Prologis signs Cainiao at Prologis Apex Park DC4
Prologis UK has secured a 10-year lease with Cainiao, a global ecommerce logistics provider and part of Alibaba Group, marking a significant expansion of its UK operations. Prologis Apex Park DC4’s recent refurbishment was delivered with a strong focus on sustainability, featuring advanced LED lighting, a solar PV array and EV charging infrastructure, resulting in an EPC A rating and supporting lower carbon operations. The 150,911 sq ft DC4 enables rapid operational ramp-up with the installation, through Prologis Essentials, of wide aisle racking providing 20,028 pallet capacity. This allows Cainiao to move in quickly and handle high-volume operations from day one. Sun Beibei, Vice President of Global Supply Chain at Cainiao, said: “By signing a 10-year lease at Prologis Apex Park, we are making a clear, long-term commitment to the UK market. This significant investment reflects our confidence in continued growth and reinforces the stability and reliability of the logistics services we deliver to customers across the region. Prologis Apex Park offers the location, specification and flexibility we need to support our continued growth in the UK. The ability to move quickly through leasing and into a facility that is already optimised for high-volume operations was a key factor in our decision. We look forward to working with Prologis as we expand our network.” Tom Price, Leasing Director at Prologis UK, said: “Cainiao’s decision to locate at Prologis Apex Park reflects the strength of the Midlands as a core logistics location, as well as continued investment from Chinese ecommerce businesses into the UK. As an existing global customer, we were able to move quickly on commercial terms, enabling this transaction to complete” The letting brings Prologis Apex Park to full occupancy, following the recent leasing of DC3 to DHL. The park is home to major global customers including CEVA Logistics, XPO Logistics, Cummins and Hankook, reinforcing its position as one of the Midland’s premier logistics locations with strong connectivity and access to an established labour pool within the Midlands’ ‘golden triangle’. A final opportunity remains at the park, with DC11 offering a 91,000 sq ft build-to-suit unit with full planning consent. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
BW reports record financial year as turnover hits £326.7m
BW Interiors Limited, the trading name of BW: Workplace Experts (BW), has reported a 132% increase in pre-tax profit to £13.9 million for the fiscal year ending 31 December 2025. The London office fit out and design and build specialists are now targeting £500 million turnover by 2030. BW attributes its record performance, with turnover increasing by a third to £326.7 million up from £244 million in 2024, to its strong client partnerships and high-quality delivery, supported by a strong central London office market. Companies across the capital are increasingly investing in high-quality workplace fit out as more implement return-to-office strategies. This market strength is reflected in BW’s own financial position as its net assets remain strong at £18 million, and year-end cash reserves stood at £57 million. BW came into 2026 with over £210 million in secured work for the current period and is on target to achieve £375 million turnover in 2026. £42 million has been secured for 2027 to date. The company recently completed one of its largest projects to date, a £63 million office for a tech firm in London and continues to focus on delivering projects of varying sizes, while planning to increase the number of larger schemes over the next five years across its key markets of commercial workplace and higher education, with sustained strength across the legal, tech and private equity sectors. In March 2026, BW moved into its new 16,500 sq ft office at The Carter, close to St Paul’s Cathedral, further reflecting its growth and expansion in the City of London. The BW team has grown from 65 people in 2016 to close to 320 employees this year. Steve Elliott, CEO at BW: Workplace Experts, said: “2025 was our 25th year in business and our strongest financial performance to date, a reflection of the incredible pace of growth over the past decade, where we have gone from a £60 million turnover business to £326.7 million, making BW the UK’s number two fit out contractor by brand. “We have strong ambitions for the next phase of growth and clear plans to deliver them. With turnover on target for £375 million in 2026 and £500 million by 2030, we remain focused on delivering exceptional, defect-free workplace fit out and design and build solutions across our core markets, offering our unique personable, and innovative approach to deliver high specification workplaces that people enjoy going to work at.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Last Mile hits 1 million connections as multi-utility pipeline grows
Last Mile, a leading multi-utility infrastructure provider, today announces it has reached 1 million utility connections; a landmark milestone that signals the company’s sustained growth, resilience and the financial strength of its growing asset portfolio. The figure comprises live connections across electricity, gas, water, wastewater and heat networks, managed by Last Mile at residential, commercial and industrial developments since its inception in 2002. From being granted the very first Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) licence in Great Britain for electricity, to adding multi-award-winning low carbon solutions to its offering and attracting blue-chip investor backing, Last Mile has a long history of hitting significant milestones. “Reaching 1 million connections is a significant moment for us, and it is thanks to the dedication of the people across our business who have made it possible,” said Richard Thomas, Last Mile CEO. “Every one of those connections is the result of designers, engineers, operational colleagues, asset managers, and many others delivering reliable utility networks to our customers across the country, who put their trust in us for their projects. I’m incredibly proud of what our colleagues have achieved, in true partnership with our customers, and this momentum should give us real confidence as Last Mile looks ahead to its next chapter of growth.” The 1 millionth connection was made at a service station in the West Midlands, with Last Mile adopting the infrastructure powering rapid EV charge points. Last Mile operates as an end-to-end independent multi-utility provider, with capabilities in both infrastructure delivery and long-term network ownership. Alongside its live connections, the company has an order book of 710,000 new connections that it is designing, building and adopting. Recent flagship projects include: the multi-award-winning Welborne garden village in Hampshire, where it is delivering the UK’s first water-source heat network using reservoir water to heat and cool up to 6,000 homes; the Michaelston College redevelopment in Cardiff, the Welsh capital’s first housing project to use a ground source heat network; and Brabazon, in Bristol, one of the government’s seven designated new towns where it is delivering multi-utility connections. The organisation’s ongoing growth is underpinned by blue-chip investors, Infracapital and Macquarie Asset Management, providing the financial platform for Last Mile to offer developers and ICPs innovative asset finance models and to invest in the long-term operation and management of multi-utility connections. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
How Innovation is Transforming Trash to Treasure Through Smart Waste Management
For decades, waste was seen as an endpoint — something to be burned or buried. Today, waste is considered an overlooked resource waiting to be unlocked, and a wave of innovation is making this transformation possible. New technologies are moving the U.S. toward a truly circular economy, where materials are kept in use for years beyond their typical “expiration dates.” The Driving Forces Behind the Waste Revolution Experts predict that global municipal solid waste generation will increase from 2.1 billion tons in 2023 to 3.8 billion tons by 2050. The alarming quantities are not going unnoticed. Modern consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious. Around 65% want to buy eco-friendly products, showing a clear market preference for sustainability. This high demand is putting pressure on brands to adopt greener practices, for everything from product design to packaging choices. Federal grants help drive the circular economy in America, like the $275 million for solid waste infrastructure for improvements in recycling and waste management. Another example is the RECYCLE act, which provides up to $15 million for waste management education and initiatives. The Technologies Turning Trash Into Resources America has a 32% recycling rate, and the goal is to reach 50% by 2030. Here are some of the innovations that can help the country hit that mark. 1. AI-Powered Sorting and Robotics Imagine a modern sorting facility where conveyor belts move waste under high-speed cameras. AI software identifies different materials — such as PET and HDPE plastics — in milliseconds and directs robotic arms or jets of air to separate them. This results in much higher purity in recycled materials, making them more desirable to manufacturers. It also helps sort items that are difficult for humans to separate quickly and safely. 2. IoT Sensors and Intelligent Route Optimization IoT sensors placed in public and commercial trash cans can monitor fill levels in real time. They can send a signal to a central software platform, which will automatically reroute the nearest collection vehicle and add the stop to its optimized route. This keeps bins from overflowing, reduces unnecessary collections of half-empty bins, and lowers fuel consumption and emissions. Route optimization can also ease urban traffic congestion. 3. Advanced Chemical Recycling Unlike shredding, melting and other mechanical recycling methods, chemical recycling breaks down complex plastics into their original molecules or feedstock. This output is identical to the kind derived from oil. That means it can be used to repeatedly create new, food-grade quality plastic products. 4. Data and Software for a Greener Footprint A waste management company can use software solutions to track how much waste is collected, where it goes and how much is recycled and sent to landfills. The associated carbon footprint of these activities can also be monitored. Accurate reporting capabilities can help organizations comply with environmental impact regulations and demonstrate sustainability improvements to stakeholders. 5. Turning Waste Into Watts Modern anaerobic digestion facilities can process organic waste, such as food scraps, by breaking it down in an oxygen-free environment. This produces biogas — which is burned to generate electricity — and a nutrient-rich digestate that can be used as agricultural fertilizer. Modern incinerators can burn residual waste that can’t be recycled to generate steam, which powers turbines that create electricity and heat for local homes and businesses. 6. Digital Waste Marketplaces Many online platforms now connect businesses producing a specific type of refuse, like wood offcuts and textiles, with others that can use that waste as raw material. This creates a B2B circular economy, turning disposal costs into revenue. For example, a furniture maker with a regular supply of wood cuts can list them on a marketplace. A local artist who needs small wood pieces for sculptures can purchase this waste, creating value for both parties. Responsible Disposal for Every Item A complete smart waste system empowers individuals and businesses to properly manage items that don’t belong in the main recycling stream. For example, improper disposal of chemicals containing heavy metals and other hazardous elements can lead to soil and water contamination. Consider automotive products, such as refrigerant canisters. To keep them out of landfills, check if the retailer has a take-back program or determine the disposal methods recommended by local waste management providers. A New Era for Waste Management Powerful new technologies are rising to meet the challenges of waste. Smart management is the thread connecting all aspects, from AI-driven industrial plants to the responsible choices of a single person. With each innovation, America takes a step closer to a future where the circular economy is the norm.
Lucky winners of Finning giveaway collect excavator prizes
Finning has revealed the two winners of its ‘Win Big’ competition, each receiving brand-new Cat® excavators to help power their projects forward. Finning UK & Ireland launched the free-to-enter competition, organised to mark Caterpillar’s 100th anniversary, with one winner in mind, however the high calibre of entries led to Finning naming two winners: the Colin Burt Reserve for Wildlife Conservation and Valley Veterans. Both winners were invited to Finning UK & Ireland headquarters in Cannock, Staffordshire to celebrate their win with the Finning team. During the day Finning provided training on mini excavators, as well as tutorial on how the new machine owners can get the very best from their new excavators with telematics. The Colin Burt Reserve, in Killin in the central Highlands of Scotland, opened in 2005 in memory of keen conservationist Colin Burt who died aged 38 following a motorcycle accident. The 50 acre site was a poor-quality piece of waste wet land and is now a diverse nature reserve open to all. The project has won a Cat 301.6 excavator to continue its development. Valley Veterans, a charity based in the Rhondda Valley, was founded more than 20 years ago as an informal support group for PTSD sufferers and is now a vibrant hub with more than 140 active participants. Its Equi-Grow project includes the development of a purpose-built equine and horticultural space for activities supporting the mental and physical health and wellbeing of veterans. It has won a Cat 301.5 excavator to help get groundwork underway. To mark Caterpillar’s centenary year in 2025, Finning hosted the giveaway on its website, asking participants: ‘How would winning a Cat machine or generator help you build something that lasts?’ Gary Megarrell, Managing Director at Finning UK and Ireland, said the high quality of the entries meant it was impossible to select just one winner. He said: “The 100th anniversary of Caterpillar provided the perfect opportunity to gift our winners with the equipment they need to take their projects forward. “The answers from the Colin Burt Reserve and Valley Veterans truly embodied the values we share at Finning around safety and inclusivity. Caterpillar’s centenary and Finning’s desire to have a positive impact within the community “We are delighted both organisations are now the owners of mini excavators, and that this will make a real, tangible difference to their projects and to their visitors. This prize-giving has been a fantastic way to mark what has been a very memorable year celebrating the Finning partnerships.” The winners were given the choice between a Cat 301.6 excavator or a Cat DE110E2 genset as their prize. They were also automatically enrolled in a set of monthly prize draws – with rewards up for grabs including a trip to Malaga. Ashley Pearson of the Colin Burt Reserve, said: “We encourage participation in practical conservation tasks and wildlife habitat improvements, and our work includes carrying out regular maintenance and projects to promote increased biodiversity. “Winning this Cat excavator means we can progress our development plans so that even more visitors can experience being in the outdoors.” Valley Veterans was last year honoured with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. It has been presented with the centenary celebration Cat machine that was on display at Finning’s headquarters in Cannock during the anniversary year. Nigel Locke, Secretary at Valley Veterans, said: “This recognition from Finning comes on the back of a remarkable year for us, and inspires us to keep working to make a difference to veterans and their families. “The Equi-Grow project will allow Valley Veterans to vastly increase capacity to train and mentor existing members as well as extending the offer to a far wider veteran and community cohort in the South Wales Valleys region. “Having the new excavator means we can focus on delivering the project and support more veterans to combat the challenges resulting from isolation and loneliness.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
First plans submitted for East Bank Urban Village in Hull
Plans have been submitted for phase one of East Bank Urban Village – one of Hull’s largest ever regeneration projects – which is set to breathe life back into the East Bank of the River Hull through the creation of a sustainable new neighbourhood. Hull City Council, working in collaboration with lead development partner ECF (the partnership between Homes England, L&G and Muse), has submitted detailed designs for phase one of East Bank. The hybrid application also includes outline plans for the wider neighbourhood which, once complete, will deliver around 850 new homes on the site opposite the Old Town. Once an important part of Hull’s maritime industry, use of this area has seen a significant decline since the mid-20th century. Today, the site is primarily occupied by surface parking and vacant brownfield land. Over the next 15 years, East Bank Urban Village will introduce a mix of affordable houses and Build-To-Rent (BTR) apartments alongside shops, restaurants, leisure and other neighbourhood uses. An interconnected network of streets, plazas, green spaces and a new riverside promenade will improve connectivity, creating active travel routes that encourage walking and cycling throughout the site. Phase one will establish the core of the new neighbourhood, delivering 37 townhouses and 78 apartments across two buildings. All of the homes will be affordable, helping to meet local demand and ensuring East Bank is inclusive and accessible to a wide range of people. Phase one will also include the landing for the Scale Lane bridge on the eastern bank of the River Hull and the connection to the existing Trinity Buoy Shed – a much-loved local heritage building – which will be brought back into use as part of the long-term vision for the neighbourhood. Later phases will deliver more than 700 Build-To-Rent (BTR) and affordable apartments across the wider neighbourhood, improving connections to nearby areas including the Fruit Market. In addition to the new homes, there are plans to revitalise the area around the Drypool Basin, as a contemporary community space. In September and October 2025, the council and ECF led a series of community conversations, where local people had the opportunity to offer constructive suggestions which fed directly into the masterplan. This included the need for more green community spaces, parking and traffic management, enhancing biodiversity and finding new uses for existing historical landmarks including the former Lock Keeper’s Cottage. Raife Gale, senior development manager at ECF said: “Local people have been supportive – and so insightful – in offering their feedback, and this has all fed into the final planning application we’ve submitted. “Our plan is to deliver a sustainable new neighbourhood where people want to live, work and spend time – and key to this is creating quality homes, attractive public spaces and new leisure and business opportunities. East Bank will kick-start a new chapter for this part of the city’s riverside, ensuring it continues to play a role for future generations. “The council has an ambitious programme of regeneration which is already helping transform the city centre, as seen with the recently completed redevelopment of the Museums Quarter and Old Town, and we are using our knowledge and expertise in delivering complex schemes across the UK to help unlock the next phase of the city’s development.” The project is supported by £9.8m in government-backed Levelling Up Partnership funding, underpinning enabling works and early infrastructure delivery. East Bank Urban Village will also make a significant contribution to the council’s ambition to deliver 2,500 new homes within Hull city centre as part of its Local Plan. It will also act as a catalyst site for Hull’s recently endorsed City Centre Vision. By using state-of-the-art materials and technologies, including sustainable drainage systems, throughout the neighbourhood, East Bank Urban Village will also follow the principles of Hull’s “Living With Water” project. Chris Jackson, director of regeneration and partnerships at Hull City Council, said: “It is pleasing that the council has been able to submit plans for phase one of East Bank Urban Village. “This is a significant regeneration project which will help to meet the council’s housing targets, revitalise a long-term brownfield site and also support both Hull’s Old Town and city centre economies. “We have already welcomed extensive public feedback on draft proposals for East Bank ahead of this planning submission and look forward to hearing their thoughts on the updated plans.” East Bank Urban Village has been selected as a national case study by the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) which is held annually in Leeds in May. The video case study, which is now live, captures how Hull City Council and ECF are working in partnership to accelerate delivery, attract investment and showcase Hull’s broader regeneration strategy to the national market. The project’s inclusion is expected to further boost investor confidence as East Bank moves toward delivery, if planning approval is achieved. For more information go to www.eastbank-hull.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals