Kirklees Council has approved funding for the second phase of its ambitious Huddersfield town centre regeneration programme, Our Cultural Heart. The decision was made at a Cabinet meeting on January 21, marking another milestone in the transformation of the town’s cultural and leisure offerings. Phase one of the project is
The Government Property Agency has appointed Mace to deliver the new headquarters of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) at the University of Reading Whiteknights campus. Appointed through the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework, Mace will be responsible for constructing the state-of-the-art building, which will serve as a
Croydon Council has announced a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the Purley Pool site, with revised proposals submitted for a new leisure centre, later living housing, and the regeneration of the surrounding area. A planning application for the site was initially submitted in 2024, proposing a mixed-use development featuring:
Stepnell has officially commenced refurbishment work on the first phase of transforming the historic Leamington Spa Town Hall into a modern creative hub. The project, undertaken for Warwick District Council, marks a major step in revitalising the landmark building, which was originally constructed in 1884. The refurbishment on the Leamington
Morgan Sindall Construction has officially started work on Mill Yard, a £180 million mixed-use development by Railpen and its development partner Socius. The project aims to transform a central Cambridge site into a sustainable, vibrant neighbourhood. Formerly known as Devonshire Gardens, the site was rebranded as Mill Yard in 2024,
Legal & General (L&G) has submitted a planning application for Bristol Temple Island, a £350m regeneration project that will transform the derelict, former diesel depot site into a vibrant urban quarter. Located in the heart of the Bristol Temple Quarter regeneration area, Temple Island is set to become a new
Clegg Construction has commenced work to deliver a new primary school near Burton upon Trent. Drakelow Primary School will be part of a 2,200-home residential estate currently under construction by Countryside Partnerships on the former Drakelow power station site. The 420-pupil primary school, being built on Marley Way, has been
Work on a major £19 million project to transform Wolverhampton city centre is set to begin this month. The improvements will focus on key areas including Lichfield Street, Queen Square, and Darlington Street, following extensive consultation with businesses, the public, and key stakeholders. The completed scheme will bring a range
The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) is set to consider and approve additional funding of £2 million so that construction of a new bridge at Fletton Quays can start this year. The request for funding will first be heard at the meeting of CPCA’s Investment Committee on Monday 13
The University of Salford has submitted a planning application for a cutting-edge Acoustics Building, poised to bring world-class research facilities to Crescent Salford’s rapidly developing innovation zone. The 1,300m² facility will house the university’s renowned Acoustics Department, consolidating its teaching, research, and commercial activities in a purpose-built environment. The new
Kirklees Council has approved funding for the second phase of its ambitious Huddersfield town centre regeneration programme, Our Cultural Heart. The decision was made at a Cabinet meeting on January 21, marking another milestone in the transformation of the town’s cultural and leisure offerings. Phase one of the project is already well underway, focusing on revitalising the former Queensgate Market. The space is being transformed into a vibrant community hub featuring a library, food hall, and a new public square designed for socialising and events. Plans for phase two, revealed earlier this year, aim to breathe new life into the historic four-storey former library building. One of Huddersfield’s most significant landmarks, it is set to become a state-of-the-art museum and art gallery. The plans include a 50-seat café with an outdoor terrace and a new extension designed to improve accessibility and connectivity with the surrounding outdoor space and the broader Our Cultural Heart development. Councillors approved the release of £5.413 million from the overall project budget to fund contractor procurement and detailed design for phase two. An additional £250,000 was allocated for a master plan study to explore future phases of the programme. This study will investigate how to deliver the remaining elements of Our Cultural Heart without requiring additional capital borrowing while ensuring the project’s overarching vision is maintained. The council also approved reallocating capital funding for specific services within the programme. This includes £371,000 to support the West Yorkshire Archive Service’s relocation to the new library and £50,000 for preparations for future events in the public square. The report accompanying the funding decision outlined service operating costs and the financial requirements for the interior design and functionality of the museum and gallery. While the Museum Service will seek external funding to cover the estimated £14.48 million cost, the council noted that funds might need to be reallocated from within the existing programme budget if external sources cannot be secured. Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Regeneration said: “Our Cultural Heart is our most ambitious regeneration programme, when completed it will bring a new, community-centred arts and leisure offer to the town, providing cultural activities to enjoy during the day and into the evening. “It will play a significant role in making Huddersfield a family-friendly, prosperous town centre which provides exciting places to live, work or visit. “As with all large regeneration schemes, there are hurdles to jump and challenges to overcome, a worldwide pandemic and wars in other countries have of course made things even more complex. This has meant we’ve had to continually assess our finances and prioritise spend that will lead to the successful delivery of the first phases of the scheme, whilst still allowing for exciting new developments in the future. “Releasing the funds demonstrates our commitment to delivering something everyone can be proud of and doing that in a way that delivers real changes on the ground in the next few years. “Regeneration is not just about bricks and mortar. Our ambition is to give local people and visitors more reasons to spend time in the town centre. By increasing footfall, and in turn commercial opportunities, our plans will also benefit existing and future businesses from all sectors. Thriving businesses in turn provide employment opportunities for our communities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Government Property Agency has appointed Mace to deliver the new headquarters of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) at the University of Reading Whiteknights campus. Appointed through the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework, Mace will be responsible for constructing the state-of-the-art building, which will serve as a global hub for weather and climate research. The new headquarters will feature a range of advanced facilities, including modern workspaces, meeting rooms, a lecture theatre, a council chamber, and an interactive weather room. The building’s design incorporates a strong emphasis on sustainability, with features such as optimised solar shading and energy-efficient systems to align with the 2030 LETI (Low Energy Transformation Initiative) standards for operational energy. This project marks a significant step forward in enhancing the capabilities of the ECMWF in its crucial work of providing accurate weather forecasts and climate information. Georgina Dunn, Interim Director of Capital Projects at the GPA, said: “The new ECMWF headquarters will not only advance capabilities in weather and climate research but also bring significant benefits to the local community. By prioritising both embodied and operational carbon reductions, this project exemplifies our commitment to both sustainable development and scientific innovation.” Located next to the University of Reading’s renowned Department of Meteorology, the new ECMWF headquarters will accommodate up to 300 scientists and staff to support world-leading work on all aspects of weather prediction systems, forecast production, and research into climate change. Rob Lemming, Managing Director, Public Sector and Life Sciences, Construction, UK at Mace, added: “This new state-of-the-art weather centre will be a global hub for scientists to advance numerical weather prediction and inform the fight against climate change. Our focus on sustainability and innovation for this project will help the new headquarters meet the highest environmental standards. “Every design decision has been driven by our commitment to reducing carbon emissions, in both operational and embodied carbon. This project exemplifies our dedication to creating a more sustainable future.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Croydon Council has announced a significant milestone in the redevelopment of the Purley Pool site, with revised proposals submitted for a new leisure centre, later living housing, and the regeneration of the surrounding area. A planning application for the site was initially submitted in 2024, proposing a mixed-use development featuring: Following feedback from public exhibitions, workshops, and the consultation process, the plans have been revised to enhance community amenities: The revised proposals for Purley Pool are open for public consultation until February 6, 2025. They will then be reviewed by Croydon Council’s Planning Committee, with final approval also requiring consent from the GLA. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Stepnell has officially commenced refurbishment work on the first phase of transforming the historic Leamington Spa Town Hall into a modern creative hub. The project, undertaken for Warwick District Council, marks a major step in revitalising the landmark building, which was originally constructed in 1884. The refurbishment on the Leamington town hall will focus on enhancing accessibility, safety, and functionality, ensuring the building serves as a community asset for years to come. The initial phase of the work includes crucial structural upgrades, such as renovations to the reception area, the installation of new toilet facilities, and the addition of a modern passenger lift. These improvements are designed to increase the building’s capacity while meeting current accessibility and safety standards. Sustainability is a core focus of the refurbishment, with Stepnell adhering to industry standards to recycle waste and reduce the environmental impact of the project. Locally sourced materials, including handmade and imperial bricks, will be used, further supporting conservation efforts and local supply chains. A unique aspect of the project is Stepnell’s commitment to protecting the peregrine falcons that have nested in the clock tower since 2017. Special noise-reduction methods and scaffolding screens are being implemented to safeguard the birds during the nesting season, ensuring minimal disruption to the local environment. In addition to the building work, the project will provide opportunities for local apprentices and trainees to gain valuable hands-on experience, further aligning with Stepnell’s commitment to social value and supporting the local community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Morgan Sindall Construction has officially started work on Mill Yard, a £180 million mixed-use development by Railpen and its development partner Socius. The project aims to transform a central Cambridge site into a sustainable, vibrant neighbourhood. Formerly known as Devonshire Gardens, the site was rebranded as Mill Yard in 2024, reflecting its prime location on Mill Road near the city centre. The development includes 110,000 square feet of office space, 70 build-to-rent apartments, refurbished railway cottages, a 2,100-square-foot crèche, a community events pavilion, and retail units set around a 1.55-acre public park. Mill Yard, situated near Cambridge train station, will feature extensive green spaces, including a central pavilion designed by George King Architects. The pavilion will anchor the public park, providing residents and visitors with accessible outdoor space. Additional amenities include a perimeter running track, a play street, and secure cycle parking with end-of-journey facilities, making it the only office development in Cambridge offering such features. Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project. Morgan Sindall has employed its Intelligent Solutions model to minimise environmental impact, aiming to divert 99% of waste from landfill and save 5,013 tonnes of embodied carbon. The completed buildings will be fully electric, powered by renewable energy sources, including rooftop photovoltaic (PV) panels, and will use responsibly sourced materials. Wildlife will also thrive in the regenerated area, with plans for a 280% biodiversity net gain. Enhancements include bat, bird, and bee boxes, green roofs, hedgehog habitats, and evergreen planters. The site will primarily be car-free, except for blue badge spaces and electric vehicle charging points. Railpen and Socius, in partnership with Morgan Sindall, have committed to generating over £60 million in social value for Cambridge, a target verified by Social Value Portal. Initiatives include employing 12 local homeless individuals, creating apprenticeship and work experience opportunities, and donating 500 volunteer hours. More than £30 million will be spent in the local supply chain to bolster the local economy. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Legal & General (L&G) has submitted a planning application for Bristol Temple Island, a £350m regeneration project that will transform the derelict, former diesel depot site into a vibrant urban quarter. Located in the heart of the Bristol Temple Quarter regeneration area, Temple Island is set to become a new urban district with centrally-located homes, high quality workplaces, and inclusive employment opportunities for the local knowledge economy, promoting innovation and economic growth. The development aims to deliver 520 new homes, two new office buildings, retail space, flexible workspace, and a new hotel with conference facilities, all of which are expected to create up to 2,000 new jobs. In addition to L&G’s commitment to deliver the national policy level of affordable housing, it is working in partnership with Bristol City Council, the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, and other public sector partners to deliver on its ambition to provide a truly inclusive community with 40% of all housing catering to social and affordable rents, shared ownership, and Keyworkers at sub-market rents. All of these housing needs were clear in L&G’s pre-planning engagement with local communities. Central to L&G’s approach to urban development and placemaking is a focus on long-term sustainability and social inclusion. All commercial buildings will target BREEAM1 Outstanding status, with excellent public realm that enhances biodiversity through planting and habitat creation, as well as creating new spaces people can enjoy. The scheme aspires to provide significant connectivity improvements to neighbouring areas and promote low carbon lifestyles by minimising car use with new pedestrian and cycle routes. Our public engagement has suggested that exemplary building design and inclusive public spaces are of key importance to the local community and potential occupiers. World-renowned architects Zaha Hadid have been engaged to design the masterplan and building concepts and are working with specialist architects LDA Design to consider the public and landscaped areas. Submission of the planning application follows a significant period of consultation, with three rounds of community and stakeholder engagement. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Clegg Construction has commenced work to deliver a new primary school near Burton upon Trent. Drakelow Primary School will be part of a 2,200-home residential estate currently under construction by Countryside Partnerships on the former Drakelow power station site. The 420-pupil primary school, being built on Marley Way, has been designed to be flexible in use and meet a range of requirements. Both the indoor and outdoor areas will maximise the learning experience, with classrooms flowing onto outdoor teaching spaces to allow for integration of inside and outside teaching, linking to the main play area. New sports facilities, including a 3G pitch, will be included, as well as a habitat area to provide forest school experiences. The scheme will also feature a 26-place nursery and a 45-space staff car park. Drakelow Primary School is the latest in a long line of educational establishments to be delivered by Clegg Construction and is due for completion by the end of 2025. Designed by multi-disciplinary consultants ONE Creative environments, working closely with Clegg Construction, the school is sustainably located at the heart of the housing development, and adjacent to the forthcoming local centre, where parking will be provided in the future. The building’s heating capacity will be met by externally mounted air source heat pumps and the school will benefit from underfloor heating fed from a low-temperature hot water system from the central heat pump plant. Michael Sims, managing director at Clegg Construction, said: “We are very pleased to have started on site to deliver this new primary school in South Derbyshire which will serve the community currently being developed on the site of the former Drakelow Power Station. “Drakelow Primary School is a welcome addition to our strong portfolio of design and build schemes delivered across the education sector, and we are delighted to be part of the team appointed to create this important addition to the local community.” Clegg Construction has recently completed a £13m expansion project at Carlton le Willows Academy in Gedling, Nottingham – a multi-phase project that was highly commended in the regional LABC (Local Authority Building Control) Building Excellence Awards. Educational construction projects currently being delivered by the company include a £13.5m Centre for Green Technology at Peterborough College and a £8.8m Future Tech Skills and Knowledge Exchange at West Nottinghamshire College. During the development of Drakelow Primary School, the project will be registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme and follow the CCS Code of Practice (Care for the Environment, Protect the Workforce, Respect the Community). Clegg Construction will also identify opportunities to engage with and enhance the local community and environment throughout its time on site. Plans are in place to minimise the impact of building work on those who already live in the area as well as newcomers moving into the new estate over the coming months; critical to this will be regular communication with the contractor leading the construction of the new homes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Work on a major £19 million project to transform Wolverhampton city centre is set to begin this month. The improvements will focus on key areas including Lichfield Street, Queen Square, and Darlington Street, following extensive consultation with businesses, the public, and key stakeholders. The completed scheme will bring a range of high-quality enhancements to the city, including wider, brighter, and safer streets, vibrant public event spaces, increased greenery, more seating, and improved access for buses, cycles, and taxis. The project aims to attract more visitors, boost spending with local businesses, and act as a catalyst for further investment. Additionally, it will contribute to creating a more pleasant environment, promoting healthy, city living lifestyles. This initiative is the third and final phase of the City of Wolverhampton Council’s city centre improvement programme. It follows the successful completion of schemes in the Victoria Street and University of Wolverhampton at The Halls areas. These areas have already seen an increase in footfall and economic activity, with events regularly staged in the newly revamped spaces. The changes have also attracted new investments, such as the upcoming opening of Superbowl UK at the Mander Centre off Victoria Street. Councillor Chris Burden, the council’s Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “We want people to enjoy our city centre from the moment they arrive, and this is the next step in our transformation plans that are delivering positive outcomes for businesses, residents and visitors. “Creating enhanced walking, cycling and dwell space, as well as infrastructure for events and attractions, and a better environment for city centre living is helping to boost the local economy. “The works will also complement other transformational development schemes already underway or in the pipeline in the city centre, including the £150 million Interchange and commercial district, and thousands of new homes coming at City Centre West and Canalside – all helping to create hundreds of new jobs and further investment opportunities.” The works will be carried out by contractor Taylor Woodrow in stages, with the entire scheme expected to last for 2 and a half years, including pauses in the works for key city centre events and during Christmas periods. The first works on Darlington Street, between Chapel Ash Island and Red Lion Street, will start in the week commencing 20 January and are expected to last for around 6 months, subject to weather conditions. They will involve excavation and installation of new paving on north and south footways. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) is set to consider and approve additional funding of £2 million so that construction of a new bridge at Fletton Quays can start this year. The request for funding will first be heard at the meeting of CPCA’s Investment Committee on Monday 13 January 2025. The CPCA’s Investment Committee will be asked to recommend the funding request, known as a change request, for approval at the Combined Authority Board in March. The project has received funding through Peterborough City Council’s successful Towns Fund bid, which secured £2m specifically for this initiative. Furthermore, £955,024 of developer contributions has been allocated, with the Combined Authority providing match funding. An additional £2m is now required to be able to begin construction for the following reasons: Following a successful public consultation, the bridge was named Cygnet Bridge and is a crucial infrastructure project to enhance connectivity and drive footfall to Fletton Quays, an area of the city which has seen a large amount of investment. Councillor Nick Thulbourn, Cabinet Member for Growth and Regeneration, said: “If the additional funding request is approved, it will be a critical step towards realising our future vision for Fletton Quays. “As the area develops, the need for a bridge will become increasingly apparent, especially with the addition of key projects like the Goods Shed. The bridge will serve as a cornerstone of the area’s development, providing essential infrastructure to better connect people. It is fantastic that we have been able to attract Government funding through the Towns Fund to help deliver such a vital project.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The University of Salford has submitted a planning application for a cutting-edge Acoustics Building, poised to bring world-class research facilities to Crescent Salford’s rapidly developing innovation zone. The 1,300m² facility will house the university’s renowned Acoustics Department, consolidating its teaching, research, and commercial activities in a purpose-built environment. The new building will replace the current acoustics facilities in the Newton Building on the Peel Park campus and will be located in the Innovation Quarter along Frederick Road. Morgan Sindall Construction, a long-time collaborator with the university, has been appointed to deliver the project. The initiative follows the commencement of work on Salford Rise in September and marks the second milestone in the Crescent Innovation redevelopment. The Crescent partnership, which includes the University of Salford, Salford City Council, and the English Cities Fund (ECF)—a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse—aims to drive economic growth and strengthen links between academia, research, and business. The Acoustics Building will feature state-of-the-art, all-electric infrastructure, including highly efficient building services, photovoltaic panels, and advanced acoustic testing chambers recessed into the floor slab for accessibility. Designed to meet the highest technical and measurement standards, the facility will support Salford’s global reputation in acoustics and sound engineering. A new entrance will provide an enhanced experience for students and industry users, while the building’s design targets a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, incorporating low-energy, low-carbon technologies to reduce its environmental impact. Situated on a former industrial site on Lissadel Street within the 29-acre Crescent Innovation area, the building represents a major step in the area’s transformation. If approved, construction is set to begin in summer 2025, with completion expected by spring 2027. The project underscores the university’s commitment to sustainability and innovation while contributing to the ongoing regeneration of Salford. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
