Manchester’s Tallest Tower Back on Course After £50m Funding Lifeline
Plans to deliver Manchester’s most ambitious skyscraper development have received a major boost after a £50m funding package helped secure the future of the landmark Viadux Phase 2 scheme. The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has stepped in with a significant rescue loan to bridge a viability gap that had threatened progress on the £360m development. The funding, approved through the authority’s Good Growth Fund, is expected to unlock construction of both the headline-grabbing Nobu Manchester tower and a dedicated affordable housing block. The intervention follows concerns that the project, despite securing planning approval last year, did not generate sufficient investor returns or developer profit to proceed without additional support. A report submitted to the combined authority highlighted the financial challenges facing the scheme, prompting the decision to provide targeted funding. The loan will specifically support the construction of a 23-storey social rent tower delivering 133 affordable homes. This element sits alongside the wider Viadux Phase 2 development, which is set to transform Manchester’s skyline and further strengthen the city’s reputation as one of the UK’s leading development hotspots. At the heart of the scheme is the proposed 76-storey Nobu Manchester tower. Rising to an impressive 246 metres, the skyscraper is set to become the tallest building in Manchester and the tallest tower anywhere in the UK outside London upon completion. The development will provide 452 private residential apartments alongside a 160-bedroom luxury hotel and restaurant operated by internationally renowned hospitality brand Nobu. The project has attracted significant attention both within the property sector and beyond, with Hollywood actor and Nobu co-founder Robert De Niro among the investors supporting the development. GMCA officials concluded that a subsidised loan represented the most effective and efficient funding structure to ensure delivery of the affordable housing element while simultaneously unlocking the wider regeneration benefits of the project. For developer Salboy, the funding agreement marks an important milestone in bringing the scheme forward. The company welcomed the decision, describing it as a crucial component of its long-term strategy to maximise affordable housing provision within the development while maintaining the viability of the wider project. Beyond its architectural significance, the scheme is expected to deliver a range of economic and social benefits, including new homes, employment opportunities, hospitality investment and further regeneration in the city centre. The inclusion of affordable housing within such a high-profile development also reflects growing efforts to balance major city-centre growth with the need for accessible housing provision. With funding now secured, construction of the affordable housing tower can move forward, helping to unlock the wider development and ensuring Manchester’s tallest-ever building remains on track for delivery. The £50m loan is expected to be repaid once the main tower reaches completion, which is currently anticipated in 2032. When finished, the development will not only redefine Manchester’s skyline but also stand as one of the most significant mixed-use projects delivered in the UK outside the capital. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Fusion21 appoints suppliers to £85 million UK-wide Grounds Maintenance Framework for the public sector
Following a competitive open tender process, Fusion21 has appointed 22 suppliers to its £85 million UK-wide Grounds Maintenance Framework, providing public sector members with a fast route to market for grounds maintenance, landscaping and outdoor space services. The specialist companies have secured a place on the fourth iteration of the framework, with 72% being SMEs. This is also the first Fusion21 framework awarded under the Procurement Act 2023. Designed to support Fusion21’s public sector members in maintaining and improving a diverse range of outdoor spaces, the framework provides regional and national coverage, and is available to members, including housing providers, local authorities, education, blue light and the NHS. Services span routine and seasonal maintenance, as well as hard and soft landscaping, tree works, fencing, and hedge and shrub maintenance. Peter Francis, Group Executive Director (Operations) at Fusion21, said: “Our renewed Grounds Maintenance Framework gives members a fast, simple and compliant way to access trusted suppliers for grounds maintenance and landscaping services. With regional and national coverage, it supports everything from local requirements to large-scale, multi-site portfolios. “Complementing our Workplace and Facilities Management Framework, this framework offers flexible call-off options while delivering social value and environmental improvements that have a visible impact on communities.” Over the lifetime of the framework, Fusion21 aims to support the development of a community forest planting trees in every area where the framework is active, helping to create more sustainable communities, reduce carbon emissions and improve wellbeing. Successful suppliers appointed to Fusion21’s national Grounds Maintenance Framework: Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Vistry and Housing Plus Group partner on 398 affordable homes at former Rugeley Power Station
Vistry, the UK’s leading provider of mixed-tenure homes, has signed contracts with Housing Plus Group to deliver 398 affordable homes at the former Rugeley Power Station site, after receiving planning permission to start work on the first 547 homes, the spine road, and associated public open space on the 139-hectare development. The brownfield site, once home to a coal-fired power station that closed in 2016, has already undergone demolition and remediation works. The planning consent paves the way for delivery of the new neighbourhood, including around 2,000 homes in a mix of tenures including affordable homes, private rented sector homes (PRS) and homes for sale on the open market, alongside an all-through school, a riverside park and space for commercial use. Michael Moore, Managing Director of Vistry North West Midlands, said: “Our partnership with Housing Plus Group to deliver 398 affordable homes is a major step forward for the regeneration of the former Rugeley Power Station site. Alongside securing planning permission for the first phase, it means we can now move ahead with confidence and begin creating a high-quality new community for Rugeley. Like many areas of the UK, the town has a severe shortage of housing, and this development will help address that need by delivering affordable and social rent homes, as well as PRS and open market homes, at pace.” David Hall, Executive Director of Investment and Growth at Housing Plus Group said: “Delivering almost 400 new affordable homes marks a key moment in our partnership with Vistry and in the delivery of our development programme as we continue to create places people are proud to call home. This exciting strategic site is a key element of growing our provision of high-quality affordable homes. As a place-based leader, we are committed to delivering for our customers and communities in Staffordshire.” Work is expected to start on the 547 dwellings, spine road and associated public open space and sustainable drainage measures over the coming weeks. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
British Land Names Joanne McNamara as New Chief Executive
British Land has announced the appointment of Joanne McNamara as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership transition for one of the UK’s largest and most influential property companies. McNamara joins the business from Oxford Properties, where she currently serves as Executive Vice President, Europe. Oxford Properties is the global real estate investment, development and management arm of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System (OMERS), one of Canada’s largest pension funds. With more than two decades of experience across the real estate sector, McNamara brings extensive expertise in investment, development, asset management and strategic growth. Since joining Oxford Properties in 2010 as one of the company’s first London-based team members, she has played a central role in expanding the organisation’s European operations and helping build a team of more than 70 professionals across the region. During her 16-year tenure, she has overseen several of Oxford Properties’ most significant investment and development transactions, contributing to the company’s growth as a major force within the European real estate market. Prior to joining Oxford Properties, McNamara held senior roles at Hammerson and DTZ, further strengthening her credentials across the commercial property and investment sectors. She is expected to join British Land by the end of November, following the completion of her notice period, and will succeed Simon Carter, who is stepping down after five years as Chief Executive. British Land Chairman William Rucker described McNamara as one of Europe’s most respected real estate professionals, highlighting her deep sector knowledge, experience within private capital markets and reputation for strong leadership. The appointment comes at an important time for British Land as it continues to focus on high-quality mixed-use developments, urban campuses, retail destinations and sustainable property investment across the UK. Commenting on her appointment, McNamara said she has long admired British Land’s track record of creating and managing best-in-class places. She added that she is looking forward to working alongside the board and wider team to build upon the company’s existing platform for growth. The leadership change signals a new chapter for British Land as it continues to navigate evolving market conditions while pursuing long-term opportunities across the UK property sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Solent Freeport and Solent Growth Partnership launch new £50,000 apprenticeship incentive to support SMEs and young people
Solent Freeport, in partnership with the Solent Growth Partnership through the Solent Business Growth Service, has today launched a new £50,000 Apprenticeship Incentive Programme designed to help small and medium-sized businesses across the Solent region recruit an apprentice for the first time, while supporting young people who have previously been not in education, employment or training (NEET). Solent Freeport, in partnership with the Solent Growth Partnership through the Solent Business Growth Service, has today launched a new £50,000 Apprenticeship Incentive Programme designed to help small and medium-sized businesses across the Solent region recruit an apprentice for the first time, while supporting young people who have previously been not in education, employment or training (NEET). The programme offers financial incentives of up to £2,000 per apprentice to eligible employers, alongside tailored business support, helping to reduce recruitment barriers, strengthen local skills pipelines and support inclusive economic growth across the Solent. The incentive fund will support: Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility and availability. The initiative focuses on four priority growth sectors critical to the Solent economy: By targeting employers who are taking on an apprentice for the first time, and apprentices who were previously NEET, the programme aims to unlock opportunity for those furthest from the labour market while supporting businesses to invest in the future workforce they need. Brian Johnson, Chair of the Solent Freeport said:“This programme is about creating real opportunity – for employers who want to grow but face recruitment challenges, and for individuals who need a route into skilled employment. By working with the Solent Growth Partnership, we’re ensuring Freeport investment directly supports people, productivity and long-term prosperity across the region.” Rachael Randall, Chair of the Solent Growth Partnership Business Board added:“Apprenticeships are a proven way for SMEs to build skills and talent, but the first step can feel daunting. This incentive, combined with practical business support through the Solent Business Growth Service, helps employers take that step with confidence while opening doors for young people who might otherwise be left behind.” In addition to the financial incentive, participating employers will receive guidance through the Solent Business Growth Service, supporting them with recruitment, onboarding and longer-term business growth. Eligibility and applications To be eligible, employers must: Apprenticeship starts must fall within the programme application window, and applications cannot be made retrospectively. Further details, including full terms and conditions and application guidance, are available via the Solent Business Growth Service on www.solentgrowthpartnership.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Huws Gray appoints new Operations Director for Plant & Tool Hire to expand its offering across the UK
Huws Gray, a national building materials supplier providing end-to-end solutions to tradespeople and the DIY market, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jon Mugridge as Operations Director for Plant & Tool Hire as the Company continues to target strengthening its offering and expanding its presence across the country. With over 30 years of operational and retail leadership experience, Jon has a track record of driving improvements and delivering growth. He began his career at B&Q at the age of 16, progressing from a checkout operator to General Manager, before moving to Homebase, B&M and WH Smith where he held senior regional management positions. Jon’s most recent role was with Brandon Hire Station, where he was National Operations Director. In this role, he led the implementation and adherence of a number of important procedures, implemented cultural change initiatives across the business and delivered improvements within its health and safety performance. Given his considerable experience and expertise, Jon will lead the Huws Gray Plant & Tool Hire division’s focus on operational excellence, colleague development, continued excellence in health and safety, and supporting the long-term growth ambitions of the business. Jon Mugridge, Operations Director at Huws Gray Plant & Tool Hire, commented: “I am delighted to be joining Huws Gray at such an exciting point in its journey. There is a real opportunity here to deliver a first-class service, expand our offering across the country and deliver meaningful growth. In my career, I have always focused on colleague development and creating safe working environments, with a strong belief in empowering teams to deliver their best results, and I look forward to continuing this at Huws Gray.” Shaun Allen, Chief Operating Officer of Huws Gray, added: “Jon brings a huge amount of operational experience and leadership expertise to Huws Gray, and we are delighted to welcome him to the team. His track record of developing teams, driving performance and leading positive cultural change speaks for itself, and makes him a fantastic addition to Huws Gray Plant & Tool Hire as we continue to target growth.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals