Wallace Whittle strengthens Northern capability with senior Leeds hire

Wallace Whittle strengthens Northern capability with senior Leeds hire

LONGSTANDING, independent MEP, sustainability and ESG consultancy Wallace Whittle continues its strategic expansion across England with the appointment of Andrew Smith as location director for its Leeds office, covering Yorkshire and the North East. This senior appointment strengthens Wallace Whittle’s existing regional footprint and reflects increasing demand for its engineering and sustainability expertise across the North of England. From Leeds, the team will support residential, commercial, mixed-use, healthcare, life sciences, data centres, education and industrial sector projects, while collaborating closely with clients and the wider supply chain on a regional and national basis. Andrew brings more than 30 years’ experience in the built environment, combining a strong technical background with an entrepreneurial approach to business growth. Having led and grown his own consultancies alongside senior leadership roles, he has built a reputation for developing high-performing teams and delivering a diverse and complex range of projects. Andrew’s long-term focus will be on growing the Leeds office organically, investing in people and creating a strong regional platform that reflects Wallace Whittle’s values. Talent development and mentoring the next generation of engineers will be central to his leadership approach, alongside a commitment to delivering projects that have a legacy across the UK. Andrew said: “Leeds feels like the right place at the right time, both for Wallace Whittle and for me. Leeds is a central hub, well connected by rail and road, which allows us to support clients across Yorkshire and the wider North in a very practical and efficient way. “What really stood out to me about Wallace Whittle is its culture. In an industry facing a real shortage of talented and aspiring engineers at every level, building and retaining strong teams matters now more than ever. My priority is to grow the Leeds office in the right way, investing in people’s professional development and choosing projects where we can make a meaningful, long-term impact. Being part of a business with a clear growth plan and strong values is incredibly exciting.” Andrew’s appointment forms part of Wallace Whittle’s wider strategy to align its expertise across a growing UK network, providing clients with local insight backed by national capability. It also builds on the success of projects such as the prestigious Hungate development – 670 central York apartments – and the major Dyecoats development in Leeds, which achieved Gateway 2 approval through Wallace Whittle’s support, enhancing its reputation for strong communication at every stage. Allan McGill, managing director at Wallace Whittle, said: “As Andrew steps into lead our Leeds office, strengthening our presence is a key move in delivering our continued growth across England. Andrew brings a rare combination of technical expertise and entrepreneurial experience that will help drive our regional expansion. His vision for building a strong team, focused on quality, culture and long-term relationships, aligns perfectly with our approach at Wallace Whittle. We’re looking forward to the benefits this will bring for not only our team but also our clients across the North, as we strengthen our presence.” For more information, visit: https://www.wallacewhittle.com/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
The Role of Precast Concrete in Modern Infrastructure and Industrial Projects

The Role of Precast Concrete in Modern Infrastructure and Industrial Projects

Precast concrete has solved the building industry’s perennial dilemma of producing large, durable structures on short notice, with fewer on-site personnel and less opportunity for error. Construction and industry tasks are typically strict. Large loads, harsh weather, and nonstop service are their challenges. In this case, precast concrete is not merely another method. It enables controlled part production and fast, reliable on-site assembly.  Because program risk commonly arises from retaining walls, level shifts, and boundary structures, many project teams consider retaining wall solutions by CBS Retaining Walls (cbsretainingwalls.com). Industrial and infrastructure developments are often built on complex land. There may be a need for terraces, access roads, gardens, drainage paths, and stable building-ground connections. Precast parts make it easy to manage the timetable and coordinate the building sequence with other trades.  Why Precast Meets Infrastructure Needs  Infrastructure initiatives value dependability over inventiveness. A rail route, energy facility, water asset, or port-connected warehouse can’t keep closing due to early issues. Precast concrete improves reliability because it can cure consistently in the factory, have exact reinforcing installation, and be size-controlled more rigorously than in on-site circumstances.  Stability is crucial for long-term success. Tight tolerances simplify joint details, water infiltration, and load flow between pieces. These improvements can reduce maintenance and extend life, which infrastructure clients value over decades.  Building Speedier, Less Site-Disruptive Programs  Concrete speed goes beyond panel installation. Busy areas no longer house many jobs. Access, traffic management, safety concerns, and limited hours can make infrastructure facilities difficult to visit. Precast building reduces formwork, shuttering and wet trades. This accelerates building and reduces pollution.  This rule also applies to industrial projects. Users must wait to install equipment, test systems, and use the facility until numerous industrial construction projects are complete. Fit-out and service installation begin earlier, with a defined structure timeline that is more important than structure completion.  Stress-Related Strength, Mass, and Performance  Concrete is robust and heavy, making it valuable in construction and industries. Heavy loads, impact resistance, and recurrent operational stress can be integrated into precast pieces. Hardstandings, loading docks, buildings that must withstand earth or water pressure, and other constructions benefit from this.  Precast can also block fire and noise. Some areas don’t require these qualities, but high-traffic, near-transportation regions do, given noise and safety considerations.  Design Coordination Makes Precast Work or Not  Precast rewards early collaboration. Due to remote part production, design decisions must be made faster than for in-situ concrete. The plan must cover connectors, tolerances, lifting points, transit order, and crane strategy.  Good planning pays off tremendously. Site time decreases. Quality improves. Fewer temporary works and wet trades pose fewer safety risks. Shipping issues, extra effort, and site fit issues arise quickly when coordination is poor. The technique dislikes last-minute design modifications. Diligent preparation is part of the value proposition.  Value Throughout Life and Sustainability  Precast is often considered sustainable because manufacturing it in a plant reduces waste, improves material use, and boosts efficiency. Whole-life performance is more significant for infrastructure sustainability. Assets that last longer and require fewer maintenance and replacement cycles reduce embodied impacts.  Silent Workhorse in Modern Building  Precast concrete isn’t cool. Modern infrastructure and industry benefit from faster projects, predictability, and decades-long performance. Precast is often the only option for tight deadlines, heavy loads, and complicated scenarios. Precast works best when teams consider it as a manufacturing process, not a material. The precast can be silent if planned. It ensures infrastructure reliability and industrial user speed. 

Read More »
From Framework Appointment to Project Outcomes: What TS4 Means for the Future of Digital Engineering Delivery in the UK

From Framework Appointment to Project Outcomes: What TS4 Means for the Future of Digital Engineering Delivery in the UK

The UK construction and infrastructure sector is undergoing a fundamental transformation. Digital delivery, systems integration and data-led decision-making are no longer optional enhancements — they are central to how complex projects are designed, managed and delivered. Against this backdrop, the appointment of Morson Praxis to the Crown Commercial Service’s Technology Services 4 (TS4) framework marks a significant milestone, not just for the consultancy itself but for public sector organisations seeking reliable partners for end-to-end project delivery. For project leaders navigating increasingly complex programmes, access to experienced UK engineering consultants through a compliant and trusted procurement route changes the speed, confidence and quality of delivery. Why Frameworks Like TS4 Matter for Construction and Infrastructure Major public sector projects depend on procurement models that reduce risk while ensuring technical excellence. Frameworks such as TS4: For construction clients, this removes one of the biggest barriers to progress — lengthy procurement cycles. Instead, they gain direct access to proven delivery partners capable of supporting programmes from concept through to completion. The Shift Towards Integrated Digital Delivery The construction sector is no longer defined solely by physical assets. Today’s projects demand: This is where engineering consultancy moves beyond traditional design support and becomes a strategic delivery function. Organisations that can combine engineering expertise with programme management, digital capability and delivery assurance are now essential to national infrastructure success. What This Appointment Signals for Public Sector Clients Being named as a supplier on TS4 demonstrates more than technical capability. It confirms: For contracting authorities, it provides a direct route to a partner that can operate across the full project lifecycle. This is particularly important for sectors such as: Each of these requires engineering consultancy that integrates technical precision with programme-level delivery. Concept to Completion: The Value of a Delivery-Focused Consultancy One of the defining challenges in UK construction is the fragmentation between design, technology and delivery. A consultancy that operates from concept through to implementation provides: This approach transforms engineering from a stage in the process into a continuous thread running through the entire project lifecycle. Enabling Faster Mobilisation for Critical Projects The UK’s infrastructure pipeline demands rapid mobilisation. Framework access allows public sector organisations to: In sectors where delays impact national capability and public services, this agility is critical. Supporting the UK’s Long-Term Infrastructure Strategy The UK’s future depends on successfully delivering: These are not conventional construction projects. They are complex, multi-disciplinary programmes that require integrated engineering, digital systems and delivery management. The role of a consultancy is therefore no longer advisory. It is operational. A New Model for Engineering Consultancy The industry is moving away from siloed services towards fully integrated delivery models. This means: Organisations capable of operating in this environment become long-term partners rather than short-term suppliers. Conclusion The inclusion of Morson Praxis on the Crown Commercial Service’s Technology Services 4 framework is a clear signal of the direction the UK construction and infrastructure sector is taking. Delivery confidence, digital capability and lifecycle integration are now the defining characteristics of successful projects. For public sector clients, frameworks like TS4 provide direct access to engineering consultancy that can operate at this level — accelerating mobilisation, reducing risk and ensuring complex programmes move from concept to completion with certainty. As infrastructure demands continue to grow, this model of integrated engineering delivery will play a central role in shaping the UK’s built environment. FAQs What is the Technology Services 4 framework? It is a Crown Commercial Service framework that enables public sector organisations to procure technology and digital delivery services from pre-approved suppliers. Why is framework appointment important for project delivery? It allows faster procurement, ensures supplier quality and reduces commercial risk. How does engineering consultancy support construction projects? It provides technical expertise, digital integration and programme delivery support across the full lifecycle. Which sectors benefit most from integrated engineering delivery? Transport, energy, defence, nuclear and major infrastructure programmes. Does this model reduce project delays? Yes, by improving mobilisation speed, continuity and coordination.

Read More »
£80m Abode Student Portfolio Backs Affordability and Prime Regional Locations

£80m Abode Student Portfolio Backs Affordability and Prime Regional Locations

Abode Student has unveiled an £80 million purpose-built student accommodation portfolio spanning Birmingham and Nottingham, positioning affordability and location at the heart of its growth strategy for 2026 and beyond. The Manchester-based developer, led by founder Ashley Ladson, will deliver 525 beds across two schemes: a 317-bed development in Birmingham’s Knowledge Quarter and a 208-bed scheme in Nottingham, just three minutes’ walk from Nottingham Trent University. Rents will start from £175 per week in Birmingham and £198 per week in Nottingham, reflecting a deliberate focus on accessible pricing in prime Russell Group city markets. The investment case is equally compelling. The portfolio is targeting a 5.75 per cent net initial yield, rising to 6.2 per cent on practical completion, with projected occupancy levels exceeding 96 per cent. Nottingham is already forecasting 40 per cent pre-bookings 18 months ahead of opening, significantly outperforming regional averages and underlining demand for well-located, sensibly priced accommodation. Abode Student’s strategy responds to a noticeable shift in the PBSA sector. As students and families become more cost-conscious, proximity to campus is increasingly valued above high-end amenities. Ladson believes the opportunity lies in regional university cities rather than an increasingly saturated London market. “Students prioritise location over luxury,” he said. “They want accommodation that is within walking distance of campus and priced realistically. Our focus is on delivering exactly that, without compromising on design quality.” Central to this approach is a partnership with interior designer Miminat Shodeinde, founder of Miminat Designs. Together, they have developed a ‘Refined Durability’ philosophy, specifying long-lasting, high-performance materials that reduce maintenance cycles and lifecycle costs. The aim is to demonstrate that good design and affordability are not mutually exclusive. The two schemes, Abode Student Wireworks in Birmingham and Abode Student Leatherworks in Nottingham, have secured detailed planning consent, with construction scheduled to begin in November 2026 and completion targeted for September 2028. Christopher Dee LLP has been appointed to advise on funding. Sustainability also underpins the developments, which are targeting BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings. Measures include air source heat pumps, rainwater harvesting, biodiversity net gain and green travel infrastructure. Looking ahead, Abode Student is pursuing further opportunities in Manchester, Sheffield, Leeds and Bristol, signalling a broader regional expansion strategy anchored by strong university cities and enduring student demand. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
Prologis agrees long-term letting with Birch at Brooklands DC1 in Weybridge

Prologis agrees long-term letting with Birch at Brooklands DC1 in Weybridge

Prologis has completed a 15-year letting with Birch at Brooklands DC1 in Weybridge, securing a new long-term operational hub for the specialist automotive storage provider as it scales its UK business. Birch is a premium automotive asset management company, recognised for The Birch Standard – a benchmark for secure, intelligent custodianship of high‑value vehicles. Birch provides insurance‑approved “vaults” and white‑glove logistics for private collectors, motorsport teams, OEMs and institutional partners who require assured, end‑to‑end custody. The expansion to Brooklands DC1 strengthens Birch’s ability to combine world‑class security, bonded storage and meticulously managed operations in a scalable hub, supporting its next phase of UK and international growth. Brooklands DC1 is a 124,223 sq ft Grade A logistics building, well suited to Birch’s highly controlled operations. The building provides a 12.5 metre clear internal height, 50 metre yard, 13 loading doors alongside an enhanced fit-out including the installation of LED lighting and fire alarm systems. Sustainability performance was a key consideration for Birch. The building achieved BREEAM Excellent and EPC A+ ratings and incorporates a 235kWp rooftop PV system, heat pump technology and EV charging infrastructure to support lower-carbon operations over the long term. Prologis Essentials has been appointed to support Birch with fit-out consultancy and operational solutions to meet its bespoke requirements. Daniel Wood, Co-Founder and Director at Birch, said: “Our expansion to Brooklands DC1 marks an important step in Birch’s next phase of growth. It gives us the scale, security and building quality we need to support high‑value automotive clients, while preserving the custodial standards and level of care that define The Birch Standard.” Gillian Scarth, Leasing Director at Prologis UK, said: This letting underlines the demand we are seeing for well-located, high-quality logistics space around London. Brooklands DC1 offers customers long-term certainty, excellent connectivity and access to a strong labour pool, making it a compelling location for specialist operators like Birch as they scale their UK presence.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »
£100 Million Eden Project Morecambe Secures Green Light After Major Redesign

£100 Million Eden Project Morecambe Secures Green Light After Major Redesign

Lancaster City Council has approved revised plans for the £100 million Eden Project Morecambe, giving the go-ahead to a significantly streamlined version of the long-anticipated seafront attraction. Councillors granted planning permission for a second time after developers reduced the overall scale of the scheme, cutting the number of signature biomes from four to two and substantially lowering the total floor area. The redesign follows years of construction cost inflation, which had stalled the original programme and pushed back a targeted 2024 completion date. Designed by Grimshaw Architects, the development will occupy the 11-acre former Bubbles Leisure Complex and Superdome site on Morecambe’s promenade. Under the updated proposals, internal floorspace has been reduced from 185,000 sq ft to 91,500 sq ft, while the height of the main dome has been lowered by four metres to 37.3 metres. Opening is now anticipated in late 2028. Grimshaw’s distinctive ‘colony of shells’ concept remains central to the design, but only two domes will now be delivered – the Realm of the Sun and the Realm of the Moon – connected by a central arrival space known as the Metronome. With less built form across the site, landscaping will play a greater role in shaping the visitor experience. Two expanded outdoor gardens, Rhythm and All Seasons, will provide additional open-air space for events and performances. Projected visitor numbers have also been revised down from one million to 585,000 annually, reducing the scale of associated transport and infrastructure works. John Pye, project director for Eden Project Morecambe, described the approval as a major milestone, confirming that formal agreements are being finalised as the scheme moves forward. The project previously secured £50 million in public funding to support regeneration of the derelict site. A construction partner has yet to be appointed, with preparatory works expected to begin in October. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Read More »