FINALIST ENTRY SUMMARIES
Take a look below to view the entry summary of all finalists. Winners will be announced on 12 November at Hilton Bankside.
Charitable Initiative of the Year
Charitable Initiative of the Year
Chartered Surveyors Training Trust: The CSTT is a small charity with big ambitions. We understand the urgent need for a more diverse intake into the Built Environment, also how young people are attuned to the issues of wellbeing yet don't understand the role of the built environment. Through My Environment My Future (MEMF) we put careers in the built environment into the classroom, at the core of the GCSE and A-level Geography curriculum, and link the vital importance of the built environment to the well-being of our communities. With collaboration at the centre of everything we do, we have already attracted 580 teachers from 300 schools register for MEMF, and are a working demonstration of how working together the sector can build a pipleine of young people who consider joining the sector. Polls show 6% are interested before MEMF and 75% will consider the sector as a career destination of choice after MEMF.
Clockwise: Clockwise offers contemporary private offices, shared workspaces, and meeting rooms with flexible membership plans in key business locations throughout the UK and mainland Europe. Clockwise aims to create a future where every work environment and experience has a positive impact on people, places, and the planet.
Grosvenor Property UK: Greener Futures is Grosvenor’s charity programme focused on communities and the climate emergency. Just two years into the four-year programme and we have already surpassed our £1m investment target. So far nearly 50 community projects have been awarded grant funding through our Greener Futures Fund, benefitting over 35,000+ people with outcomes including 2,073 households participating in environmental projects, 1,000 people using a local public space for the first time and 5,044 people having an increased understanding of the environment. Furthermore, our partnership with Groundwork has supported over 60 previously unemployed people into paid training placements in green economy jobs, and supported almost 40 into secure long-term employment. Collectively, employees have delivered over 3,390+ volunteering hours as part of the programme, improving over 6,500m2 of public space in some of Westminster’s most deprived postcodes. This programme is testament to the inter-connectivity between the social needs of communities and supporting the planet.
Pro-invest Group: Pro-invest Group, is a leading investment firm specialising in Private Equity Real Estate, managing approximately AUD$3 billion across Europe, the Middle East, and APAC. With 32 hotels in Australia and New Zealand, plus commercial properties, they're expanding into the UK and Europe while raising a A$500 million fund for Asia-Pacific. Pro-invest Group is a recognised ESG leader in the hotel sector, applying ESG principles comprehensively throughout its entire platform. Four new cornerstone programs are launching, each designed to foster inclusion, diversity, and equality within the hospitality industry and beyond.
• RISE: Providing scholarships and internships to disadvantaged students, fostering future leaders. • CARE: Creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities.
• Pro-Women Leadership Alliance: Empowering women within the organisation through mentorship and advocacy for gender diversity.
• RADIATE with Pride: Ensuring safe spaces for LGBTIQA+ communities in their hotels and offices, promoting inclusivity through partnerships and certifications.
Savills: A strategic partner of LandAid, as well as a founding partner of LandAid’s pro bono scheme, Savills was named Pro bono contributor of the year at the inaugural LandAid Awards in November 2022. Throughout 2023 Savills employees across the UK provided 327 hours of pro bono support to LandAid charity partners from carbon assessments to relocation support and property search. In addition Savills donated £25,000 to the Pro bono programme, helping LandAid broker over £500,000 worth of pro bono support for 77 different projects with 50 UK charities. Savills is committed in its support of LandAid at all levels across the organisation with124 Savills employees participating in 2023's SleepOut raising £85,000 and topping the leaderboard, as well as teams across the business supporting a number of other initiatives including Sebby's Corner. Savills raised a total of £134,992.95 in 2023 to help end youth homelessness.
SEO London: The CRE industry is a tremendous vehicle of wealth creation and upward mobility, yet remains a exclusive group, not wholly representative of the broader society. SEO London's RE Academy has made huge strides to redress this balance, supporting young people from ethnic minority and low socioeconomic backgrounds and giving them the training and networks to access this hard-to-reach industry. Between September 2022 and February 2024, we have supported 375 undergraduates from 50+ UK universities, providing them with 55 hours of formal educational training, asset tours and a network of RE professionals to tap in to. Having graduated from the Academy, 96% of our students say they have a clearer idea of how to access a CRE role. The Academy has been life-changing for these young people, they will lead the way in their communities and help those coming behind them to also break into the industry.
The Land Trust: The Land Trust is a green space management charity committed to the long-term sustainable management of open spaces for community benefit. The Green Angels programme is the Land Trust’s flagship, free environmental training programme, the initial aim of which was to improve community cohesion, the environment and develop the skills, confidence and experience of participants, helping them to progress to further education or employment opportunities, supporting 481 people in 2023.
Tritax Management: The new Tritax Social Impact Foundation is helping to create social value and support people to fulfil their potential. It aligns with Tritax Management LLP commitment – set out in their ESG strategy – to ensure their portfolios generate social value that makes a meaningful difference to people and communities across our geographies. They are committed to ‘walking the walk’ – their engagement with charity partners extends beyond money to active participation through volunteering and promotion. Their people and network raised £20k for XLP with a 42km marathon trek across London. While Big Box’s 10th anniversary (since IPO) proved a fantastic occasion to promote the vital work of its long-standing charity partner Schoolreaders in improving child literacy across the UK. At the celebration, attended by 200+ industry players, a charity auction and talk by Schoolreaders’ founder Jane Whitbread helped to raised £20K and offers of pro-bono work, donations and volunteering.
TSP: GPE and TSP have worked together on a social impact initiative, creating over 20,000 sq ft of workspace for charities in Central London. This innovative partnership identifies non-profit organisations to occupy "meanwhile use" space within GPE’s portfolio. Near term block dates providing commercially unviable lease lengths can provide charities with a cost effective home within GPE’s Central London portfolio while also contributing to GPE’s social value targets. The collaboration, offering commercial and retail spaces, has welcomed the Nursery Theatre, Trekstock, and Supporting Wounded Veterans. This venture sets a new standard for corporate social responsibility in the real estate sector; specifically between public listed (GPE) / private company (TSP) partnerships. With the success of this initiative, GPE and TSP are poised to inspire replication and scalability, impacting corporate partnerships for social good.
x+why: Fivefields is a flexible, impact-driven workspace for charities and social value organisations, brought forward by Grosvenor for the Westminster Foundation in partnership with x+why, designed with accessibility, neurodiversity and sustainability at the fore.
Located in the heart of Victoria, this listed building sets a new standard for designing for charitable initiative within a heritage context, embedding ESG principles to create outstanding environments for remarkable charities supporting children and young people.
Consultancy of the Year – Large
Consultancy of the Year – Large
MAPP: MAPP is the largest real estate consultancy B Corp, is on track to be a net-zero carbon business by 2025. The London headquarters is rated SKA: Gold, and MAPP is ISO 14001 accredited and a member of the Better Building Partnership (BBP). Across 630 buildings in its portfolio, MAPP implemented 1,300 ESG activations in 2023. The company launched Energy by MAPP, in summer 2023, creating a new, integrated renewable energy solution for the property sector that combines energy procurement with net zero carbon pathways. In addition, its dedicated in-house Sustainability and Building Consultancy teams, which play a key role in retrofitting buildings for a sustainable future and tracking and tracking and lowering carbon emissions, have more than doubled in size since the pandemic. MAPP is a sustainable business that balances planet, purpose, people and profit, making buildings work for our clients, occupiers, and the communities and environment around them.
Hydrock, now Stantec: Hydrock is a 950-person engineering design, energy and sustainability consultancy working in the built environment. On 1 May 2024, Hydrock was acquired by Stantec, a global, 30,000 person consultancy of designers, engineers, scientists and project managers. The business works on projects to advance the quality of life in communities across the globe. Climate leadership, and helping organisations to take responsible and resilient decisions is at the heart of what we do in shaping real estate and infrastructure to benefit all stakeholders. A core value of Hydrock, now Stantec is ‘we do what is right’. We approach every project as a partnership, because we recognise that our work creates a lasting impact on our clients’ communities. We are accountable to these communities – to strengthening them, and making them resilient for whatever the future may hold.
JLL: JLL shapes the future of real estate for a better world. As a global company, we have an inherent responsibility to drive sustainability, technology and corporate social responsibility efforts. Our 1000+ sustainability experts around the world partner with clients to deliver end-to-end sustainability services, guiding them from strategy to action in order to achieve sustainability goals, deliver net zero, and add value to their real estate assets. Using our proprietary technology and in-depth sustainability knowledge, we have measured and reduced carbon for 90,000+ properties in 50+ countries, and set industry standards for carbon reporting including: ULIGreenprint, GRESB, EPRA & GRI. What’s more we’re showing what’s possible through our decarbonization progress on our own real estate, and were the first real estate company in the world with a validated net-zero target aligned to climate science.
Consultancy of the Year – Small
Consultancy of the Year – Small
BiBO: BiBO is a collaborative multi-disciplinary practice bringing people together to design and develop more inclusive, resilient and sustainable places. We believe respectful and relevant communication throughout the development lifecycle is critical to delivering positive outcomes. Our pioneering service is built around this core belief, allowing us to seamlessly engage with stakeholders and professional teams across all our background disciplines including masterplanning & urban design, architecture, heritage & regeneration, strategic communications and development management.
Civic Engineers: Civic Engineers are civil, structural and transport engineers dedicated to creating inspirational structures and places that have a positive impact on the environment and enable people to lead happier and healthier lives. With studios in Leeds, Manchester, London, Glasgow and Dublin, we have extensive experience of delivering projects that help to create and transform buildings, neighbourhoods and cities and bring significant economic, social and environmental benefits for communities. People, purpose and planet is at the heart of everything we do. We pair technical excellence with emotional intelligence to design buildings and environments and adopt nature-based solutions wherever possible. We are creative engineers, and design solutions which embrace the discipline as an art as well as science. And we are socially-minded, committed to solving complex social challenges in order to improve people’s quality of life and create a lasting, environmentally-friendly legacy, and enabling place and communities to thrive
Jones Hargreaves: Jones Hargreaves is a commercial building, project and sustainability consultancy established in 2009 by Matt Jones and Peter Hargreaves. Its services include building consultancy, ESG advice and project management. The firm has a dedicated and adapting ESG and sustainability team able to scrutinise potential acquisitions, improve the management of existing portfolios and advise on improving energy and carbon performance. Jones Hargreaves has offices in Leeds, London, Manchester, Bristol, Glasgow and Cardiff. Clients include Columbia Threadneedle, London and Scottish Property, LXi REIT, Abrdn, Canada Life, Duchy of Lancaster, Fidelity, Elite Partners Capital and Mileway. For more information, visit www.joneshargreaves.co.uk
Kamma: Kamma is a climate technology company that aggregates millions of datapoints to provide unique environmental and risk analysis for the property and financial sector. We combine world-leading data collection and address matching with insightful analysis and online tools to articulate the fastest and most cost-effective path to net zero. Our work with mortgage lenders, issuers, property funds, housing associations and energy suppliers helps to manage climate risk, navigate reporting requirements, and unlock green retrofit opportunities.
LifeProven: LifeProven - Trusted ESG Delivery Partner LifeProven is a ground-breaking real estate consultancy, offering ESG services within the built environment. We provide end-to-end sustainability consultancy, technical and data services between investment and asset, integrating the entire value chain as a single source delivery partner.
Motionspot: Motionspot is a purpose-driven, RIBA award winning inclusive design consultancy which creates beautifully designed, enabling environments that work for all. This encompasses people with a broad range of protected human characteristics including disability, neurodivergence, age, race, ethnicity, religion, and belief. Whether a new build or refurbishment, Motionspot provides businesses and their design teams with inclusive design consultancy and product advisory services across all RIBA Stages, going beyond minimum design standards and building regulations. Motionspot was co-founded by Ed Warner and James Taylor in 2012 and has over 12 years experience creating inclusive, accessible, and design led offices, hotels, education settings, later living developments, retail, leisure, and public realm facilities across the world.
PRD: PRD is one of the UK’s preeminent and sought-after strategy consultancies. We take a creative approach to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) for our clients, projects and places. Our work is built to respond to contemporary social, economic and environmental evidence and integrate these areas to support more progressive action. We empower our clients to implement transformative projects and drive positive, equitable change, acting as a dedicated partner from project inception through delivery. Our work takes us across a range of geographic scales, from strategies for individual buildings to entire regions. We create robust strategies and delivery advice to help projects achieve their potential, supporting inclusive economies, impactful investment and considered development outcomes. Our core areas of work include development management, property consultancy, partnership and delivery structures, socioeconomic and investment strategies for places, asset and portfolio strategies, community and stakeholder engagement, climate advice and support, and impact monitoring and evaluation.
SuReal: Founded in 2019 by Sunita Van Heers and Filip Grillet, SuReal is a consultancy firm on a mission to a zero carbon society through sustainable real estate. We improve the sustainability of the built environment, covering everything from individual buildings to city planning and regulatory frameworks. SuReal has 30 employees in its Brussels headquarter and a Milan office. We work in 14 countries, such as the US, Japan, and Cape Verde, and plan to grow internationally to increase our impact. If SuReal were to be described in five words, it would be these: sustainability, expertise, education, innovation, and engagement. Firstly, sustainability is at the core of our company. Being an independent company, we can propose the best solutions without external influences. Our core mission is to help companies achieve the best possible ESG implementation in their real estate projects. Every year, our projects help avoid min. 1,200 ton CO2-eq.
workcloud24 AG: workcloud24 offers ESG solutions from a single source In the future, the added value of the real estate industry will be measured by the ESG conformity compliance of its products. At workcloud24 we offer you ESG solutions from a single source – practice-oriented and with more than 10 years of experience in the DACH region and in CEE. These ESG criteria form the basis for your fields of action. We support you in defining the appropriate measures and performance indicators, which we use to make the overall success as well as the increase in value and the contribution to sustainability of your project measurable.
Education and Awareness Initiative
Education and Awareness Initiative
4C Group: At 4C Group, we believe that each person has the potential to make a positive difference within their working environment and wider community. This is why we believe it is important to equip our team with adequate information, tools and framework to make this happen. Our mission “ to operate sustainably and delight guests and investors, whilst striving to deliver a positive environmental and social impact within local communities” reflects our drive and commitment to enhancing our sustainability practices across our operations. We recognise that we are at the beginning of the ESG journey, so by cultivating collaborative partnerships, we collectively possess the influence to catalyse an industry-wide evolution towards more environmentally and socially conscious real estate and hospitality and seek to align and network with others to best shape ESG commitments within our group.
RIBA Ethical Practice Guide: The climate and biodiversity emergency, the Grenfell Tower tragedy, and rising inequality all serve as reminders of the ethical responsibilities of the architect, and the importance of ethical decision making. This guide is designed to improve the industry’s grasp of ethical practice as it relates to the wider world, society, clients, the workplace, the profession, and the individual. Aimed at architects, but relevant to built environment practitioners more generally, each chapter introduces an ethical duty, setting out the relevant legal, regulatory, and professional context before exploring the detailed subject matter and key principles. It includes an ethical dilemma for each duty and views and experiences from across the profession. Including contributions from: Neal Shasore, Farhana Yamin, Justin Bere, Jan Kattein, Darius Jenner Pullinger, Virginia Newman, Dhruv Sookhoo and Ben Channon.
JLL: JLL’s purpose is to Shape the Future of Real Estate For a Better World. As a global real estate company, they have a responsibility to drive sustainability, technology, and corporate social responsibility efforts – for themselves, and all of their clients. JLL has ambitious, industry-leading science-based sustainability targets, including achieving net zero carbon emissions across all of their own and their clients’ buildings by 2040. In support of this, and to help all employees contribute towards JLL's ambitious goals, the JLL Sustainability Learning team was formed in 2022. The team has since built a comprehensive suite of sustainability learning programmes for all 100K employees, from sustainability professionals to those delivering more traditional real estate services and support roles. Now with this full, and expanding library of engaging, impact focused and regionally and business line specific training programmes, more than 37,000 of JLL's employees have completed sustainability training since 2022.
Kamma: Kamma is a climate technology company that aggregates millions of datapoints to provide unique environmental and risk analysis for the property and financial sector. We combine world-leading data collection and address matching with insightful analysis and online tools to articulate the fastest and most cost-effective path to net zero. Our work with mortgage lenders, issuers, property funds, housing associations and energy suppliers helps to manage climate risk, navigate reporting requirements, and unlock green retrofit opportunities.
Novel Student: Novel Student has excelled in promoting ESG principles through innovative programs like TSEP and Utopi, meeting Fitwel and BREEAM certification standards, and through community engagement initiatives. Our efforts have significantly raised awareness, fostered responsibility, and driven sustainable practices among residents and staff, contributing to a greener and more ethical property sector.
The Land Collective CIC: The Land Collective's ESG Launchpad is an eight-week blended employability programme designed to encourage students and graduates from underrepresented communities to make a conscious choice to enter the ESG space within the built environment. Through this programme and our carefully designed curriculum and partnership with industry leaders in ESG, we aim to create the next generation of diverse leaders in property by upskilling and immersive education.
Utopi: Utopi are on a mission to decarbonise the real estate sector, and that has to start with social engagement to achieve maximum impact. We’ve gone beyond our proptech and data solutions to run targeted education and awareness campaigns with clients in the BTR and PBSA sectors across the UK, to encourage community from residents, to empower residents to live more sustainably, and to drive positive behavioural change from our growing environmental dataset. By sharing our data and insights, gamifying engagement, and incentivising residents with rewards, we have seen a significant impact on energy consumption and carbon emissions. We have taken an active role in encouraging residents to reduce their environmental impact and drive community-based behavioural change… with some campaigns seeing a 75% reduction in energy consumption in just 30 days. And as we always say, every small change matters!
Wates Residential: The Beacon Programme is a 22-week work experience programme in the Built Environment, created by Wates Residential. It aims to educate students between 16 - 17 years of age and develop their transferable skills. The programme includes interactive sessions with industry experts and a hybrid model of virtual and in-person sessions. The initiative has been successful, with 150 students engaged and a third inspired to pursue careers in the Built Environment. It has led to the creation of the Guiding Lights Professional Mentoring Programme, where students in year 13 undertake professional mentoring, as well as the Wates Educate Programme for younger pupils. The Beacon programme will continue in 2025, expanding into a new school.
Winvic Construction: As a main contractor, Winvic understands the significance and complexity of its Scope 3 emissions and aimed raise the bar by proactively engaging with its supply chain to activate focus on ESG principles and carbon reduction. 80 subcontractors from the most carbon intensive packages are now members of Winvic’s Green Supply Chain (GSC) forum; this will be 112 by the end of 2024. Winvic focuses on educating, influencing and supporting all members ensure the lowest embodied carbon emissions throughout the lifecycle of a project; this ambitious initiative helps to meet client’s ESG and development decarbonisation goals as well as Winvic’s sustainability aims. All GSC members have embedded sustainable practices and reduced their annual operational carbon emissions by 5%; many have created new sustainability focused roles, departments and GSC initiatives. Winvic’s visionary initiative is therefore benefitting other main contractors, the industry as a whole and most importantly, the planet.
Yugo: Yugo is the first global student housing brand and operator created to enhance students’ overall experiences throughout and beyond college life. It offers a truly differentiated living experience that is environmentally and socially conscious, emotionally supportive and safe. At Yugo, students are encouraged to grow personally and professionally through collaborative events and projects, such as the Yugo Movement. These are crucial in developing supportive communities that foster personal and professional growth for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through tailored educational programs and initiatives, regular social events that promote networking, and educational workshops and volunteer opportunities, Yugo cultivates a sense of belonging and collaboration, whilst building students’ confidence for life beyond university.
ESG Agency of the Year
ESG Agency of the Year
BiBO: BiBO is a collaborative multi-disciplinary practice bringing people together to design and develop more inclusive, resilient and sustainable places. We believe respectful and relevant communication throughout the development lifecycle is critical to delivering positive outcomes. Our pioneering service is built around this core belief, allowing us to seamlessly engage with stakeholders and professional teams across all our background disciplines including masterplanning & urban design, architecture, heritage & regeneration, strategic communications and development management.
Host & Stay: Host & Stay are reshaping the landscape of holiday let and short-term rental management with a focus on fostering sustainability, conscious travel, and environmental responsibility. Their team are all encompassing, working with intent to address and tackle material issues through their three key pillars: supporting our people, protecting our places and pioneering change. Whether it's investing in local communities or empowering employees to make a difference with volunteering days, Host & Stay’s commitment to positive change is unwavering. From partnerships with like-minded, environmentally conscious partners such as Who Gives A Crap and Wonky Coffee to embracing cutting-edge technology like resiAIR™, the company are taking action to embed sustainability into business operations. Every decision Host & Stay makes is a step towards a more sustainable future and this is just the start – there is a lot more to come!
Kamma: Kamma is a climate technology company that aggregates millions of datapoints to provide unique environmental and risk analysis for the property and financial sector. We combine world-leading data collection and address matching with insightful analysis and online tools to articulate the fastest and most cost-effective path to net zero. Our work with mortgage lenders, issuers, property funds, housing associations and energy suppliers helps to manage climate risk, navigate reporting requirements, and unlock green retrofit opportunities.
workcloud24 AG: workcloud24 offers ESG solutions from a single source In the future, the added value of the real estate industry will be measured by the ESG conformity compliance of its products. We at workcloud24 offer you ESG solutions from a single source – practice-oriented and with more than 10 years of experience in the DACH region and in CEE. These ESG criteria form the basis for your fields of action. We support you in defining the appropriate measures and performance indicators, which we use to make the overall success as well as the increase in value and the contribution to sustainability of your project measurable.
Workman: At Workman, ESG is a green thread running through everything our property managers, building consultants, placemaking specialists, project managers and building technology specialists do. It stitches us together with a common cause – the advancement of environmentally and socially responsible principles for our clients’ portfolios, in turn benefitting their occupiers. To help reach goals, we have developed a clear ESG pathway, which begins with understanding risks and opportunities at acquisition with our ESG due diligence report and runs through our ESG Account Management approach to transparent disposal, with clear data and future opportunities identified with ESG Vendor Surveys. Over the past 18 months, we have helped clients achieve demonstrable results through energy efficiency, social impact, and clear reporting in line with benchmark standards. For example, Workman’s ESG experts have created Net Zero Asset Plans (NZAPs) or Sustainability Asset Plans across more than 5 million sq. ft of commercial real estate.
ESG Developer of the Year
ESG Developer of the Year
Bellway: Bellway is leading the way in integrating sustainability throughout its business through its innovative Better with Bellway strategy, which aims to put people and planet first. Eight strategic business priorities have been identified to help Bellway thrive, now and into the future, with the company’s long-term commitment to responsible and sustainable practice placed at the core of its operational strategy. The strategy is now having a significant and measurable impact. Putting people first means building quality homes for customers safely and creating a workplace where everyone is welcome, as well as extending commitments to safety and sustainability into the supply chain. Charitable giving puts communities at the heart of the business. Putting the planet first means Bellway reducing carbon emissions and building low-carbon homes, as well as reducing the use of resources to minimise waste and taking a holistic and long-term view of biodiversity to leave a lasting positive legacy.
Fiera Real Estate: Fiera Real Estate (FRE) UK Limited is a real estate investment firm and affiliate of Fiera Capital Corporation. A market leader in the use of ESG data to inform development, FRE systematically considers ESG aspects in its developments at each stage from design to handover, enabled by a suite of proprietary tools including its Sustainable Design Framework and ESG dashboard. The dashboard has not only allowed FRE to measure its progress towards NZC by 2030 – one of the sector’s most ambitious targets – but has made it an industry leader when it comes to the reporting of ESG performance. Stand-out completions include Halo, developed in partnership with leading regional property company Cubex. The 116,113 sq ft Grade A office scheme achieved the highest ever BREEAM Outstanding score outside of London and the second-highest score in the UK upon its certification.
Lamington Group: Lamington Group is a multi-award winning independent family-owned real estate investment and development company, which was founded in the 1960s and is based in West London. Led by CEO, Robert Godwin, and Managing Director, Stuart Godwin, the group has made the commitment to only build and operate to whole-life net zero standards for any new properties that started being developed after the launch of their net zero roadmap in September 2021. Lamington Group has a family of brands comprising room2; Lamington Apartments; Lamington Developments; Lamington Lettings and Missionworks coworking. room2 is the UK’s first hometel brand, conceived in 2015 by Lamington Group. room2 currently has four operational locations, in Southampton, Hammersmith, Belfast and room2 Chiswick, which opened in December 2021 marking the group’s first net zero hotel.
Muse: Muse is a nationwide placemaker, working in partnership to create successful places across the UK, with the emphasis on sustainability, community and quality. For 40 years, Muse has created places delving positive social outcomes, through social value, community engagement, sustainability and placemaking. The past year has seen Muse moving the dial on ESG, delivering on its 'Our Sustainable Future' action plan- completing the record-breaking sustainable workplace Eden, delivering affordable, Passivhaus homes, expanding its ECF partnership and launching the Muse Academy.
Oxford Properties: As an investor, developer and manager, Oxford has a unique vantage point across the full lifecycle of real estate. This vertical integration allows us to deliver sophisticated sustainability solutions that benefit our partners, customers, and the communities we operate in. An industry leader in decarbonization, Oxford has experienced an exceptional period. It delivered Canada’s first new Zero Carbon office tower, furthered its record-setting $1B commitment to DEI at its Navy Yard project in Philadelphia, and completed an inaugural C$600M issuance for its Green Financing Framework. Moreover, Oxford is targeting net zero operational carbon emissions in its portfolio by 2050, having blown past its public target to reduce its carbon emissions by 30% by 2025 (2015 base year), necessitating the creation of a new 50% reduction by 2030 (2019 base year) benchmark – which its efforts saw it report a 19% reduction towards that target across its most recent reporting.
Quadrum Global: Owner-developer Quadrum Global leads by example with its robust approach to ESG and has reached a significant milestone with the delivery of its 11 Belgrave project in London’s Victoria, transforming a redundant 1950s structure into a new net zero workplace and ‘living landmark’ for the next generations. ESG is at the heart of this exceptional office redevelopment, with Quadrum investing in creating one of the UK’s most sustainable and wellbeing-led buildings, which also adds long-term value to the wider community. This outstanding project has already secured a host of industry-leading accreditations including a NABERS UK 5.5 Star design-reviewed target rating, BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Platinum, WiredScore Platinum and a target of SmartScore Platinum. Quadrum is purpose-driven and recognises its responsibility as a developer to make a positive impact on the built environment, with hopes that 11 Belgrave will inspire others looking to create healthy buildings that reach new heights with ESG.
Socius: In 2023, just two years after its formation, Socius cemented its position as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking and impact-focused developers. The company, which is privately-owned and employs 14 staff, has truly punched above its weight in delivering Brighton’s largest spec commercial scheme for 25 years which created £15.2m of social value. Socius has also been selected with Aviva Capital Partners to bring forward the £1bn London Cancer Hub, with the aim of delivering the world’s leading centre for cancer research and improve health outcomes around the world. Socius achieved B Corp status in 2023 with a score of 116, understood to be the third highest ever achieved by a UK property company. And following is first Social Impact Showcase attended by local authorities, investor and the development supply chain – Socius embedded new mandatory social value targets in all of its procurement processes.
St George (Berkeley Group): Grand Union is a ground-breaking regeneration project transforming a 22-acre derelict industrial estate in Alperton, to a dynamic mixed-use community. Informed by public consultation, a concept developed around the creation of a series of distinct landscaped spaces – including riverside meadows, five-meter waterfall and manmade river - flowing through the site will emphasize nature and achieve an impressive 240% Biodiversity Net Gain. With one of six phases completed, Alperton has been revitalized with a thriving local business, landscaped piazza and Community Hub - a snapshot of what’s in the pipeline for this remarkable regeneration project delivering a total of 3,350 homes and 11 acres of open space. With ESG embedded from the outset, ‘Our Vision 2030’ strategy sets 10 key priority areas fundamental to our operations. Each underpinned by ambitious targets outlining our approach to moving our business and industry forward but primarily benefitting our communities, environment and customers.
Unite Students: Unite Students is the UK’s largest owner, manager and developer of PBSA serving the country’s world-leading Higher Education sector, providing students with a ‘Home for Success.’ The Group prides itself on being the most trusted brand in the sector and creating lively communities where students can grow, thrive and belong. Being a responsible and resilient business is critical to Unite Students’ long-term success and it is committed to leading the PBSA sector on sustainability, ensuring a positive impact on people and places. Unite Students’ accommodation is safe and secure, high quality, and affordable. Students live predominantly in en-suite study bedrooms with rents covering all bills, insurance, 24-hour security and high-speed Wi-Fi. The company’s Sustainability Strategy includes a commitment to become net zero carbon across its operations and developments by 2030. The strategy includes Unite Students’ Sustainable Construction Framework, which outlines our approach for reducing embodied carbon.
Verto Homes: Verto is the UK’s leading sustainable housebuilder, designing and constructing homes that produce zero carbon emissions. Our mission is to constantly seek innovative new materials, technologies and construction methods which offer the highest levels of energy efficiency. In 2023, we set a series of new benchmarks for sustainable residential development in the UK. Firstly, through our partnership with Octopus Energy, we developed and launched a world first ‘Zero Bills’ initiative. Zero Bills offers homebuyers precisely that – a guaranteed tariff of £0 for all their household energy. This breakthrough was made possible by the extraordinary energy efficiency and renewable energy generation capacity of our new homes, which ensure they create more clean electricity than they consume.
ESG Employer of the Year
ESG Employer of the Year
BiBO: BiBO is a collaborative multi-disciplinary practice bringing people together to design and develop more inclusive, resilient and sustainable places. They believe in respectful and relevant communication throughout the development lifecycle is critical to delivering positive outcomes. Their pioneering service is built around this core belief, allowing them to seamlessly engage with stakeholders and professional teams across all our background disciplines including masterplanning & urban design, architecture, heritage & regeneration, strategic communications and development management.
LOFT: LOFT leads the way in the BTR sector with our innovative interior design and high-quality, sustainability-focused furnishings. With 21 years of experience in furnishing residential properties, we’ve established ourselves as the go-to company for property developers. LOFT is a one stop shop – we design, deliver, install, remove, replace and recycle. We have just celebrated our 21st Birthday, and have real ambitions to continue to grow as an innovative, sustainably conscious business, who can make a real difference in the industry. From the sourcing of our supply chain, to the lifecycle of our products, LOFT is committed to creating a more sustainable future, and to giving back to communities. Our ESG Director is dedicated to driving our vision forward to minimise our environmental footprint and optimise our social impact. Over the last 18 months we have successfully developed and launched a range of ESG initiatives across the business and beyond.
MAPP: MAPP exemplifies ‘walking the walk’ as a values-driven Employee Ownership Trust. The business recently welcomed its 625th employee, a 106% increase on its headcount in January 2020, with a workforce made up of 60% women and 40 different nationalities. MAPP employees are empowered to give back to their community, donating over 7,100 hours of their time to charity last year. With the company now in the hands of its employees, MAPP has launched new Future Shapers groups to ensure its evolution is truly collaborative and guided by its values. MAPP is on track to be a net-zero carbon business by 2025. MAPP goes above and beyond in making its offices environmentally friendly. We achieved our zero-waste-to-landfill goal in our five offices. The London headquarters is rated SKA: Gold, and MAPP is ISO 14001 accredited and a member of the Better Building Partnership (BBP).
NewRiver REIT: At NewRiver they believe they have a duty to protect, enhance and minimize the impact of their physical assets whilst generating social value for the communities in which they operate in. Their people are their greatest asset and bringing them on our ESG journey is key to its success. They are proud of their culture which fosters a collaborative, inclusive and flexible working environment, underpinned by NewRiver's highly-motivated and diverse team. Education, collaboration and respect sit at the heart of their ESG strategy, harnessing the power of their team to drive their ESG objectives forward.
PLATFORM_: PLATFORM_ is a leading investor, developer, and operator of institutional-quality BTR properties across the UK. Our Nurturing Neighbourhoods strategy, launched in 2024, underscores our commitment to sustainability, responsibility, and ethical conduct. With 24 targets spanning environmental, social, and governance aspects, PLATFORM_ aims for all buildings to be net zero in operation by 2030. We pay the Real Living Wage, ensure our new developments reuse or recycle over 90% of construction waste, and have achieved significant biodiversity gains at sites like PLATFORM_ Milton Keynes. Our diverse workforce, inclusive hiring practices, and resident-focused initiatives such as smart-parcel management and loyalty schemes further reflect our dedication. Positive feedback from residents and our Sustainability Steering Group ensures continuous improvement and engagement. PLATFORM_ is proud to integrate ESG principles into its core operations, making us a deserving candidate for the ESG Employer of the Year Award.
Pro-invest Group: Pro-invest Group, has been redefining hospitality through a lens of sustainability and inclusivity. Over the past 18 months, their UK-based founders Ronald Stephen Barrott and Sabine Schaffer have implemented ESG focused initiatives, that encompass a zero-tolerance approach to modern slavery in any forms. They are also pioneering partnerships that elevate environmental responsibility through programs like RISE which empowers future leaders via scholarships and internships. They also have CARE which creates a variety of accessible roles for persons with disabilities. Additionally, they have exceptional energy efficiency initiatives, evidenced by their NABERS ratings, showcasing their dedication to sustainability. This is recognised by employee surveys such as a Great Place to Work survey and their use of 3rd party verification including GRESB, which further confirms their leading standard in ESG.
Uncommon: At Uncommon, they make exceptional spaces for work. Workspaces full of positive energy, where teams and their ambition are really well looked after. It’s vital that their very own people feel energised as part of an organisation with a clear purpose. Proud to be playing their part to help shape a better society and protect the planet.
ESG Investor of the Year
ESG Investor of the Year
AXA IM Alts: AXA IM Alts is a global leader in alternative investments with €183 billion of assets under management comprising c.€84 billion of primarily private real estate, over €87 billion of private debt and alternative credit, as well as over €10 billion in Infrastructure, private equity and hedge funds. We take a 360° approach to real estate & infrastructure investing with over €124 billion of assets under management in direct opportunities, held indirectly through debt and listed equities and via long term private equity investments into operating platforms. ESG is fully integrated into our investment decision making processes with our responsible investment approach anchored by the three key pillars of decarbonisation, resilience and building tomorrow. AXA IM Alts employs over 840 people located in 15 offices around the world and serves the needs of more than 600 clients from Europe, North America, Asia Pacific and Middle East.
Bridges Fund Management: For over 20 years, Bridges Fund Management has invested exclusively in businesses that support the transition to a more inclusive and sustainable economy. ESG and impact is fundamental to each stage of Bridges’ investment process: from origination, to assessment, value creation, to exit. Bridges focuses on four core themes that are central to the transition to a more inclusive and sustainable economy: Future Skills, Healthier Lives, Sustainable Planet and Stronger Communities and has led the firm to be a pioneer and global leader in the impacting investing space.
Civitas Investment Management: Civitas Investment Management Limited (“Civitas”) is one of the largest impact investors in care-based housing, healthcare facilities and specialist schools in the UK, with £3.5 billion of Assets Under Advisory across five investment strategies. Civitas has over 1,200+ community-based assets with capacity to provide living, healthcare and educational facilities to over 9,400+ individuals. The core of our ethos is commitment to making a difference whilst delivering consistent financial performance, and impact considerations are embedded into every stage of the investment process. As an impact investor with expert knowledge in the sector, Civitas seeks to provide the highest quality accommodation and facilities for those who are most in need across society and we work closely with our 210+ care provider partners and local authority commissioners to establish key areas with unmet demand ensuring our investments reach those most in need and achieve the greatest social impact.
Elevation Advisors: Elevation is a specialist investment manager in the European healthcare real estate sector with over £1.9bn of assets under management in four countries (U.K., France, Germany and Spain) spanning care homes, rehabilitation clinics and specialist assets for learning disabilities and mental health. For more information please visit our website www.elevationadvisors.co.uk.
Harrison Street: Since 2013, Harrison Street has led the way in sustainability within alternative real assets, achieving net zero operations, across Scopes 1, 2 and 3, since September 2020. The firm has a 2025 target to reduce its carbon emissions by 70% across its portfolio. In 2023, Harrison Street reduced carbon emissions by 35% and is on track to meet its goal. It has accomplished this through efficient design and operations, procurement of green energy, installation of on-site renewables, and tenant engagement programs. Much of this will continue over the next two years as the firm marches to its goal, including deeper and wider tenant engagement programs. One example is the use of smart building sensors which are part of a gamification program to encourage residents to conserve energy. Thus far over 10,000 of these sensors have been installed resulting in a 13% reduction in energy usage.
Newcore Capital: Newcore Capital, the world's highest scoring B Corp certified real assets investment manager, has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the integration of ESG principles across all aspects of its operations. Newcore invests in assets that serve fundamental societal needs across various social infrastructure subsectors. These include, but are not limited to; healthcare, education, funeral services, EV charging, and storage. The firm’s place-based strategy turns disused or inefficient assets into real estate that serves socially productive uses with benefit to local environments. While generating this significant positive environmental and social impact, Newcore has been able to deliver attractive risk-adjusted returns to its investors – achieving 10.2% per annum net levered IRR on all assets since inception through the recent turbulent times up to December 2023. The firm manages capital on behalf of institutional, pension fund, and private clients.
Octopus Real Estate: Octopus Real Estate is a leading specialist real estate investor, with a team of 90 professionals. We provide award-winning finance for UK property investment and development. We have over £3.7 billion under management on behalf of institutional and retail investors, with a focus on the property lending and healthcare sectors. The property lending team provides bespoke, customer-focused financing solutions across the residential, commercial and development sectors. The team has lent more than £6.4 billion across over 4,700 loans, providing competitively priced financing throughout the UK and spanning the property investment lifecycle, with loans typically ranging from £100,000 to £50 million. The healthcare team manages over £1.8 billion of investments, with a focus on care homes and retirement communities – sectors requiring significant investment given the UK’s ageing population. The team also creates strategic partnerships with leading healthcare operators, to deliver exceptional healthcare facilities you’d choose for your loved ones.
Oparo Social: Oparo, founded on strong ESG principles, excels in the social housing sector with innovative technology and transparent operations. They prioritise resident well-being and ethical conduct, balancing financial performance with meaningful social contributions. Partnering with regulated social housing providers, they enhance spaces, boost energy efficiency, and improve well-being. Their collaboration with local authorities emphasizes transparency and integrity, resulting in high-quality housing that positively impacts communities. Their financing model aligns with their mission to provide affordable housing while maintaining financial stability. Oparo's commitment to ESG principles is evident in the lives they have improved, showcasing their dedication to sustainable and socially responsible practices.
Oxford Properties: As an investor, developer and manager, Oxford has a unique vantage point across the full lifecycle of real estate. This vertical integration allows us to deliver sophisticated sustainability solutions that benefit our partners, customers, and the communities we operate in. Our deep expertise and commitment to sustainability are key competitive advantages that enable us to drive positive impact at scale. An industry leader in decarbonisation, Oxford has experienced an exceptionally strong 12-18 month period. We completed and opened North America's first new Zero Carbon Building – Design certified office tower, furthered a record-setting $1B commitment to DEI as part of our Navy Yard project in Philadelphia, and completed an inaugural C$600M issuance for our new Green Financing Framework. Moreover, Oxford is targeting net zero operational carbon emissions in our portfolio by 2050, and in 2023, we reported a successful 19% reduction of carbon emissions intensity from our 2019 baseline.
Patron Capital: Patron Capital is one of the leading value-add/opportunistic real estate investment managers in Europe. As a business and fund manager, Patron considers the ESG impact of all its investments, including the potential impact of operations on the environment or society, or the community in which the investment resides or operates. It is a signatory member of the UN PRI and GRESB. A prime example of Patron’s strength as an ESG investor is its social impact fund, the Women in Safe Homes fund. The fund, managed in partnership with Resonance, was created to provide safe and secure housing for women experiencing or at risk of homelessness, domestic abuse survivors, ex-offenders, and those with complex needs. Seeded with a personal commitment of £1m from Patron’s Managing Director Keith Breslauer and £1.5m in start-up costs from Patron, the fund is managed by Patron, pro bono.
Precede Capital Partners: Precede Capital, a B-Corp-certified lending platform, partners with top developers, sponsors, banks, and institutional investors to offer innovative debt financing for large-scale UK real estate projects, overseeing nearly £1.8 billion in whole loans since 2021. Guided by social and environmental values, Precede has embedded ESG principles into its strategy.
Co-Founder Karen Dunstan led the creation of proprietary ESG screenings and a bespoke Green Loan Facility Agreement, promoting sustainable construction. She also developed a social value measurement tool and fostered a values-led culture with strong business ethics, including employee satisfaction programs, DEI policies, and mentorship opportunities.
