
International Women’s Day: Taylor Wimpey East Anglia celebrates women in construction
This year’s International Women’s Day encourages everyone to ‘Give to Gain’, and Taylor Wimpey East Anglia is highlighting the inspiring and collaborative career journeys of Hollie-Jayne Bennett, Assistant Site Manager and Rhianna Darling, Trainee Assistant Site Manager. ‘Don’t hesitate to throw out an idea’ and ‘no question is a silly question’ are the two valuable lessons Hollie-Jayne Bennett says she has learnt since starting a role as Assistant Site Manager at Taylor Wimpey’s Lantern Croft development in Ely. Originally starting her career in the housebuilding industry as a painting and decorating apprentice, Hollie-Jayne grasped the opportunity to begin her management pathway. Joining Taylor Wimpey as an Assistant Site Manager in August 2022, Hollie-Jayne has multiple qualifications in site management and supports the Site Manager with the day-to-day running of the development and always keep health and safety at the forefront. Hollie-Jayne said: “I thoroughly enjoy site work and everything it entails. I love coordinating with contractors and producing an incredibly high-quality product for Taylor Wimpey customers to enjoy. It’s rewarding to see a development progress from the early stages through to a completely new community, knowing the work that the team has put in to create homes that people are proud of. “I do feel like I’m breaking down barriers within the industry, being a female in a leading position. Being a woman isn’t something that phases me about my role. Developing confidence is a process, but through hard work and gaining experience, you can strengthen your belief that you bring value to the table. In the next five years, I hope to become the first female Site Manager in the East Anglian region.” Having formerly been a sales coordinator and a director’s PA within the housebuilding industry, Rhianna Darling’s entry into working on site was unconventional. Rhianna joined Taylor Wimpey six months ago and is currently a Trainee Assistant Site Manager at Northfield View in Stowmarket. Her role is to support the Site Manager in ensuring the smooth operation of the development to maintain the build schedule, including coordinating with contractors and ensuring that materials are delivered and ordered on time. “I gained valuable experience within sales and as a PA, but there wasn’t much opportunity for me to progress. I realised after speaking with my colleagues that my coordination, organisation and management skills were transferable to a role on site. Curiosity combined with support from my colleagues and a willingness to step out of my comfort zone helped me transition into my current role.” “No two days are ever the same, which is something I really enjoy. I love being out on site, seeing the progress day by day and knowing I’ve played a part in bringing someone’s dream home to life. Having such a wonderful, tangible achievement paired with the happiness of a family on move-in day is so rewarding.” International Women’s Day (IWD), which takes place on the 8th March 2026, is an opportunity for the world to come together to forge gender equality. 2026’s theme is Give to Gain, which encourages a mindset of generosity and collaboration. For more information on careers at Taylor Wimpey, please visit: https://www.taylorwimpey.co.uk/jobs/jobs-you-can-do/construction Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

When Business Leaders Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
Business leaders often face heavy responsibilities that extend beyond managing profits and people. With so much at stake, they can sometimes find themselves dealing with criminal allegations that threaten both their freedom and their company’s reputation. These legal issues may involve financial misconduct, workplace incidents, or even accusations tied to criminal law, such as drug crimes or domestic violence. A criminal record can damage not only personal credibility but also the trust investors and employees place in a company. Knowing when to seek a criminal defense attorney is essential for protecting both career and business. Why Criminal Charges Happen Running a company means making complex decisions, and mistakes can lead to serious consequences. Leaders may face drug charges if employees are caught with drug possession on company property, or they may be accused of gun charges if weapons are found in violation of workplace rules. In other cases, misdemeanor charges like simple assault could arise from conflicts in the workplace. Criminal law covers a wide range of situations, and business leaders aren’t immune. For example, a chief executive might face accusations of fraud if financial statements mislead investors. A manager could be investigated if police reports show safety violations that harmed employees. Even unintentional errors can result in criminal allegations, which is why leaders must stay alert to the risks tied to their positions. What a Criminal Defense Attorney Does Consulting with criminal lawyers in Brisbane or nearby helps clients understand their constitutional rights and guides them through investigations. They explain defense strategies, review police reports, and prepare responses to charges. For business leaders, this support is critical because the consequences can include prison, fines, or license suspension that affects their ability to run a company. Attorneys also handle cases that go beyond corporate matters. They may defend leaders accused of drug trafficking, domestic violence, or other serious crimes. In each situation, the attorney works to challenge evidence, negotiate plea bargains, and bring in expert witnesses when needed. Without this guidance, leaders may struggle to protect themselves and their businesses. Protecting Reputation and Business Interests Reputation is often as valuable as financial success. Criminal allegations can quickly erode trust among investors, employees, and customers. Even before a trial begins, media coverage can harm the company’s image. Defense attorneys help manage these risks by advising on communication strategies and ensuring legal responses are carefully planned. For example, if an executive is accused of drug crimes or fraud, the attorney may coordinate with public relations teams to release statements that protect credibility while avoiding legal missteps. This balance between defense and reputation management is vital for long‑term survival. Common Situations That Call for Legal Help Several scenarios show when business leaders should seek immediate legal counsel: These examples show that criminal defense isn’t limited to traditional corporate crimes. Modern business creates new risks that leaders must be ready to handle. Why Acting Quickly Matters Timing makes a huge difference in criminal cases. Waiting too long to seek legal help can weaken a defense. Investigators may already be gathering police reports, interviewing witnesses, and building a case before charges are filed. Leaders who consult an attorney early can respond proactively instead of waiting for problems to grow. For instance, if a company is under investigation for tax fraud or drug trafficking, waiting until charges are filed may leave little room to negotiate or correct mistakes. Early involvement of a defense attorney allows for clarification, cooperation with authorities, and sometimes avoiding charges altogether. Balancing Leadership and Legal Defense Leaders can’t simply step away from their duties when facing legal challenges. They must continue guiding their organizations while preparing their defense. This balance requires careful planning. Attorneys often work with leaders to minimize disruptions. They may schedule meetings outside business hours or coordinate with in‑house legal teams. This way, leaders can keep their focus on operations while still preparing for their defense. Managing both responsibilities shows why professional legal support is so important. Conclusion Criminal charges against business leaders are serious matters that can affect both personal freedom and company stability. From drug charges and domestic violence to gun charges and misdemeanor charges, the risks are wide‑ranging and complex. A criminal defense attorney provides essential guidance, helping leaders protect their constitutional rights, reputation, and business interests. Acting quickly and strategically can make the difference between a damaging conviction and a manageable resolution. For any leader, knowing when to seek legal help isn’t just smart—it’s necessary for protecting both career and company.

Barbican set for £231m retrofit as landmark arts centre overhaul wins consent
A £231m transformation of London’s Barbican Arts Centre has secured planning and listed building consent, paving the way for a comprehensive retrofit of one of the UK’s most recognisable post-war cultural landmarks. Approval from the City of London Corporation enables long-awaited works to address ageing building fabric, accessibility constraints and outdated infrastructure across the Grade II-listed Brutalist complex. The project has been designed by Allies and Morrison in collaboration with Asif Khan Studio and engineer Buro Happold. Crucially, the scheme is entirely retrofit-led. No additional floorspace will be created. Instead, the focus is on repairing, upgrading and optimising the existing structure, preserving the character of the 1980s arts centre while bringing it up to modern standards. A central element of the plans is the full refurbishment of the Barbican Conservatory. Long-standing maintenance issues will be resolved and a new climate-controlled environment introduced to safeguard plant life. A new lift and stair will open up the raised balconies for the first time, creating publicly accessible viewing areas and improving circulation. Accessibility improvements run throughout the wider building. A new lift in the Conservatory will provide step-free access to the fly tower for the first time, while a second lift in the main foyer will enhance routes to the Concert Hall and Theatre. The scheme also includes upgraded wayfinding, additional toilet facilities and a new multi-faith room. Externally, the lakeside terrace and foyers will undergo a careful, sustainability-led upgrade. Original materials, including glazing and paving within the Conservatory, will be retained and reused wherever possible to minimise embodied carbon and protect the integrity of the Brutalist design. The conservation-led approach has received backing from national heritage bodies, including Historic England and the Twentieth Century Society. The City of London Corporation has committed £191m towards Phase 1 of the programme, with further funding to be raised through philanthropy and partnerships. Major on-site works are scheduled to begin in 2027. Between June 2028 and 2029, most Barbican activity will pause to enable the most intensive phase of construction, although Cinemas on Beech Street will remain open and programming will continue with resident partners such as the London Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Opened in 1982 by Queen Elizabeth II, the Barbican welcomes more than one million visitors each year. The approved scheme is intended to secure the building’s fabric, accessibility and cultural relevance for at least the next half century. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Prologis and EQT Real Estate complete Midlands logistics portfolio transaction
Prologis UK and EQT Real Estate have completed the sale and acquisition of a three-asset, fully leased logistics portfolio in the Midlands for an undisclosed sum. The portfolio comprises Nuneaton Bermuda Park DC1 and Rugby Central Park DC1 and DC2, totalling approximately 909,000 sq ft across the East and West Midlands. The Midlands continues to play a critical role in the UK’s distribution network, supported by established infrastructure and resilient customer demand. For Prologis, the sale reflects active portfolio management. Paul Weston, Regional Head of Prologis UK, said: “These are high-quality, stabilised assets in core locations. The transaction reflects our disciplined approach to capital allocation. We regularly assess where we can realise value and redeploy capital into development and other opportunities that support our long-term priorities in the UK.” The acquisition strengthens EQT Real Estate’s presence in UK logistics markets, one of Europe’s most established and strategically located distribution hubs. Jonathan Mackie, Managing Director at EQT Real Estate, added: “The Midlands is one of the UK’s most important logistics hubs, and this portfolio is well positioned to serve the evolving needs of occupiers while benefiting from active asset management and long-term sustainability-led value creation. The addition of these assets to our portfolio aligns strongly with EQT Real Estate’s strategy of acquiring modern, high-potential logistics properties in underserved markets in Europe.” The transaction reflects continued investor demand for stabilised logistics assets in core UK markets. The sector benefits from long-term demand trends and limited availability of modern space in established locations, which continues to attract institutional investment. Prologis continues to deploy capital across the UK. Recent activity includes four development starts at DIRFT, including M&S Food’s flagship National Distribution Centre and being announced as development partnership for Manchester Airport Group at East Midlands Airport Freeport. Prologis were advised by CBRE & DTRE, EQT were advised by Knight Frank. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Winvic appointed to deliver Waterbeach Station Haul Road under EHA Framework
Winvic Construction Ltd, a leading main contractor that specialises in the design and delivery of private and public sector construction and civil engineering projects, has been appointed by the Greater Cambridge Partnership to deliver the Waterbeach railway station haul road – the company’s first project awarded under the Eastern Highways Alliance Framework (EHF4). The £800 million framework is managed by Central Bedfordshire Council and includes a collaborative group of ten local authorities across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Luton, Norfolk, Peterborough, Southend-on-Sea, Suffolk, and Thurrock. The project commenced in November and is due for completion in Summer 2026, with Winvic delivering the works under a NEC4 Option A contract. Procured via a competitive mini competition under Lot 1 of the EHA Framework, the £3 million scheme forms a key early enabling element of the wider gateway works for the construction of the new town of Waterbeach and the future railway station. The 3.1km haul road is crucial to providing access for the next phase of works, enabling Spencer Group to begin construction of the new station. Approximately 830 metres of the route will utilise the existing former airfield taxiway as a foundation within the Urban & Civic site, with a further 2.3km of new carriageway constructed across the wider Waterbeach development. On completion, the road will feature a 3.75m-wide single carriageway with passing bays on the farmland section and a 7.0m-wide single carriageway along the taxiway, supported by drainage and fencing throughout. A significant programme of earthworks and utilities protection will be undertaken, with Winvic reusing surplus site-won material for level adjustments, bund creation and ditch excavations. Winvic is also further exploring value-engineering opportunities to reduce material use, cost and carbon where feasible. Winvic will manage extensive stakeholder engagement throughout delivery, including regular coordination with the Greater Cambridge Partnership, which is responsible for the delivery of the new railway station itself, and the developer Urban & Civic. Key traffic and pedestrian management measures will be implemented on Bannold Drove (Green Lane), with early engagement planned to minimise disruption to the surrounding community. The site’s historic use as a former army barracks also introduces archaeological oversight, UXO considerations and remote working requirements, with the team operating up to 3km from the main compound. As part of its EHA social value commitments, Winvic will deliver a structured programme of employment, skills and community initiatives in collaboration with local supply chain partners, SMEs, educational providers and charities. Activities will be shaped by local needs and aligned with framework reporting requirements, including opportunities for apprentices, underrepresented groups and targeted community support. Rob Cook, Winvic’s Managing Director for Civils and Infrastructure, said: “Securing our first project under the EHA Framework is a significant milestone for Winvic and reflects the strength of our relationship with the Greater Cambridge Partnership, Cambridgeshire County Council and partners across the region. The Waterbeach Station haul road is an important enabling scheme that underpins the long-term growth of the new town and the delivery of critical transport infrastructure. We look forward to bringing our civil engineering expertise, collaborative approach and commitment to creating a positive impact in the local area, helping set the standard for future schemes under the framework.” Thomas Fitzpatrick, Head of Programme at the Greater Cambridge Partnership, said: “We’re pleased to appoint Winvic to the first phase of work for the new Waterbeach station – building the haul road. The road is designed to minimise disruption to residents during construction of the new station later in the year. We’ve got a package of transport projects in Waterbeach – a new travel hub with park and ride facilities, a new busway, and the Waterbeach Greenway. With the new station, we’re not only providing another sustainable transport option but also unlocking new housing for local people.” Join Winvic on social media – LinkedIn, and Instagram. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Bovis returns to Paternoster Square with £200m London Stock Exchange overhaul
Bovis has secured a major contract to refurbish, extend and fit out 10 Paternoster Square in the City of London, in a £200m transformation of the London Stock Exchange’s headquarters. Developers Oxford Properties and Hines have appointed Bovis Construction (Europe) under a pre-construction services agreement to deliver the comprehensive reconfiguration of the landmark building. The scheme marks a notable return for Bovis, which originally completed the property in 2003 as part of the wider Paternoster Square development. The project will reshape the building to provide best-in-class office accommodation alongside a new public-facing attraction in the heart of the Square Mile. Central to the redevelopment is the reimagining of the London Stock Exchange’s ceremonial core. For the first time, the daily market opening and closing ceremonies will be made visible to the public through the introduction of a new glass atrium, bringing traditionally private moments into view. The works will also include new roof extensions, the creation of an events pavilion and the addition of terraces and balconies offering panoramic views towards St Paul’s Cathedral. The aim is to deliver a more open, engaging and experience-led workspace that reflects the evolving demands of occupiers in prime central London. Sustainability sits at the core of the proposals. The scheme is targeting BREEAM Excellent and NABERS 5-star accreditation, with more than 95 per cent of the existing structural frame and façade to be retained in line with circular economy principles. This retention-led approach is expected to significantly reduce embodied carbon while extending the life of the building. Bovis chief executive David Cadiot said it was a privilege to return to a building the company had originally delivered more than two decades ago, adding that the transformation would create both high-quality workspace and a new visitor destination for the City. Pre-construction services are due to commence next month, with completion anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2028. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
