G F Tomlinson Appointed to Deliver World-Leading MRI Facility at the University of Nottingham
Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson, has been appointed to deliver a major new extension at the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre, located at the University of Nottingham’s University Park Campus – a facility that will soon house the most powerful MRI scanner in the UK. Working in partnership with the University of Nottingham, the project will see the construction of a highly specialised extension to accommodate a new 11.7 Tesla Ultra High Field MRI scanner – a 70-tonne, state-of-the-art system that will enhance the UK’s capability for world-leading brain imaging research. The building project commenced in July 2025, and a ‘first look’ ceremony was officially held on 15 October. This was attended by Director of the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre and project lead, Professor Richard Bowtell, Pro-Vice Chancellor for the Faculty of Science, Professor Zoe Wilson and Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange Professor Tom Rodden from the University of Nottingham and representatives from G F Tomlinson. The extension is due for completion in January 2027, with works carefully phased to minimise disruption to staff, students and the wider campus community. Once operational, the new facility will offer vital insight into human brain function and play a pivotal role in strengthening national research into neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The scheme, totalling 250 sq. metres, will create a new Magnet Hall – an iron-shielded space designed to safely contain the magnetic field generated by the new scanner. Surrounding infrastructure will include a control and equipment room, clinical spaces, patient waiting areas and essential welfare facilities to provide a comprehensive clinical and research environment. The highly complex nature of the project includes the integration of the 70-tonne magnet, substantial reinforcement of the floor slab to support both the magnet and its iron shield, and precise tolerances required for the installation of sensitive imaging equipment. Designed in collaboration with the University’s leading academics, magnet supplier Tesla Engineering and scanner supplier Philips Healthcare, the iron shielding has been engineered and installed by IMEDCO, ensuring precise containment of the magnet’s powerful field. G F Tomlinson’s appointment marks the continuation of a successful partnership with the University of Nottingham that spans over 20 years. Previous schemes include the Biodiscovery Institute, and Advanced Manufacturing Building and the contractor is currently delivering projects across three of the University’s campuses, including the Hydrogen Propulsion Systems Lab at Jubilee Campus, alongside the Clinical Training Centre roof replacement at University Park. As with previous schemes on live campuses, G F Tomlinson will implement strict management and liaison protocols to ensure health, safety, and continuity of academic operations. While not subject to BREEAM, the scheme incorporates some sustainable practices, including the reuse of existing roof tiles and stone found on-site. A bespoke social value action plan is being developed in collaboration with the University, focusing on student engagement through site tours, work experience opportunities, and industry exposure for local families and academic staff. The scheme has been developed by a specialist project team including the University of Nottingham, project manager – EDGE, architect, principal designer and structural engineer – William Saunders, M&E engineers – Mellor Bromley Mechanical and Morecroft Electrical, and cost consultant (PQS) – AtkinsRéalis. Andy Sewards, Group Chairman, G F Tomlinson, said: “It’s a privilege to once again be supporting the University of Nottingham in delivering a facility that will have a lasting legacy in clinical research. Having previously completed landmark schemes such as the Biodiscovery Institute, we are proud to be working once again at University Park Campus – as well as delivering projects across the University’s Castle Meadow and Jubilee Campuses. “The Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre extension will become a cornerstone of medical excellence in the UK, and we’re pleased to be contributing our expertise to such a nationally significant facility.” The new national scanning facility is being funded through the UKRI Infrastructure Fund. The UKRI Infrastructure Fund supports the facilities, equipment and resources that are essential for researchers and innovators to do ground-breaking work and will help to create a long-term pipeline of research and innovation infrastructure investment priorities for the next 10 to 20 years. Professor Richard Bowtell, Director of the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre is leading the project and said: “It’s a huge moment to see the building starting to take shape after months of meticulous planning for this complex project and we’re delighted to be working with GF Tomlinson. “We’re extremely proud to be building on Sir Peter’s Mansfield’s legacy that started here with the invention of MRI in the 1970’s. The Ultra-High field scanner is the next generation in technology and will provide a step change in the capabilities of imaging research, opening up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation to bring new understanding to a range of diseases.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pexhurst Combines Net Zero Ambitions with Local Impact at Greater London Business Park
