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
Therme Manchester has received approval from Trafford Council for its Section 73 planning amendment, marking a significant step forward in the development of the UK’s first immersive wellbeing resort. The approval coincides with the start of enabling work on-site, including the demolition of pre-existing concrete slabs, which will be conserved
Rendall & Rittner has been chosen to manage the first collection of private sale homes at Brent Cross Town, the £8 billion, 180-acre park town development in north London being delivered by Related Argent, in partnership with Barnet Council. Brent Cross Town is guided by four pledges: to be London’s
Leeds College of Building’s North Street Campus has undergone a £750,000 refurbishment, transforming the site into modern, accessible facilities for its construction students. The eight-week project, managed by award-winning fit-out specialists Lodestone Projects, revitalised four floors of the campus. A key highlight is the conversion of the former library into
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
Therme Manchester has received approval from Trafford Council for its Section 73 planning amendment, marking a significant step forward in the development of the UK’s first immersive wellbeing resort. The approval coincides with the start of enabling work on-site, including the demolition of pre-existing concrete slabs, which will be conserved and reused in construction. Site hoarding, utility works, and offices have been set up, and a 200-metre borehole has been drilled to assess the site’s natural thermal capacity—key to the resort’s sustainable and energy-efficient design. The planning amendments reflect Therme’s focus on sustainability, community, and architectural innovation. The new designs will incorporate advanced energy-efficient technologies, such as ground and air heat pumps, significantly reducing the resort’s CO2 emissions and water usage. The refined design also optimises the use of materials like glass, steel, and concrete, ensuring both a premium guest experience and environmental mindfulness. Accessibility enhancements have also been made, including a welcoming drop-off point on Phoenix Way and expanded public realm areas across the 28-acre site. These new spaces will create a serene environment, encouraging visitors to connect with nature. Existing routes for coaches, taxis, and parking on Mercury Way remain unchanged, while walking and cycling paths between the Bridgewater Canal and Metrolink will be preserved, promoting active travel. Therme Manchester, guided by its “wellbeing for all” ethos, will offer holistic and affordably priced experiences for guests of all ages. The resort will feature thermal bathing, saunas, family-friendly water attractions, botanical gardens, personalised treatments, nutritious dining options, and immersive art programmes—providing a unique wellness experience not yet seen in the UK. The opening date for the resort has yet to be announced. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Rendall & Rittner has been chosen to manage the first collection of private sale homes at Brent Cross Town, the £8 billion, 180-acre park town development in north London being delivered by Related Argent, in partnership with Barnet Council. Brent Cross Town is guided by four pledges: to be London’s home for participation in sport and play, to be a place where people can flourish, to be a net zero carbon town by 2030 and to drive physical and social connectivity. Through this appointment, Rendall & Rittner will be managing a selection of 277 private sale apartments and a wide range of amenities. Brent Cross Town, when complete, will comprise 6,700 new homes, over 50 locations for retail, food and drink, best-in-class workspaces for over 25,000 people and build a community around health and wellness with fantastic new amenities, including 50 acres of parks and playing fields. Rendall & Rittner’s role at Brent Cross Town began earlier this year with a focus on mobilisation ahead of an expected handover later this year. Once residents move in, Rendall & Rittner will be responsible for the management of a variety of on-site amenities including a residents’ gym, communal courtyard, residents’ lounge and dining room, rentable parking space, and co-working areas. Rendall & Rittner will also be providing staffing solutions for the development including a Building Manager, Concierge team, Cleaner, and Estate Operatives, together with sustainability initiatives that will complement the scheme. Richard Daver, Group CEO at Rendall & Rittner commented: “With its ambitious vision to create a new park town for London, Brent Cross Town has placed community, wellbeing and sustainability at the heart of its design. Reflecting our own commitment to enhancing the experiences of residents and the wider communities in which we operate, we are delighted to be working with Related Argent as we prepare to welcome the first residents to their new homes.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Leeds College of Building’s North Street Campus has undergone a £750,000 refurbishment, transforming the site into modern, accessible facilities for its construction students. The eight-week project, managed by award-winning fit-out specialists Lodestone Projects, revitalised four floors of the campus. A key highlight is the conversion of the former library into a bright, open-plan student enrichment area. This space now features a gaming zone, TV lounge, meeting room, Student Services office, study areas with fixed seating, and a co-working bench. Designed to be inclusive and welcoming, the new area is located near the entrance for better accessibility. The flexible layout also allows the space to be converted into an exam hall for up to 80 students, supporting the college’s broader goal of creating a more inclusive and adaptable learning environment. The reception and cafe area were upgraded into a larger communal zone with fresh decoration, flooring, power, and IT. Corridors and staircases across floors were also refreshed with new wall graphics and energy-efficient LED lighting. The upper levels of the building were reconfigured to create a new learning resource centre, additional teaching spaces, teaching and support rooms, and a new staff training room in place of the old student common room. Josh Donnelly, Joint Managing Director at Lodestone (recent winners of the Best Nationwide Refurbishment & Fit-Out Specialists in the UK Enterprise Awards 2024), said: “This has been such a rewarding and nostalgic project for Lodestone staff, given how many of our employees are current or former apprentices at Leeds College of Building. It was great to give something back to the institution that taught our professionals the skills needed to succeed in the construction industry. We’re thrilled with the results and hope the next generation of talent can benefit from these modern facilities as they learn their crafts.” The renovation project at North Street Campus is part of a comprehensive upgrade programme to align the site with the College’s modern South Bank Campus. Alongside contractors Lodestone, design consultancy Fuse Studios oversaw the interior design with Turner & Townsend appointed for project and cost management. Mike Harris, Director at Fuse Studios, said: “We were delighted to work alongside long-term clients Leeds College of Building, to refurbish its existing premises on North Street. The intention was to bring some of the design principles established with the College’s South Bank Campus buildings – also designed by Fuse Studios – to North Street, and so enrich the students’ learning environment. I’m delighted with the results and believe the project has successfully achieved its objectives, whilst moving towards the College’s aim of unifying its estates.” Ewan Shaw, Director at Turner & Townsend, added: “It was great to work with the team at the College and Fuse Studios once again to deliver such a fantastic campus renovation. Successful construction projects rely on teamwork, excellent communication, and trust amongst all of the partner teams and the North Street refurbishment was a great example of how this all came together to create such a fabulous learning facility.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
