Momentum Group secures first education sector project with Xplore! Refurbishment
Momentum Build, part of The Momentum Group, the leading North West property services company, has been appointed to refurbish Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, an educational facility in North Wales owned by Wrexham University. After a competitive tendering process, the two organisations are delighted to be working in partnership. Known as “the home of science in North Wales,” Xplore! offers a wide range of educational and interactive exhibits for all ages, alongside a visitor centre, café, school activity programmes, venue hire, corporate event options, and birthday party experiences. Momentum Build has been appointed to carry out phase one of the refurbishment, including Xplore!’s planetarium. The tender covers procurement for building and refurbishment services for the planetarium, including lift and kitchen installations. Once upgraded, the planetarium will become the only fixed-dome planetarium in north-east Wales. Xplore! have secured funding for the project with the phase one works being completed in Spring 2026. Dan Lewis, Construction Director at Momentum Build, said: “Being appointed by Xplore! is a fantastic opportunity. Not only does this take us into a new sector, but it also allows us to partner with another non-profit client. Xplore! is a unique facility, and we are excited to be working with such a passionate client team to help ensure it continues to inspire people for many years to come.” Scot Owen, Centre Manager at Xplore!, added: “Momentum Build has the expertise, the experience and the reach to help us achieve our ambitions for the refurbishment of Xplore!. More than that, as a business, they are passionate about adding value to the communities in which they operate, and to do so sustainably, both of which are values we prize highly too. We are looking forward to how this partnership will develop and seeing the positive impact it will have.” This appointment, together with Momentum Maintain’s recent work with Crosby Housing Association and Momentum Build’s £1.9 million industrial refurbishment in Maidenhead, transforming an industrial unit into temporary housing, demonstrates The Momentum Group’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful community impact through its projects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Lendlord survey shows 66% of landlords plan growth activity despite post-Budget uncertainty
Property management and finance platform Lendlord has published the results of its latest landlord survey, revealing that 66% of landlords are planning growth activity, including acquisitions, refinancing and refurbishments, despite increased uncertainty following the recent Budget. The survey, titled Navigating Change: Landlord Sentiment in a post-Budget market, was conducted in December 2025 among UK landlords using the Lendlord platform. While many landlords remain active and growth focused, the findings also highlight a more cautious backdrop, with a significant minority planning to sell or pause investment as cost and tax pressures continue to shape decision making. Key insights from the survey include: Alongside this activity, the survey shows that around a third of landlords are planning to sell properties or pause new investment, underlining the mixed outlook across the sector following the Budget. Confidence in the UK property market is closely divided, with 45% describing themselves as very confident and 43% very concerned. The findings suggest that while fiscal changes have introduced caution for some landlords, many are continuing to actively manage and expand their portfolios. The survey also shows landlords reviewing rent levels and ownership structures, with tax changes prompting renewed consideration of limited company structures, alongside ongoing concern around property income tax and dividend tax rates. The research builds on Lendlord’s ongoing work to provide brokers, landlords and lenders with data-led insight into real world landlord behaviour, drawing on its community of more than 75,000 UK landlords. Aviram Shahar, Co founder and CEO of Lendlord, said: “While the Budget has increased scrutiny around costs, tax and ownership structure, our latest survey shows that many landlords remain focused on growth and active portfolio management. They are adapting their approach rather than stepping back. “The data also highlights that confidence in the market is clearly divided, with some landlords opting for a cautious approach and others perceiving opportunity. That balance is significant when brokers and lenders are supporting funding and investment decisions going into 2026.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans submitted for 176 new homes and green space in Stockport
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
RLB selects Sypro to transform contract management across construction projects
ADVANCING its digital portfolio, contract management software specialist Sypro has announced a three-year partnership with global construction, property and management consultancy, Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB). The agreement will see Sypro’s contract management software – a project oversight and collaboration hub – play an integral role in driving forward RLB’s digital transformation initiative, which aims to modernise project delivery through centralised data, greater visibility across contracts and smarter, more connected workflows. Designed to integrate with existing tools, it will be utilised across RLB’s sectors, from residential, leisure and retail all the way through to Data Centres and Infrastructure, in turn streamlining risk, improving communication and delivering consistent portfolio-level oversight. By centralising contract data and connecting with existing systems, the platform gives RLB teams a consistent view of their projects, reducing administrative work and allowing them to focus on higher-value activities. It will support RLB’s management of projects across a range of contract types, including New Engineering Contract (NEC), Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT), and bespoke agreements. Processes can be tailored to each project’s specific needs, whether a small refurbishment or a multimillion-pound megaproject, ensuring RLB’s teams work efficiently across sectors and scales. Charley Wainwright, SaaS sales manager at Sypro, said: “With the industry under significant pressure to deliver on time and to budget, it is more important than ever that projects are supported throughout all stages of delivery. Our technology proactively manages risk and supports clearer communication, integral to successful delivery. “By integrating seamlessly with existing tools and adapting to the way RLB works, we are enabling teams to focus on high-value activities, make smarter decisions and collaborate more effectively with clients and supply chain partners. With RLB undergoing a period of digital transformation, we are helping to contribute to this drive, proving the value of digital contract management.” Dave Marks, digital lead – project management at RLB, said: “RLB’s project pipeline is expanding, and we needed a contract management tool that could fit with the way we work and grow with us. Sypro was flexible enough to slot into our existing processes, and the support and training from the team made it straightforward to get it up and running – which helps us keep projects on track, manage multiple sites efficiently and stay on top of compliance. “Having a digital, data-led approach that works for our teams means we’re confident it will support RLB and our clients as we take on more projects.” For more information on Sypro and its contract management software, visit https://sypro.co.uk/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Students successfully secure construction jobs with Beard
Six students who have completed their placement year with leading construction firm Beard have been offered permanent jobs upon the successful completion of their studies. The students undertook a year of on-the-job training across Beard’s offices in Bristol, Swindon, Guildford and Southampton and impressed their colleagues with their hard work, knowledge and attitude. Returning to Beard full-time from July 2026 will be: The year in industry programme is part of Beard’s long-standing commitment to nurturing talent in the construction sector. Inspiring and developing rewarding careers is a core part of the fourth-generation family-owned business’ ethos. Beard looked to enhance students’ experiences beyond the formal training through a series of initiatives, including a ‘foundations and futures’ event bringing trainees of all levels together for a day of team building and skills development; and ‘rise and connect’ where students heard about colleagues’ employment journeys and were given a charity fundraising challenge. Neil Sherreard, deputy chairman at Beard, said: “Supporting the next generation of professionals in laying the foundations for a successful construction career is a cornerstone of what we do at Beard, to grow talent, support our business ambitions, and play our part in addressing the rising demand for talent in the industry. “We hope to not only support them in learning the practical skills to do their jobs, but also to experience the Beard way of doing things, help them to build a network of peers, and engage with colleagues at all levels of the business. “We’re always impressed by the level of skill, professionalism and enthusiasm of our placement year students and this cohort has been no different. Many congratulations to them all and we look forward to welcoming them back through our doors on completion of their studies.” The 2024/25 cohort included a Masters student for the first time. Amber Kamugisha, who is studying Architecture at University of Exeter, will join Beard’s design team in Swindon after completing her degree. Amber said: “As an architecture student, I hadn’t considered a role in the main contractor stage of construction, but the opportunity I had to explore this pathway has significantly broadened my horizons. With the support of so many brilliant colleagues, I learnt so much whilst enjoying the experience with Beard. “Beard has been a great place to celebrate the construction of great buildings, grow professionally, and be a part of welcoming team. I am grateful for being offered a position in design management at Beard and I’m looking forward to returning after completing my degree.” To learn more about career opportunities at Beard, visit www.beardconstruction.co.uk/careers/. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
What does Self Assessment mean for me?
Whether you’re a new business owner, have invested in a rental property, started a side hustle or sold assets between 6 April 2024 and 5 April 2025 chances are you’ll have to pay tax on your earnings and that means Self Assessment. The 31 January 2026 deadline for filing your Self Assessment and paying the tax you owe is fast approaching, so Jashoda Pindoria from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) helps explain what Self Assessment is and what you may need to do. What is Self Assessment? Self Assessment is how the self-employed and sole traders pay tax on their income. People are usually taxed automatically through their pay from their employer, but if you’re self-employed as a contractor or freelancer or if you haven’t been automatically taxed, for instance you rent out a property, you may need to declare your income by completing a tax return and then pay any tax owed. The current Self Assessment reporting period is for 6 April 2024 to 5 April 2025. I think I might need to do a tax return this year. How do I check? If you’re new to Self Assessment and not sure where to start, you can use the ‘check if you need to send a tax return’ tool on GOV.UK. You simply answer a few straightforward questions and the tool helps you decide if you need to complete a tax return. How do I get started? If you are new to Self Assessment for the 2024 to 2025 tax year, you’ll first need to register for Self Assessment. You can watch our helpful YouTube videos which take you through the online registration process every step of the way. Once you have registered, HMRC will send you your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) – a 10 digit reference number that is used to identify your Self Assessment tax record. Your UTR is also stored in the HMRC app or your online account. You can complete your tax return online via GOV.UK. When you’re ready to start your tax return you’ll need your UTR and National Insurance number, as well as details of your income, earnings, savings interest and other financial records. It seems daunting to me, where can I go for help? HMRC wants to help you get your tax right so there’s a lot of helpful guidance on GOV.UK to advise you how to complete your tax return including: There’s also specific guidance for the various reasons you could be completing a tax return, for example if you’re filling out a Self Assessment because of your side-hustle earnings and regularly sell goods or provide services through an online marketplace, then have a look at HMRC’s information sheet on selling online and paying taxes. When is the deadline? The deadline for submitting your Self Assessment return online and paying your tax for the 2024 to 2025 tax year is 31 January 2026. If you miss the deadline, you could incur penalties. If you have paid too much tax, we’ll let you know and repay you once we’ve processed your Self Assessment return. You can also check if you’re due a refund in the HMRC app once you’ve filed your return. What information do you need to include on your return? You’ll need to include all your taxable income on your tax return so you can pay any tax owed. So that’s any income you have already paid tax on (for example, if you’re employed and paid Income Tax and National Insurance through PAYE) as well as any expenses so we can accurately calculate if any tax is due. You’ll also need to include information on any contributions you’ve made to charity or pensions that may be eligible for tax relief. Make sure you keep records such as bank statements, invoices, contracts and receipts for your income and outgoings. Can I ask someone else to fill my Self Assessment in for me? Yes, you can authorise an agent to manage your tax affairs (such as an accountant or tax adviser) or ask a friend or relative or give someone power of attorney to act on your behalf. More information on this can be found here Appoint someone to deal with HMRC on your behalf. But it’s worth remembering it remains your responsibility to ensure the return is accurate and submitted on time. Please do not share your HMRC login details with anyone, including your tax agent. How do I pay? The deadline to pay any Self Assessment tax owed is 31 January 2026 and the quickest and easiest way to pay is through the HMRC app. If you think you may struggle to pay your tax bill, please get in touch with us to let us know. There are a range of payment options, that could be available to you including a Budget Payment Plan where any payments you make will be used to pay your next tax bill. You may be able to set up a payment plan yourself. The plan, known as a ‘Time to Pay’, means eligible customers can arrange to pay their tax bill in regular instalments over an agreed period. Will I need to do Self Assessment next year? If you continue to meet the Self Assessment criteria in the ‘check if you need to send a tax return’ tool on GOV.UK you need to continue to file a Self Assessment tax return. If your circumstances change and you no longer believe you need to complete a tax return, then you must tell HMRC as soon as the change happens. You can find out how to stop your Self Assessment through our online videos. Don’t ignore an HMRC letter remining you to complete a tax return, even if you think you haven’t got anything to pay. Get in touch with us if you don’t think you should complete one as you could receive a penalty if we’re expecting a return and don’t receive one. I’m self-employed and do Self Assessment, so is there anything