A MAJOR warehouse refurbishment and extension at Crayfields Business Park in Bromley has been completed by leading fit out and refurbishment main contractor Pexhurst, creating a new business hub with 30 self-contained office suites designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality, flexible workspace. The multi-million pound development funded by Legal & General will be operated by FOUNDRY, with a flexible configuration offering spaces that can cater to businesses seeking smaller, adaptable units in the micro-enterprise and serviced office sectors. The newly named ‘FOUNDRY Bromley’ also provides shared infrastructure and flexible leasing for growing businesses – giving them hybrid spaces for light manufacturing, storage and distribution of products. The construction programme included a full internal refurbishment of the disused commercial property, a single-storey extension with a green roof, and a design approach that supports L&G’s ambition to achieve carbon net zero, including the use of low carbon floor finishes, green roof, solar PV and recycled raised access floor. Dan Beadle, senior contracts/commercial manager at Pexhurst, said: “The expanding entrepreneurial and gig economy fuels the need for more flexible and sustainable units, such as those recently delivered in Bromley. From food preparation businesses to furniture makers, many enterprises now require hybrid spaces supporting light manufacturing, storage, and distribution – with these businesses thriving on shared infrastructure and the ability to grow without relocating. “Our latest project completion shows how we can combine new micro-industrial workspace development with a meaningful social value legacy. The business hub we have delivered gives smaller occupiers high-quality spaces that can evolve with their needs, but at the same time our community engagement has helped ensure the project delivers a positive and lasting impact for the local area.” While delivering works at Crayfields Business Park, contractor Pexhurst maintained an impactful social value strategy through a programme of initiatives benefitting the local community and environment. This included donations to St Barnabas’ Community Fridge in St Paul’s Cray, healthy eating sessions for site operatives, and ecological enhancements such as mulch contributions which support hedgehog habitats. One of the most celebrated initiatives was an art competition with students from the nearby Riverside SEND School. Inspired by themes of nature and community, the winning artwork was displayed on site hoardings during construction, helping to showcase local creativity and strengthen community connections. Adam Walker, co-founder at FOUNDRY, said: “With my partners Legal & General, we are beyond excited to bring FOUNDRY to Bromley. Our space offers startups and fast-growing businesses future ready, micro urban logistics spaces and workshops to grow. This could be an Etsy seller looking for their first space to move out of their spare room or an ecommerce company looking for a small logistics hub and office. FOUNDRY Bromley will provide locals with a business hub: an eclectic mix multi sector business, backed by community and business focused events.” Earlier this year Pexhurst completed a similar scheme of works on Unit 21 at Crayfields Business Park, which saw more than 10,200 sq ft of office and warehouse space upgraded through the improvement of facilities and energy systems. Gareth Bacon, MP for Orpington, visited Crayfields Business Park in September to view both FOUNDRY Bromley and Unit 21 – recognising the achievements in sustainable refurbishment and community-focused delivery.To learn more about Pexhurst, visit https://www.pexhurst.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Study Inn Reports 95% Occupancy and Continued Growth Across Key UK Cities
Study Inn, the privately owned operator, developer, and manager of premium student accommodation, is pleased to report a 95% occupancy across its seven properties in six leading university cities — Leeds, Leicester, Exeter, Bristol, Nottingham, and Loughborough — for the 2025/26 academic year. This achievement highlights Study Inn’s strong performance and value-added proposition, as the company continues to deliver premium, all-inclusive student living experiences that prioritise quality, wellbeing, and service excellence. Its flexible rental strategy attracts a wide range of budgets and demographics. Matt Shakespeare, Managing Director of Operations at Study Inn, commented: “Achieving 95% occupancy across our portfolio reflects the strength of our model and our ability to meet the diverse needs of both International and domestic students nationwide. Our flexible, high-quality offering continues to attract residents seeking a premium life experience supported by service, comfort, and community at a price point that represents exceptional value for money”. Recent data from UCAS and HEPI points to ongoing strength in the UK higher education market, with total UCAS applicants rising to 665,070 in the 2025 cycle — up 1.3% year-on-year — and UK 18-year-old applicants reaching a record 328,390, an increase of 2.2%. UCAS also projects that growth in the UK’s 18-year-old population will continue to drive additional applicants over the coming years, supporting robust future demand for quality student accommodation. Study Inn’s success is underpinned by its vertically integrated business model, which provides full control over acquisition, design, development, and operations. This allows the group to lead the market in terms of innovation in its quality of product and operating model. The company’s all-inclusive offering includes; utilities, award winning internet, fully equipped kitchens, towels, bedding, and housekeeping. Premium shared lounges, vibrant social spaces, and landscaped outdoor areas, further enrich community life and enhance the overall student experience. Study Inn has achieved strong annual growth over all of its assets since inception of the brand. Current average achieved weekly rent is £226, and is forecasted to increase in 2026/27. Looking ahead to its next generation of Study Inn’s — currently in design — the brand will continue to innovate and react to resident needs to drive a continued strong performance in the sector. “These are exciting times for Study Inn,” added Shakespeare. “With our experience, adaptability, and continued investment in quality, we’re perfectly positioned to capitalise on the macro favourable market conditions whist remaining very responsive to the micro market conditions in each city and deliver strong occupancy and sustained growth across our portfolio’s.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Winvic achieves Net Carbonzero certification making the contractor a Carbon Neutral business
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 announced it has achieved Net Carbonzero certification through the Achilles Climate Impact Programme, following verification under ISO14064 Part 3. Now operating as a Carbon Neutral business, Winvic has reduced its overall carbon footprint by 71% in compliance with the Part 3 requirements. The announcement highlights the contractor’s ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and the quality and transparency of its auditing through globally recognised and verified scheme, Achilles. An early adopter to measuring emissions, Winvic began its carbon reduction journey 13 years ago. In that time the contractor has implemented a range of measures to reduce its impact on the environment and embed sustainability across all operations – from investing in renewable energy, battery back-up generators, alternative fuels and energy sources, to waste reduction initiatives and creating its Green Supply Chain (GSC) Forum. Establishing its Sustainability Strategy in 2020, using the pillars of People, Innovation, Planet and Community, these pillars gave Winvic a roadmap to work towards its sustainability goals, including that of being a Carbon Neutral business and directly support seven of the United Nations’ Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since 2012, Winvic has been monitoring and measuring its Green House Gas (GHG) emissions, committing to accountable and transparent carbon reporting which is demonstrated by Winvic achieving the Achilles Carbon Reduce Programme Certification in line with ISO 14064-1 annually since 2022, adding to a wider portfolio of ISO accreditations. This globally recognised certification is aligned with Science Based Target initiatives (SBTis) and industry best practice for carbon emission measuring and reporting. Winvic reports operational data from its sites and head office operations and has been reducing its operational carbon footprint during construction and throughout the lifecycle of the buildings and assets it creates for its clients. As part of Winvic’s steps to reduce Scope 3 emissions and reach carbon neutrality, in 2021 it launched the GSC Forum, a platform designed to educate and collaborate with supply chain partners on sustainability, decarbonisation, and social value. Through bi-annual workshops, one-to-one support, and monthly communications, Winvic engages its 80 GSC partners providing them with the relevant knowledge on ESG principles and decarbonisation, as part of its commitment for a Net Zero future. Winvic also plays an active role in shaping the future of sustainable construction and ESG policy at a national level. It is a project partner of the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) on a number of decarbonisation initiatives. These include updating the initial Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework, which laid the foundation for defining Net Zero carbon buildings, the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard Pilot Testing Programme, helping to shape aligned metrics and targets, the Advancing Net Zero Workstream, to help facilitate an accelerated pathway to decarbonisation and the Supply Chain Forum, a community of peers within UKGBC to share challenges and discuss solutions. In 2024, Winvic was invited to join the Advisory Board of the Policy Liaison Group (PLG) on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG), as the sole main contractor representing the construction industry in Westminster. Arun Thaneja, Technical Services and Sustainability Director at Winvic, said: “We want to raise the bar for delivering sustainable buildings and infrastructure for our clients, while also leaving a lasting social, environmental and economic legacy. Our newly achieved Carbon Neutral status is testament to that ambition and the progress we have made to decarbonising our operations. “We are incredibly proud to have achieved the certification, and we continue on our carbon reduction journey while supporting and encouraging our GSC partners and clients on their own pathways to a Net Zero future.” Rob Cook, Managing Director – Civils & Infrastructure at Winvic, said: “Achieving Carbon Neutral status reinforces our responsibility as an industry leader to set the standard for sustainable construction and infrastructure delivery. “This certification and milestone on our journey to Net Zero is not only important to Winvic, but it enables us to support our clients, including National Highways and other public sector partners, who place strong emphasis on reducing environmental impact and achieving Net Zero targets across their programmes. “It’s a milestone we’re proud of, but it’s also a platform to go further, working collaboratively with our clients, partners, and supply chain to deliver low-carbon solutions that make a real and lasting difference.” Winvic has completed 27 Net Zero Carbon projects totalling 96 individual facilities, with a further seven underway, and 12 low carbon projects with seven more underway. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Osprey Strengthens Onshore Wind Capabilities with New 800-Tonne Mobile Crane
Osprey is expanding its heavy-lift fleet with the addition of the Liebherr LTM 1750-9.1, an 800-tonne all-terrain mobile crane arriving in November. This investment increases Osprey’s capability to deliver complex lifting operations for onshore wind, civil infrastructure, bridges, ports, and highways projects. To date, Osprey has contributed to projects delivering over 5,000 megawatts of clean energy, installing hundreds of onshore wind turbines and handling major offshore components. The company’s heavy-lift experience extends from turbine erection and maintenance to the testing and transport of next-generation nacelles and blades, reinforcing its role in the UK’s transition to low-carbon energy. Dean Graham, Heavy Lift Director at Osprey, explains: “The LTM 1750-9.1 adds real flexibility to our operations. It’s quick to set up, easy to move, and efficient to run. For clients, that means we can shorten programmes, reduce vehicle movements, and complete lifts in tighter spaces.” Efficient Set-Up and Mobility The LTM 1750-9.1 features a 52-metre telescopic boom, a maximum hoist height of 152 metres and a maximum working radius of 116 metres. Its self-rigging design allows it to be ready for work in approximately four to five hours, without the need for a separate rigging crane, depending on the selected configuration. With nine axles, the crane spreads its load over a larger footprint, reducing ground pressure and allowing access to areas where heavier crawler cranes or eight-axle models might struggle. “It rigs itself using its own boom and can move between pads while part-rigged,” says Graham. “That makes it well suited to turbine maintenance or construction work where space is limited.” The crane is supplied with the full complement of components, enabling multiple boom and luffing jib configurations as well as the Y guy system to brace the boom to increase lifting capacity to meet a wide range of heavy lift requirements. This flexibility allows Osprey to optimise the crane setup for each project, maximising lifting capacity, improving efficiency, and ensuring the right configuration is available for every site condition. Reduced Environmental Impact The crane is fitted with the latest Euro-compliant engines and is HVO-ready, allowing it to run on renewable fuels. Liebherr’s ECOdrive and ECOmode systems optimise fuel use and lower emissions, supporting Osprey’s goal to make heavy lifting operations cleaner and more efficient. Improving Onshore Wind Delivery The new crane is particularly relevant for onshore wind sites, where equipment needs to be both powerful and mobile. The ability to rig quickly and travel between turbines without full de-rigging can save several days per project, helping turbines generate power sooner and reducing local disruption. “It’s a practical addition to the fleet,” Graham adds. “As sites become more congested and access gets tighter, we need cranes that can do more with less time, less space, and lower ground loadings.” Osprey has a long history supporting the UK’s renewable energy sector, delivering logistics for offshore wind and tidal power projects both in the UK and internationally. Osprey has transported every major offshore wind farm component, including jackets, monopiles, nacelles, and blades using Osprey-owned cranes, self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs), and barges. Civils Construction Sites With increasingly congested sites and tightly managed delivery schedules, the reduced rigging times of the LTM 1750-9.1 enable Osprey to meet demanding programme requirements and meet tight deadlines. Its ability to self-rig and work within confined areas makes it particularly well suited to urban civil engineering projects, where minimising disruption to the public and surrounding infrastructure is essential. This addition strengthens Osprey’s existing fleet of heavy mobile and crawler cranes, extending the company’s capability across complex bridge and infrastructure installations. Osprey’s heavy-lift teams are known for engaging early with clients to refine lift plans, reduce risk, and shorten build times. Osprey has applied the same engineering approach across a wide range of civil infrastructure projects, including the A45 Whitley South Bridge, M1 Kegworth Bypass and M4 Monkey Island Lane The company has also supported Network Rail on several bridge installations and replacements notably at Gipsy Patch Bridge, Penstone Bridge, Warrington Bridge, and Whaley Bridge, where precise heavy-lift coordination and minimal disruption were critical to project success. Complementary Services: Port Marshalling and Freight Forwarding The LTM 1750 complements Osprey’s existing offering of heavy mobile and heavy crawler crane fleet, including port marshalling and freight-forwarding operations. At the Port of Blyth, Osprey has delivered over 1,000 heavy lifts, supporting modular construction and offshore wind projects. Using cranes such as the Liebherr LG 1750 and Tadano CC3800, together with modular SPMTs, the company’s teams have managed complex manoeuvres and tight schedules across confined portside environments. These port operations form part of Osprey’s integrated approach to project delivery, combining heavy-lift engineering, transport planning, and marine logistics. This ensures clients benefit from safer, more efficient operations for large-scale renewable and infrastructure projects. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Seal of Excellence for site manager of development at historic country estate in County Durham
A prestigious construction industry award has been presented to the site manager at Bellway’s Hedworths Green at Lambton Park development in County Durham. Anthony Church has been awarded the Seal of Excellence in the National House Building Council’s Pride in the Job awards – one of 16 site managers in the North East region to be recognised in this way for the excellence of their work. The Pride in the Job North East regional awards ceremony took place on Friday 3 October at Royal Armouries New Dock Hall in Leeds. More than 8,000 building sites were considered in the first stage of the Pride in the Job competition, with Quality Awards presented nationwide to the top five per cent of site managers. Those winners were then considered for the Seal of Excellence – awarded to the top one per cent nationally. Anthony, 37, who lives in Newton Aycliffe, said: “A Seal of Excellence is an immense accolade, and I am so proud to receive it. “Managing construction at Hedworths Green at Lambton Park, which is a historic site, requires exceptionally high standards and clear communication. My assistant site manager Daniel Brown and trainee assistant site manager Sophie Curtis have worked very hard with me to set and maintain those high standards and to ensure precise communication with everyone on site at every stage. “Winning a Quality Award is a significant achievement in itself, so being recognised as a site manager who excels and goes even beyond that high standard to receive a Seal of Excellence is immensely satisfying.” Anthony, who entered the construction industry as an apprentice joiner at the age of 17, previously won a Quality Award for his work at Bellway’s Abbey Heights development in Callerton, in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, in 2022. Bellway Durham Head of Construction Dan Ferguson said: “We are creating a development of 145 thoughtfully designed luxury homes within a historic country estate at Hedworths Green at Lambton Park, featuring 87 different elevations and 17 house styles. The construction of this development requires an exceptional site manager and in Anthony Church we have exactly that. “Congratulations go to Anthony and his team who have worked so hard to reach the standards required to achieve a Seal of Excellence.” To find out more about the homes being built by an award-winning site manager at Hedworths Green at Lambton Park, see https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/durham/hedworths-green-at-lambton-park. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals