Making heat pumps smarter: Worcester Bosch partners with Passiv UK to roll out intelligent heat pump control
Passiv UK and Worcester Bosch have joined forces to offer advanced smart controls for heat pumps. The Passiv Smart Thermostat now works seamlessly with the Worcester Bosch Compress 2000 Air Source Heat Pump range, making intelligent, energy-efficient heating controls more accessible to UK homeowners. Thanks to its out-of-the-box compatibility, no additional hardware is required. Installers can fit the Passiv Smart Thermostat with both new and existing Worcester Bosch Compress 2000 heat pumps, making smart heating simple. The Passiv Smart Thermostat then removes the need for an installer to set a weather compensation curve, dynamically optimising the heat pump’s flow temperature to improve its performance. For homeowners, the Passiv Smart Thermostat makes keeping comfortable effortless. It cuts heating bills and improves heat pump efficiency. Its intelligent controls can optimise energy use according to time-of-use tariffs and rooftop solar generation, supporting decarbonisation efforts while future-proofing homes against rising energy demands. Ian Rose, Sales and Strategy Director at Passiv UK, said: “This collaboration is a major step in giving both installers and homeowners a simple way to control and optimise heat pumps. Whether a customer is installing a new system or upgrading an existing one, the Passiv Smart Thermostat helps enhance comfort, save on bills and reduce carbon emissions.” Andrew Keyworth, Head of Business Development at Worcester Bosch, said: “Partnering with Passiv UK allows us to offer our customers a smarter, more efficient heating experience. It gives homeowners greater control, comfort, and energy savings, supporting the move towards low-carbon homes across the UK.” The Passiv Smart Thermostat is available nationwide through local plumbing merchants and select online retailers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Chapmanbdsp expands its Mission Critical team with three new strategic appointments across its global practice
Chapmanbdsp is pleased to announce the addition of three new members to its growing Mission Critical team: Rob Davies, Kayode Ayinde and Anju Nair. This expansion reflects the company’s continued commitment to investing in exceptional talent and strengthening its capabilities across disciplines and within its Mission Critical specialism. As the practice grows, chapmanbdsp welcomes a diverse group of professionals, whose expertise and perspectives will further enhance its culture and services. Davies, appointed as Project Director for chapmanbdsp, has over twelve years of experience within the data centre sector. Rob’s extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of complex project delivery, from concept through to completion, across a range of high-value developments. Highly skilled in team management, he encourages collaborative work to achieve shared goals. Rob is joining the Mission Critical team and will share his knowledge across various Hyperscalers, and data centre projects, assisting chapmanbdsp in its deliverance of project management. Rob commented “What drew me to chapmanbdsp is its strong presence across the various sectors. I hope to widen the in-house offerings for chapmanbdsp, and look forward to expanding my skills within the industrial and commercial sectors. I aim to provide a quality approach to project delivery that provides consistency throughout”. Kayode Ayinde has also joined the Mission Critical team as an Electrical Engineer. With over 9 years of experience within the industry, both as an Electrician and Electrical Engineer, Kayode has not only hands-on practical experience, but also is great with technical design. Mission Critical projects are complex to work on and Kayode’s commitment to attention to detail ensures that the challenging, technical side to the projects suits his skill set. Having previously assisted on a range of projects from offices and hotels to film studios and retail spaces, Kayode is ready to use his knowledge from across the industry to assist chapmanbdsp in the sectors it works with. One of Kayode’s strengths is his skills in project management, ensuring that deliverables are met effectively and to a high standard, “I love design day-to-day, but I also love teaching. Bringing some younger members and graduates to the design team would give me a great chance to step-up as a mentor and help build on the future generation of the industry” commented Kayode. Anju Nair, joined the chapmanbdsp Dubai office as an Electrical Engineer, bringing 4 years of high-quality experience to the team. Anju spent most of her time learning her skills in electrical engineering in Australia, working on projects from student accommodations, retail spaces, office fit-outs to data centres in Melbourne and Sydney. Anju has a strong understanding of how electrical design translates into practical, on-site implementation. Bringing extensive attention and detail to the team, Anju is set to further improve chapmanbdsp’s quality of multidisciplinary coordination. Anju is an exceptional Electrical Engineer, working on power systems, lighting and energy efficiency, making her well placed to assist and lead data centre projects. Chapmanbdsp continues to expand its mission to regularly innovate its skills, technology and expertise, to stay ahead of time, and Anju’s addition will help them do so. “I want to dive deep into AI, and incorporate it more into the design, so efficiency is improved. I believe technology can really help designers and engineers excel, we just need to use it correctly” Anju commented. Together, the appointments of Rob, Kayode and Anju mark an exciting step forward in Chapmanbdsp’s continued growth. Each brings valuable expertise and a shared commitment to excellence that will support the practice as it broadens its presence across regions and sectors. Their collective drive and technical strength will play an important role in shaping the Chapmanbdsp’s data centre specialism. “We welcome to the Mission Critical Team Rob, Kayode and Anju, they each bring to the team individual qualities and expertise to enhance our project delivery to our clients. This growth demonstrates our commitment to the growing Data Centre Sector, strengthening our team across UK, EMEA and UAE.” David Gallagher, Director of Mission Critical. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Developer P3 Logistics Parks set to appoint British Land chief Simon Carter
Developer and investor P3 Logistics Parks is set to appoint British Land chief executive Simon Carter, following confirmation that he is stepping down from his role after five years at the helm of the UK-listed property company. Carter, who first joined British Land in 2004 and has spent a total of 18 years with the business across two periods, will take up a similar senior leadership position at P3. He is subject to a 12-month notice period, during which British Land will begin the process of identifying his successor. During his tenure as chief executive, Carter oversaw a period of strategic repositioning for British Land, strengthening its focus on London office campuses and retail parks. The company said he leaves the business with a strong management team in place and a platform well positioned to benefit from rental growth in supply-constrained markets. William Rucker, chairman of British Land, thanked Carter for his contribution, noting that he has played a central role in shaping the company’s direction and preparing it for its next phase of growth. He said the board wishes Carter well in his new role at P3 Logistics Parks. Reflecting on his departure, Carter said British Land has been a defining part of his professional life and described it as a privilege to have led the business. He thanked the board, executive committee and colleagues for their support and commitment to delivering the company’s strategy over the past five years. Carter added that decisions taken in the period following the pandemic have positioned British Land for long-term success, particularly across its core London and retail park assets. While acknowledging there is never a perfect time to move on, he said he leaves the business with market-leading positions and a strong outlook. His move to P3 Logistics Parks marks a high-profile leadership change within the UK and European property sector, bringing extensive experience of large-scale real estate investment and development to the logistics specialist. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Building Heroes and The Worshipful Company of Constructors Launch Three-Year Sponsorship to Support Transitioning Military Personnel at Reaseheath College and University Centre.
Building Heroes Education Foundation is proud to announce the launch of a three-year Sponsoring Partnership with The Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust. This partnership marks a new chapter in a longstanding relationship dedicated to supporting Armed Forces Service Leavers, Veterans and Reservists into rewarding civilian careers. The Worshipful Company of Constructors has stood beside Building Heroes for many years through donations, advocacy and continuous support. This formal Academy Sponsorship now deepens that commitment, providing the financial security to underpin the charity’s longest-running academy at Reaseheath College and University Centre in Cheshire, and ensuring the continuation of vital skills training for the military community in the North West. This sponsorship will enable Building Heroes to sustain and grow its Reaseheath Construction Skills Academy, giving Service Leavers, Veterans and the wider military community access to high-quality training, practical skills development, industry exposure and tailored employability support, and crucially, the confidence to build successful second careers in the construction and built environment sector. A Strengthened Partnership with Impact at Its Core The Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust is one of the City of London’s historic Livery organisations. This partnership between Building Heroes and the Constructors Charitable Trust perfectly aligns with the Trust’s primary remit: ‘support the advancement of education, training and research in the Construction Industry’, making it an ideal partnership. Building Heroes, a recipient of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise (Social Mobility, 2022), has trained more than 4,200 members of the Armed Forces community since its formation in 2014. Over 48% progress directly into employment, self-employment or further qualifications within the construction sector. This sponsorship will ensure that continued impact, while strengthening pathways into industry across the region. Supporting Transition, Strengthening Industry Graduates from Reaseheath have gone on to join major contractors, SMEs, social enterprises and housing associations, working in trades, construction management, property maintenance, utilities and infrastructure. Many have gained the confidence to launch their own businesses. Through the Worshipful Company of