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
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
Thames Water has issued a Periodic Indicative Notice (PIN) to update potential suppliers and investors about the next phase of its market engagement programme, aimed at supporting the development of a new reservoir in Oxfordshire. The proposed reservoir, with a capacity of up to 150 million cubic meters and a
Plans for a cutting-edge Day Case Surgery and Imaging Centre at Harrogate District Hospital are moving ahead, following the signing of a construction contract between Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT) and Morgan Sindall Construction. The £50 million project, funded by HDFT and NHS England, will see the construction
McCoy Contractors is playing a pivotal role in the £40 million redevelopment of Coundon Court School in Coventry. The project is part of the Department for Education’s 10-year Schools Rebuilding Programme. Working alongside main contractor Wates Construction, McCoy Contractors has successfully delivered an extensive groundworks package for two key structures,
Laing O’Rourke has officially handed the Everton FC’s new stadium over to the football club, after three and a half years’ construction work. Wxecutive Chairman Marc Watts and Interim CEO Colin Chong joined Laing O’Rourke Project Director Gareth Jacques for a ceremonial handover of the stadium. Everton will now oversee
Plans have been submitted for the regeneration of Baltic Wharf in Totnes. The application for a new vision is to create a bespoke, high quality and sustainable mixed-use development, including improving the existing boatyard facilities, has been submitted by Baltic Wharf Developments Ltd – a joint venture between Acorn Property
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
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
Thames Water has issued a Periodic Indicative Notice (PIN) to update potential suppliers and investors about the next phase of its market engagement programme, aimed at supporting the development of a new reservoir in Oxfordshire. The proposed reservoir, with a capacity of up to 150 million cubic meters and a surface area of approximately 7 square kilometers, will serve as a key regional asset, providing water to 15 million people across the area. Designated as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, the reservoir was recently included in the company’s Water Resource Management Plan 2024, which was approved by the government. Set to be operational by 2040, the reservoir will support Thames Water, Southern Water, and Affinity Water in ensuring a safe and secure water supply during droughts. It will also help address the growing challenges of climate change and the increasing demands of a rising population. As part of its early market engagement, Thames Water is seeking to inform contractors and investors about the development of the reservoir, including the commercial and procurement strategies for two major opportunities: The market engagement also offers a chance for cross-sector discussions to align the project with market trends and gather insights from both contractors and investors. Interested organisations are invited to register for the SESRO spring market engagement event, which will take place on Monday 17 March 2025. Registration closes on Friday 24 January 2025. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans for a cutting-edge Day Case Surgery and Imaging Centre at Harrogate District Hospital are moving ahead, following the signing of a construction contract between Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT) and Morgan Sindall Construction. The £50 million project, funded by HDFT and NHS England, will see the construction of a two-storey facility housing state-of-the-art medical equipment and patient care areas. The new centre will include two operating theatres, two treatment rooms, a day case ward, and an imaging department, with construction set to begin in February 2025 and completion expected in 2026. The imaging department will feature enhanced diagnostic capabilities, including two MRI scanners, two CT scanners, three x-ray rooms, seven ultrasound scanners, bone density (Dexa) scanning, and fluoroscopy technology, which provides real-time imagery of tissues and organs. The centre will be built on the site of the former Therapy Services building, which was demolished earlier this year as part of the Trust’s initiative to eliminate reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) from its infrastructure. This project is the latest milestone in the Trust’s ongoing transformation programme, which has already delivered major upgrades, such as the redevelopment of Harrogate District Hospital’s Emergency Department, the establishment of Emergency Department 2 for minor injuries and illnesses, and the launch of a Community Diagnostic Centre at Ripon Community Hospital to provide faster access to tests and scans. Throughout the construction phase, patient care will remain uninterrupted, with services maintained and minimal disruption for patients, visitors, staff, and the local community. The building site will be self-contained, ensuring access to other hospital areas is unaffected. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
McCoy Contractors is playing a pivotal role in the £40 million redevelopment of Coundon Court School in Coventry. The project is part of the Department for Education’s 10-year Schools Rebuilding Programme. Working alongside main contractor Wates Construction, McCoy Contractors has successfully delivered an extensive groundworks package for two key structures, Block 1 and Block 2. The redevelopment aims to transform the school into a modern, net-zero carbon campus while preserving its historic buildings and respecting the surrounding green belt. Six outdated blocks are being demolished and replaced with three state-of-the-art teaching facilities. Meanwhile, four teaching blocks and two locally listed buildings will remain, blending modern infrastructure with the school’s heritage. Spanning a 3,500m² site, McCoy’s work has included earthworks, site drainage, concrete floor slabs, installation of new utility services, and hard landscaping. One of the project’s significant challenges has been ensuring the school remains operational during construction. This has required the creation of temporary classrooms, fencing, barriers, and alternate access routes to maintain a safe learning environment for students and staff. The redevelopment represents a key step forward in providing sustainable, future-ready educational facilities for Coundon Court School and its community. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Laing O’Rourke has officially handed the Everton FC’s new stadium over to the football club, after three and a half years’ construction work. Wxecutive Chairman Marc Watts and Interim CEO Colin Chong joined Laing O’Rourke Project Director Gareth Jacques for a ceremonial handover of the stadium. Everton will now oversee a six-month fit-out phase, with interior designers, tradespeople, and audio-visual engineers completing the stadium’s bars, restaurants, and other facilities. Laing O’Rourke will maintain a presence at the stadium in the early months of 2025 to ensure quality standards are met. Everton’s Executive Chairman Marc Watts said: “I feel privileged to be here today to be part of the handover of this magnificent stadium in this stunning, unrivalled location. It is an illustrious moment in the history of Everton and marks a new era for the Club on many levels. The stadium will play a key role in supporting our commercial vision for the Club – hosting events and activities all-year round – but first and foremost, I have no doubt that it will be a venue that every Evertonian will be proud to call home.” A series of three test events will take place in 2025 before the Club stages its first competitive fixture at the stadium at the start of the 2025/26 season. More information on how Evertonians can qualify for and access the test events will be released in the New Year. Everton Interim CEO Colin Chong added: “Our thanks go to Laing O’Rourke, their workforce and extensive supply chain, along with the many people who have helped bring our vision to fruition. “Everton’s passionate supporters deserve immense praise for investing fully in this journey, right from the initial consultation phases and throughout the three-and-a-half-year build process. “Construction has not been without its challenges, but we have remained on schedule despite a worldwide pandemic and a war in Ukraine, which threatened to affect the delivery of materials and destabilised financial markets. “That is a testament to everyone involved and I am sure I speak for all our staff and supporters by saying we are absolutely delighted to take control of a site which will soon become one the best football stadiums in world football. “I often describe our new home as Liverpool’s Fourth Grace, and I truly believe this magnificent stadium is one that the whole city can be proud of.” The Club formally took possession of the site on Monday, 26 July 2021, with construction partners Laing O’Rourke immediately working on putting in place welfare facilities for their 12,000 construction staff. Everton Stadium, recognised as the largest single-site private sector development in the country, will contribute an estimated £1.3bn to the UK economy and attract 1.4m visitors to the city of Liverpool, annually. The scheme, which has led to the creation of thousands of jobs and forms part of Peel L&P’s £5bn Liverpool Waters project in the city’s Northern Docks, will act as a catalyst for more than £650m worth of accelerated regeneration directly benefiting the nearby Ten Streets development. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Plans have been submitted for the regeneration of Baltic Wharf in Totnes. The application for a new vision is to create a bespoke, high quality and sustainable mixed-use development, including improving the existing boatyard facilities, has been submitted by Baltic Wharf Developments Ltd – a joint venture between Acorn Property Group and TQ9 Partnership LLP. Across a nine-hectare site at the southern end of the town of Totnes, the scheme – coined ‘Riverside at Baltic Wharf’ – will secure the future and ongoing viability of the boatyard, offer the potential for a major employment boost to the town and deliver much needed homes and care home. The scheme updates an extant planning permission from 2012 and builds on the first phase of development of 95 homes delivered by Bloor Homes in 2013. The updating from the original permission was required to replace the Retirement Village, which has proved impossible to deliver for over ten years, with a Care Home and respond to increased flood risk requirements with a raised walkway through the site. The delivery of the residential units will help to future-proof the boatyard by funding the new boatyard facilities and marine business space. In addition, Acorn will also provide a 25-year lease for the boatyard to ensure a sustainable and viable long-term future. The application has potential for significant uplift in employment and economic benefits from the site. It is estimated that the scheme will create around 350 full-time jobs with purpose-built employment areas in the boatyard, the care home, and office and café/restaurant facilities. In addition to providing 194 new homes, 31 of which are anticipated to be classed as affordable in the first phase, a 55-bed care home is included in the application, in line with the previous consented scheme and allocation. The number of dwellings is similar to the numbers in outline application with residential dwellings replacing the retirement village dwellings. This is in line with the Local Plan which was wholly based on the approved outline scheme. Sustainability sits at the heart of the application for the redevelopment of this underutilised brownfield site. This is due to the proximity to the town as well as measures including a ‘fabric first’ policy, electricity replacing gas and a transport policy promoting alternative transport measures and limiting the number of cars and also including solar panels and EV charging points. Ed Lewis, regional director at Acorn Property Group and on behalf of Baltic Wharf Developments Ltd, commented: “Since we began preparing the proposals for this application in 2020, we have undertaken a significant consultation programme with the District and Local Council, other stakeholder organisations and with the public. “We have listened to the thoughts and views of local people and considered the future needs of the town. As a result, we believe this application sets out a scheme which meets these needs, delivers a viable regeneration project compatible with the Local Plan. “We believe that this scheme sets out a positive vision for the future, for the local people and local businesses. Crucially, it will help to secure a sustainable future for the boatyard, an important local employment site in need of modernisation and regeneration.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
