‘Burnham Bounce’ Boosts Confidence in Government Delivery of Major Infrastructure Projects, New Research Finds
Confidence in the Government’s ability to deliver major infrastructure projects has risen since Andy Burnham became Prime Minister, according to new research from the Association for Project Management (APM). A survey of UK-based project professionals, commissioned by APM and carried out by research company Censuswide, found that 64% of project professionals are more confident in the Government’s ability to deliver major infrastructure projects, compared with only 2% who said they are less confident. The findings also reveal increasing trust in the Government’s project delivery capabilities, with 95% of project professionals saying they trust the Government to deliver projects well (compared with 85% in 2023), compared with only 5% who said they do not (compared with 13% in 2023). The findings come at a time when major infrastructure projects are at the heart of the Government’s agenda and are expected to play a central role in driving economic growth across every region of the UK. Andrew Baldwin, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at the Association for Project Management, said: “Project professionals are at the heart of delivering the infrastructure that underpins the UK’s economic growth. These findings indicate growing confidence among the project profession in the Government’s ability to deliver major infrastructure projects successfully. “With nearly two-thirds of respondents reporting increased confidence and an overwhelming majority expressing trust in the Government’s delivery capability, efforts to strengthen project leadership and delivery standards in government-led projects are being recognised by those working in the profession. This level of confidence provides the foundations for the successful delivery of the infrastructure projects needed to support the UK’s future ambitions.” The research highlights the important role project professionals play in supporting the successful delivery of major infrastructure projects, such as transport, energy, housing, and digital infrastructure. As the Government advances its national and regional infrastructure agenda, the findings suggest that confidence within the project profession is providing a positive environment for the successful delivery of its national projects. APM is calling on the Government to capitalise on the momentum by ensuring that his advisors and civil servants incorporate project-centric thinking into their priorities and strategies. Andrew Baldwin added: “New Prime Ministers often see a ‘bounce’ in polls. In order for the government to maintain these confidence levels, the Prime Minister must prioritise and set clear goals for what he wants to achieve around infrastructure, agree risk appetite with his cabinet; and make sure projects and programmes are properly resourced. Supply chain and procurement management is the area where most project professionals feel the Government can improve on project delivery, so this should be a priority.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
DFI forward funds 200-bed Kingston co-living development in off-market transaction
DFI has established a strong track record of delivering projects in the living sectors across Europe including residential for rent, student accommodation and co-living DFI, an independent pan-European private equity real estate platform, today announces the forward funding of an £80 million gross development value, 200-bed co-living development in Kingston upon Thames, London, through an off-market transaction. London focused developer Viewranks Estates will deliver the project for DFI under a forward funding agreement. The project, which has full planning permission and Gateway 2 approval, is located next to Kingston Train Station, a 30-minute train ride away from Central London. The area is experiencing significant undersupply of housing, with strong rental demand from young professionals and students, particularly recent university leavers just starting out in their careers and working in London. Residential demand is supported by a strong local economy in Kingston, led by consumer, professional services and technology sectors, with Unilever having opened its new HQ campus in Kingston Town Centre earlier this year. Construction of the eight storey co-living building is expected to start imminently. Once complete it will offer 200 en-suite studios at attractive rents that are inclusive of bills and will benefit from generous amenity spaces. Residents will enjoy access to a master-chef style kitchen and ground floor co-working spaces. A state-of-the-art leisure, catering and entertainment offer with a bar and restaurant, a residents’ lounge, cinema, fitness studio, a communal terrace and a games room, is included in the monthly rent. DFI is working to create a bespoke lifestyle brand tailored to the target market and will continue to explore opportunities in this sector, with a focus on key locations within and in close commute to central London. The investment responds to a growing number of young adults and private renters driving demand for affordable, flexible housing in a market where co-living remains undersupplied, with only c.7,000 operational beds across London. DFI was advised by Eversheds, Living for Life, Savills, PwC and Quartz. Francesco Orofino, Investment Director and Head of Hospitality at DFI, commented:“This is a compelling, off-market opportunity to invest in a high-demand, undersupplied sector that is still evolving in London, under a defensive deal structure. We are working with best-in-class architects, designers and sector experts to create a flexible, branded residential experience that appeals to young professionals through ample amenities, living and working spaces, at rents that offer discount to comparable rental housing. With only c. 7,000 co-living beds in the capital, we are bringing forward a high-quality, aspirational asset and one where we see real potential to replicate across the market.” Gavin Neilan, Founding Partner at DFI, added: “This latest investment builds on DFI’s strong track record of creating institutional grade living assets across Europe where we focus on assets supported by demand tailwinds, undersupply and operational expertise. This includes Blaekhus, a student accommodation platform comprising c. 1,200 student units, which DFI sold to PATRIZIA in 2022 for €314 million, as well as Mylo Living, a Danish flex living platform with a 350-unit asset in Copenhagen.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Luceco appoints Dr Thorsten Müller as Chief Executive Officer
Luceco Group, the leading designer and manufacturer of residential and commercial electrification products and systems, has announced the appointment of Dr Thorsten Müller as Chief Executive Officer, with effect from 1 September 2026. Thorsten brings extensive experience leading global industrial technology businesses, across lighting, electrification and energy management sectors. Most recently, he was Divisional Chief Executive in the Safety Sector at Halma plc. Prior to joining Halma in 2022, he held senior leadership roles at ABB, Osram and Bosch. Giles Brand, Chair of Luceco, said: “We are thrilled that Thorsten will be joining Luceco as Chief Executive Officer. Thorsten has a proven track record of delivering growth and innovation at industry leading technology companies serving the lighting, electrification and energy management segments. He brings all the necessary skills and experience to drive the continued execution of our strategy.” Dr Thorsten Müller commented: “I am truly excited to be joining Luceco as Chief Executive. Luceco is a business of real quality, and I am grateful for the opportunity to build on the strong foundations that the Luceco team have built. Luceco’s premier brands, market-leading positions and exceptional people give me firm confidence in the core of the business, while the energy transition offers significant further upside that Luceco is exceptionally well placed to capture.” The appointment comes at a time of continued positive momentum for Luceco, with the Group reporting a strong performance for H1 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vert Projects to Lead Transformation of London’s Iconic Carreras Building
Lazari has appointed Vert Projects as main contractor for a major refurbishment of the landmark Carreras building at Mornington Crescent, creating a new generation of workspace and amenities within one of London’s most distinctive Art Deco buildings. Formerly known as Greater London House, the building is instantly recognisable for its Egyptian-inspired façade and prominent location between Euston, King’s Cross and Camden. Originally constructed as the Carreras Black Cat cigarette factory, the property was first converted into office accommodation in 1958. The latest transformation has been designed by architects dMFK and will significantly upgrade the building’s workplace, hospitality, public-facing and external amenity spaces while retaining the architectural character that has made it a local landmark. At ground level, the project will introduce a new entrance alongside a 6,458 sq ft reception and lounge area. New food and beverage hospitality space and communal co-working facilities will also form part of the refurbishment, supporting a more flexible and contemporary workplace environment. The existing lightwells will be transformed into external areas for working and relaxation, while the sixth floor will feature a substantial 5,866 sq ft roof garden. Sustainability, biodiversity and urban greening will play an important role in the rooftop transformation. The redesigned garden will incorporate photovoltaic panels alongside new planting, climbers, green walls and a green roof, significantly increasing the amount of greenery across the building. Lazari also intends to use the refurbishment to improve accessibility and strengthen the relationship between the property and its surrounding streets, creating a greener and more welcoming appearance around the building. The latest investment represents another chapter in Lazari’s long-term stewardship of the property. The company acquired Greater London House in August 2007 before completing its first significant internal reconstruction in 2019. The building has since attracted major occupiers including ASOS. The refurbishment of the fashion retailer’s workspace, designed by Spacelab, subsequently won the British Council for Offices Regional Award for Best Refurbished/Recycled Workplace in 2022. Vert Projects is delivering the latest scheme under a design and build contract, supported by a specialist construction and engineering supply chain. Gibberd Architects has been appointed to provide architectural services, with KPA Electrical responsible for electrical design and build and ODH Services delivering the mechanical package. Northvale Construction will undertake demolition works, while Frixos Metalworks has been appointed for structural and architectural metalwork. Further supply chain appointments are expected as the project progresses. The refurbishment is scheduled for completion in autumn 2027. By combining the reuse of an established London office building with new workplace amenities, hospitality, landscaping and renewable energy measures, the project will provide a significant upgrade to the Carreras building while preserving the distinctive architectural identity of one of the capital’s best-known Art Deco landmarks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Frasers Group Builds for the Future as Property and Brand Portfolio Expands
Frasers Group is continuing to evolve beyond its traditional retail roots, combining an expanding portfolio of sports, premium and luxury brands with growing investment in stores, shopping destinations and property across the UK. Led by Chief Executive Michael Murray, the group has set out a strategy centred on building a powerful and increasingly connected brand ecosystem. Its approach brings together retail brands, physical property, digital innovation and investment in customer experience, giving the business a significant presence across the changing UK retail and commercial property landscape. The latest major addition is Harvey Nichols, with Frasers Group acquiring the luxury department store business from administrators in August. The transaction brings the historic retailer into a wider luxury ecosystem in which Frasers has already invested substantially through brands and concepts including FLANNELS. Harvey Nichols brings with it an important physical retail estate, including its landmark Knightsbridge department store alongside UK locations in Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol. Frasers has made clear that significant restructuring will be required to create a stronger and more sustainable business for the long term, with the store portfolio, operating model, organisational structure and cost base expected to come under review. Michael Murray said the acquisition represented an opportunity to provide Harvey Nichols with the infrastructure, expertise and investment required to reposition the business, while acknowledging that creating a sustainable future could result in a smaller operation in the short term. The deal illustrates the increasingly close relationship between Frasers Group’s brand strategy and its approach to physical retail property. Rather than viewing stores simply as places to transact, the group has increasingly focused on larger, higher-quality environments capable of bringing together multiple brands and creating stronger destinations. That strategy can also be seen at Frasers Plus Designer Outlet Leeds, where continued investment in the occupier mix is strengthening the centre’s fashion, sportswear and lifestyle offer. The destination brings together Frasers-owned concepts alongside a broad range of third-party retailers, demonstrating how property can provide a platform for a diverse mix of brands. French Connection is among the latest additions, opening a 2,257 sq ft store featuring its latest retail concept. Its arrival follows other recent openings from Belstaff and White Stuff, providing further evidence of investment in the destination and its evolving tenant mix. For the built environment sector, this combination of ownership, retail operations and brand investment is particularly significant. Frasers can use its understanding of customer behaviour and individual brands to influence how physical destinations are occupied, repositioned and operated. The group’s wider approach has also placed greater emphasis on elevating physical retail. New and refurbished stores, contemporary shop fits and stronger brand presentation form part of a strategy intended to give customers compelling reasons to continue visiting bricks-and-mortar destinations alongside the growth of online retail. Sustainability and the performance of the physical estate are another part of the long-term picture. Frasers Group has identified areas including energy efficiency, waste reduction and transport as important considerations as it looks to reduce the environmental impact associated with its operations. These considerations are becoming increasingly important as retailers and property owners examine the whole-life performance of their buildings. Reusing, refurbishing and repositioning established retail assets can provide opportunities to create more efficient and commercially relevant spaces while reducing reliance on entirely new development. Frasers Group’s growth therefore presents an increasingly significant property story as well as a retail one. Its estate provides the physical platform through which a growing collection of brands can be developed, while investment in shopping destinations creates opportunities to introduce new occupiers, improve customer experiences and strengthen the performance of existing assets. The acquisition of Harvey Nichols adds another dimension. The challenge will be to preserve the character and heritage that make the department store distinctive while creating a commercially sustainable model capable of succeeding within a dramatically changed luxury retail market. Across the wider portfolio, the direction is towards closer integration between brands, property and experience. Frasers Group’s expanding ecosystem now stretches across sports, premium and luxury retail, supported by continued investment in physical stores, digital capabilities and customer experience. As retail property continues to adapt to changing consumer habits, Frasers Group’s ability to combine brand ownership with investment in physical destinations could become an increasingly important part of its growth. From the future of Harvey Nichols to the continued evolution of its shopping destinations and store estate, property is becoming a significant component in how Frasers Group builds the next generation of its retail business. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Railpen commences works on South Mimms X industrial development
Railpen, manager of the UK’s around £36bn railways pension scheme, has started construction works at South Mimms X, a 122,820 sq ft exceptionally well-connected logistics and industrial development. With completion targeted for Spring 2027, it will be the latest addition to Railpen’s growing industrial portfolio, which comprises state-of-the-art, prime Grade A industrial and logistics facilities located strategically around the M25. Located at the intersection of the A1(M) and M25, adjacent to South Mimms Services, South Mimms X marks Railpen’s latest milestone in its investment into the logistics and industrial sector, developed in partnership with Wrenbridge. Positioned just 14.5 miles from central London, the 122,820 sq ft scheme will offer a market-leading specification in an unrivalled location, incorporating a 68m secure gated yard. Designed to target a wide range of operators, the facility will also feature 13 dock loading doors, two Euro dock doors, and two level access doors. It will be well-positioned to support the transition to EV fleets, with 18 active EV charging spaces, alongside 98 car parking spaces. Sustainability is embedded throughout the design, which is targeting net-zero carbon, as well as BREEAM Outstanding and EPC A+ ratings. The scheme will also deliver 2.5 acres of landscaped amenity space, achieving a 30% biodiversity net gain through features including on-site wildlife boxes and an urban orchard. Once complete, the scheme will benefit from the adjacent high-quality, people-focused amenities to support occupier wellbeing and productivity. Alastair Dawson, UK Industrial Sector Lead at Railpen, commented: “South Mimms X reflects Railpen’s ongoing commitment to producing best-in-class developments that support local economies and enhance surrounding communities. The site is exceptionally well located on the M25, with access to the entirety of Greater London within 90 minutes. With well-connected, high-quality industrial space in increasingly short supply, this scheme has been designed to stand out. Building on our established track record and Wrenbridge’s extensive expertise, South Mimms X is well placed to set a new benchmark for logistics in the South East.” Will Jarman, Associate Director at Wrenbridge, added: “Railpen’s X portfolio is becoming a clear example in the industrial and logistics sector of how a landlord can demonstrate ongoing commitment to delivering best-in-class facilities, and one that goes above and beyond the wants, needs, and expectations of occupiers and their employees. There is a clear demand for accessible industrial space in this location, and it is great to be partnering with Railpen once again to deliver another high-quality scheme.” South Mimms X is just one of the many assets included in Railpen’s property portfolio, which currently has over 3 million sq ft of space under construction or with planning consent, with a forecast construction cost in excess of £500 million by the end of 2030. The development will join Railpen’s expanding ‘X’ branded portfolio of industrial sites, alongside Dartford X, Waltham X and High Wycombe X. Each development is strategically located and designed to meet occupier demand for best-in-class, highly sustainable industrial space. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals