
CBRE Secures letting of 411,470 sq ft at Gateway 4, Doncaster in Rapid Deal
A 411,470 sq ft grade A distribution unit at Gateway 4, Doncaster has been let to Danish global logistics leader A.P. Moller – Maersk (Maersk) in a deal completed in just seven days. The landlord, CBRE Investment Management (“CBRE IM”) was advised by real estate advisory firm CBRE. The letting of the high-specification unit, prominently located adjacent to Junction 4 of the M18, reflects strong demand for prime, large-scale, fitted logistics space across South Yorkshire and the wider Yorkshire region. Gateway 4 offers best-in-class specification, including 15m eaves height, extensive yard depths, a strong power supply and excellent connectivity to the UK’s strategic road and rail networks, making it ideally suited to modern distribution requirements. Maersk, one of the world’s leading integrated logistics companies and the second largest container shipping operator globally, will use the facility to further enhance its UK logistics and distribution capabilities. Rosie Hulbert, UK Industrial and Logistics Director, CBRE Investment Management said: “We’re delighted to welcome Maersk to Gateway 4, Doncaster. This deal underscores CBRE IM’s operator capabilities, having completed the letting in just seven days, and is a direct result of the close relationships we have with the occupiers across our portfolio. We look forward to supporting more businesses seeking strategic, well‑connected locations both within our standing portfolio and our extensive portfolio of land under development.” Mike Baugh, Head of the Leeds Office, CBRE said: “Completing a transaction of this scale within just seven working days is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the strong landlord–tenant relationship demonstrated between CBRE IM and Maersk. This letting highlights the continued demand from occupiers for high‑specification, fitted logistics space, and we are delighted to have supported CBRE IM in securing such a high‑calibre tenant as Maersk.” Gateway 4 forms part of a key logistics corridor, benefiting from immediate access to the M18 and proximity to major distribution hubs including iPort Rail. CBRE’s Industrial team in Leeds acted on behalf of CBRE IM in the letting, alongside CPP. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Nixon Hire brings modular buildings to Scotland with Dundee launch at ScotPlant 2026
Nixon Hire is pleased to announce that it will be exhibiting at ScotPlant 2026, Scotland’s largest construction equipment exhibition, taking place on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 April at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh. Modular buildings launch in Scotland In a significant milestone for the company’s Scottish operations, Nixon Hire will use ScotPlant to unveil its new Modular Buildings Centre of Excellence at Dundee – the first dedicated modular hub across its five Scottish depots. Supported by the company’s Renewable Power Centre of Excellence in Glasgow, the new facility represents a major investment in Scotland and underlines Nixon Hire’s commitment to bringing its full range of sustainable site solutions to Scottish customers. A live sustainable site setup Visitors to the Nixon Hire stand will find a fully operational, live sustainable site setup, running in real conditions exactly as it would on a customer site. At its centre is an eight-bay modular building, demonstrating the thermal performance and build quality – a reflection of Nixon Hire’s higher spec modular range. Alongside it, on show will be Nixon Hire’s largest and most powerful battery storage unit to date, designed to support larger sites with clean, reliable power, as well as a fully refurbished 12′ Smart Air Solar mobile welfare unit – rebuilt entirely from existing materials. Monitoring the setup behind the scenes will be a working replica of Nixon Hire’s Renewable Energy Hub, a sophisticated control centre designed, configured and run by its in-house Technical Support Team. Pulse: the new customer portal Visitors will be able to experience Pulse, Nixon Hire’s recently launched online customer portal – the result of an 18-month, seven-figure investment. The browser-based platform gives customers autonomous insight into energy use, carbon impact and cost performance across their renewable energy equipment