Pagabo names suppliers for largest infrastructure procurement offering to date
SUPPLIERS have been announced by leading digital procurement specialist Pagabo for the £4.29bn National Framework for Civil Engineering, Infrastructure and Enabling Works 2026, its largest infrastructure procurement offering to date. Among the 111 suppliers’ appointed to new framework across 13 lots are industry-leading names such as Balfour Beatty, Costain, GRAHAM, Kier, M Group, Rhodar and VolkerFitzpatrick. The new framework will run for a term of four years, with the framework agreement available for use by sectors including central and local government, NHS, blue light, housing and education. Compliant with both the Procurement Act 2023 and Procurement Regulations 2024, the framework has been created to connect public sector bodies and private organisations with appointed contractors that will collaboratively deliver quality service and value for money outcomes. The new offering will combine the scopes of the National Framework for Civils and Infrastructure and the National Framework for Demolition and Land Preparation, both of which supported Pagabo in establishing its presence in the infrastructure sector and helping public sector organisations with procuring transformational schemes. David Llewellyn, construction and infrastructure director at Pagabo, said: “This new framework offers significant procurement opportunity for both the appointed suppliers and the public sector organisations it will support. From civil engineering, infrastructure, enabling works and beyond, the scope is extensive and is evidenced by the interest we’ve had since the invitation to tender earlier this year. “As with all of the frameworks we manage, compliance, transparency and impact play vital roles within its makeup, and it is a vital procurement offering for UK infrastructure. Our longstanding commitment to SME inclusion serves to provide avenues for clients to access suppliers of all sizes across the country, increasing access to the best fit for their projects, enabling competition, and prompting good economic growth. “Bolstered by our digital-first approach, the 111 suppliers appointed have the opportunity to grow work pipelines while also ensuring effective social value for communities across a range of project possibilities. This could include new roads and rail routes through to energy supply transformation and brownfield regeneration.” This framework is one instalment in a series being brought to market by Pagabo and YPO in 2026, following the formation of a 10-year strategic delivery partnership that will see resources, reputation and expertise combined. YPO is the centralised procurement authority for the framework, while Pagabo is the framework manager responsible for design, delivery and ongoing management. Pagabo’s central platform Pagabo+ will be available to suppliers as part of the procurement specialists digital-first, end-to-end delivery model. The single environment will play host to information on and management of new opportunities, call-off activity, performance monitoring and reporting, as well as compliance assurance. Appointed suppliers will also have access to Pagabo Group’s other digital software offerings, including contract management platform Sypro, supporting with enhancing the full lifecycle of procurement and project delivery. To learn more about Pagabo, visit www.pagabo.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Valleys to Coast Group appoints James O’Connor as new Executive Director of Finance and Transformation to drive the next chapter of growth
Valleys to Coast Group announces the appointment of James O’Connor as its new Executive Director of Finance and Transformation. James’s appointment comes at an important moment for the group as it launches its new Corporate Plan for 2026–2031 and enters an exciting period of growth. James joins from Codi Group, where he served as Director of Corporate Finance and Sustainability, bringing a wealth of leadership experience and expertise in strategic change, financial governance, and organisational improvement. In his new role, James will oversee the group’s financial strategy and lead a transformation agenda. He will focus on building financial strength, modernising systems, and ensuring resources are used effectively to enable reinvestment into Valleys to Coast’s homes and communities. His arrival aligns with the launch of the group’s Corporate Plan 2026–2031, which sets out an ambitious strategy to move from traditional ways of working to progressive, data-driven practices. By expanding its reach across South Wales and launching a new development subsidiary, Sylfaen, Valleys to Coast Group is strengthening its financial foundation to deliver more high-quality, safe, warm, and dry homes. Joanne Oak, Group Chief Executive, said:”We are thrilled to welcome James to our team. We are entering a transformative chapter as we roll out our new Corporate Plan. James brings experience, energy, and fresh thinking that will help us build our financial strength. Most importantly, he shares our wholehearted commitment to our people and to making a lasting, positive difference in the communities we serve.” James O’Connor said:”I am delighted to be joining Valleys to Coast Group at such an exciting time. Their ambition has a clear, heartfelt commitment to making a positive difference in people’s lives and communities. I look forward to working alongside the team to build on their strong foundations, drive innovation, and help guide the organisation through its next chapter of growth and service excellence.” As Valleys to Coast Group prepares to move its new office to Wyndham House in the heart of Bridgend town centre, James’s leadership will be central to guiding the team through this period of growth and positive change. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Gateway 2 Approval Unlocks £87m Abbey Row Residential Scheme in Liverpool
Construction is set to begin on a long-awaited Liverpool residential development after Bentry Capital secured Gateway 2 approval for the first phase of its £87 million Abbey Row scheme. The approval clears the way for Bentry Capital’s in-house contractor, Mellior Construction, to begin principal construction works on the 241-home first phase next month. The site has already been cleared and initial subcontract packages have been secured, enabling the project team to move directly into the main construction programme following the regulatory milestone. Formerly known as Islington Quarter, the development was originally brought forward for planning in 2018 but subsequently stalled. Bentry Capital has since reassessed the proposals and progressed the project through the current building safety regulatory framework. The wider Abbey Row development will ultimately deliver 365 apartments across three architecturally distinctive buildings, transforming a prominent site at the gateway to Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter. Phase one will provide 241 new homes, with Block C scheduled to reach completion in 2028 and Block A following in 2029. Securing Gateway 2 represents a particularly important milestone for the project. Under the strengthened building safety regime, higher-risk residential developments must receive approval from the Building Safety Regulator before relevant building work can commence, placing greater emphasis on demonstrating compliance before construction begins. Steven Hughes, Operations Lead at Mellior Construction, said: “Securing Gateway 2 approval represents the culmination of a detailed and collaborative design process and allows us to move into the principal construction phase with the building-safety requirements embedded throughout our delivery strategy.” The development is also entering construction with significant sales momentum, with more than 70% of homes within the first phase already pre-sold. David Ronson, National Sales and Marketing Director at Bentry Capital, said the developer had acquired the site with a clear belief in both its potential and Liverpool’s long-term strength. He added that the team had focused on reassessing the scheme, navigating the current regulatory environment and creating a development that is both deliverable and relevant to the city today. With Mellior Construction now preparing to mobilise for the principal works, Abbey Row will bring a previously stalled development back into active construction while delivering a substantial addition to Liverpool’s residential pipeline. The £87 million investment will also contribute to the continued regeneration around the Knowledge Quarter, an important part of Liverpool’s wider growth strategy encompassing residential development, education, science, innovation and employment. After several years in the planning and development process, Gateway 2 approval marks a decisive step forward for Abbey Row, with work now set to turn the long-standing proposals into 365 new city homes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
River Island debuts new store concept at centre:mk
centre:mk today affirms its position as one of the UK’s top 10 prime regional destinations, as it announces that the high-street fashion giant, River Island, has chosen the centre to debut its newest store concept. The new 12,800 sq ft store, which spans over two floors, welcomes a major transformation designed to deliver a more elevated, engaging and customer-centric shopping experience. The brand’s reinvestment in centre:mk unveils the first of its kind, a new store concept which will be rolled out across the River Island brand. It features an enhanced exterior, designed to attract and engage guests, whilst internally, it homes the brand new “River-Runway” installation, an immersive visual feature that exhibits runway-inspired looks and the latest trends, in addition to a new denim department that showcases an expanded selection of silhouettes and washes. To encourage an elevated and seamless shopping journey, the new centre:mk store brings modernised, spacious fitting rooms for a premium experience, whilst a thoughtfully designed layout and debut technology aim to further enhance the customer journey for a quick and convenient trip. The technology includes weight-sensing self-service checkouts which use radio frequency identification technology, and WW Smart Fitting Rooms, whereby guests can request alternative sizes and products without leaving the fitting room cubicle. The result is an even more seamless and accessible shopping experience. Kevin Duffy, Centre Director at centre:mk, comments: “The debut of River Island’s new concept store at centre:mk brings something fresh to the destination’s existing quality line up of fashion retailers. Our wide catchment values quality concepts, and we’re delighted that centre:mk can be the first to bring this new concept to market. It really affirms the scheme’s position as a best-in-retail destination” Mel Aucott, Retail Director at River Island, adds: “Debuting our new store concept to centre:mk represents an important step change in River Island’s bricks-and-mortar presence. The top 10 prime regional destination offers a wealth of quality fashion retailers, a highly engaged and loyal customer base and clear ambition to deliver quality experiences, all of which perfectly mirror River Island’s approach and new store concept. We are excited to reveal our enhanced store offering to our customers and look forward to expanding this vision further.” The major reinvestment from River Island comes shortly after the premium Swiss chocolatier, Lindt, signed for a 1,670 sq ft unit on Silbury Arcade, bringing its boutique format and exclusive ranges to centre:mk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
£208m construction framework strengthens plans for future extra care housing developments
Karbon Homes has appointed three construction contractors to a new £208m, multi-supplier construction framework, supporting the delivery of much-needed extra care and supported housing developments across the North East and Yorkshire. Robertson Group, Caddick Construction and Esh Group have secured places on the framework agreement for Principal Contractor services, which will support the development of specialist extra care housing schemes, including facilities ranging from 80 to 150 apartments, alongside associated residential and housing projects. The framework appointments come at a time when Karbon is increasing its investment in extra care housing, helping meet growing demand for affordable homes that enable people with additional support and care needs to live independently for longer. Sarah Robson, Executive Director of Development and Asset Management at Karbon Homes, said: “The establishment of the framework and appointment of Robertson, Esh and Caddick is an important step in supporting our plans to deliver more extra care housing across the North East and Yorkshire.” “Demand for specialist housing continues to grow and we are committed to investing in affordable, high-quality homes that help people live independently for longer. We have appointed trusted partners who share our commitment to quality, value and meeting the needs of our communities, enabling us to accelerate delivery of these important developments.” Extra care housing combines independent living with access to tailored care and support services, helping residents maintain their independence while benefiting from a safe and supportive environment. The framework has been designed to create a streamlined and flexible approach to procurement, enabling projects to be delivered efficiently while maintaining high standards of quality, value, and sustainability. Developments delivered through the framework will contribute to a pipeline of future projects, increasing the supply of in-demand specialist accommodation across the region. Karbon is already underway with a number of new extra care schemes across the North East, working with local authority partners to help address the lack of specialist affordable accommodation options in different boroughs. Two new projects in South Tyneside, a 95-apartment scheme in Hebburn and a 124-apartment scheme in South Shields both delivered by Robertson Construction North East, part of Robertson Group, are progressing well with first completions due by the end of 2027. And an 84-apartment scheme in Morpeth, delivered in partnership with Northumberland County Council, is set for completion in the new year. All three projects are providing modern, energy-efficient homes designed around the needs of older people and those requiring additional care and support. Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, said: “Securing a place on the new framework further strengthens our relationship with Karbon Homes. We are currently the delivery partner of choice for them on two state-of-the-art extra care schemes, adding to our extensive experience in the sector across England. “Our commitment to community wealth building means we are supporting the local economy and helping local people into work and training while delivering a final product that supports independent living. We look forward to continuing to work with Karbon Homes to provide quality schemes with people and communities at their heart.” Framework contracts are due to start later this month and will be for an initial five-year period to September 2031, with the option to extend for up to a further two years. Stephen Wilkie, Deputy Chief Executive at Esh, said: “Extra care housing continues to play an increasingly important role in meeting housing needs across the region. We look forward to working collaboratively with Karbon Homes to deliver high-quality homes, creating lasting social value through local job creation, supporting people into employment, and delivering positive outcomes for communities across the North East and Yorkshire.” Steve Ford, Regional Managing Director, Caddick Construction Yorkshire & North East, commented: “Framework procurement plays a vital role in enabling housing providers to deliver high-quality, cost-effective schemes efficiently and at pace, ensuring projects bring long-term value to local communities. “Our appointment to Karbon Homes’ Extra Care Framework builds on Caddick’s extensive experience in delivering specialist residential and later living developments, and we look forward to working closely with Karbon Homes to support their vision for delivering high-quality extra care housing across the North East and Yorkshire.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
From brief to build: NBS releases essential guide to achieving BREEAM certification through smarter specification
New guide, developed with BRE, shows how structured, data-rich specification builds the evidence trail BREEAM demands NBS has released A Specifier’s Guide to BREEAM, a practical resource that shows design teams how everyday specification decisions connect directly to sustainability targets and certification success. Developed in collaboration with BRE, the guide covers BREEAM UK New Construction V7 and sets out how structured, fully classified specification content can help build the evidence trail needed for environmental assessment. What BREEAM New Construction V7 asks of specifiers The construction industry is under growing pressure to deliver buildings that are efficient, resilient and net-zero ready. BREEAM has assessed building performance in the UK for over 30 years, and its latest version, BREEAM New Construction V7, raises expectations across energy, water, materials and ecology. With an updated focus on whole life carbon, embodied impacts, operational performance, and biodiversity, it reflects the latest insight into what buildings need to achieve national and global net zero targets. Whole life carbon is now assessed across the full building lifecycle, so specifiers need reliable embodied carbon data at the point of specification, not after decisions are made. Materials must be responsibly sourced, with robust environmental and social credentials throughout their supply chains, and all project timber must be legal and sustainable. Design decisions have to be evidenced across nine environmental categories, from energy-efficient systems and water conservation to responsible sourcing and ecology. For specifiers, that means providing a clear, traceable ‘golden thread’ of information from early design stages through to project delivery. Dr Lee Jones, Head of Sustainability, Hubexo, said: “The construction industry has entered a new era of change. Climate action, tougher regulations, and rising client expectations are reshaping what “good” looks like in modern building design. Sustainability and decarbonisation are no longer box-ticking exercises; they are powerful drivers of value, innovation, and competitive advantage. For specifiers, every decision is now an opportunity to deliver smarter, greener, future ready buildings.” Jennifer Dudley Lead Product Manager, BREEAM said: “Proven to help access green finance, retain asset value and support increased occupant satisfaction, BREEAM New Construction helps clients and design teams holistically navigate sustainability needs of today, and anticipate those of the future when designing and constructing new buildings.” How structured specification builds the BREEAM evidence trail BREEAM New Construction addresses the full scope of whole life carbon. Including embodied and operational carbon. Embodied carbon data is increasingly influential in specification. Manufacturers can control it in their processes, providing accurate data to inform specification choices and comparisons.The guide explains how NBS Chorus, using Uniclass and CAWS classification, gives specifiers a consistent way to record and prove decisions with a ‘golden-thread’ of information from design through to certification. NBS Lifecycle Carbon Assessment (LCA), gives teams access to over 10,000 Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and helps quantify upfront embodied carbon as projects develop. Together, these tools help design teams make informed carbon decisions early. The guide positions certification not as a compliance hurdle but as a competitive edge, giving teams a repeatable way to demonstrate performance and win work. A Specifier’s Guide to BREEAM is available now to download from the NBS website: A specifier’s guide to BREEAM | NBS Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals