McLaren Construction Midlands and North completes major Nottingham student accommodation scheme

McLaren Construction Midlands and North completes major Nottingham student accommodation scheme

McLaren Construction Midlands and North has reached practical completion on a landmark 323-bedroom student accommodation scheme in the heart of Nottingham. Delivered on behalf of McLaren Property, the £26 million scheme now known as Fabric, which is located at 77 Talbot Street, has transformed the site of a former office block into high-specification student living, ready for occupation ahead of the 2025/26 academic year. Designed by Leonard Design Architects, the nine-storey building offers a mix of en-suite cluster bedrooms and premium studios, alongside amenities including a gym, yoga studio, cinema room and social study spaces. The top floor features large-format studios with panoramic views across the city. Internally, the accommodation includes high-quality finishes, upgraded soft furnishings, and enhanced design details – reflecting evolving expectations for modern student living. With sustainability embedded throughout, the development has achieved BREEAM Excellent and incorporates traditional foundations into the city’s sandstone bedrock, alongside specialist works which have included cave probing to meet complex planning conditions. Around 40% of the workforce has been sourced locally, supporting regional employment and skills. McLaren has worked closely with both the University of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent University, offering student site visits and work experience placements to provide practical learning opportunities in areas such as live construction, health and safety, and technical design. Extensive community engagement has also played a central role in the delivery of the project, with the site team maintaining regular contact with neighbouring businesses and supporting nearby Huntingdon Academy with improvements to outdoor facilities. Charitable initiatives have included fundraising for the Lighthouse Club and Save the Children, as well as a mental health awareness session led by the Strong Men charity. Luke Arnold, regional director at McLaren Construction Midlands & North, said: “Talbot Street now known as Fabric, has been a flagship project for our Midlands and North business – combining sustainable construction methods, collaborative delivery, and a strong commitment to community engagement. We are proud to bring the scheme to fruition, handing over in time for students in the September intake.” Ed Court, development director at McLaren Property, said: “Fabric is a great example of our purpose-built student accommodation and we’re delighted to see Talbot Street completed to such a high standard. Working closely with McLaren Construction, we’ve delivered a scheme that reflects the evolving expectations of students – offering high-quality amenities, great design, and a strong focus on sustainability.” Fabric adds to McLaren Property’s growing portfolio of residential and student accommodation schemes and represents a major investment in Nottingham’s built environment and student infrastructure. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Belstaff arrives at Victoria Leeds

Belstaff arrives at Victoria Leeds

On September 6th, Belstaff opened its first ever full price store in Leeds. Located on Vicar Lane in Victoria Leeds in the historic Victoria Quarter, the store will house all of the brand’s latest collections, including motorcycle clothing and the new Autumn/Winter 2025 collection. The design of the store is a continuation of the ‘Future Garage’ concept unveiled at the London flagship in 2024 – a contemporary nod to the brand’s motorcycle heritage. This is an exciting new opening for Belstaff, which has a historic connection to the North of England – its founders Eli Belovich and Harry Grosberg first conceived the idea for the brand in nearby Manchester. As Belstaff’s third full-price store in England, it’s perfectly placed to better service its loyal customers in the region, while welcoming new ones. Full address: Unit 37, Victoria Quarter, 67 Vicar Lane, Leeds LS1 6BH Rachel Bradburn, Head of Leasing at Redical, commented “As Victoria Leeds’ line-up continues to grow, so does our status as the region’s go-to location for retailers. Belstaff is a premium addition to our flourishing destination, extending our menswear offer and delivering a distinct point of difference we know our loyal consumer base will benefit from. This city debut is one of many at Victoria Leeds, and we look forward to not only what Belstaff’s opening will bring, but also what lies ahead as we gear up for even more landmark Leeds debuts.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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NHBC supports ARL to deliver webinar focusing on unlocking brownfield sites

NHBC supports ARL to deliver webinar focusing on unlocking brownfield sites

NHBC is supporting the Association for Rental Living (ARL) to deliver a webinar examining the processes and challenges associated with unlocking brownfield sites for mixed tenure development. Those attending the webinar will join experts from NHBC and the rental living sector to explore how complex sites are being transformed into viable, successful Build to Rent (BTR) developments. Aimed at developers, investors, operators and consultants in BTR, this webinar, running on 23rd September 2025, will guide attendees through the journey from pre-acquisition assessment to post-acquisition viability, highlighting critical considerations and pitfalls to avoid. Insights will include: Experts from Placefirst and Urban&Civic will join speakers from NHBC’s Land Quality Service and BTR teams as part of a varied agenda which will cover the political landscape, sector collaboration and the hurdles the industry faces. Real life case studies will be used to illustrate the ways land can be unlocked and attendees will have the chance to pitch questions to the webinar’s presenters. This webinar will also explain NHBC’s role in the sector beyond warranty, demonstrating its expertise in technical services, site viability and risk mitigation. Suitable for anyone in the sector navigating constrained sites, repurposing opportunities or seeking practical guidance on land viability and delivery, this webinar has limited places available and those interested in joining should register now. Niki Kyriacou, Sector Lead for BTR at NHBC commented, “We’re pleased to support ARL in delivering this specialist webinar for those working in BTR looking to develop constrained or challenging sites. BTR is an increasingly important part of the residential mix – as the sector grows many of us recognise we need to unlock more brownfield sites to help meet demand. These sites offer a wealth of opportunity for developers and investors, and NHBC is committed to helping deliver quality homes at pace across BTR and all tenures.” NHBC works in partnership with developers and investors to bring forward challenging or complex sites that otherwise might have been considered unviable. Working hard to provide a pathway to warranty, saving time and money, NHBC provides confidence throughout the build journey. To register your place on the Unlocking brownfield sites for mixed tenure development webinar visit: https://thearl.org.uk/events/unlocking-brownfield-sites-for-mixed-tenure-development/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Finning celebrates 100 years of Caterpillar® excellence at PlantWorx 2025

Finning celebrates 100 years of Caterpillar® excellence at PlantWorx 2025

Cutting-edge innovation and historic achievements will be celebrated by Caterpillar® dealer Finning as it marks the iconic brand’s centenary year at flagship machinery exhibition PlantWorx. An outdoor cinema will form the centrepiece of the Finning UK & Ireland stand, showcasing the story of construction equipment manufacturer Caterpillar and its future developments. There will also be an impressive array of Cat machines on display along with the chance to win an excavator or genset as part of Finning’s year-long milestone celebration. PlantWorx is the largest working construction equipment show, bringing industry experts together to champion the latest machinery, systems and technology. Running from September 23 to 25 at Newark Showground, Finning will use the opportunity to mark a century of success for Caterpillar, and its own 92-year partnership with the brand. Tim Ballard, General Manager Retail and Marketing at Finning UK & Ireland, said: “While acknowledging 100 years of advances in the field of construction equipment, power and technology, we want to embrace the future with Caterpillar too. “At the heart of our stand will be the customer area, viewing platform and Finning cinema where visitors can watch a commemorative film produced as part of the Caterpillar Next 100 Years campaign. It will take viewers back to Caterpillar’s origins, tracking its role in major global infrastructure projects like Palm Island in Dubai and the Trans-Amazonian Highway, before looking ahead to the future of autonomous sites, remote control, and advanced technology.” The star of the show will be the Cat 444 Centennial Backhoe Loader. The special edition machine, painted Centennial Grey to reflect the original Caterpillar branding, is one of only 10 limited edition models produced globally. It has been on display outside of Finning’s Staffordshire HQ, commemorating their shared history over the decades as well as 40 years of backhoe loader production in Leicester. The strong line-up of equipment on display also includes the Cat 285 compact track loader (CTL). The CTL is new to the UK, offering 50 per cent more torque than the Cat 299D3 model, greater lift height and a roomier cab. A rebuilt Cat D6 Dozer will give visitors the chance to explore the Finning workshop expertise as well as its engineering, parts, service and maintenance offer, and a Cat M315 Wheeled Excavator with Tilt Rotator will shine a light on Caterpillar’s distinct ability to deliver high performance alongside ease of use. In addition, a Cat Generator and Cat C3.6 industrial diesel engine will display just some of the power range capabilities on offer from Caterpillar. The Finning ‘Win Big’ giveaway is aimed at giving more people the chance to benefit from the Finning combination of technology and expertise. Visitors to PlantWorx can enter the first-of-its kind giveaway for free at the show or via the Finning website where, to be in with a chance of winning a 301.6 Mini Excavator or DE110E2 generator, participants must answer the following question: ‘How would winning a Cat machine or generator help you build something that lasts?’ Tim said: “We are encouraging customers old and new to enter the competition, as well as those that have always admired Caterpillar equipment from afar, but have not had the chance to own one yet. “Throughout the last century, Caterpillar has had a significant impact on UK industry, establishing major manufacturing facilities, employing thousands, and supplying machines to support multiple sectors including construction, mining and power generation. “At Finning we are looking ahead to the next century of Caterpillar and urging those from all backgrounds and applications to enter the competition and become part of our legacy and reputation for industrial excellence.” Entrants have untilDecember 31, 2025 to enter. In addition to being entered into the Win Big prize draw, all participants will be automatically included in monthly prize draws for a chance to win branded merchandise, parts vouchers, and even an exclusive trip to Malaga. Visit http://www.finning.com/winbig to enter for free and share how winning a Cat machine or generator would help you build something that lasts. Highlighting its impact on the UK construction equipment industry, Finning are proud to be the headline sponsor of The PlantWorx Innovation Awards Dinner, which takes place on 23rd September and celebrates the brightest, and boldest minds in construction innovation. Find out more here: https://plantworx.co.uk/awards Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Affordable HVAC Systems for Rental Properties

Affordable HVAC Systems for Rental Properties

Every rental property needs a high-performance heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system to keep tenants cool and comfortable. Choosing a system that balances cutting-edge technology with affordability is key to making a sound investment that lowers monthly utilities and prevents complaints.  The question is where to find the most cost-effective options for rental dwellings. Whether you are equipping a single-family unit or a multifamily complex, these brands have the right system for optimal well-being. Ingrams Water & Air Equipment (IWAE) delivers a wide range of complete HVAC systems, components and accessories at wholesale prices. As a supplier, it provides units from reputable brands like Goodman and MrCool, each supported by manufacturer and IWAE warranties.  The team is an excellent resource for helping customers decide on an appropriate product that fits their property and budget. The company prides itself on customer satisfaction and helping you save money.   Ordering is easy online with secure checkout. IWAE aims to ship products within 24 to 36 hours. You can also return or replace faulty purchases within 30 days for a full refund, provided you pay a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs when sending back unwanted items. In addition to an array of free resources — including how-to manuals, buying guides, and other articles and videos — IWAE offers complimentary technical support throughout your product’s lifetime. You can contact the support team by phone for setup instructions, troubleshooting or other guidance. Key Features 2. AC Direct AC Direct offers a 125% low price guarantee and free shipping on HVAC unit purchases over $1,500. It carries brands like Daikin, Goodman, Honeywell, Aprilaire and Nest. While some suppliers provide additional services like sizing and installation, AC Direct focuses more on discounted prices — you will need to contact a local contractor to assist with the rest.  This online wholesaler ships throughout the United States, except Alaska and Hawaii. You can expect delivery within five to 10 business days, excluding holidays and weekends. Items eligible for returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee, and you are also responsible for insured freight costs. All items sold by AC Direct come with a manufacturer’s warranty, which you can read about under each product listing or look for on the individual manufacturer’s website. To ensure coverage, you must register your equipment as soon as a contractor installs it, sending proof of installation to AC Direct within 45 days.  Key Features 3. Amana  Amana has created quality HVAC products since 1934. It manufactures and tests its products in its 4.2-million-square-foot facility in Texas to guarantee they exceed customer expectations. Through its website, you can easily search for expert dealers who have undergone comprehensive training on Amana equipment. Your brand dealer can service your HVAC equipment based on the product, your regional codes and climate needs. Once you register your purchase, your system could be eligible for a 10-year unit replacement limited warranty, a 99-year heat exchanger limited warranty and a 10-year parts limited warranty. You can also opt for the extended warranty policy through Asure.  No one knows Amana products better than its in-house specialists. If you have questions about its inventory, you can contact a representative by completing the online form or calling the primary office.  Key Features 4. YORK YORK is a renowned brand for heating and cooling systems for residential and commercial properties. In addition to its quality products, YORK’s life cycle services include 24-hour equipment repairs and proactive maintenance. Opt for a tiered service plan that fits your budget, including regular service schedules, routine diagnostics and complete retrofits to maintain various components. Over 3,000 YORK dealers in the U.S. are trained on its equipment. This allows it to provide superior service and support for your rental property’s HVAC system. On its website, you can search for a Certified Comfort Expert near you.  Many YORK products are eligible for energy efficiency rebates, helping you save money and improve your building’s sustainability. All YORK products also come with standard warranties and extended coverage options for specific equipment when you register your system within 90 days of purchase.  Key Features 5. Lennox Lennox is a popular commercial and residential HVAC brand known for its cutting-edge climate solutions. Enter your ZIP code to search for a dealer. Independent partners maintain North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification and have completed 40 hours of factory training. Its award-winning products come with SilentComfort technology for quieter operation and two-stage cooling that is more even and longer-running.To match superior engineering efficiency with affordable pricing, Lennox distributors typically offer rebates and financing options to help lower costs.  Landlords of multiple multifamily properties can use the manufacturer’s National Account Services program for preventive maintenance, repairs and replacements. All products come with a basic five-year warranty. However, you can also choose the extended warranty for another five years of coverage. Key Features 6. Carrier Carrier has raised the bar in HVAC innovations by improving indoor comfort with climate solutions and building automation. Authorized dealers are experts in local weather patterns and brand inventory, helping you decide the best products for your property. Its online system recommendation tool suggests several options that would work best for you.  With Carrier, you can benefit from more balanced humidity and moisture management. The Ideal Humidity System technology removes up to 400% more air moisture than similar systems. Its product designs include compressor sound blankets and rubber compressor isolation grommets for 50% quieter operation. This manufacturer tests each product rigorously under extreme conditions to ensure long-lasting performance and durability, including salt spray, high humidity, and significantly high and low temperatures. Carrier offers a 10-year parts replacement warranty on registered products to further guarantee their quality.  Key Features 7. American Standard  American Standard has an extensive inventory of heating and cooling equipment, ductless systems and packaged systems to ensure optimal air quality and comfort at your rental property. This brand stands out for installing over 5 million units and rigorously testing products at its Systems Extreme Environmental Testing laboratory. Search

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Momentum at the Mersey: Peel Waters files plans for Mea Park West

Momentum at the Mersey: Peel Waters files plans for Mea Park West

Peel Waters has submitted three planning applications to Wirral Council for the next phase of its Wirral Waters regeneration, setting up a fresh wave of employment space at Mea Park West. The largely vacant brownfield site, on the corner of Wallasey Bridge Road and Beaufort Road, is earmarked for advanced manufacturing, logistics and innovation uses, and sits within the Wirral Waters Freeport area. The proposals cover enabling infrastructure across four plots: site remediation to address historic dockside conditions, three new access roads to improve circulation, an on-site energy sub-station to shore up power capacity, and sustainable urban drainage systems to manage runoff and build climate resilience. Alongside this groundwork, Peel Waters is seeking permission to deliver a 45,000 sq ft manufacturing and logistics unit on a speculative basis, backed by £16m of investment. In total, the four plots at Mea Park West are planned to yield around 171,400 sq ft of new employment floorspace. This will sit alongside the conversion of the 42,000 sq ft Mobil building into a factory for building components and prefabricated elements, strengthening regional supply chains and supporting modern methods of construction. The mix of new-build and adaptive reuse reflects a pragmatic approach to regeneration: bring redundant assets back into productive use while offering modern, flexible space for incoming occupiers. Freeport status adds to the site’s appeal, with potential tax incentives and customs reliefs for eligible businesses. That package could prove decisive for manufacturers with high upfront capex or logistics operators planning significant fit-out, particularly where speed to market matters. A speculatively built first unit is intended to capture that demand and signal confidence in the location. Richard Mawdsley, director of development at Wirral Waters, said: “This planning application represents an important step forward in the delivery of Mea Park West – a key employment hub within Wirral Waters. By creating the infrastructure and high-quality space for a wide range of modern manufacturing and logistics businesses, we can attract new investment, support local supply chains, and deliver hundreds of new jobs for the immediate area. It’s another strong signal that Wirral Waters is gathering real momentum.” If approved, the enabling works would unlock phased delivery across the plots, moving Mea Park West from concept to construction and accelerating the wider Wirral Waters vision. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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