Constructors and its professional network, cohorts will also have the opportunity to gain industry expertise, professional mentorship, and direct insight into the sector’s evolving opportunities. Doug Barrat, Deputy Chairman of the Worshipful Company of Constructors Charitable Trust, said: “The Constructors Company, through its Charitable Trust, feels that this represents a significant step change in our relationship with Building Heroes. A permanent base for craft and skills training in the construction industry for those leaving the Armed Forces has been an ambition for several years. Now established at Reaseheath in a new bespoke building, this excellent year-round training facility is the culmination of outstanding planning and hard work.” Chris Charles, CEO of Building Heroes, commented: “This sponsorship demonstrates an extraordinary commitment, and to have a historic and respected Livery Company take such a purposeful step in support of our mission is something we value enormously. Their investment will safeguard our provision at Reaseheath, ensuring that hundreds more members of our Armed Forces family can build meaningful post-service careers, while also contributing directly to the skills needs of the construction and wider built-environment sectors. We look forward not only to delivering training but to opening doors, through the Company’s membership, networks and influence, that inspire our cohorts to explore every pathway the industry has to offer.” Quote from Reaseheath College: Andy Gould, Curriculum Area Manager for Construction at Reaseheath, said: “We’ve been working with Building Heroes for over ten years now, and it’s a partnership that means a lot to us here at Reaseheath. Craig Blount and I have watched so many veterans come through the programme and completely transform their confidence and skills. It’s hard not to feel proud when you see what they achieve next.” “This new sponsorship gives the academy real stability, which is fantastic. It means we can keep doing what we know works – giving service leavers proper hands-on training, a supportive environment, and a clear route into the industry. It’s good for them, good for the sector, and fantastic for Reaseheath. We’re very proud to be part of it.” Creating Skilled People, Positive Social Value and Stronger Futures For the sector, this partnership signals a shared belief in: For the learners, it represents stability, recognition, and opportunity at a critical point of transition. As the first academic year under this sponsorship is underway, the academy will continue to: Building Heroes looks forward to working closely with the Worshipful Company of Constructors throughout this period to showcase talent, support the next generation, and demonstrate how deeply meaningful second careers begin with access, support and belief. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Brian Uy FIStructE CEng appointed as IStructE President for 2026
The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) has appointed Brian Uy as its 105th President for 2026. Today, The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), the representative body for the profession worldwide, is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Uy FIStructE CEng as its 105th President for 2026. Brian, who is currently Scientia Professor at the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, Australia brings decades of expertise and experience to the role. His career has been as rich as it is varied, spanning roles at leading consultancies including Arcadis, Worley and Arup, working on some of the world’s largest and most complex projects. He has also been actively involved in the development of landmark industry codes and standards as well as being instrumental in ensuring they’re both fit-for-purpose and deliver positive outcomes. In addition to his role at UNSW, Brian chairs the Australian/New Zealand Standards on Steel and Composite Structures and serves as Vice President of the International Association of Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE). Involved in research in steel and composite structures for over 30 years, Brian has served on the editorial boards of fourteen international journals for structural engineering and is Chief Editor (Asia-Pacific) for Steel and Composite Structures and serves on the Editorial Board of IStructE’s flagship research journal Structures. He is also a significant contributor to international codes of practice in steel and composite construction and has served on the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Task Committee 5 on Composite Construction and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Structural Engineering Institute (SEI), Technical Committee on Composite Construction. His singular and visionary approach combines academic leadership with practical application, and his presidential year will focus on three interconnected themes that align with IStructE’s 2026-2030 strategic pillars: Registration and supervision – Championing greater professionalism through regulatory frameworks, exploring supervision models and safety initiatives. He aims to strengthen learning from structural failures through global programmes like CROSS, ensuring the profession continues to prioritise safety across all designs and builds. Structural efficiency and embodied carbon – Raising further awareness of sustainable design practices by promoting structural efficiency principles how these can lead to the reduction of embodied carbon. He will actively encourage structural engineers to design optimised structures that consider the system and material behaviour across the whole structure or building’s lifecycle, from cradle to grave. Technical competence and research – Supporting professionals by focusing on core learning and development areas, including composite systems, sustainable structures and low embodied carbon solutions. His aim is to ensure engineers have the advanced knowledge needed to design high-performance, sustainable structures with purpose, that benefit people, planet and the wider structural engineering profession. Commenting on the achievement, Brian Uy, incoming IStructE President, says: “Structural engineering is an ever-changing profession that demands technical excellence, a commitment to sustainability and is punctuated by the collaboration of teams of professionals. Looking to the future, I want to ensure our members have the knowledge, support and regulatory frameworks they need to design structures that are not only safe and efficient, but also have a positive impact on society-at-large. By creating opportunities for closer collaboration between academia, industry and professional bodies, we can enhance our profession and empower structural engineers across the world to deliver better outcomes for the built environment.” Yasmin Becker, IStructE CEO, said: “Brian’s distinguished 35-year academic career together with his active involvement with IStructE since 1992, underscores his significant contribution to the advancement of structural engineering worldwide. A champion of collaboration between academia and professional practice, Brian is also a strong advocate for structural efficiency. I look forward to working with him as he takes up the position of the IStructE’s 105th President in 2026.” Brian succeeds Mohamad Al-Dah and takes up the presidency for the entirety of 2026. To register to watch Brian’s inaugural address, which takes place at 18:00 (GMT) on Thursday 22 January 2026 click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Ranger Fire and Security announces £150m funding partnership with Apera to accelerate expansion in 2026
Ranger Fire and Security has today announced a £150 million funding package from Apera, a leading European private debt asset manager, to support the next phase of its growth and acquisition strategy. The funding will enable Ranger to significantly accelerate its expansion plans, with a focus on driving organic growth and acquiring high-performing, regulatory compliance driven, preventative maintenance-focused businesses in the fire and security sector and building on Ranger’s successful track record of bringing them together as part of a single integrated platform, enabling greater resource sharing, expertise and cross-selling opportunities. Apera is a leading private debt asset manager dedicated to supporting mid-market companies across Western Europe, having deployed approximately €4 billion since its founding. The investment will support Ranger’s ambition to build a fire and security platform that is truly national in scope. The partnership with Apera will build on a highly successful 2025 for Ranger, during which it completed six successful acquisitions across the UK and Ireland, strengthening its coverage and service offering across both countries. Earlier this month, Ranger announced its first acquisition of 2026, further expanding its footprint in the South West of England and bringing the number of Ranger businesses to 14. The funding will continue accelerating Ranger’s acquisition and partnership strategy as the Group looks to maintain its M&A momentum with a very active pipeline. Mark Bridges, CEO, Ranger Fire and Security, said: “Our new partnership with Apera marks a major milestone for Ranger, providing us with the firepower to take our growth ambitions to the next level. We’ve built strong momentum over the past two years, welcoming 14 high-quality businesses into the Group. “Our vision is to bring together the very best regional specialists into a single national platform that benefits customers, employees and business owners alike. Apera’s support will enable us to continue scaling at pace in the year ahead, while staying true to our focus on quality, service excellence and meaningful partnerships.” Paul Mahon, Partner, Hyperion Equity Partners, said: “Ranger has continued to grow at pace since its launch in 2024 – expanding from a handful of high-performing fire and security businesses to a Group that now has extensive coverage across the UK and a strong footprint in Ireland. “Securing this funding capacity from Apera is a clear endorsement of Ranger’s success to date and the opportunities that lie ahead. Our clear strategy, focused sharply on collaboration, integrated operational excellence and customer service, has put Ranger in an incredibly strong position to deliver further sustained organic and acquisitive growth and value in 2026.” Chris Roper, Partner at Apera, said:“Ranger is a leading maintenance-focused fire and security business that has created a highly innovative, well integrated platform. It has enabled regional businesses in the Group to collaborate, grow and provide a service to customers that is national in scope while bringing the key operational functions under the Ranger framework. Ranger has an impressive track record, coupled with its experienced management team and clear organic growth and acquisition strategy, made this a compelling opportunity for Apera. We’re pleased to be partnering with Ranger as the company enters the next phase of its expansion along with Hyperion.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals