Author: Dillan Gandhi

New home registrations declined overall in Q2 2026 while London and the South East experienced notable increases.

The National House Building Council reported a 4% year-on-year decline in new home registrations across the UK in the second quarter of 2026, reflecting ongoing challenges such as elevated interest rates, geopolitical uncertainties, and rising construction costs. However, this national trend conceals significant regional variation, with London and the South East, which includes Surrey, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Berkshire, seeing positive growth in registrations.

London recorded the most substantial increase at 170%, supported by a 12% rise across the South East. These figures indicate a resilient demand for high-end residential developments within Greater London and the Home Counties despite broader market pressures. From a construction management perspective, this regional divergence highlights the importance of adaptive project planning and resource allocation to capitalise on areas where demand remains strong.

The current environment underscores the value of efficient construction management to navigate regulatory complexities and supply chain volatility. Accelerated planning reforms and reduced regulatory burdens, as advocated by industry leaders, would further support delivery times and cost control. Atico Solutions recognises that meticulous project oversight and proactive stakeholder engagement are critical to advancing developments smoothly, particularly in high-demand locations where planning and heritage considerations often intersect.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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The redevelopment will enhance accessibility and sporting facilities while preserving heritage at Crystal Palace in Greater London.

The London Borough of Bromley has granted planning approval for the comprehensive redevelopment of the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, a project led by Morgan Sindall Construction with masterplanning by WOO architects. This initiative is supported by Historic England and multiple national sports governing bodies, reflecting its significance both as a heritage asset and a community sports hub.

From a construction management perspective, the project presents a complex balance between upgrading modern sporting facilities and preserving the site’s historic character. The redevelopment includes doubling gym capacity, reinstating a diving pool alongside 25m and 50m swimming pools, and introducing new sports amenities such as a Padel centre and multi-sports pitches. Enhancements to accessibility are a notable feature, with step-free routes, improved lighting, and wayfinding designed to create an inclusive environment for all users.

Effective coordination between contractors, architects, heritage consultants, and local authorities will be essential to navigate the stringent planning conditions and maintain the project’s timeline. The involvement of experienced partners specialising in sports and heritage projects underlines the importance of collaborative expertise in delivering such a multifaceted development.

Atico Solutions recognises that meticulous construction management is critical in projects of this nature to ensure that heritage considerations are respected while meeting the functional demands of a modern sports centre. Successful delivery depends on proactive stakeholder engagement, rigorous quality control, and adaptive planning to respond to any unforeseen challenges. This approach helps safeguard investment and community value throughout the redevelopment process.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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Woodalls strengthens local leadership in France and Spain to support complex commercial projects across Europe.

Woodalls, a London-based design and construction firm, has recently expanded its leadership team by appointing Melisa Armocida as project director for France and Marielena Sardi as project manager for Spain. These strategic moves reflect the company’s commitment to enhancing local expertise within key European markets while maintaining high standards in commercial construction delivery.

Armocida, based in Paris, brings over 15 years of international experience managing complex workplace, luxury retail, and commercial projects. Her background with firms such as Unispace, WeWork, and JLL equips her with valuable insights into large-scale, multi-market developments. Meanwhile, Sardi, operating from Madrid, offers more than eight years of project management experience, particularly in high-end commercial fit-outs and workplace programmes across Southern Europe.

For construction management within London, Greater London, and the Home Counties, this development underscores the importance of combining local knowledge with international experience to meet the nuanced demands of multinational clients. As commercial projects increasingly involve cross-border considerations, having leaders who understand regional regulations, cultural expectations, and market dynamics is crucial.

Atico Solutions recognises that effective construction management depends on anticipating these complexities early in project planning and maintaining clear communication channels across all stakeholders. Woodalls’ approach to building strong local teams exemplifies best practice in managing sophisticated commercial developments, ensuring projects progress efficiently despite the challenges of international expansion.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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The use of structural timber is advancing sustainable and efficient building practices across London and surrounding counties.

A recent panel discussion held at the Palace of Westminster highlighted the growing importance of structural timber in accelerating housing delivery across London, Greater London, and the Home Counties, including Surrey, Kent, Essex, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and Berkshire. The event, featuring industry leaders and policymakers, underscored timber’s potential to meet both speed and sustainability targets in construction projects.

From a construction management perspective, timber frame construction offers practical advantages. Its prefabrication potential allows for faster on-site assembly, reducing programme durations and site disruption—critical factors in high-demand regions around London. Moreover, responsibly sourced timber aligns with environmental policies aimed at reducing embodied carbon, supporting the sector’s commitment to net zero carbon targets by 2050.

Major housebuilders active in these regions are increasingly adopting timber solutions, reflecting a shift towards materials that combine performance with sustainability. This trend is particularly relevant for projects balancing heritage considerations and modern building standards, as timber frames can provide design flexibility while maintaining structural integrity.

Effective construction management is essential to navigate supply chain complexities and ensure quality control with timber components. Close coordination with suppliers and adherence to emerging policy frameworks, such as the DEFRA Timber in Construction Road Map, will be vital. Atico Solutions recognises that integrating such innovative materials requires meticulous planning and expertise to deliver projects that are both environmentally responsible and commercially viable.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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Perega’s consolidation to Waterloo enhances collaboration and access for healthcare projects across London.

Perega, a civil and structural engineering firm, is consolidating its two London offices into a single location at Waterloo, relocating staff from Leytonstone. This strategic move aims to support the firm’s growing focus on healthcare construction projects throughout the capital, reflecting a broader trend of increased activity and complexity within London’s construction sector.

The consolidation provides practical benefits for construction management. By bringing teams together in a central London location, Perega enhances interdisciplinary collaboration essential for navigating the tight timelines and evolving demands typical of healthcare developments. The Waterloo office offers improved access to NHS trusts citywide, moving beyond the firm’s traditional east London focus, which aligns well with the projected 29% year-on-year growth in healthcare construction starts in 2025.

From a construction management perspective, such consolidation facilitates more efficient communication and coordination, crucial for managing the complex logistical and regulatory challenges of heritage-sensitive healthcare projects often encountered in London. Being positioned on multiple major London procurement frameworks further strengthens Perega’s capacity to deliver on these projects effectively.

Atico Solutions recognises that successful delivery of heritage and listed building projects in London and the Home Counties depends on robust, well-connected teams that can respond agilely to market shifts. Consolidations like Perega’s exemplify how strategic office locations and integrated teams contribute to smoother project progression and better outcomes in a demanding construction environment.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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Significant redevelopment in London’s West End will combine historic building restoration with modern office and retail spaces.

The Crown Estate has unveiled ambitious plans to redevelop two key sites in London’s West End, at 10 Piccadilly and 21-29 Glasshouse Street. These projects will deliver over 125,000 square feet of prime office, retail, and hospitality space, integrating heritage buildings with contemporary design to enhance the area’s commercial and cultural appeal.

From a construction management perspective, this approach requires meticulous planning to balance preservation with modern requirements. The integration of existing office buildings into new high-quality workplaces and retail environments demands careful coordination between heritage consultants, architects, and contractors to ensure structural integrity and compliance with conservation regulations. Managing logistics in the dense West End environment will also be crucial to minimise disruption and maintain safety standards.

Atico Solutions recognises that successful delivery of such complex projects hinges on proactive stakeholder engagement, detailed phasing plans, and rigorous quality control. Effective construction management ensures that historic assets are respected while meeting the demands of contemporary use, ultimately supporting long-term sustainability and resilience in one of London’s most prestigious districts.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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Planning approval advances transformation of Smithfield with sustainable office and amenity space by 2028.

Planning consent has been granted for the redevelopment of 12 Smithfield, a key component of the wider regeneration of the historic Smithfield area in the City of London. This project forms part of the extensive £400 million investment centred around the forthcoming London Museum, scheduled to open in 2028, which will establish a new cultural quarter at the site of the former meat market.

The redevelopment, designed by Henley Halebrown, involves retaining and upgrading the existing structure while introducing a contemporary façade, expanded public spaces, and significant improvements in environmental performance. The scheme targets leading sustainability standards including BREEAM Outstanding, EPC A, WELL Core Platinum, NABERS UK 5*, and Net Zero Carbon operational status, reflecting the increasing emphasis on sustainable construction within London’s commercial sector.

With 122,000 square feet of office and amenity space planned, the building will offer flexible floorplates of up to 20,000 square feet over five levels, complemented by private terraces and a rooftop garden. The inclusion of multifunctional retail and café spaces totaling over 11,000 square feet will further enhance the building’s role within the evolving Smithfield neighbourhood. Its proximity to Farringdon station and the Elizabeth Line ensures excellent connectivity across London and the South East, a vital consideration for modern commercial developments.

From a construction management perspective, delivering such a high-specification project within a sensitive heritage area demands meticulous planning and coordination. Balancing the retention of historic fabric with the integration of modern sustainability targets requires expertise in heritage construction alongside advanced environmental technologies. Effective stakeholder engagement and phased construction strategies will be essential to navigate the complexities of this high-profile development.

Atico Solutions recognises that projects like 12 Smithfield exemplify the critical role of experienced construction management in realising ambitious urban regeneration schemes. By ensuring compliance with stringent planning conditions, managing heritage sensitivities, and driving sustainability goals, skilled construction oversight facilitates timely delivery and long-term value for developments in London’s dynamic property landscape.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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A £13 million expansion increases capacity and enhances facilities while minimising disruption to school operations.

Morgan Sindall Construction has reached a significant milestone with the topping out of a £13 million extension to The Kingsbrook School in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. This three-storey addition will provide 360 new student places, increasing the school's capacity from 1,080 to 1,440 pupils. The extension includes 20 classrooms, dedicated food preparation areas, science laboratories, a Sixth Form study zone, social spaces, and an enlarged special educational needs area.

From a construction management perspective, the project highlights the importance of precision and coordination, particularly when integrating new structures with existing buildings. Morgan Sindall’s use of traditional concrete floors aims to improve build quality, enhance efficiency, and reduce onsite waste. These choices reflect a commitment to sustainable construction practices and high standards of workmanship.

Managing construction within an operational school presents particular challenges. The project team’s careful scheduling of activities to fit around the school day, alongside the creation of a dedicated tunnel for safe student access to sports facilities, demonstrates effective stakeholder engagement and risk management. This approach minimises disruption and maintains safety, which are critical factors in education sector projects.

Atico Solutions recognises that successful delivery of such complex extensions depends on meticulous planning and proactive communication. Good construction management ensures that projects like the Kingsbrook School extension proceed smoothly, balancing construction demands with the daily needs of occupants and the wider community.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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The topping out of 116 affordable homes in Poplar marks significant progress in East London housing regeneration.

Clarion Housing Group, alongside Taylor Wimpey and Equals Consulting, has recently celebrated the topping out of 116 new affordable homes in Poplar, London. This achievement is part of the East Riverside project within the wider Rivermark development, which will eventually provide around 550 homes. The affordable units are split evenly between London Affordable Rent and Tower Hamlets Living Rent tenures, addressing a critical housing need in Tower Hamlets.

From a construction management perspective, reaching the topping out stage signals the completion of the building’s structural framework, a crucial milestone that requires careful coordination between contractors, consultants, and the local authority. Managing such a large-scale project in a dense urban environment like Poplar demands rigorous planning to minimise disruption and ensure compliance with local regulations, particularly given the sensitivity around affordable housing delivery and community impact.

Atico Solutions recognises that effective construction management is essential in advancing projects through complex phases such as this. Detailed scheduling, proactive stakeholder engagement, and quality control ensure that developments meet both programme and budget targets, while supporting the wider regeneration goals of the area. The planned completion in late 2026 will provide much-needed high-quality homes, demonstrating how collaborative project delivery can successfully contribute to London’s evolving housing landscape.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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A major redevelopment in Oxford integrates modern laboratories with heritage restoration and public spaces.

Perkins&Will has secured planning permission to redevelop the Ozone Leisure Park in Oxford into a mixed-use campus combining research facilities, leisure amenities, and community areas while preserving the Grade II* listed Minchery Farmhouse, a 12th-century heritage asset. The project will replace underutilised retail units with approximately 500,000 square feet of laboratory and office space, addressing the growing demand for life sciences research infrastructure within one of the UK’s leading scientific clusters.

This redevelopment exemplifies the challenges and opportunities inherent in managing construction projects that balance modern functional requirements with heritage conservation. Maintaining the structural and aesthetic integrity of Minchery Farmhouse requires sensitive restoration techniques alongside the construction of new facilities. The integration of new public realm elements, including a central square, landscaped areas, and improved pedestrian and cycling routes, further illustrates the importance of holistic site planning to enhance community engagement and connectivity.

From a construction management perspective, projects of this nature demand meticulous coordination between heritage specialists, architects, planners, and contractors to ensure compliance with preservation regulations while delivering contemporary workspaces. Effective stakeholder communication and phased construction planning are essential to minimise disruption and safeguard historical features. Atico Solutions recognises that thorough pre-construction assessments and collaborative management approaches are pivotal in successfully navigating the complexities of such heritage-led developments, ensuring that the final outcome respects the past while supporting future growth.

Source: The Construction Index

Led by Trevor Read and Dillan Gandhi, Atico Solutions is a high-end construction management and procurement company. Learn more here.

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