Tag Archive for: Trending

Historic London markets moving to the Docklands.

Historic London Markets Smithfield and Billingsgate Set for Docklands Relocation

/in , /by

London’s centuries-old Smithfield meat market and Billingsgate fish market are set to move to a new home in the Royal Docks, East London. This decision follows years of uncertainty and the collapse of a previous relocation plan. The move aims to provide modern facilities for traders while preserving the legacy of these iconic London institutions.

Key Takeaways

  • Albert Island in Newham’s Royal Docks has been identified as the preferred site for the relocation.
  • A memorandum of understanding has been agreed between the City of London Corporation and the Greater London Authority (GLA).
  • The move is dependent on the passage of a parliamentary bill to repeal existing legislation that ties the markets to their current locations.
  • Traders have largely welcomed the announcement, citing improved working environments and opportunities for growth.
  • The current markets will remain open until at least 2028, with plans to redevelop the existing Smithfield site into a cultural hub and Billingsgate into housing.

A New Chapter for Historic Markets

After nearly 800 years of operation, London’s historic Smithfield meat market and Billingsgate fish market are poised for a significant relocation. The City of London Corporation, which governs both markets, has agreed on a preferred site at Albert Island in Newham’s Royal Docks. This move aims to address the current markets’ limitations, with their Victorian-era buildings considered no longer fit for purpose. The announcement brings an end to a period of considerable uncertainty for traders, particularly after a previous plan to move to Barking & Dagenham fell through due to escalating costs.

The Royal Docks: A Modern Hub

The chosen site, Albert Island, is a 25-acre brownfield location owned by the GLA, earmarked for regeneration. This move is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to Newham, including an estimated £750 million in local expenditure and the creation of around 2,200 jobs. The development plans for Albert Island also include a new boatyard and marina. Traders from both markets have expressed optimism about the new location, highlighting the potential for improved facilities and space to expand their businesses while continuing to serve customers across London and the South East.

Transition and Future Plans

The relocation is contingent on the successful passage of a private bill through Parliament, which will repeal the legislation requiring the markets to remain in their current locations. While the move is anticipated, traders have been assured that operations will continue at Smithfield and Billingsgate until at least 2028. The City of London Corporation plans to redevelop the historic Smithfield building into an international cultural and commercial hub, which will also house the new Museum of London. The Billingsgate site is slated for redevelopment to provide approximately 4,000 new homes.

Trader Reactions and Community Impact

Representatives from both the Smithfield Markets Traders’ Association and the London Fish Markets’ Association have welcomed the identification of Albert Island. They emphasize that the proximity of the new site will allow them to retain their customer base while significantly enhancing their operational capabilities. The move is seen as a positive step forward, offering a modern and sustainable future for these vital London markets and their traders.

Sources

Historic Sheffield building 'The Mount' undergoing renovation.

Historic Sheffield Building ‘The Mount’ Set for Residential Transformation

/in , /by

Plans to convert the historic, grade II*-listed building known as The Mount in Sheffield’s Broomhill area into new homes have received official approval from Sheffield City Council. The landmark structure, dating back to the 1830s and designed by William Flockton, will be transformed into 39 apartments and eight townhouses, breathing new life into a vacant building of significant architectural merit.

Key Takeaways

  • The Mount, a grade II*-listed building in Sheffield, will be converted into 39 apartments and 8 townhouses.
  • The conversion aims to preserve the building’s character and contribute to the Broomhill Conservation Area.
  • Works include extensions and landscaping, with a vehicular route removal.
  • Previous plans for 55 apartments had also been approved.

A New Chapter for The Mount

The Mount, a prominent building in Sheffield’s Broomhill Conservation Area, has been granted planning permission for a significant conversion project. The grade II*-listed property, originally built in the 1830s and designed by architect William Flockton, has a rich history, having served as housing and later being owned by various businesses including John Walsh Ltd and Norwich Union, before its most recent use as a language school.

The approved plans will see the building transformed into a mix of residential units, comprising 39 apartments and eight townhouses. The development will involve a single-storey infill extension at ground floor level, new entrance provisions, single-storey rooftop extensions to existing office annex buildings, and the creation of internal and external residents’ parking, alongside associated landscaping. A notable change will be the removal of the through vehicular route from Newbould Lane.

Preservation and Public Benefit

Sheffield City Council granted approval under delegated powers, subject to conditions. A planning officer’s report highlighted the public benefits of the development, including the “occupation and appropriate re-use of a vacant building of significant townscape merit.” The report also emphasised the preservation of the character of the listed building and the Broomhill Conservation Area, alongside the contribution of “a good number of high-quality apartments of an acceptable density in a very sustainable location.”

This latest approval follows a previous consent granted to Broomgrove Properties, supported by Axis Architecture, for the conversion of The Mount into 55 apartments. The current decision signifies a positive step towards the regeneration of this important local landmark.

Sources

Manchester Town Hall scaffolding and construction work.

Manchester Town Hall Refurbishment Budget Soars to £525 Million Amidst Delays and Inflation

/in , /by

The extensive refurbishment of Manchester Town Hall, a landmark Grade I-listed building, has seen its budget significantly increase, now projected to cost £525 million. Originally slated for completion in 2024 with a budget of £330 million, the project has encountered numerous challenges, pushing the estimated completion date to spring 2027. This marks a substantial escalation from initial estimates, reflecting a complex interplay of global and project-specific issues.

Key Takeaways

  • The total cost of the Manchester Town Hall refurbishment has risen to £525 million.
  • The project’s completion date has been extended to spring 2027.
  • Key factors contributing to the cost increase include the COVID-19 pandemic, building cost inflation, supply chain issues, and the administration of several subcontractors.

Escalating Costs and Extended Timeline

The “Our Town Hall” scheme, described by Manchester City Council as the largest and most complex heritage project in the UK in living memory, has faced a series of revisions since work began in 2020. The latest budget increase of £95 million brings the total project cost to £524.8 million, which will be funded through borrowing. The revised completion date of spring 2027 offers more certainty, according to the council, though it is later than the previously anticipated August 2026.

A Confluence of Challenges

The project’s escalating costs are attributed to a “unique combination of challenges.” Wider economic factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and building cost inflation influenced by events like the invasion of Ukraine, have played a significant role. More directly, the project has been hampered by a shortage of specialist labour, difficulties in sourcing materials that must closely match original Victorian specifications, and the discovery of unforeseen construction issues.

These issues range from minor quirks in the original Victorian build to more significant structural problems requiring on-the-spot design solutions. The wider construction industry’s struggles have also impacted the Town Hall project, with three subcontractors involved in works packages going into administration in the last six months alone.

Sourcing Heritage Materials

A particular challenge has been the procurement of suitable materials. For instance, the principal stone contractor reported that the quarry supplying approved stone, which closely matches the original, was ceasing bulk supply. This necessitated finding an alternative source, causing further delays. The intricate nature of the project means that delays in one area have a cascading effect on others.

A Vision for the Future

Despite the frustrations of increased time and cost, Deputy Council Leader Garry Bridges emphasized the necessity of the investment. “If we had not acted decisively to invest in the future of this Victorian masterpiece, many parts of which were reaching the end of their natural lifespans, we would have seen it become unusable and obsolete,” he stated. The council aims to transform the building into a public asset, offering unprecedented access and a new free visitor attraction, celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2027.

Sources

UK's largest timber office building in Clerkenwell.

McLaren Construction to Erect UK’s Largest Timber Office in Clerkenwell

/in , /by

McLaren Construction has been appointed by Global Holdings Management Group to build Xylo, a ground breaking 100,000 sq ft office development in Clerkenwell, set to become the UK’s largest all-timber frame workplace. This nine-storey scheme signifies a major advancement in sustainable office construction in London, with completion targeted for the second quarter of 2028.

Key Takeaways

  • McLaren Construction will deliver Xylo, a 100,000 sq ft timber office in Clerkenwell.
  • The building will be the UK’s largest all-timber frame office.
  • Completion is scheduled for Q2 2028.
  • The project emphasizes environmental sustainability and healthy workplaces.

A Landmark in Sustainable Construction

Xylo is poised to be one of the world’s most environmentally advanced office buildings. Its entire structure will be constructed using glulam beams and cross-laminated timber (CLT), supplied by Hybrid Structures. This extensive use of engineered timber significantly reduces embodied carbon compared to traditional steel and concrete construction methods. Furthermore, the timber design aims to create a warm and natural internal environment for future occupants.

Darren Gill, managing director for London and South at McLaren Construction, highlighted the project’s significance: “This is a pioneering use of structural timber and off-site manufacturing to deliver a high level of buildability and sustainability on a typically tight central London site.” He added that rigorous digital information management systems will be employed to monitor carbon emissions throughout the construction process, ensuring ambitious targets are met.

Vision for a Greener Workplace

Josh Lawrence, chief executive of Global Holdings Management Group UK, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We are delighted to be working with McLaren to deliver Xylo – a game-changing project and a significant milestone for our industry.” Lawrence believes Xylo will be an ideal space for leading companies, showcasing cutting-edge environmentally friendly technologies within a beautiful building, complemented by its vibrant neighbourhood and excellent transport links.

The project involves a collaborative team, including architects Piercy&Co, project manager Avison Young, services and sustainability engineers Max Fordham, and structural and civil engineers Heyne Tillett Steel. The development moves into full construction following the completion of enabling works.

Sources

Cemex factory closure due to HS2 compensation payout.

HS2 Compensation: Cemex Secures £30m Payout Over Birmingham Factory Closure

/in , /by

The High Court has ordered the government to pay nearly £30 million in compensation to Cemex UK, a major supplier of cement and concrete. The payout follows the compulsory purchase of the company’s Washwood Heath business in Birmingham, which was required for the construction of the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail project.

Key Takeaways

  • Cemex UK awarded £29.9 million in compensation by the High Court.
  • The compensation is for the compulsory purchase of its Birmingham factory for HS2.
  • The factory housed operations including railway sleeper manufacturing, an asphalt plant, and an aggregate supply business.
  • The dispute centred on compensation for the railway sleeper facility, which took two years to relocate.

The Compulsory Purchase

The transport secretary acquired Cemex’s Washwood Heath site in 2020, as the land was designated for a control centre for the HS2 megaproject. The site was crucial for Cemex, housing a factory for railway sleepers, an asphalt plant, and an aggregate supply business. The compulsory purchase order necessitated the relocation of all three operations to different sites.

Compensation Dispute

While Cemex and the transport secretary initially agreed on terms for two of the three business activities, a significant disagreement arose over the compensation for the railway sleeper facility. Cemex took two years to move this operation to a new location in Rochester, Kent, which the company described as inferior. This dispute led Cemex to take legal action against the government over the offered compensation amount.

Cemex initially sought over £59 million in compensation. However, the government contended that the company had actually made a gain of £4.5 million due to a market downturn for railway sleepers. During court proceedings, Cemex revised its estimated loss to £30.5 million, while the government’s representatives acknowledged a loss but valued it at £10.4 million.

High Court Ruling

In their final judgment, Judges Elizabeth Cooke and Peter D McCrea ruled in favour of Cemex, ordering the government to pay £29.9 million. The judges determined that Cemex was entitled to compensation covering the value of the land, relocation costs, loss of profit, professional fees, and other associated expenses under the terms of the compulsory purchase order.

The court noted that the Washwood Heath site was strategically advantageous for Cemex due to its proximity to the West Coast Mainline and its operational efficiency. An interim decision had previously highlighted concerns about the limited capacity of the new Rochester factory and the difficulty in predicting the future of Cemex’s business in this sector. The final judgment took into account projected future demand for specialist sleepers and ongoing sales to Transport for London.

Judges expressed dismay that the parties could not reach an agreement themselves, describing the case as “long and extremely complicated” with “subject matter bordering on impenetrable.”

Sources

Heathrow Airport with a new third runway under construction.

Heathrow’s £49bn Third Runway Plan Gets Government Green Light, Amidst Controversy

/in , /by

The UK government has officially approved Heathrow Airport’s ambitious £49bn plan to construct a third runway, a decision that promises to significantly expand the nation’s busiest hub. The project, slated for completion by 2035, aims to boost flight capacity by 57% and accommodate an additional 66 million passengers annually. However, the approval comes with considerable challenges, including a hefty price tag, environmental concerns, and the complex rerouting of the M25 motorway.

Key Takeaways

  • The government has given its blessing to Heathrow’s £49bn expansion plan, including a third runway.
  • The project aims for completion by 2035, potentially increasing flight movements by 57% and passenger numbers by 79%.
  • A significant portion of the cost, £1.5bn, is allocated to diverting the M25 motorway.
  • Airlines express concerns about increased passenger charges to fund the expansion.
  • Environmental groups strongly oppose the plan, citing climate impact and disruption.

A Transformational Project with a High Price Tag

The approved plan involves the construction of a new 3,500m runway, estimated to cost £21bn. An additional £12bn is earmarked for new terminal infrastructure, with other expansion works bringing the total projected cost to £49bn. The government asserts that this expansion will enhance connectivity, support trade and tourism, and create over 100,000 jobs, thereby bolstering the UK economy. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated that the project will “enable quicker, quieter, and greener flights.”

M25 Diversion and Alternative Proposals

A major engineering feat within the plan is the diversion of the M25 motorway, estimated to cost £1.5bn. This complex manoeuvre is necessary to accommodate the new runway. The government selected Heathrow Airport Ltd’s proposal over a rival £25bn plan from the Arora Group, which featured a shorter runway and did not require moving the M25. Despite the rejection of their specific proposal, the Arora Group has indicated a willingness to remain involved in the project.

Concerns and Opposition

The significant cost of the expansion has raised concerns among airlines, which fear that current passengers will bear the brunt through increased charges. Already one of the world’s most expensive airports, further hikes are a worry. Environmental groups have voiced strong opposition, labelling the project an “act of national self-harm.” They argue that any expansion is incompatible with the UK’s legally binding climate targets and will lead to the demolition of villages and displacement of residents. Paul McGuinness of the No 3rd Runway Coalition highlighted the potential demolition of villages and the displacement of up to 15,000 residents.

The Path Forward

The government is updating the Airports National Policy Statement to align with the new plans. A development consent order must be secured before construction can commence. Ministers are hopeful that work can begin within the current parliamentary term, potentially by the summer of 2030, with the runway operational by 2035. The Climate Change Committee will be consulted to ensure the expansion aligns with the UK’s net-zero framework.

Sources

Modern Scottish housing development with construction cranes.

£15 Million Investment Fuels Cruden’s Ambitious Growth Plans for Scottish Housing

/in , /by

BGF has injected £15 million into Scottish housebuilder Cruden, a move set to significantly accelerate the company’s development programme and expansion across Scotland. This strategic investment will enable Cruden to bring forward major projects from its landbank and unlock new opportunities, bolstering its pipeline of 4,500 homes.

Key Takeaways

  • £15 million investment from BGF to boost Cruden’s development.
  • Accelerated delivery of a 4,500-home pipeline across Scotland.
  • Support for hundreds of jobs and regional economies.
  • Focus on high-quality, energy-efficient, and net-zero-ready homes.
  • Leadership transition with Fraser Lynes stepping up as CEO.

Accelerating Development and Expansion

Cruden, a housebuilder with over 82 years of history and responsible for delivering more than 135,000 homes, is poised for significant growth. The £15 million investment from BGF will be instrumental in fast-tracking its development programme. This includes bringing forward key sites from its existing landbank and initiating new projects, thereby expanding its reach into new geographic areas beyond Scotland’s central belt.

Supporting Scotland’s Housing Needs

The investment is expected to have a ripple effect across Scotland’s economy. It is anticipated to support hundreds of jobs within the Scottish supply chains and stimulate regional economies. Furthermore, it will contribute to meeting the growing demand for high-quality, energy-efficient homes. A notable project benefiting from this expansion is Cruden’s commitment to delivering 847 net-zero-ready homes at Granton Waterfront, a major coastal regeneration scheme in Edinburgh, with construction slated to begin in 2026.

Leadership Evolution and Strategic Vision

Alongside the financial boost, the investment facilitates a planned evolution in Cruden’s leadership structure. Fraser Lynes will assume the role of CEO, working closely with CFO Euan Haggerty. Executive Chairman Kevin Reid and Group MD Steven Simpson will transition to non-executive director roles. John Cassie, formerly regional chair of Persimmon Plc, will join the Cruden board as non-executive chair, bringing valuable industry experience.

Richard Pugh, investor at BGF, expressed confidence in Cruden’s potential, highlighting its “enviable track record, strong leadership team and award-winning approach.” He stated BGF’s eagerness to support Cruden’s growth strategy and its role in delivering much-needed homes in Scotland.

Kevin Reid, outgoing executive chairman, remarked that the investment provides the “firepower to deliver the next generation of neighbourhoods.” CEO Fraser Lynes added that BGF’s backing is a “powerful endorsement” of their strategy, enabling faster progress on their 4,500-home pipeline and expansion plans.

This investment aligns with BGF’s broader commitment to Scottish businesses, forming part of its £200 million pledge to invest in high-potential companies across Scotland over the next five years.

Sources

Chancellor Reeves announces plan for housebuilding planners.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves Unveils Ambitious Plan to Hire Hundreds of Planners to Accelerate Housebuilding

/in , /by

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to announce a significant investment aimed at bolstering the UK’s planning departments. The initiative will see the recruitment of hundreds of new planners, a move designed to streamline the planning process and significantly boost the pace of housebuilding across the country. This strategic hiring spree is a key component of the government’s broader agenda to “get Britain building.”

Key Takeaways

  • An estimated £48 million will be allocated to recruit approximately 350 new planning professionals.
  • The initiative aims to address delays and inefficiencies in the planning system.
  • New routes into the profession, including graduate schemes and apprenticeships, will be established.

Boosting Planning Capacity

The government plans to inject substantial funding, reportedly around £48 million, to hire an estimated 350 new planners. This investment, which averages out to approximately £137,000 per individual, is intended to directly tackle the perceived “dither and delay” that has hampered development in the past. A Treasury source indicated that the goal is to “turbocharge the number of planners” to meet ambitious housing targets and expedite decisions on major infrastructure projects.

New Routes into Planning

To ensure a sustainable increase in planning expertise, the initiative will focus on creating new pathways into the profession. This includes a strong emphasis on recruiting graduate planners and launching a dedicated Planning Careers Hub. This hub will provide comprehensive training programmes designed not only to equip new entrants but also to improve retention rates within planning departments. The aim is to open up new and accessible routes for individuals to enter and progress within the planning sector, thereby strengthening local authority planning teams.

Sources

New homes being built in Dalmarnock, Glasgow.

Dalmarnock Regeneration Boosted by 173 New Homes

/in , /by

Construction has officially begun on a significant new housing development in Glasgow’s Dalmarnock area. The project, located on French Street, will deliver 173 much-needed homes, comprising a mix of properties for both rent and private sale. This initiative is set to provide a substantial boost to the city’s housing supply and further enhance the ongoing regeneration efforts in the East End.

Key Takeaways

  • 173 new homes are being built in Dalmarnock, Glasgow.
  • The development includes affordable homes for social rent and private sale properties.
  • It aims to address Glasgow’s housing emergency and support community regeneration.
  • The project is a collaboration between Thenue Housing, CCG (Scotland), and Clyde Gateway.
  • Completion is anticipated in 2027.

A New Chapter for Dalmarnock

The French Street development marks a significant milestone in the regeneration of the Clyde Gateway area. This project is a collaborative effort between Thenue Housing, CCG (Scotland), and Clyde Gateway, with support from Glasgow City Council. The development aims to create “sustainable, inclusive communities” and will feature a mix of apartments and family housing, with options ranging from one to four bedrooms.

Councillor Ruairi Kelly, convener for housing and development at Glasgow City Council, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It is great to see work beginning on this major housing development in Dalmarnock which will bring so many high-quality new homes for sale and rent to an area which has benefited so much from regeneration in recent years.”

Addressing Housing Needs

The new homes are designed to meet diverse needs, including wheelchair-adapted properties within the affordable housing component, adhering to the “Housing for Varying Needs” standards. The entire development will be connected to a district heating system, promoting enhanced energy performance. This project is seen as a crucial step in tackling Glasgow’s “housing emergency.”

Martin McKay, chief executive of Clyde Gateway, highlighted the importance of this development: “A key pillar of the regeneration of the Clyde Gateway area is building quality, affordable and private homes, helping it to be a great place to live and work and be able to enjoy the greenspaces and amenities it now has to offer.”

Community and Economic Benefits

Beyond providing much-needed housing, the 18-month construction period is expected to bring significant community benefits. These include local job creation, training opportunities, and investment initiatives. CCG (Scotland), an east-end based company, expressed pride in contributing to the community where many of its staff reside.

Calum Murray, director of CCG (Scotland), commented, “French Street continues that legacy— it is a landmark project will offer much-needed housing choice and affordability while creating a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can thrive.”

The French Street development is the largest housing project approved by Glasgow City Council for the 2024/25 financial year and is scheduled for completion in 2027, promising to reshape the Dalmarnock landscape and provide a vibrant new neighbourhood.

Sources

Barclays Canary Wharf headquarters undergoing major renovation.

Structure Tone Secures £150 Million Contract for Barclays’ Canary Wharf Headquarters Revamp

/in , /by

Structure Tone has been awarded a significant £150 million contract to undertake the next phase of renovations at Barclays’ global headquarters in Canary Wharf. This major deal follows previous work on the 32-storey One Churchill Place building, which saw ISG complete a £100 million project focused on revamping trading floors.

Key Takeaways

  • Structure Tone has secured a £150 million contract for the next phase of work at Barclays’ Canary Wharf HQ.
  • The deal signifies continued investment by Barclays in its One Churchill Place base.
  • The project involves further revamping of the 32-storey building.

Project Details

The substantial contract, estimated to be worth around £150 million, sees Structure Tone triumph over competitors Mace and Overbury for this crucial phase of the revamp. The project will focus on further enhancements to the 32-storey One Churchill Place, a building that has served as Barclays’ global headquarters since 2005. The tower, originally designed by HOK and completed by Canary Wharf Contractors in 2004, is set to undergo significant upgrades.

Barclays’ Commitment to Canary Wharf

This new contract underscores Barclays’ ongoing commitment to its Canary Wharf presence. Earlier this year, the bank extended its lease for its 1 million sq ft of space at One Churchill Place by an additional five years, securing its occupancy until 2039. This decision comes at a time when the future of large corporate headquarters in Canary Wharf has been a subject of discussion, particularly following HSBC’s announcement to relocate from its own Canary Wharf base to a smaller site in the City of London.

Wider Market Context

The financial sector’s real estate strategies are under scrutiny, with other major banks re-evaluating their office footprints. While Barclays solidifies its position, the departure of HSBC from its 8 Canada Square building, with plans to move by 2027, highlights a shifting trend. The redevelopment of the HSBC tower is already underway, with KPF leading the architectural reimagining of the 45-storey structure.

Meanwhile, Structure Tone remains active in other high-profile London projects. The firm is reportedly one of three contenders bidding for a £200 million job to overhaul the London Stock Exchange’s offices in Paternoster Square. Additionally, Structure Tone recently secured a £100 million contract for new offices for the law firm Hogan Lovells in Holborn Viaduct.

Sources

RECENT POSTS

CONTACT US

  info@gcsconstructionmedia.com

SUBSCRIBE

GCS Construction Media delivers trusted UK construction news, insights, and project updates, connecting industry professionals through expert editorial, digital platforms, and sector-focused publications across the built environment.

© GCS Construction Media  |  all rights reserved 

Privacy Policy  |  Cookie Policy