McLaughlin & Harvey completes £53m Dover Western Docks Revival project
A joint venture partnership between McLaughlin & Harvey and Boskalis Westminster has completed a major land reclamation project at the Port of Dover. The £53m Dover Western Docks Revival (DWDR) Stage 3B project commenced in 2024 and involved the reclamation of land within the Wick Channel, Tidal Basin marinas and Granville Dock. McLaughlin & Harvey was awarded principal contractor on the project. The transformative scheme created 10 hectares of new port land and required the placement of nearly 900,000 cubic metres of infill material to raise the dock bed to approximately 0.5m below the level of the existing quay walls. Work undertaken under the scope of the project included the removal of pontoons, gangways and associated equipment from within Tidal Basin and Granville Dock, together with the demolition of some of the existing quay wall structures, including the North Pier and the Ferry Jetty. New utility and road infrastructure was installed throughout the project area. This included substantial drainage works and a complex stormwater pumping station. Seamus Devlin, Managing Director at McLaughlin & Harvey, said: “Our history of delivering maritime and port infrastructure projects meant we were well placed to undertake this complex programme of works and we’re delighted to have completed the project with minimal disruption to the public and tenants. “Working closely with the Port of Dover, Boskalis Westminster and other stakeholders, the project team successfully delivered significant reclamation and infrastructure works, including extensive temporary works. “We are proud to have played a role in this ambitious revival project which will support the future transformation of Dover’s waterfront.” Paul Maurice de Jong, Managing Director at Boskalis Westminster, said: “The successful completion of this project demonstrates the strength of collaboration between the Port of Dover, McLaughlin & Harvey and Boskalis Westminster. We are proud to have delivered the land reclamation works and associated soil-improvement that will support the Port’s long-term growth and future development, helping to create new opportunities for one of the UK’s most important maritime gateways.” The Port of Dover is Britain’s busiest port, with the Western Docks containing the cruise terminal, EU Entry Exit facilities and newly renovated cargo and marina facilities. The Western Docks Revival project has created land for future development, supporting the Port of Dover in delivering its 2050 masterplan. McLaughlin & Harvey is a leading construction and civil engineering contractor that specialises in complex port, harbour, and marine infrastructure across the UK and Ireland. Its expertise includes quay wall construction, dredging, terminal development, and Ro-Ro facility upgrades, working frequently in live environments to support the offshore wind, ferry, and fishing industries. Royal Boskalis is a leading global dredging, maritime infrastructure, and marine services company. With a fleet of around 400 vessels and over 11,000 employees, Boskalis delivers innovative solutions for coastal protection, land reclamation, offshore energy, port infrastructure, and marine salvage projects worldwide. 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
Workman Strengthens Retail and Leisure Team with Matthew Gioia Partner Appointment
Workman LLP has strengthened its retail and leisure property management business with the appointment of Matthew Gioia as a partner, marking his return to the firm where he began his property career 16 years ago. Gioia will co-lead Workman’s London retail and leisure team alongside partner Chris Church, with responsibility for a number of key client relationships as the property specialist continues to invest in its retail and leisure capabilities. The appointment brings Gioia back to Workman following extensive experience across the UK commercial property sector. He originally joined the company’s Manchester office through its graduate scheme before moving to Savills, where he spent four years. He subsequently joined MAPP and has spent the past eight years with the business, helping to lead its retail team and developing significant experience in the management of retail property and client portfolios. His return comes at an important time for the retail and leisure property market, with owners and asset managers increasingly focused on creating well-managed, commercially resilient destinations capable of responding to changing occupier and customer requirements. Gareth Soar, partner at Workman LLP, said: “Matthew joins a team that’s already delivering great results for our retail and leisure clients, and he brings a wealth of experience in the sector to the role. “His appointment reflects our continued investment in specialist talent, and I’m confident he’ll play a key part in helping the team grow and continue to deliver a great service for our clients.” Gioia added: “It’s great to be back at Workman. The firm has grown considerably since I left, but that focus on doing things properly is still very much at the heart of how the team works. “I’m looking forward to working alongside Chris and the wider team, and to putting my experience to work for our clients.” The appointment adds further senior-level expertise to Workman’s retail and leisure property management operation, with Gioia’s experience across different property businesses providing a strong platform to support existing clients and the team’s future growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Senior Marketing Appointment Supports Next Phase of Growth at Newett Homes
Yorkshire housebuilder Newett Homes has appointed Zoe Wheatley as sales and marketing director, recognising the significant contribution she has made since joining the business. With 22 years of industry experience, Zoe began her career as a sales executive before progressing through a range of senior roles. She joined the Wetherby-based developer as sales and marketing manager in May 2025 and was promoted to head of sales in August the same year. As sales and marketing director, she will now lead the company’s sales and marketing strategy, driving the sales team to achieve its targets and support the wider objectives of the business. Zoe’s responsibilities also include raising brand awareness of Newett Homes’ product and its developments, overseeing all aspects of marketing, and ensuring customers continue to receive an exceptional level of service. Commenting on her new position, Zoe, said: “Newett Homes is an ambitious organisation with a fantastic product, and I’m delighted to have been recognised for my part in driving its success. “I am excited to build on our strengths, raise standards across sales and marketing, and help the business achieve its growth plans while continuing to enhance the brand and customer experience.” Established in 2017, Newett Homes is an award-winning housebuilder dedicated to delivering quality-led homes in hand-picked locations. Employing over 70 people, the business currently has 10 active developments, supported by a growing land pipeline. In April the housebuilder marked a significant step in its growth strategy by acquiring a seven-acre greenfield site in Kirton in Lindsey, Lincolnshire, which is its first development site outside Yorkshire. In March 2026, it was awarded its first five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation (HBF) recognising the businesses continued commitment to excellence in build quality and outstanding customer experience. Newett Homes chief executive, Will Newett, said: “Zoe has made a considerable impact on the business since joining us and has demonstrated the leadership, expertise and drive needed to take our sales and marketing function forward. “Her commitment to developing the team, strengthening our brand and delivering an outstanding experience for our customers will be invaluable as we continue to expand and I look forward to working closely with her as we deliver the next stage of our growth plans.” For more information about Newett Homes visit https://newetthomes.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
CIOB publishes free building regulations and Building Safety Act advice for clients
A new guide to help construction clients better understand their responsibilities under Building Regulations and the Building Safety Act has been published by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). The free guide is aimed at anyone commissioning building work on behalf of a business, public body, charity or other non-domestic organisation. It clearly sets out a client’s legal duties under the Building Safety Act 2022, as well as helping identify which projects are and are not subject to Building Regulations. The guide also includes a checklist clients are recommended to follow in advance of each project, which covers checking the competence of experts, confirming processes for managing compliance and checking if their project is categorised as a high-risk building. Ayo Allu, Chair of CIOB’s Client Steering Group, said: “As a client your role is no longer simply to commission construction work. You should help ensure it is properly planned, managed and delivered in compliance with the Building Regulations, keeping in mind the decisions you make before and during the project influence safety, quality and compliance. “You are not expected to be a technical expert. However, you are expected to make informed decisions, appoint competent people, provide necessary information to your contractor and estate manager, maintain records and remain engaged throughout the project. “It is not uncommon for projects to be derailed when clients are unaware of the level of involvement they need to have and only realise when it’s too late. By empowering clients to make good decisions from the outset and fulfil their legal obligations, their relationships with their contractors are likely to be easier and their projects more successful.” To download the new guide visit CIOB Building Regulations August 2026.pdf Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Construction cannot complain about skills while turning apprentices away
As students receive their GCSE results today, many will be deciding whether to continue studying or to begin their careers via an apprenticeship. Nicola Hodkinson, owner and director at Seddon, warns that the shortage of apprenticeship places risks excluding young people who are ready to begin careers in construction. All comments below are authored by Nicola Hodkinson – Owner and director of Seddon “For young people receiving their GCSE results today, this should be a moment of opportunity. But those hoping to begin their careers through an apprenticeship may quickly discover that the route we encourage them to pursue is extremely difficult to access. “At Seddon, we receive thousands of applications for our apprenticeship scheme each year, around 100 for every role. These are young people who want to work, develop practical skills and build long-term careers. Yet there are simply not enough places available to give them that chance. Demand is far outstripping supply “The wider picture is just as concerning. Data reported by the BBC shows that applications for degree apprenticeships through the government’s central platform have risen from 8,100 to 21,800 in three years, while the number of available positions has fallen from 7,300 to 3,700. Although those figures relate specifically to degree apprenticeships, they expose the same gap between young people’s ambitions and the opportunities available to them. “The latest government figures show apprenticeship starts increasing by 8.7% overall, but starts among under-19s fell by 5.4%. Construction apprenticeship starts rose by 5%, which is encouraging, but progress needs to happen much faster if apprenticeships are to become a realistic option for more school leavers. Desperate need for construction skills “This is particularly frustrating because construction desperately needs them. CITB estimates that the industry will require an average of 41,200 additional workers every year between 2026 and 2030. Construction cannot keep complaining about its skills shortage while young people who want to join the industry are being turned away. “Employers have to accept their share of the responsibility. Too much of the industry still relies on a flexible or self-employed workforce and expects somebody else to train the next generation. That may meet an immediate labour need, but it leaves young people without routes into the sector and weakens the workforce we will all depend on in future. Practical steps for creating more places – industry and government responsibility “There are genuine barriers for employers. Training an apprentice is a long-term commitment that involves wages, equipment, structured learning and experienced people dedicating time to passing on their skills. Yet there is very little funding available to employers to offset these wider costs, and what support does exist can be difficult to access, with layers of red tape that many businesses simply do not have the resources to navigate. “The government is beginning to recognise this. The introduction of a £2,000 hiring payment for smaller employers taking on young apprentices is a welcome step, as is the decision to give jobs, skills and apprenticeships greater weight in major public contracts. These changes now need to translate into more opportunities on the ground, with their impact closely monitored and further support introduced if apprenticeship numbers do not keep pace with demand. “This cannot be solved through education policy alone. Giving technical education the same status as academic routes is the right ambition, but that promise will ring hollow if young people reach the end of school and find there is nowhere for them to go. “Results day should open doors. Government, clients and employers now need to make sure construction creates enough of them.” About Nicola: Nicola Hodkinson is owner and director of Seddon and a longstanding advocate for apprenticeships and direct employment in construction. Seddon maintains a significant apprenticeship programme and regularly receives thousands of applications from young people looking to enter the industry. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals