Barratt London and Places for London have exchanged contracts on a new development site in High Barnet. This is the second project unlocked by the West London Partnership, a collaboration established in June 2024 to deliver over 4,000 new homes across West London. The High Barnet development will deliver approximately
Bellway Strategic Land has submitted a planning application to Durham County Council for a 149-home extension to the Seaham Garden Village development. The proposed development includes open space and wildlife improvements. Bellway conducted a public consultation process over the summer to gather feedback on the plans. Martyn Earle, Strategic Land
GRAHAM has been awarded a contract to design and build the first phase of the Cardiff Crossrail project. The ambitious project aims to transform Cardiff’s transport infrastructure. As part of an early contractor involvement (ECI) deal, GRAHAM will work closely with Cardiff Council and Transport for Wales to optimise the
Bishop Auckland new bus station is taking shape as the building’s steel frame reaches completion. Marking a key construction milestone on the project, more than 120 hot rolled steel girders weighing a total of 23.49 tonne have been installed. The steel was fabricated less than two miles from the development
The UK’s newest planetarium is nearing completion at the Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire. Funded by the UK Government, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and other generous donors, the £6.8 million project is set to be finished by the end of November. The planetarium will feature a ten-metre diameter hemispherical
McLaren Construction has commenced works at the first UK industrial scheme in the East Midlands for a joint venture with Garbe Industrial Real Estate GmbH and Invesco Real Estate. McLaren will oversee all aspects of construction for the £30 million project located in Shireoaks, Worksop – in the prime East
Pennyfarthing Homes has unveiled an exceptional collection of one- and two-bedroom apartments at Oakwood Grove, a modern development offering affordable homes through the Government-backed First Homes scheme, now available via Dorset Council. Located in the scenic rural village of Alderholt, Oakwood Grove provides the perfect blend of countryside charm and
A major step forward has been made in the development of Battery Green, a multi-million-pound cultural and community hub in Lowestoft. The project, one of five transformational regeneration projects in the town, has secured Morgan Sindall Construction as the contractor to deliver the build. Battery Green is set to become
Watkin Jones, a leading UK residential developer and manager, has announced the practical completion of its 214-apartment build-to-rent (BTR) scheme in Randalls Way, Leatherhead. The development, known as The Oakgate, was forward-funded by Get Living. The scheme comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, including 36 affordable homes.
Clarion Housing Group has celebrated the start of construction on a new affordable housing project at 42 Station Road in Colliers Wood, Merton. This development will provide 98 high-quality, energy-efficient homes for social rent, aimed at enhancing the lives of local families. To mark this significant milestone, Brian Ham, Project
Barratt London and Places for London have exchanged contracts on a new development site in High Barnet. This is the second project unlocked by the West London Partnership, a collaboration established in June 2024 to deliver over 4,000 new homes across West London. The High Barnet development will deliver approximately 300 new homes, including 40% affordable housing. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and complete by 2029. The project will also include small-scale commercial units to enhance the station area. The West London Partnership, a significant collaboration between Places for London and Barratt London, aims to unlock 60 acres of underutilized land in West London. The partnership will deliver 50% affordable homes across its various projects, contributing to the region’s housing supply. In addition to housing, the partnership will deliver commercial space and create jobs. It also includes a commitment to training and development, with £1.5 million allocated to support young people’s careers in construction. The partnership prioritises sustainability, aiming to achieve high standards in building quality and environmental performance. Craig Carson, Managing Director at Barratt West London, commented: “We are proud to be appointed by Places for London as their formal development partner for the West London Partnership, building 4,000 new homes over the next decade. There is strength in our partnership, which is borne from an alignment of vision and values together to deliver the next generation of homes in a way that speaks to London’s unique housing needs. “Each site within the partnership has been specially selected to bring forward underused land with excellent transport links and put it back into use for the public benefit, including delivering public realm. London is in urgent need of more homes, and by taking a collaborative approach with Places for London, we can accelerate the delivery of these high quality sustainable new homes as well as investing in local communities.” Jonathan Cornelius, Head of Property Development at Places for London, added: “The West London Partnership will build on our work to date, and have a positive legacy by building thoughtfully-designed, thriving, and connected neighbourhoods for London. Through working with Barratt London, we have already delivered high quality, affordable housing to hundreds of Londoners so far and we will continue to work towards our wider aim of delivering more than 20,000 homes across London over the next decade, with 4,000 of them being built through this partnership alone. “We’re delighted to move forward with our proposals to build much-needed homes in High Barnet through the West London Partnership. Our plans for this new development will revitalise the area for new and existing residents by enhancing the station area with new amenities and building 300 new homes which London urgently needs.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bellway Strategic Land has submitted a planning application to Durham County Council for a 149-home extension to the Seaham Garden Village development. The proposed development includes open space and wildlife improvements. Bellway conducted a public consultation process over the summer to gather feedback on the plans. Martyn Earle, Strategic Land Director, said: “Expanding Seaham Garden Village represents a practical approach towards meeting the area’s housing needs and our proposals will make a logical extension to the project. Bringing more homes to the area would make any additional local services within Seaham Garden Village – such as shops, schools and community facilities – more viable. “Our proposals would bring a wide variety of properties to this sustainable and growing residential area. These would be high-quality and energy-efficient homes, all featuring electric vehicle charging points and solar panels as standard. “The landscaping plans would create areas of open space for residents to enjoy, as well as improving the biodiversity of the site by more than 10 per cent. “The land is not currently allocated for any specific purpose in the Durham Local Plan, but we know that the Local Plan is supportive of development taking place on unallocated sites such as this if it meets the relevant criteria. “We believe this development would create a positive and attractive addition to the original Seaham Garden Village project.” The development plan features a range of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes including houses and bungalows. There would be 127 properties for private sale and 22 affordable homes for low-cost rent or shared ownership, while a total of 98 properties have been designed as accessible and adaptable homes. If the plans are approved, the development will be accessed from a new roundabout on the A182. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
GRAHAM has been awarded a contract to design and build the first phase of the Cardiff Crossrail project. The ambitious project aims to transform Cardiff’s transport infrastructure. As part of an early contractor involvement (ECI) deal, GRAHAM will work closely with Cardiff Council and Transport for Wales to optimise the design and construction process. The first phase of the project will involve building a new tramway between Cardiff Central Station and Cardiff Bay. The route will pass through Callaghan Square and run alongside the existing Cardiff Bay Line. The project will also include the construction of new platforms at Cardiff Central and Cardiff Bay stations, as well as significant highway modifications and public space improvements. The Welsh and UK Governments have jointly committed £100 million to fund the initial phase of the tram project. Cardiff Council has also appointed consultants to manage the project’s programme and costs. Andrew Henry, GRAHAM Contracts Director said: “We are delighted to be part of such a transformative project for Cardiff. The tram system that will significantly enhance connectivity and support sustainable urban development. “The team will be working to minimise impact to the public and road users, especially around Callaghan Square, as we integrate the tramline and associated systems with the highway. We look forward to collaborating with Cardiff Council and Transport for Wales to bring this vision to fruition”. A Cardiff Council spokesperson said: “It is great news that we have had the funding confirmed from both the UK and Welsh Government. This means that the detailed work can now begin, with the detailed design set to be complete by Autumn 2025 and work on the ground due to start at the end of next year. “During the contract, the Council and TfW will be working closely with the GRAHAM Group to secure the best possible social value for the contract, by creating jobs, apprenticeships and training opportunities for local people. Under the current programme of works, the construction could be complete by early 2028, with trams running on the track from later that year. “The Cardiff Crossrail is an ambitious plan to deliver Cardiff’s new tram transport system which will eventually run from the northwest of the city, all the way to the east of the city connecting with the proposed Parkway Station. Following further funding opportunities, we intend to provide a cross-city tram service that is affordable and reliable for the public to use, and to connect some of Cardiff’s poorest communities to the rail network for the first time. “To start this process, the first phase of the scheme must be built between Cardiff Central and Cardiff Bay. This will finally ensure that Butetown is properly connected to the city centre, via Cardiff Central, providing further capacity for residents and visitors to access the wide range of attractions that Cardiff has to offer.” The detailed design phase is set to be completed by Autumn 2025, with construction work commencing at the end of next year. Under the current programme, construction is expected to be completed by early 2028, with trams operational later that year. The Cardiff Crossrail project is a key component of Cardiff’s new tram transport system, which will eventually extend from the northwest to the east of the city, connecting with the proposed Parkway Station. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Bishop Auckland new bus station is taking shape as the building’s steel frame reaches completion. Marking a key construction milestone on the project, more than 120 hot rolled steel girders weighing a total of 23.49 tonne have been installed. The steel was fabricated less than two miles from the development by South Durham Structures Ltd. The bus station – which is being delivered by Esh Construction on behalf of Durham County Council – will offer modern and accessible facilities to passengers. Sustainable technologies to boost the building’s environmental credentials feature within the design, including solar photo voltaic panels on the roof, a rainwater harvesting and re-use system and a Sedum green living roof to promote biodiversity. Durham County Council’s deputy leader, Cllr Richard Bell, learnt more about the work being undertaken during a site tour. He said: “It was great to have a tour of the site and see how well the construction of Bishop Auckland’s new bus station is progressing. “The new bus station is a key part of our regeneration plans for Bishop Auckland to bring new life to the town centre and make it a thriving place to live, work and visit. When complete, the station will be a modern transport hub that will attract more visitors to the town, address shortages in car parking and increase town centre footfall, helping to support the area’s businesses.” The bus station will include eight stands and improved passenger information alongside a retail kiosk, toilet facilities, a changing places unit, and a parent and child facility. Alongside it there will be a new 124 space car park which will include 22 electric vehicle (EV) charging points, high quality paving, street lighting, landscaping and cycle stands. The development forms part of the council’s wider plans to regenerate Bishop Auckland town centre through a range of leisure and recreation projects, including the repurposing and reopening of vacant properties and improving public spaces. Esh Construction first commenced a package of enabling works on the site in February this year, with the existing hard surface having to be excavated and cleared to pave the way for the new building. The station is set to open in winter 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The UK’s newest planetarium is nearing completion at the Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire. Funded by the UK Government, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and other generous donors, the £6.8 million project is set to be finished by the end of November. The planetarium will feature a ten-metre diameter hemispherical screen and state-of-the-art projectors, offering immersive experiences of the solar system and beyond. With 59 seats and accessible facilities, the planetarium is designed to inspire and educate visitors of all ages. Multi-disciplinary consultancy Pick Everard is providing project and cost management services for this exciting development, which will transform the Sherwood Observatory into a leading regional education and exhibition space. Nick Hanson, associate cost manager at Pick Everard, said: “This is an exciting project that is contributing positively to the local area with a world leading science and education facility. “The Sherwood Observatory is of huge historical significance and draws on our expertise of delivering high quality visitor attractions, with protected elements sensitively treated and managed through robust stakeholder management plans. “Our team is fully invested in helping deliver this unique undertaking, which will have a transformative impact on regional tourism and economy drives.” Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson delivered the construction works for the multi-million pound planetarium – completing pre-construction design and planning through SCAPE’s Beyond the Public Sector Framework. Jason Ainsworth, framework construction manager at G F Tomlinson, said: “We feel very privileged to be part of such an exciting and unique project in the region, and once finished, the state-of-the-art centre promises to be a pivotal tourism and educational hub. “Alongside attracting thousands of visitors to the region and raising awareness of the local area and history of the site, it also provides opportunities for STEM careers for future generations to come. This was made possible due to our early involvement and collaborative working with the client team and consultants, facilitated through the SCAPE Beyond the Public sector Framework.” The new planetarium design incorporates the existing Victorian subterranean reservoir, which will see its original features, such as the intricate brick arches, kept to preserve the history of the building. The ambitious plans for the site aim to create a unique, world-class facility that will rival those elsewhere in the UK. Councillor Matthew Relf, executive lead member for regeneration, growth and local planning at Ashfield District Council, said: “It is wonderful to see construction of the new planetarium and science centre nearing completion. It has been a monumental effort by all involved. “It will be a fantastic place for schools and youth groups as well as individuals and families to come and see shows about space and science. We know this will light the fire and passion for future scientists and engineers in the area. “It has been a privilege to be part of the journey of seeing this move from an initial pitched idea while walking around the dark Victoria water tank, to securing the funding and now seeing the space transformed into a modern and exciting facility. I could not be more excited to see my first show in the finished planetarium. “This really will be an incredible asset for the district and broader region and will inspire so many people with the wonders of space and inspire many onto new and exciting careers.” Steve Wallace, planetarium project manager and chairman at Sherwood Observatory, said: “This is going to be a cutting-edge facility and it has been fascinating to work on. We are now moving to the next stage where a specialist planetarium creator is on site transforming the dome. “It is a very unique bit of software that offers theatrical shows and give visitors an immersive tour of the solar system where they can go from planet to planet and then out into the wider Milky Way and Universe.” The planetarium at Sherwood Observatory is the latest development Pick Everard has worked on in the region, following the recent opening of a new ‘Green Heart’ space as part of the £2 billion Broad Marsh regeneration project in Nottingham city centre. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
McLaren Construction has commenced works at the first UK industrial scheme in the East Midlands for a joint venture with Garbe Industrial Real Estate GmbH and Invesco Real Estate. McLaren will oversee all aspects of construction for the £30 million project located in Shireoaks, Worksop – in the prime East Midlands logistics district, including associated access roads and landscaping features. With a 45-week completion target, works will include the design and build of two new industrial units totalling approximately 550,000 sq. ft across 28.9 acres, alongside the construction of S38 works, and a private access road that will form the main access into the site and adjacent plot. The site is easily accessed from the A57 and located in equal distance to the major A1 and M1 motorway links, with the major cities of Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham and Sheffield reachable within less than two hours. Soft landscaping, turfing and planting has been undertaken as part of the initial grounds and landscape works and complex aspects of the build will include the S38 carriageway to an adoptable standard throughout the site, alongside the implementation of a culvert drainage system. In keeping with the environmental and landscape specifications, the build will include green cladding of varying shades alongside glazing and ribbon windows to allow natural optimised lighting to all warehouse areas. McLaren Construction Midlands and North demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability by integrating recycled components from previous demolitions, using available materials from the groundwork that can be crushed and re-used, alongside connecting to the site’s Mains Power thereby eliminating the need for generators and fuel. This approach will not only contribute to the scheme’s BREEAM Rating of Excellent and EPC rating of A+, but it will also extend to McLaren’s efforts to enhance local ecology. The team has worked alongside the client to ensure satisfaction with pre-commencement planning conditions, and enabling works were undertaken during bird nesting season, with an ecologist appointed to oversee the process. The contractor has meticulously planned the development to minimise environmental impact, enhance biodiversity, and target additional BREEAM points for ecological enhancements. Gary Cramp, managing director of McLaren Construction (Midlands and North), said: “We are honoured to be working alongside Garbe and Invesco Real Estate as part of a joint venture for the first industrial and logistics scheme in the UK – contributing to the expansion of the companies’ UK and European logistics portfolio. “Bringing our experience delivering exceptional quality sustainable industrial and logistics builds, and with the prime Midlands location of the site, the scheme is well positioned to support the operational growth needs of businesses across a variety of sectors.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Pennyfarthing Homes has unveiled an exceptional collection of one- and two-bedroom apartments at Oakwood Grove, a modern development offering affordable homes through the Government-backed First Homes scheme, now available via Dorset Council. Located in the scenic rural village of Alderholt, Oakwood Grove provides the perfect blend of countryside charm and contemporary living. These apartments are available at a 30% discount off market value for essential workers, making homeownership significantly more accessible. Designed to foster a vibrant new community, the homes aim to offer an aspirational lifestyle at an affordable price. Set for completion in early summer 2025, the First Homes scheme presents a unique opportunity for first-time buyers to secure a foothold on the property ladder. Pennyfarthing Homes will support buyers through the application process, with dedicated sales advisors available to guide them through the final steps. The apartments at Oakwood Grove feature flexible layouts ideal for contemporary lifestyles. Each home boasts an open-plan kitchen and living area, perfect for hosting gatherings or spending quality time with family. Available in one- and two-bedroom configurations, some ground-floor apartments include their own front doors, enhancing privacy and convenience. The exterior design combines traditional red brickwork with modern grey weatherboarding, creating a sophisticated terraced aesthetic. Sustainability is central to the development, with air-source heat pump cylinders providing efficient heating and EV charging points installed in parking areas. These features meet the latest environmental standards, paving the way for greener living. Nestled in a prime East Dorset location, Oakwood Grove is surrounded by picturesque countryside and offers easy access to the renowned New Forest National Park, just a short drive away. The bustling city of Salisbury is 30 minutes away, while Bournemouth’s stunning coastline can be reached in 25 minutes, providing residents with a perfect balance of rural tranquility and urban convenience. The development includes a Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) with woodland trails connecting to existing paths in Alderholt, encouraging outdoor exploration. A landscaped play area is also being created, fostering a sense of community for families with young children. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A major step forward has been made in the development of Battery Green, a multi-million-pound cultural and community hub in Lowestoft. The project, one of five transformational regeneration projects in the town, has secured Morgan Sindall Construction as the contractor to deliver the build. Battery Green is set to become a vibrant new destination, featuring studio space for creative businesses, a restaurant, and a civic square. The project received £24.9 million in funding from the Government’s Towns Fund in 2022. Before construction commences in January 2025, Morgan Sindall will collaborate with the project’s architects, Chaplin Farrant, to finalise the technical designs. Cllr Tim Wilson, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Economic Development and Regeneration said: “We are pleased to award the construction contract for Battery Green to Morgan Sindall and to see the progression of this exciting multi-million-pound development in the centre of Lowestoft. Battery Green will provide residents and visitors with a vibrant new space offering leisure and dining facilities and space for creative businesses. Battery Green is just one of several major regeneration projects underway across the town which will attract more visitors and businesses to the area and enhance the town for the benefit of local residents.” Jess Asato, MP for Lowestoft said: “Battery Green’s redevelopment marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts to revitalize Lowestoft. This project, alongside others, demonstrates our commitment to enhancing the town’s vibrancy and economy, inviting both locals and tourists to rediscover Lowestoft. “Together with the town’s collective regeneration efforts, Battery Green will breathe new life into our high street, transforming it into a welcoming space that will boost business, enrich our cultural scene, and help restore Lowestoft’s charm for future generations.” Alister Broadberry, Area Director for Morgan Sindall Construction in the Eastern Counties, said:”We are delighted to have been appointed to deliver the Battery Green redevelopment project in Lowestoft, as this project will play a crucial role in rejuvenating the town centre and creating a vibrant hub for the community. Our team is committed to working collaboratively with East Suffolk Council and Chaplin Farrant to create a space that fosters creativity, supports local businesses, and enhances the quality of life for the area’s residents.” Last month, local company P.J. Spillings was awarded the contract for the demolition of the northern wing of East Suffolk Council’s former Marina Customer Services Centre and internal alterations to the remainder of the building to create a repurposed space for the creative sector. The partial demolition of the former multi-storey car park is due to be completed by mid-December. Battery Green is due for completion in the spring of 2026. The Battery Green development is just one of many regenerative projects underway in the town, with work progressing on improvements at Royal Plain, Royal Green and South Quay Wharf and on a new seafront complex at Jubilee Parade. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Watkin Jones, a leading UK residential developer and manager, has announced the practical completion of its 214-apartment build-to-rent (BTR) scheme in Randalls Way, Leatherhead. The development, known as The Oakgate, was forward-funded by Get Living. The scheme comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, including 36 affordable homes. As the first BTR development in Leatherhead, The Oakgate is a significant addition to the local housing market. Residents will benefit from the development’s prime location, with easy access to Leatherhead’s shops, restaurants, and nearby attractions such as Leatherhead Park, the River Mole Nature Reserve, and Box Hill. The Oakgate boasts strong environmental credentials, having achieved a Home Quality Mark ‘Level 3’ certification. Sustainable features include air source heat pumps, an enterprise car club, and EV charging points. The development also offers two landscaped courtyards, a children’s play area, and additional play spaces. The scheme is well-connected, with Leatherhead railway station just a short walk away, providing direct train services to Central London in under an hour. Richard Harris, Group Delivery, Managing Director – Group Delivery, Watkin Jones, said: “We are proud to have worked closely with Get Living to deliver Leatherhead’s first BTR development. Together, we have successfully created homes that are not only exceptional places to live for families now but are also built with sustainability and long-term community benefits in mind. “This exemplifies Watkin Jones’ outstanding track record as the UK’s leading developer and manager of residential for rent. By introducing Build to Rent into new locations, we are addressing the urgent need for housing supply during a critical time of shortage.” Rick de Blaby, Chief Executive at Get Living commented: “With new homes for rent in high demand across the country, the practical completion of The Oakgate in Leatherhead is an important milestone as we prepare to launch this new neighbourhood. We have worked closely with Watkin Jones for several years to get to this point, with a shared vision of bringing forward schemes that deliver homes that are high-quality and sustainable for an increasingly broad demographic of renters. “In touching distance of both London and the Surrey countryside, the launch of The Oakgate will bring the benefits of BTR to Leatherhead for the first time, and we’re looking forward to welcoming our first residents in the coming months.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Clarion Housing Group has celebrated the start of construction on a new affordable housing project at 42 Station Road in Colliers Wood, Merton. This development will provide 98 high-quality, energy-efficient homes for social rent, aimed at enhancing the lives of local families. To mark this significant milestone, Brian Ham, Project Director at Clarion Housing Group, was joined by Councillor Andrew Judge, Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development at Merton Council, Councillor Caroline Cooper-Marbiah, Simon Trice, Managing Director of The Hill Group, and members of both project teams. This visit highlighted the strong partnership between Clarion Housing Group and Merton Council in delivering this transformative project. The new 10 and 13-storey buildings, being developed in partnership with The Hill Group, are located near the picturesque River Wandle and Morden Hall Park. The development will offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, each featuring private balconies, modern fitted kitchens with energy-efficient appliances, and a range of amenities. In addition to the residential units, the development will include a landscaped courtyard, a riverside park, play areas, and commercial spaces, creating a thriving community atmosphere. The project is expected to be completed by 2026. Richard Cook, Chief Development Officer at Clarion Housing Group said: “We are excited that this pivotal development is underway, highlighting our commitment to providing 100% social rent homes that does not compromise on quality. By partnering with Merton Council and The Hill Group, we are not just constructing buildings at 42 Station Road, but creating a promising, sustainable community where families can thrive.” Councillor Andrew Judge, Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development, London Borough of Merton said: “This new development is welcome news for our borough’s families, providing better availability and access to modern, affordable homes that are close to schools, shops, and transport connections in Colliers Wood. “Everyone deserves a place to call home that they’re proud of and meets their needs for the future. We’re doing everything in our power to make sure we can support sustainable growth in our borough to meet increasing demand for housing that is safe, decent and energy efficient. “New homes are part of the council’s approach to tackling the housing crisis locally, and we’re working alongside Clarion to regenerate some of our estates as well as building the first new council homes in a generation.” Harvinder Dhami, Regional Director at The Hill Group, commented: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Clarion Housing Group on this significant project. Our joint efforts are focused on delivering high-quality, sustainable homes that will greatly benefit the Merton community. This development represents our commitment to building not just homes, but new communities.” Strategically situated within walking distance of essential amenities and excellent transportation links, including the Colliers Wood and South Wimbledon Underground Stations, the development ensures residents have everything they need within reach. The locality also boasts excellent schools, retail options, and health facilities, making it an ideal choice for families looking to put down roots in Merton. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
