Ask acquires final plot at Manchester Business Park

Ask acquires final plot at Manchester Business Park

Ask Real Estate (Ask) has acquired the final 7.8 acre plot at Manchester Business Park close to Manchester Airport, from ARC.  The Manchester-based developer plans to build 9 prime last mile logistics units on the site, delivering circa 114,000 sq ft of space. The high-quality units will range in size from 6,700 sq ft to 21,646 sq ft and will appeal to a range of businesses including those in hi-tech industries, aviation, logistics and warehousing. Situated in a prime South Manchester location with immediate access to the M56 and A555 the site will provide occupiers with excellent connectivity locally and regionally with global connections via Manchester Airport. The units will deliver the highest sustainability and smart credentials, will be BREEAM Excellent, EPC A and designed to be net zero in operation. The development of the final plot at Manchester Business Park will complete the Park. Commenting on the acquisition, which was funded by Ask using internal resources, Managing Director John Hughes said: “Manchester Business Park is in a highly prominent location, within Manchester Airport’s strategic employment site and the thriving North West ecosystem of technology, manufacturing, distribution and digital businesses. This is a prime location for developing high quality logistics and industrial facilities which will have exemplary sustainability credentials and superb connectivity through the airport and adjacent motorway networks.” The development sits at Junction 5 of the M56 alongside the £1bn MIX MANCHESTER development zone, for which a strategic regeneration framework has been approved to bring forward up to 2 million sq ft of advanced manufacturing space, R&D labs and office space as well as hotels, leisure facilities and public areas. John Hughes continues: “The South Manchester market is under supplied, particularly in the small to mid-sized sector of the logistics market. These new facilities will deliver much-needed space to complement the tech and R&D spaces being developed at MIX MANCHESTER.” Ask will undertake a public consultation on its plans this autumn and aims to submit a planning application for the proposed development in Q4, with an aim to start on site next year and deliver by summer 2027. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Students, hospital patients among those to see modernised spaces thanks to Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme

Students, hospital patients among those to see modernised spaces thanks to Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme

Energy efficiency upgrades to create better buildings for local people and help put UK on track for 2050 net zero targets Schools, hospitals, libraries, leisure centres and town halls across England are among the latest public buildings set to benefit from a multi-million-pound investment to reduce energy use, cut carbon emissions and modernise essential community spaces. The £815 million of funding, delivered through Phase 4 of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme, enables public sector organisations to install a range of energy efficiency and low-carbon technologies including heat pumps, solar panels, insulation and low-energy lighting. This includes 244 projects. The scheme is delivered by Salix on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. The Department has published a full list of grant recipients available on www.gov.uk. The building improvements will reduce reliance on fossil fuels, lower energy bills, and contribute to the UK’s ambitious goal of reaching net zero by 2050. The Phase 4 projects are expected to save direct carbon emissions of around 164,000 tonnes per year – the equivalent to taking roughly 330,000 average diesel cars off the road. Phase 4 is delivered by Salix with project work running until 2028 when projects complete. Salix works closely with each public sector organisation to ensure projects are successfully delivered. The team at Salix offer one-to-one support through relationship managers as well as a whole host of tools through our website and regular webinars and workshops. Salix chief executive Kevin Holland said: “From school classrooms to hospital wards and libraries to swimming pools, this funding is making a real difference for our communities. “People who use these buildings – and that’s all of us – can enjoy warmer, more comfortable spaces that are easier and more efficient to heat and to power. These buildings are being future-proofed for generations to come.” Alongside the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Salix supports the NHS, schools, council, universities and other organisations to meet net zero ambitions. Since the launch of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme in 2020, nearly 1,500 projects have been funded to decarbonise thousands of buildings. Salix work alongside organisations supporting the installation of solar panel and heat pump projects and other energy efficiency measures. This effort rejuvenates public buildings and raises climate action awareness. New projects receiving funding in Phase 4 include: Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, North EastReceived £5,939,357 to decarbonise Hexham General Hospital. Air and water source heat pumps will replace existing systems, alongside new thermal stores, heat meters, and a cooling system. Shropshire Council, West MidlandsAwarded £2,454,400 to decarbonise SpArC Leisure Centre in Bishop’s Castle. Measures include an air source heat pump, pipework upgrades, and a new building energy management system. Merseyside Police, North WestGranted £758,000 to decarbonise Lea Green Training Centre in St Helens. Upgrades include air source heat pumps, solar panels, LED lighting, roof insulation, and a new energy management system. Diverse Academies Trust, East MidlandsAwarded £2,025,465 for Tuxford Academy in Nottinghamshire. An old boiler will be replaced with an air source heat pump. Additional improvements include LED lighting, ventilation, and a cooling system. Breckenbrough School Limited, Yorkshire and the HumberReceived £688,500 to decarbonise Breckenbrough School in North Yorkshire. The project includes an air source heat pump, pipework improvements, roof insulation, and an energy management system. London Borough of Hackney, Greater LondonGranted £6,594,250 to decarbonise nine schools. All will receive air source heat pumps, thermal stores, and building energy management systems to boost efficiency. Chesterfield Borough Council, East MidlandsAwarded £2,394,413 to decarbonise Staveley Healthy Living Centre. Improvements include air source heat pumps, ventilation systems, and a new energy management system. Liverpool Hope University, North WestReceived £310,000 to decarbonise multiple campus buildings. Upgrades include air source heat pumps, electric heaters, loft insulation, and improved glazing. Alsager Town Council, North WestGranted £141,500 to decarbonise Alsager Civic Hall in Cheshire. The project includes an air source heat pump, solar panels, roof insulation, LED lighting, and a building energy management system. Wiltshire Council, South WestAwarded £939,594 to decarbonise Bourne Hill council offices in Salisbury and Devizes Leisure Centre. Both sites will receive air and water source heat pumps. For a full list of grant recipients, visit www.gov.uk Kevin added: “Climate change is on our doorstep, and we have no time to stand still. “Together we can achieve positive results on climate. Addressing the energy efficiency of our public buildings moves us in the right direction. “The Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme breathes new life into these buildings, that might otherwise have been left to deteriorate. Today’s funding creates better facilities for communities and a healthier future for us all.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Cable Services Group Announces South East Expansion

Cable Services Group Announces South East Expansion

Cable Services Group, the UK’s leading specialist distributor of cable and cable accessories, has strengthened its presence in London and the South East with the opening of a new distribution facility in Guildford. This latest strategic investment complements the group’s existing site in Swindon and reinforces its commitment to delivering a highly responsive service in the region. The new facility includes an 8,000-square-foot warehouse, which will significantly increase stockholding capacity and provide customers with greater product availability and faster response times. London and the South East continue to see strong demand for electrical supplies, driven by infrastructure upgrades and industrial projects. This investment positions Cable Services Group as a responsive, reliable and adaptable supplier. Having a local facility reduces lead times for urgent orders, whether time-sensitive projects or emergency repairs, and enables shorter delivery routes, supporting both sustainability and efficiency for developers and contractors. Commenting on the expansion, Ian Hill, Operations Manager for Cable Services South, said: “This investment allows us to work even more closely with our customers in London and the South East. We have developed tailored stock profiles to meet their specific needs, and our commitment to best-in-class customer service remains unwavering. By bringing our operations closer to our customers, we can deliver even more reliable, responsive and flexible support.” Cable Services Group is renowned for its commitment to high-quality products backed by agile, responsive service. Operating six branches across the UK, the group serves a wide range of commercial and industrial organisations across markets such as oil, gas, and petrochemicals; power generation, transmission, and renewables; utilities; rail; and EV charging. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Village Bathrooms: Why Wetrooms Are Gaining the Advantage

Village Bathrooms: Why Wetrooms Are Gaining the Advantage

This content is a sponsored publication provided by Village Bathrooms, leading bathroom specialists providing luxury installations to customers in Sussex. The bathroom is a personal retreat for calm and relaxation, and this shift in perspective has fundamentally changed how property owners and developers approach bathroom design. One of the leading bathroom trends of the past year is the increase in the installation of wet rooms. What was once bland and uninspiring has become the perfect canvas for unique design. Here, Village Bathrooms explain why we should reconsider the wetroom when it comes to bathroom redesign. The aesthetic edge: Modern appeal and perceived luxury The visual impact of a well-designed wetroom can’t be understated. Where these spaces really excel is in their sleek, seamless design that epitomises modern luxury living. The minimalist aesthetic, characterised by clean lines and uncluttered surfaces, appeals to homeowners who appreciate simplicity. The absence of traditional shower trays and bulky enclosures creates an immediate sense of openness for spacious-feeling retreats. This open-plan approach naturally cultivates a spa-like ambiance that buyers associate with high-end hotels and luxury accommodations. This association becomes even stronger when the room incorporates premium finishes like large format tiles, rainfall shower systems, and high-quality fixtures that reinforce the luxury look. From a market perspective, modern wetrooms signal that a property has been recently renovated and thoughtfully updated with contemporary amenities. This is particularly valuable in competitive markets where buyers are actively seeking move-in-ready homes that won’t require immediate investment in outdated bathrooms. The appeal of a spacious wetroom helps properties stand out in listings and creates a more memorable impression during viewings. It can even become a key differentiating factor that influences purchase decisions. Optimising space and layout One of the most compelling advantages of installing a wetroom over a traditional bathroom is in the ability to create an illusion of space through intelligent design. When we eliminate physical barriers like shower doors and raised shower trays, we allow the eye to travel uninterrupted across the entire floor area. This makes even compact modern bathrooms feel significantly larger than their actual square footage suggests—particularly valuable in urban properties where space is at a premium and every square foot carries substantial financial value. The flexible design potential makes them ideal solutions for properties with challenging layouts too. Unlike traditional bathrooms that require specific configurations to accommodate separate shower enclosures, wetrooms can be adapted to work with awkward room shapes, sloped ceilings, or irregular dimensions without compromising on usability. Developers working with converted properties or unusual architectural features often find wetrooms to be the most elegant solutions that would be impossible with conventional bathroom layouts. Enhancing accessibility and future-proofing The barrier-free access that wetrooms provide is more than just a convenience. It’s a thoughtful approach to inclusive design that appeals to a broader demographic, should you look to sell the property in the future. The elimination of steps, levels, and barriers makes these spaces naturally more accessible to users of all ages and mobility levels. The universal appeal of an accessible space is particularly valuable for developers targeting multi-generational households or buyers who prioritise ageing in place when making a property decision. Forward-thinking investors and developers recognise the value of wetrooms when it comes to future-proofing against changing needs. As populations age and awareness of inclusive design grows, properties equipped with accessible features maintain stronger market appeal and resist obsolescence. Buyers increasingly view accessibility features as more than just a specialised requirement, looking to sensible design choices that enhance comfort and usability for everyone. The growing popularity of wetrooms in interior design reflects a shift toward spaces that combine visual impact, practical functionality, and long-term value. For developers and investors, this alternative to the classic bathroom suite is an opportunity to differentiate properties in competitive markets while appealing to increasingly sophisticated buyer expectations. https://villagebathroomstudio.co.uk/contact/

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Everyday Habits That Could Be Attracting Pests Indoors

Everyday Habits That Could Be Attracting Pests Indoors

The comfort and security of our homes are treasured by everyone. But, unfortunately, we often unknowingly invite unwanted guests, like pests, into our living spaces. We engage in everyday habits that may be creating conducive environments for these jumping, flying, and crawling creatures. Acknowledging and altering these everyday habits could help keep your home pest-free. Prevention First: Making Your Home Less Inviting to Pests The first step to keeping pests at bay is creating a home that’s simply not appealing to them. Simple daily habits, like wiping down counters, storing food in sealed containers, and taking out the trash regularly, can go a long way in discouraging unwelcome visitors. Of course, sometimes pests still find their way in, and that’s when it’s reassuring to know you can easily hire exterminators who have the tools and expertise to tackle the problem safely and effectively. By combining preventative practices with professional help when needed, homeowners can save time, money, and a lot of unnecessary stress – and enjoy a truly pest-free home. Leaving Food Out One of the main reasons pests venture into our homes is in search of food. Leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight, open food containers, or crumbs on your kitchen countertops are all invitations for pests such as cockroaches, ants, and rodents. To dissuade them, it’s essential to maintain a clean kitchen by washing dishes promptly, wiping down surfaces, and properly storing food. Poor Garbage Management Another everyday habit that could attract pests is improper garbage disposal. When garbage bins overflow or bags are not properly sealed, it creates an open buffet for pests. The smell of garbage alone can attract vermin from afar. Make a habit of regularly emptying your trash cans and using sturdy bags that can be closed tightly. Ignoring Clutter A cluttered home also offers a paradise for pests, providing them with numerous hiding and breeding places. Regularly tidying up can go a long way in preventing pests. This includes sorting through mail and papers promptly, maintaining storage areas, and keeping your home free from excessive clutter. Skipping Regular Home Maintenance Certain household defects, such as rotted wood, cracked foundations, or leaky pipes, can create homes for pests. Ignoring regular home maintenance tasks may lead to conditions that are perfect for an infestation. You want to ensure that all your home’s entry points are sealed and that there is no standing water inside your house. Indoor Plant Care Yes, the same indoor plants that breathe life into your home decor can also be a source of a pest problem. Overwatering plants can attract insects that thrive on damp soil. To prevent this, make sure your plants are not overwatered and that you regularly check them for signs of pests. Pet Care Habits Your furry friends can sometimes carry pests into the house. It’s therefore essential to keep up with your pets’ grooming practices and to ensure the areas where they sleep and eat are kept clean. Keeping Outdoor Lights On While having outdoor lights on for security purposes is important, it can attract insects. A solution would be to use warm-colored lights, as they have been found to attract fewer pests compared to bright white or fluorescent lights. In conclusion, while these daily habits can attract pests, the opposite is also true: altering these habits can go a long way in ensuring your home stays pest-free. Regular tidiness, routine maintenance, and specific changes in behavior can create an environment inhospitable to pests. So, before reaching the point of needing to hire exterminators, consider how adjusting these everyday activities could keep those pesky insects and rodents at bay. Remember, prevention is always better than a cure. And a pest-free home is a happy home.

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Willmott Dixon to deliver £43m Cascades Leisure Centre in Gravesend

Willmott Dixon to deliver £43m Cascades Leisure Centre in Gravesend

Plans for a major new leisure facility in Gravesend are moving forward, with Willmott Dixon appointed to lead the pre-construction phase of the £43m Cascades Leisure Centre. Gravesham Borough Council has awarded the contractor a direct appointment through the Pagabo framework, tasking Willmott Dixon with developing the technical design and specifications in collaboration with architect Space & Place and engineering consultant AtkinsRealis. The new Cascades Leisure Centre will replace the borough’s ageing facility of the same name. Designed to provide a wide range of modern amenities, it will feature a 25-metre pool, a 17-metre learner pool, an aqua play and water flume zone, and a spectator viewing gallery. Other facilities will include a six-court sports hall with tiered seating, a multi-level soft play area, party and community rooms, and a café, all located at ground level to maximise accessibility. The £43m scheme is being part-funded with £17m from the government’s levelling up fund allocation to Gravesham Borough Council. It follows Willmott Dixon’s successful delivery of the Cozenton Park Sports Centre in nearby Rainham for Medway Council, which opened last year. During the pre-construction phase, which runs until August 2026, Willmott Dixon will carry out detailed site surveys, logistics planning, and set-up works. The contractor will also oversee the asbestos survey of Regan’s Bar ahead of its demolition later this year, while ensuring the existing Cascades Leisure Centre continues to operate throughout the construction period. The pre-construction agreement is expected to position Willmott Dixon for the main build contract, due to be confirmed in August 2026. Subject to final approvals, construction is scheduled to start shortly afterwards and complete by December 2028. Once complete, the new Cascades Leisure Centre will provide the local community with a high-quality, sustainable and inclusive destination for sport, recreation and wellbeing, reinforcing Gravesend’s investment in its leisure infrastructure for the future. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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