasing emphasis on addressing skills shortages and expanding workforce capacity to support accelerated electricity network deployment. Through the Group, members will work collectively on workforce challenges, training initiatives, apprenticeships and industry engagement programmes designed to help meet the demands of the UK’s clean energy transition. As the UK accelerates the expansion of its electricity networks to support economic growth, strengthen energy security and deliver its net zero ambitions, the launch of the Infrastructure Services Group marks a significant milestone for the sector. For more information on joining the Electricity Networks Infrastructure Services Group, please visit the United Infrastructure website, or visit the BEAMA website for further information. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Canary Wharf Group Secures Approval for Major Office Transformation at 10 Cabot Square
Canary Wharf Group has secured planning permission for a major refurbishment and redevelopment of 10 Cabot Square in London’s Docklands, paving the way for an extensive office retrofit that will introduce additional workspace, a new façade and rooftop terraces. Tower Hamlets Council formally approved the proposals on 30 October, allowing the developer to progress plans to modernise the existing commercial building while retaining much of its original structural framework. Designed by architectural practice Howells, the project represents a significant investment in the future of Canary Wharf’s office estate, responding to growing demand for high-quality, modern and more sustainable workplaces. Major Retrofit and Office Expansion The redevelopment will involve a comprehensive transformation of the existing office building, including partial demolition, extensive internal alterations and the complete replacement of its façade. One of the most significant elements of the scheme will be the removal of existing rooftop plant equipment to accommodate two additional floors of office accommodation, increasing the building’s usable commercial space. The project will also see existing floorplates cut back to improve natural daylight throughout the building, creating brighter and more attractive working environments. A redesigned building profile will incorporate new south-facing terraces, introducing external amenity spaces for occupiers and improving the overall workplace offering. These changes are intended to reposition 10 Cabot Square as a modern commercial property capable of meeting evolving occupier expectations. Retaining Existing Structures to Reduce Construction Impact A central feature of the redevelopment is its extensive reuse of the existing building structure. Rather than undertaking a complete demolition and rebuild, the scheme will retain the building’s foundations, structural frame, basement, service yard and existing lift and stair cores. This approach will significantly reduce the amount of new structural construction required, while helping to limit demolition waste and the demand for additional building materials. The decision to retain substantial elements of the original structure reflects the increasing importance of refurbishment and adaptive reuse within the UK commercial property sector. For developers and property owners, deep retrofit projects can provide opportunities to modernise ageing office buildings while reducing the embodied carbon associated with replacing major structural components. The 10 Cabot Square scheme demonstrates how existing commercial properties can be substantially transformed through architectural redesign, improved building services and the introduction of additional floorspace. Supporting Canary Wharf’s Office Modernisation Strategy The redevelopment forms part of Canary Wharf Group’s wider programme to upgrade and reposition its commercial property portfolio. As businesses increasingly prioritise modern workplaces, environmental performance and employee wellbeing, landlords are investing in improvements that enhance the quality and flexibility of existing office accommodation. The transformation of 10 Cabot Square will combine new architectural features with upgraded internal environments, helping the building compete within London’s evolving office market. The introduction of outdoor terraces and improved natural daylight will also respond to occupier demand for workplaces offering greater comfort, flexibility and access to external spaces. Construction Could Begin in 2027 Canary Wharf Group has previously indicated that construction works could commence in 2027, although a confirmed start date has not yet been announced. Canary Wharf Contractors prepared construction and logistics documentation as part of the planning process, but the appointment of a main contractor has not been publicly confirmed. The project is expected to require significant expertise across structural alterations, façade engineering, mechanical and electrical services, commercial fit-out and complex construction logistics. For the wider construction industry, the redevelopment represents another substantial opportunity within London’s office refurbishment market, where major property owners are increasingly choosing to upgrade existing buildings rather than replace them entirely. With planning approval now secured, the transformation of 10 Cabot Square marks an important step in Canary Wharf Group’s continued investment in its commercial estate. The completed development will deliver an extensively modernised office building with additional accommodation, improved daylight and new outdoor spaces, reinforcing Canary Wharf’s position as a major business destination while demonstrating the potential of large-scale office retrofitting. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Manchester’s Landmark 44-Storey Build to Rent Tower Hits Market for £100m
One of Greater Manchester’s most prominent Build to Rent (BTR) residential developments has been brought to market, with the 44-storey Anaconda Cut tower in Salford understood to be valued at approximately £100 million. Located at 100 Greengate, close to Manchester city centre, the landmark residential building comprises 349 apartments and represents a significant investment opportunity within the UK’s growing operational Build to Rent market. The development offers a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside penthouse accommodation, and has been operational since welcoming its first residents in March 2019. Designed by OMI Architects and originally developed by Renaker, Anaconda Cut has become a distinctive feature of the Manchester and Salford skyline, contributing to the wider transformation of the Greengate regeneration district. Landmark Residential Development in Salford The 44-storey tower is recognised for its contemporary architectural design, incorporating an extensive glazed façade, gold-coloured reflective panels and a contrasting lower brick element facing Greengate. Positioned on the Salford side of the River Irwell, the development benefits from its proximity to Manchester’s commercial, retail and leisure districts, making it an established residential destination for city centre renters. Anaconda Cut was designed to provide more than traditional apartment accommodation, incorporating a range of communal amenities intended to support modern urban living. Facilities include a sky lounge on the 43rd floor, communal roof terraces, co-working accommodation, a gym, cinema room, concierge services and dedicated bicycle storage. These facilities reflect the continued evolution of the Build to Rent sector, where residential developers and investors increasingly focus on providing professionally managed accommodation with shared amenities and lifestyle facilities. £100m Investment Opportunity Europa Capital is identified as an investor in Anaconda Cut, having acquired the development alongside Atlas Residential in 2019 through a forward-purchase agreement with Renaker. The original development was also supported by a £33 million loan from Homes England, helping facilitate the delivery of the residential tower. Unlike new development opportunities, Anaconda Cut is an established and operational rental property, with apartments continuing to be marketed across its one, two and three-bedroom categories. The reported £100 million valuation places the development among the substantial residential investment opportunities currently being marketed in Greater Manchester. Its sale comes amid continued investor interest in operational Build to Rent assets, particularly completed developments capable of generating rental income without the construction and delivery risks associated with new schemes. Growing Investment Activity Across the BTR Sector The marketing of Anaconda Cut follows further activity involving Europa Capital’s UK residential investments. In Hounslow, West London, the company’s operational 118-home residential development at One Lampton Road was sold to LRC Group. Meanwhile, Granary Quay, a 342-home Build to Rent development in Glasgow, has also returned to the market following an internal restructuring by its owners. Europa Capital acquired Granary Quay alongside Mitsubishi Estate in 2024, following completion of the residential scheme by Dandara Living. These transactions highlight ongoing activity across the UK’s purpose-built rental housing market, as investors review their residential portfolios and assess opportunities within established urban locations. Manchester’s Build to Rent Market Continues to Evolve Greater Manchester has experienced substantial residential development activity over recent years, with high-rise apartment buildings playing an increasingly important role in the regeneration of former commercial and industrial districts. Greengate, in particular, has emerged as a major residential development location, benefiting from its position immediately north of Manchester city centre and close to the River Irwell. Anaconda Cut forms part of this wider transformation, demonstrating how large-scale residential investment has helped reshape Salford’s urban environment. For the property investment and residential development sectors, the proposed sale provides another example of how completed Build to Rent schemes are becoming established investment assets. With 349 apartments, extensive resident amenities and a prominent location, Anaconda Cut represents a substantial operational residential property entering the investment market. The sale process will provide a further indication of investor appetite for completed high-rise Build to Rent developments in Manchester, as the city’s residential property market continues to attract institutional interest. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Panattoni achieves first WiredScore certification with Gold at Coventry
Panattoni, the world’s largest privately owned developer of industrial real estate, has achieved its first WiredScore certification in the UK, with Panattoni Park Coventry awarded Gold. WiredScore is a globally recognised certification that independently assesses buildings’ digital infrastructure, including internet provision, mobile connectivity, resilience, and readiness for future technologies. The Gold rating at Panattoni Park Coventry recognises the quality of its digital infrastructure and its capacity to support tenants’ evolving operational needs. For tenants, reliable connectivity underpins warehouse management systems, real-time stock tracking, and increasingly sophisticated automated operations. Certification provides independent assurance of the building’s digital capabilities, helping businesses assess its suitability for their requirements. The achievement reflects Panattoni’s commitment to delivering logistics buildings that can accommodate technological advances, supporting customers as they adopt AI, robotics, and automation to improve productivity. Oliver Winchcombe, Head of Portfolio Management and ESG at Panattoni, commented: “Achieving our first WiredScore certification, with Gold at Panattoni Park Coventry, recognises the importance we place on digital infrastructure. Our customers need reliable connectivity to run their operations and confidence that their buildings can support the technologies they choose to introduce. “As AI, robotics, and automation become more integral to industrial and logistics operations, we are committed to delivering spaces that give customers the flexibility to adapt, invest in technology, and grow.” Panattoni Park Coventry is a strategically located industrial and logistics development at Junction 3 of the M6, offering 538,193 sq ft of speculative warehouse space. Scheduled for completion in Q1 2027, the development will provide occupiers with high-quality, future-ready accommodation in one of the UK’s key logistics locations, with excellent access to the national motorway network. Designed to meet the evolving requirements of modern industrial and logistics businesses, the scheme combines strong connectivity, operational flexibility and leading sustainability credentials, including BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A. The leasing agents are Apex and Newmark. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Glenigan launches Building Materials Forecast to predict future UK construction product demand
New service combines construction activity, building stock, replacement cycles and renovation demand to give manufacturers and suppliers a forward-looking view of UK market demand. Glenigan, part of Hubexo, today announced the launch of Building Materials Forecast, a new subscription service that forecasts future demand for construction products and materials across the UK. Unlike forecasts based primarily on new construction activity, Building Materials Forecast combines project intelligence with analysis of the existing building stock, replacement cycles, renovation activity and wider market data. This provides manufacturers and suppliers with a more complete view of where demand is expected to grow, when it will emerge and which products will benefit. The service brings together Glenigan’s UK construction intelligence with a forecasting methodology developed and applied across European construction markets for more than 30 years. Drawing on official statistics, proprietary market research, NBS specification data and Glenigan project intelligence, Building Materials Forecast translates construction and building-stock activity into product-level demand forecasts across sectors and regions. Caption: Building Materials Forecast shows where and when demand for specific construction products is expected to grow. Christian Mjønes, Vice President, Construction Market Intelligence at Hubexo, said: “Knowing what will be built is only part of the picture. To understand future demand for building materials, you also need to understand what is already built, when products need replacing, and how renovation activity is developing. Building Materials Forecast brings those dimensions together. It turns construction and building-stock data into a forward-looking view of product demand helping businesses anticipate where demand is moving, identify opportunities earlier and make better commercial decisions.” Users can explore forecast demand by product category, construction sector and region, supporting market planning, sales prioritisation and investment decisions Building Materials Forecast is available now. For more information, visit www.glenigan.com/building-materials-forecast Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
