The latest instalment of refurbishment works on the historic Menai Suspension Bridge, ahead of the crossing’s bicentenary, has been completed. The Grade I structure, which was formed in 1826, is a crucial road link between mainland Wales and the Isle of Anglesey and is the second oldest suspension bridge in
Skanska has scooped a £197 million deal with a Grosvenor and Mitsui Fudosan UK joint venture to develop an office, retail and leisure space in Mayfair. The company will lead construction of two new category A office buildings that form part of the wider mixed-use redevelopment of South Molton in
Network Rail Property has announced updated plans for a major redevelopment of London Liverpool Street, aiming to transform it into a modernised hub that elevates the passenger experience and meets future demands. With over 100 million annual users, projected to exceed 140 million by 2050, the iconic station is set
GMI Construction has won a £50 million contract to build a major Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) complex in Bristol, marking its first significant residential project in the Southwest as it expands its Midlands-based operations. The 447-bed project, developed for Host, will consist of two new apartment blocks and a standalone
Crest Nicholson has received planning approval for 109 new homes as part of the latest expansion phase in the Meon Vale development, a large-scale residential project on the outskirts of the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon. The new homes will feature a variety of Crest Nicholson’s designs, including the ‘Filey’ and
Morgan Sindall has completed work at Southlands Hospital’s new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), with phase two of the project in Shoreham, Sussex, handed over. The facility, which initially opened in October 2023, will now be able to deliver a wider range of vital healthcare services in the heart of the
Railpen, manager of the £34bn railways pension scheme, has received approval from Oxford City Council to transform Eastpoint Business Park into a cutting-edge 200,000 sq ft life sciences campus. The redevelopment marks Railpen’s first venture into Oxford’s burgeoning life sciences sector, following its substantial investment in Cambridge’s innovation landscape. After
London Stadium is on track to become one of the most environmentally-friendly sports and concert venues globally as work begins on installing 6,500 square metres of solar membrane panels. This green initiative, known as the LLDC Solar Membrane Project, is the first to receive funding from the £500 million Mayor
Birchgrove has launched its fourth development and first in Greater London with the opening of Ayrton House in Mill Hill, North London. This new development offers 60 purpose-built one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments on the site of a former medical research institute. Residents can enjoy communal amenities such as a
The University of Warwick has announced a £700 million investment in its West Midlands campus as part of its Connect Programme, the largest single investment in the university’s 60-year history. This transformative initiative aims to enhance facilities for Social Sciences and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), fostering interdisciplinary education
The latest instalment of refurbishment works on the historic Menai Suspension Bridge, ahead of the crossing’s bicentenary, has been completed. The Grade I structure, which was formed in 1826, is a crucial road link between mainland Wales and the Isle of Anglesey and is the second oldest suspension bridge in the world still carrying vehicle traffic. Spencer Bridge Engineering, in collaboration with UK Highways A55 Ltd, completed the works which included replacing and painting 168 of the 208 wire rope hangers on the bridge, restoring the full structural integrity of the structure and removing the critical risk to public safety which forced it to close in October 2022. Project Manager Tom Inglis said: “The project posed a number of significant challenges, including working in a harsh environment with strong winds and wet weather, but we have a large and diverse skillset which enables us to draw on past experiences to develop solutions. “We have decades of experience working on a range of complex bridge and infrastructure projects, and with a very collaborative attitude, allowing us to utilise expertise from right across the team to deliver the most efficient and effective results. “One of the factors which made this project so successful was the close relationships we have developed over a number of years with the client, UK Highways A55 Limited, and our suppliers. Those relationships were especially important to deliver this challenging project on time.” Teams from Spencer have been carrying out a series of works over the past four years to revitalise the crossing ahead of its 200th anniversary year. After completing earlier projects, including the replacement of footpath panels and the installation of emergency fail-safes on the 417m-long bridge, Spencer Bridge Engineering’s expert team began the hanger replacement project in Autumn 2023 and recently completed the final hanger installation. To respect the heritage and historic features of the bridge, the team worked closely with suppliers throughout a rigorous period of development and testing to design the specially fabricated hangers and sockets. The hangers, which range in length from less than 1m to over 14m, were fabricated to a stringent specification, with an incredibly narrow length tolerance, by specialist Swiss steel manufacturer, Fatzer AG. Works were carried out to replace the historic hangers, which were installed when the bridge was reconstructed in 1938. To undertake the works, Spencer’s highly experienced bridges team also designed bespoke equipment, including a de-tensioning rig and pin pusher to safely remove the existing hangers while protecting the surrounding bridge structure. The completion of the hanger replacement programme to schedule marks a significant engineering achievement for the team given the complexity of the programme and the speed with which it needed to be designed, procurement and supply chain challenges, and adverse weather conditions over the works period. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Skanska has scooped a £197 million deal with a Grosvenor and Mitsui Fudosan UK joint venture to develop an office, retail and leisure space in Mayfair. The company will lead construction of two new category A office buildings that form part of the wider mixed-use redevelopment of South Molton in Mayfair, London, being led by Grosvenor and Mitsui Fudosan UK. The project involves the demolition of existing buildings and construction of two new office buildings at 60 Brook Street and 56 Davies Street, comprising 71,000 sq. ft and 78,000 sq. ft respectively. The project also involves the restoration of the Running Horse Pub, together with ground floor retail, restaurants, cafés and a basement gym, covering a total of 267,000 sq. ft. In addition to main construction in Mayfair, Skanska will deliver CAT A mechanical, electrical and public health (MEP) systems, including the site wide data network, security and smart building solution, with all phases of South Molton on track to complete in July 2027. Skanska has been working with the Grosvenor and Mitsui Fudosan UK JV since October 2022 to evolve the design and construction methodology for South Molton, including identifying sustainability and carbon reduction strategies. This process has reduced steel usage by 200 tonnes, with the re-use of existing steel elements, pre-fabrication of façades and in-situ construction of the concrete base slab all contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions. “We have enjoyed a fantastically collaborative working relationship with the Grosvenor and Mitsui Fudosan UK JV team over the past two years,” said Terry Muckian, Managing Director, Building. “This has led to a design and method of construction that reduces carbon and de-risks programme delivery in what is a complex working environment in the heart of London’s West End. “We have a long history and deep understanding of the London commercial office market and we are delighted to be continuing this with South Molton. “South Molton is an exciting development for this internationally recognised part of London and I know our team are really looking forward to playing their part in bringing it to life.” The building is targeting environmental standards BREEAM Outstanding for offices and Design for Performance to secure a NABERS 5* accreditation. It’s also targeting WiredScore Platinum certification, which recognises best-in-class digitally connected buildings across the globe. The state-of-the-art offices will feature world-class office design and facilities, including large modern floorplates, roof terraces, outstanding amenities and leading environmental credentials. At ground level, they will be activated by a dynamic mix of retail and food and beverage outlets alongside attractive, greener streets. Designed to complement the distinctive character of Mayfair, 56 Davies Street and 60 Brook Street will feature a mix of new and existing façades. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Network Rail Property has announced updated plans for a major redevelopment of London Liverpool Street, aiming to transform it into a modernised hub that elevates the passenger experience and meets future demands. With over 100 million annual users, projected to exceed 140 million by 2050, the iconic station is set to become a premier destination in its own right. The proposed transport-focused redesign includes expanded concourse areas, additional facilities, and improved accessibility features aimed at easing congestion and enhancing passenger convenience. Key upgrades include step-free access throughout the station and the London Underground, seven new lifts, and four additional escalators, doubling the current count. New entrances will be introduced on Liverpool Street, Bishopsgate, and Exchange Square, and the station will benefit from better signage, more ticket barriers, expanded waiting lounges, and family-friendly restrooms on each level. Aiming to meet diverse needs, the plans for London Liverpool Street also incorporate a wider range of dining and retail options, increased cycle storage with direct platform access, and ample space within the station for smoother navigation. This revised scheme, developed with architecture firm ACME, seeks to balance the operational demands of a 21st-century transport hub while respecting the station’s historic architecture. Following feedback on a 2023 proposal that met with opposition from heritage groups, Network Rail has made significant adjustments to ensure the redevelopment honours Liverpool Street’s architectural heritage, including its iconic 1864 design and 1991 reconfiguration. Network Rail Property is currently consulting with stakeholders to finalise a plan that preserves the station’s historic charm while delivering a world-class experience for passengers. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GMI Construction has won a £50 million contract to build a major Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) complex in Bristol, marking its first significant residential project in the Southwest as it expands its Midlands-based operations. The 447-bed project, developed for Host, will consist of two new apartment blocks and a standalone mixed-use building designed around an open courtyard. Situated in the Temple Meads Quarter on the former site of Chanson Foods, the development will sit just 200 meters from Bristol Temple Meads railway station, offering close proximity to the new Bristol University Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus and a view of the Floating Harbour. Renowned architecture firm Chapman Taylor designed the project in partnership with Bristol City Council. With a two-year construction timeline, the project is expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2026 academic year. Adam Taylor, GMI Construction’s Regional Director in the Midlands, said: “We are exceptionally proud to secure this major project with Host, which will deliver much needed, high-quality, additional student accommodation in the centre of Bristol. This project also strengthens GMI’s credentials in the construction of multi-occupancy developments, particularly in the student accommodation sector, and our expansion into new regions of the UK.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Crest Nicholson has received planning approval for 109 new homes as part of the latest expansion phase in the Meon Vale development, a large-scale residential project on the outskirts of the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon. The new homes will feature a variety of Crest Nicholson’s designs, including the ‘Filey’ and the ‘Windsor’ house types, providing a mix of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes. Each unit will come equipped with sustainable technology, including photovoltaic (PV) solar panels and Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points, underscoring Crest Nicholson’s commitment to energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Significantly, 40% of the homes in the phase have been allocated for affordable housing. The breakdown includes 29 units set aside for affordable rent, along with nine homes available through shared ownership, offering more accessible homeownership opportunities to local residents and contributing to the area’s affordable housing stock. Tim Brickley, Managing Director for Crest Nicholson Midlands commented: “We are delighted to have secured planning permission to deliver much needed, energy efficient homes within the village. Being able to offer 40% of the development as affordable housing is an important step in making home ownership more accessible and we look forward to providing high quality new homes that will contribute to the vibrant, sustainable community of Meon Vale.” The Marston Leys development will introduce a new phase to the rural, self-sufficient village of Meon Vale. Once a Ministry of Defence site, Meon Vale has transformed into a thriving community complete with a school, sports fields, playgrounds, a skate park, and leisure and community centres. Work is anticipated to start in early 2025 with the first homes due for completion towards the end of the year. Located on the edge of the Cotswolds, Meon Vale also benefits from being joined to Stratford’s flagship cycle and footpath, which sweeps through the village and continues to Stratford town centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Morgan Sindall has completed work at Southlands Hospital’s new Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC), with phase two of the project in Shoreham, Sussex, handed over. The facility, which initially opened in October 2023, will now be able to deliver a wider range of vital healthcare services in the heart of the local community. The project was procured via SCAPE, one of the UK’s leading procurement specialists, on behalf of the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust. The work involved the strip-out and demolition of a previous structure, with the new facility housing four state-of-the-art ultrasound rooms, two dedicated echo treatment rooms, two lung function testing rooms, and a specialised gynaecological treatment area. The project also included the strategic reconfiguration of an existing X-ray section. Complementing these clinical spaces, the CDC incorporated various ancillary facilities such as waiting areas, cleaning stations, restrooms, a welcoming reception area, office spaces, and medical storage facilities. The new facility is part of the government’s scheme to deliver more community-based facilities. Statistics show patients have already benefited from over 7 million tests, checks and scans via CDC funding across England. Since opening, more than 60,000 patients have already been seen at Southlands CDC. As part of Morgan Sindall’s commitment to social value generation and upskilling the next generation of construction professionals, its team supported two local T-Level students during the construction activity. The team also arranged several trips for students from nearby Northbrook College to visit the project at various times throughout the development. Additionally, Morgan Sindall supported a work starter from the local area by employing them as an operative on site. To assist the team’s physical wellbeing, several health sessions were arranged to check on cholesterol, prostate cancer, thyroid testing and blood pressure. Guy Hannell, Area Director for Morgan Sindall in the Southern Home Counties, said: “The completion of phase two at Southlands Hospital’s new CDC marks a significant moment, as it will bring significant healthcare benefits to the local community. Having this state-of-the-art facility on their doorstep provides the people living and working in Shoreham with a high-quality diagnostic service that will help to better assess those in critical need while reducing waiting times. “The collaborative, innovative relationship that we’ve developed with University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust and SCAPE has been central to this project’s success. In addition, at Morgan Sindall we’ve delivered numerous CDCs around the country and so have been able to leverage this expertise and experience on this project. This has ensured that the completed facility is tailored to the needs of patients, clinicians and stakeholders.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Railpen, manager of the £34bn railways pension scheme, has received approval from Oxford City Council to transform Eastpoint Business Park into a cutting-edge 200,000 sq ft life sciences campus. The redevelopment marks Railpen’s first venture into Oxford’s burgeoning life sciences sector, following its substantial investment in Cambridge’s innovation landscape. After acquiring Eastpoint in 2023, Railpen aims to create a flagship laboratory and office hub that will cater to the growing demand for life sciences spaces. This project is part of Railpen’s larger strategy to establish an innovation cluster across the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, which includes notable developments like Devonshire Gardens and Botanic Place in Cambridge. These projects are designed to foster long-term economic and social benefits in both cities while generating strong returns for the pension scheme’s members. The redevelopment plan, designed by Scott Brownrigg, features three four-story laboratory buildings and a single-story amenity building, offering a mix of 55% CL2 laboratories and 45% office space. This flexible layout will accommodate a variety of tenants, encouraging advanced research and collaboration. The site, located just two miles southeast of Oxford city centre and close to Oxford Business Park and Oxford Science Park, places it in a prime position for life sciences innovation. In addition to providing cutting-edge facilities, the project will enhance the public realm, with an emphasis on pedestrian-friendly design, active ground floors, and high-quality public amenities. Railpen’s vision includes fostering stronger ties with the local community through initiatives such as a “Learning Lab,” where local students can access state-of-the-art facilities and connect with STEM professionals. The campus will also feature a publicly accessible café, social hub, and green space, creating a vibrant communal hub for both workers and residents. With construction set to begin, the Eastpoint redevelopment is poised to become a key centre for life sciences in Oxford, further cementing Railpen’s role in shaping the region’s innovation landscape. Railpen is targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, WELL, Wired and Smart Platinum ratings for the development, as well as Cycle Score Platinum. Additional features will include a ‘Travel and Energy hub’ to promote sustainable travel and pocket parks to enhance user wellbeing. The latest intelligent building technologies, renewable energy, and biodiverse balconies and roofscapes will reduce embodied carbon and enhance biodiversity. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
London Stadium is on track to become one of the most environmentally-friendly sports and concert venues globally as work begins on installing 6,500 square metres of solar membrane panels. This green initiative, known as the LLDC Solar Membrane Project, is the first to receive funding from the £500 million Mayor of London’s Green Finance Fund, which provides low-cost financing to help public sector bodies accelerate the city’s decarbonisation and transition to Net Zero. The £4.35 million project will enable the stadium to cut over 200 tonnes of carbon emissions annually and generate enough energy to power all of its major events. The solar energy produced is expected to provide 850,000 kWh per year, which will cover the power needs for approximately 20 football matches, four concerts, two MLB games, and one international athletics event. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions at London Stadium. In addition to the solar panels, energy-saving measures include LED lighting upgrades, improvements to chillers and air handling systems, and energy-efficient kiosks. Stadium staff are also being encouraged to adopt energy-saving practices. These combined efforts will reduce the stadium’s energy consumption by 1.9 million kWh by March 2025, with the solar panels expected to further reduce usage by 0.8 million kWh annually, cutting electricity costs by 10%-15%. By 2026, the stadium will have reduced its reliance on the national grid by 3 million kWh, lowering its annual energy draw from 11.5 million kWh to 8.5 million. Ameresco, a leading energy service company specialising in cleantech and renewable energy infrastructure, has been awarded the contract to install, operate, and maintain the solar membrane panels. The stadium’s roof design has been adapted by Populous, the original architect of the venue for the 2012 Olympics, to accommodate the lightweight thin-film photovoltaic (PV) panels while ensuring compliance with fire regulations. The installation, set for completion by summer 2025, will make London Stadium the Premier League ground with the largest solar array, positioning it as a leader in sustainability for major sporting and entertainment events. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Birchgrove has launched its fourth development and first in Greater London with the opening of Ayrton House in Mill Hill, North London. This new development offers 60 purpose-built one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments on the site of a former medical research institute. Residents can enjoy communal amenities such as a restaurant, club room, licensed bar, wellness suite, and landscaped gardens. The acquisition of Ayrton House in September last year marked the beginning of Birchgrove’s expansion into Greater London. The company is also moving forward with plans for additional developments, including a 50-apartment complex in Chiswick, West London, where planning permission has been secured, and another in the Hampton Court Estate near Hampton Court Palace in Richmond. Honor Barratt, Chief Executive of Birchgrove, said: “Birchgrove is going from strength to strength and we’re excited to have our fourth development now open, particularly as it is our very first in London, where we know demand for senior living is especially high. “It’s a common misconception among some sectors that once they get older, people want to move to the country or live by the seaside. Surveys frequently show that many retired people want to live in the bustling Capital with all its cultural attractions and this is particularly true for those who’ve lived there a long time. “We know from previous research that many older Londoners live in homes far too big for them, with over-75s in the Capital typically having at least twice the number of bedrooms they need. “In a city with such a tight housing market, freeing up some of these homes could contribute to improving the overall housing situation across many demographics. “Many older people would be interested in moving to smaller properties if more suitable local options were on offer. By providing a thriving community as we open our first London development, we’re hoping we can attract more of these people into our development and eventually, roll out more London communities for those who want to continue to live in the Capital but without the burden of maintaining a property too large for them.” A report released by Age Concern in September last year revealed there were 1.4 million people aged over 60 living in London and that this group was the fastest growing demographic in the Capital. Of these, 59% felt positive about living in London, rising to 64% of those aged 75 and over. The report also found that many Londoners had deep connections to the area, with 76% reporting being happy with their family and community connections and only 16% often feeling lonely. The report also found that 70% of older Londoners owned their own home. However, many of those homes are underoccupied and could be put to better use if older Londoners had more suitable options for downsizing. Previous research carried out by Professor Les Mayhew of the International Longevity Centre and Bayes Business School found that over-75s in the capital had more than twice the number of bedrooms they needed, while those aged 65-74 had 70% more bedrooms than necessary. Birchgrove’s new Mill Hill apartments are exclusively available to independently minded people in later life. In keeping with other Birchgrove developments, all of the residences are future proof, with level-access bathrooms, wider-than-standard doorways and lifts. In addition, all Ayrton House apartments have been fitted with Nobi smart lights. These AI-driven intelligent lights are designed to detect, help prevent and even predict falls among occupants. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Warwick has announced a £700 million investment in its West Midlands campus as part of its Connect Programme, the largest single investment in the university’s 60-year history. This transformative initiative aims to enhance facilities for Social Sciences and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), fostering interdisciplinary education and research. The first phase of the investment, called the STEM Connect Programme, will create cutting-edge facilities, including new teaching spaces and laboratories, designed to bolster the university’s world-leading research and education programmes. The facilities will cater to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, enhancing learning opportunities and supporting innovative research. Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Warwick, highlighted the programme’s long-term vision: “The Connect Programme demonstrates how we are fostering curiosity and creativity, equipping our students, researchers, and partners to tackle the urgent global challenges of today and tomorrow.” Professor Mark Williams, Academic Director for the STEM Connect Programme, said: “Through the STEM Connect Programme, Warwick will maintain its position as a global powerhouse for STEM research and education, creating partnerships to address the world’s pressing challenges.” Beyond education, the Connect Programme is set to create over 1,500 construction-related jobs and foster collaboration with businesses, local authorities, and communities across the West Midlands and beyond, contributing to the UKs knowledge economy. The programme also aims to attract the world’s brightest students and build on Warwick’s history of pioneering research, from medical innovations to addressing social isolation as a human rights issue. Further announcements regarding the Social Sciences Connect Programme are expected later this year. Construction for the STEM Connect Programme is expected to commence over the coming 12 months. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