on hire. By replacing the manual collation and estimates that have traditionally been the norm across the sector, Pulse enables teams to report quickly, compare performance across locations and make more informed decisions about how equipment is deployed and operated. Brian Cornett, CEO of Nixon Hire, commented: “Nixon Hire has supported customers across Scotland for more than 40 years, and ScotPlant is an exciting opportunity to demonstrate the breadth of our offer there today. The opening of our new Dundee Modular Buildings Centre of Excellence reflects our continued investment in the region and our focus on delivering more sustainable, full-service site solutions closer to where customers need them. “We look forward to engaging with customers and industry stakeholders at ScotPlant and discussing how Nixon Hire can support the changing needs of sustainable site projects across Scotland.” Visit Nixon Hire at ScotPlant 2026 at Ave D No 3 on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 April at the Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh. To book a walkthrough with one of the company’s senior team, please contact Rose Docherty at rose@almastrategic.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Shoosmiths adds Head of Planning to drive practice build-out
Shoosmiths is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Fitzpatrick as Partner and Head of Planning. Her arrival marks a significant milestone in the continued build-out of Shoosmiths’ Planning team across the UK, following the promotion of Matt Nixon to Partner in London and appointment of Steven Stewart as Partner in Scotland. Sarah joins from Norton Rose Fulbright, where she was a partner and head of planning, and will lead the Shoosmiths’ national Planning team, arriving with more than 25 years of experience advising on all aspects of planning law. She brings particular expertise in London regeneration and redevelopment, compulsory purchase, high-rise development, energy infrastructure, road and rail, and large-scale multi-use schemes. She has a wide-ranging client base and strong network across mixed-use and residential developers, housebuilders, industrial and freight operators, hotel & leisure providers and major sports organisations. Her strength in compulsory purchase further enhances Shoosmiths’ ability to support complex development, regeneration and infrastructure projects, and expands its capabilities in key sectors including Energy & Infrastructure. Joe Mazzucca, Partner and Head of Real Estate, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Sarah to Shoosmiths. Her appointment is a significant step forward in the growth of our Planning offering, strengthening our capabilities at a national level and positioning us to support on increasingly complex mandates. “Sarah’s depth of experience reflects our ambitions to drive growth and deliver outstanding results for clients. As Head of Planning, Sarah will play a leading role in building out this key pillar of the firm as we progress our ambitious 2030 strategic growth plan.” Sarah Fitzpatrick said: “I’m delighted to be leading Shoosmiths’ Planning offering, working alongside colleagues like Matt and Steven to build on the excellent work the team is undertaking. The firm’s innovative, forward-thinking approach to client delivery aligns closely with my own practice and leadership style, and I look forward to contributing to the team’s continued growth.” Sarah’s hire builds on sustained, strategic investment in Shoosmiths’ Planning practice. The firm promoted Matt Nixon to Partner in March 2026 and added Steven Stewart as a Partner in Scotland in September 2025. Matt heads the London and Southern planning teams, advising on all aspects of planning throughout the lifecycle of developments. Steven leads Shoosmiths’ Scottish planning and environmental team across both contentious and non-contentious matters. The Planning team works closely with Shoosmiths’ wider Real Estate teams. Real Estate—one of three core practice areas for the firm—has seen several hires in recent months, reflecting increased focus on the most complex real estate client work and the firm’s strategic priority to build a market-leading practice. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

How Can Smart Storage Solutions Improve Workplace Efficiency in Ireland in 2026?
In 2026, workspace efficiency is no longer just about productivity tools or digital systems—it’s also about how physical environments are organised. Across Ireland, businesses are increasingly recognising that well-designed storage systems can directly impact workflow, safety, and operational performance. From warehouses and offices to retail and industrial facilities, the demand for smarter storage solutions is growing rapidly. But what exactly makes a storage system effective, and how can businesses choose the right setup? Why Is Storage Optimisation Critical for Modern Businesses? As businesses scale, clutter and disorganisation become major barriers to efficiency. Poor storage systems can lead to wasted time, reduced productivity, and even safety risks. Key benefits of optimised storage include: In competitive industries, even small improvements in organisation can lead to significant gains in performance. What Are the Best Shelving Solutions for Businesses in Ireland? Choosing the right shelving system is one of the most important decisions for any workspace. The ideal solution depends on the type of items being stored, available space, and frequency of use. Businesses looking for Best Shelving in Ireland often prioritise systems that offer flexibility, durability, and scalability. Common shelving options include: Boltless Shelving Easy to assemble and adjust, ideal for warehouses and stockrooms. Heavy-Duty Industrial Shelving Designed for high-load capacity and long-term use. Archive and Office Shelving Perfect for document storage and organised office environments. Retail Display Shelving Combines functionality with visual presentation. Selecting the right shelving system ensures that businesses can maximise storage capacity without compromising accessibility. How Do Storage Systems Impact Workplace Productivity? Storage solutions are directly linked to how efficiently a team operates. When items are properly organised: In contrast, poorly structured storage systems can slow down operations and create unnecessary frustration for staff. Which Storage Solutions Work Best for Different Industries? Different industries have unique storage requirements, and choosing the right solution depends on operational needs. Industry Recommended Storage Solution Key Benefit Warehousing Heavy-duty shelving High load capacity Retail Display shelving Improved customer experience Offices Document shelving + lockers Organisation + security Manufacturing Industrial racks Durability Tailoring storage systems to specific industry needs ensures maximum efficiency and usability. Why Are Lockers Essential in Modern Workspaces? Storage is not just about inventory—it’s also about people. Secure storage for personal belongings is increasingly important in modern workplaces. Solutions like Best Lockers provide: Lockers are especially useful in environments such as warehouses, gyms, offices, and educational institutions where multiple users need safe storage options. How Are Adjustable Standing Desks Changing Office Environments? Workspaces in 2026 are evolving to prioritise employee well-being alongside productivity. Adjustable Standing Desks are becoming a standard feature in modern offices due to their ergonomic benefits. Advantages include: When combined with effective storage systems, these desks contribute to a more organised and healthier work environment. What Makes a Storage Provider Reliable in Ireland? Choosing the right supplier is just as important as selecting the right products. A reliable storage provider should offer: Businesses across Ireland often rely on experienced providers who specialise in shelving and storage systems, ensuring both quality and long-term value. How Can Businesses Maximise Space Without Expanding? With rising operational costs, many businesses are looking for ways to optimise existing space rather than expanding. Effective strategies include: These approaches allow businesses to increase capacity without additional real estate costs. What Common Storage Mistakes Should Businesses Avoid? Even well-intentioned storage upgrades can fail if not planned correctly. Common mistakes include: Avoiding these issues ensures that storage investments deliver long-term benefits. Final Thoughts: Why Smart Storage Is a Competitive Advantage in 2026 In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency is everything. Smart storage solutions are no longer optional—they are a strategic investment that directly impacts productivity, safety, and growth. From selecting the Best Shelving in Ireland to integrating secure lockers and ergonomic workstations, businesses that prioritise organisation gain a clear operational advantage. By working with experienced providers and choosing high-quality systems, companies can transform their workspaces into efficient, scalable, and future-ready environments. FAQ What is the best shelving system for businesses? It depends on your needs, but heavy-duty and modular shelving systems are commonly used for flexibility and durability. Are lockers necessary in offices? Yes, they provide secure storage and improve organisation, especially in shared workspaces. Do standing desks improve productivity? They can enhance comfort and focus, contributing to better overall performance. How can businesses optimise storage space? Using vertical shelving, modular systems, and efficient layouts can significantly improve space utilisation.

What Is a VAT Loan and Is It Right for Your Business?
Running a successful company brings plenty of rewards, but it also comes with regular obligations that can put a dent in your bank balance. One of the most significant recurring costs for any VAT-registered business is the quarterly tax bill. When these payments loom, they often coincide with other essential expenses like payroll or stock purchases, creating a temporary squeeze on your available funds. Staying on top of these payments is vital to avoid penalties from HMRC, but doing so shouldn’t mean you have to put your growth plans on hold. A VAT loan offers a practical way to bridge this gap, allowing you to maintain your momentum without draining your reserves all at once. It’s a specialised tool designed specifically to handle these quarterly hurdles. Carry on reading to find out how this type of funding works and whether it’s the best fit for your current business needs. How a VAT Loan Works A VAT loan is a short-term solution that covers the cost of your quarterly VAT return. Instead of paying the full amount to HMRC in one go, a lender pays the bill on your behalf. You then repay the lender in smaller, manageable monthly instalments, typically over a 3-month period. This aligns perfectly with the quarterly cycle, ensuring the debt is cleared before your next bill arrives. Because these are designed for speed, the application process is often much faster than traditional bank options. Modern lenders like Lovey have very simple processes that don’t affect your credit score, meaning there’s no risk in enquiring and exploring your options. This type of loan turns a large, daunting lump sum into a predictable monthly expense that’s much easier to account for in your budget. The Main Benefits of a VAT Loan The primary reason business owners choose this option is to protect their working capital. By spreading the cost, you keep more cash in your account to deal with emergencies or to take advantage of new opportunities. It means you don’t have to choose between paying the taxman and investing in a new marketing campaign or hiring a new team member. Using a dedicated loan for tax also helps you maintain a positive relationship with HMRC. You’ll always meet your deadlines, which protects your business from late payment surcharges and interest. It’s a proactive way to manage your liabilities while ensuring your day-to-day operations continue to run smoothly. Is This the Right Choice for You? Deciding whether to take out a VAT loan depends on your current financial strategy and your plans for the upcoming months. While many businesses have the cash to pay the bill, they might prefer to use that capital for projects that offer a higher return on investment. If your cash is tied up in unpaid invoices or seasonal stock, this funding can be a lifesaver. You should consider a VAT loan if: Conclusion Managing tax obligations is a standard part of business, but it shouldn’t be a source of constant stress. A VAT loan provides a straightforward way to handle your returns while keeping your focus on growing your company. By spreading the cost, you’re essentially buying yourself the breathing room needed to operate with total confidence. If you’re a limited company director looking for a more flexible way to handle your tax bills, this type of loan is well worth considering. It’s a smart, strategic move that ensures you’re always ready for the next quarter.

Graham lined up for £284m London Met University estate transformation
Contractor Graham is poised to take on a central role in London Metropolitan University’s £284m estate overhaul after emerging as the sole bidder for the long-running procurement. The contractor is expected to be appointed as strategic delivery partner under a wide-ranging agreement that will run to 2031, with the option to extend to 2036. The deal will cover both capital works and facilities management across the university’s campuses in Holloway, Aldgate and Shoreditch. Under the proposed arrangement, Graham will be responsible for delivering new build and refurbishment schemes, while also providing early-stage buildability and lifecycle advice during design development. Once projects are completed, the contractor will take on ongoing facilities management, creating a fully integrated approach to the estate’s long-term operation and performance. A key focus of the programme will be the decarbonisation of the university’s estate, alongside improving the condition, efficiency and functionality of existing buildings. The partnership is also expected to deliver wider social value outcomes as part of the long-term investment strategy. The redevelopment forms part of London Metropolitan University’s estates strategy, launched in 2022, which set out a roadmap for major investment through to 2032. The programme aims to address ageing infrastructure while creating modern, flexible learning environments. At the heart of the plans is the transformation of the Holloway Road campus in Islington. The masterplan, developed by Design Engine Architects alongside Buro Happold and Gardiner & Theobald, includes the demolition of selected buildings to create a new central courtyard space. This will sit behind the Daniel Liebeskind-designed student building and will be accompanied by a comprehensive refurbishment of the adjacent 12-storey tower. Elsewhere, works at the Aldgate Campus and the Accelerator building will focus primarily on refurbishment and targeted upgrades, enhancing existing facilities rather than wholesale redevelopment. The scheme represents a significant investment in higher education infrastructure in London and reflects a growing trend towards long-term, partnership-led delivery models that combine construction and facilities management. Formal confirmation of Graham’s appointment is expected later this month, marking the next step in delivering one of the capital’s largest university estate transformation programmes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