This commitment is evident in key deals, such as a £105.2 million Green Loan for a London MMC project and a £188 million BTR financing package in Birmingham. In December 2023, Precede earned B Corp certification, becoming one of fewer than 40 UK real estate firms to achieve this, reflecting its dedication to sustainable
ESG Leader of the Year – Individual
ESG Leader of the Year – Individual
Aleksandra Njagulj: Aleksandra (Sasha) Njagulj is the Managing Director and Global Head of ESG for Real Estate at DWS group, leading ESG integration across global real estate portfolios. With over 20 years of experience, she has held key ESG roles at CBRE Global Investors and Bouygues U.K. Sasha has earned several awards, including the 2020 edie Sustainability Leaders Award and the 2020 GRESB/BREEAM Individual Leadership Award. She also won the 2021 Future Proof Real Estate Woman award. Holding Master's degrees from the University of Belgrade and the University of Cambridge, Sasha chairs the GRESB Foundation Real Estate Standards Committee and the INREV ESG Committee, and co-chairs the IIGCC Adaptation and Resilience Working Group. She is a BRE Academy fellow and serves on various ESG committees.
Alasdair Ben Dixon: Alasdair Ben Dixon has long held commitments to ESG and finding a better way for architects to balance the needs of wider works with the needs of clients and stakeholders. Alasdair is an architect and Partner at Collective Works - whose approach to architecture is to make beautiful and responsible work. He is a member of the Architects Declare steering group, and has been a Trustee of Architecture for Humanity UK, an advisor to Architecture Sans Frontiers UK, and sat on the RIBA Ethics and Sustainable Development Commission. He is a coauthor, with Carys Rowlands of the RIBA Ethical Practice Guide, published in the autumn of 2023 - a handbook for recognising ethical issues, which gives tools, techniques and resources to help practitioners resolve them. He speaks regularly on ethics, sustainability and social value.
Anastasia Klein: Maples Teesdale is the UK’s leading real estate law specialist. As a noted expert on ESG and green lease provisions, Ana is recognised as a leading individual in the Legal 500 Green Guide and has spoken about green leases, ESG and sustainability at events hosted by (amongst others) BPF, RICS, JLL and Bisnow as well as having articles published by RICS, Estates Gazette, BE News and CoStar and being quoted in Property Week and the national press. She is also a member of the BPF's Green Lease Working Group , sits on the BENews’ ESG Editorial Advisory Board and is an active supporter of the Net Carbon Zero Standard project. Of particular note, Ana has recently been involved in the creation of a ground-breaking green lease for an extremely innovative award-winning client with sustainability at its core, as well as taking the lead on green lease drafting in a panel of law firms acting for FTSE 100 listed global investment manager with assets under management valued in excess of c£500bn. Ana is passionate about driving change and encouraging diversity in the legal profession and the commercial real estate industry. In her EDI role she actively promotes and supports EDI both internally and externally; she is a founding member of the Allbright Club in London, a committee member of RE: Women and is proud to have been included in Bisnow’s recent list of “Women Changing the Face of UK Real Estate – Power Women”.
Elizabeth Jackson: Elizabeth Jackson is inspirational as a leader who truly believes in ESG values. Since joining LOFT in 2021, Lizzie has driven and implemented a progressive ESG strategy for LOFT, allowing us to become ahead of the curve in our industry with our sustainable practices. Lizzie has spoken internationally on ESG and regularly chairs and speaks on panels across the property sector and beyond to champion the importance of ESG, and to share knowledge and best practices. LOFT has over 21 years of experience in the BTR sector, and we are proud of our innovative interior design and quality, sustainability-focused furnishings. We design, deliver, install, remove, replace and recycle. Lizzie has worked tirelessly with the rest of the Board at LOFT to develop and launch a range of initiatives where we can really make a positive social impact, and we have ambitions to keep growing and giving back.
Gary Metcalf: First, there’s is Gary Metcalf relentless approach to working collaboratively with architect and landlord partners designing new properties. His ESG work during the design phase led to the JJ Mack building’s status as the UK’s most sustainable office building with a BREEAM score of 96.42% a highlight. Second there’s his focus on creating social value when working with contractors, suppliers, local communities and the wider industry. With all contractors on track to be 100% Real Living Wage certified in 2024, creating social value is at the core of every service the company procures across their £35m+ annual spend. Finally, none of this would be possible without Gary’s ESG-centric leadership within Ashdown Phillips. Now actively part of every part of the company’s operation, everyone in the business has an ESG-specific KPI within their annual appraisal and ESG values are a top consideration in recruitment.
Jessica Pilz: Jessica Pilz is Head of Sustainable Investing, Private Markets at global asset manager Fiera Capital. A true veteran of ESG in real estate, Jess has dedicated a 14-year career to driving the sector’s sustainability agenda. Joining Fiera Real Estate (FRE) UK in 2020 to oversee its ESG strategies and initiatives, Jess now leads Fiera’s global sustainable investing strategy across all private markets investments. Her achievements include leading the development and implementation of FRE’s NZC pathways for both the UK and Canada (and subsequent carbon emissions reductions) and leading the creation of an industry-leading proprietary dashboard that has pioneered the quarterly reporting of ESG performance. Jess sits on Fiera’s DE&I Advisory Board and is an active member of AREF’s ESG Investment and Impact Committee. Passionate about championing the careers of women in real estate, she is a mentor to three women similarly working towards a sustainable future for the built environment.
Dr. Johannes Fütterer: Dr. Johannes Fütterer, CEO and founder of Cologne-based PropTech "aedifion", leverages cutting-edge AI and building technology to tackle ESG challenges in the real estate industry. With a team of over 70 employees from 11 countries, he provides Germany's leading software solution for technical building equipment, enhancing economic performance and driving the energy transition. The aedifion cloud platform, winner of the "Global ESG Award" at MIPIM Cannes, optimises building operations through real-time data, reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 40 %. Johannes's commitment to tenant wellbeing, transparency, and sustainable growth has propelled aedifion to international success, decarbonising buildings across seven countries. His dedication to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion fosters a dynamic, inclusive workplace that empowers both buildings and people. Johannes's visionary leadership and innovative solutions make him an outstanding candidate for the ESG EDGE Awards.
Julie Tucker: Julie's commitment to climate action extends way beyond her day job through the myriad voluntary roles she takes on and her determination to really make a difference through purposeful action. The testimonials from those she has worked with speak volumes: "Julie’s determination, joy and passion for this work are a breath of fresh air and have kept our team motivated and helped us to support even more London businesses.", “Julie’s commitment to using her role and the leverage it gives her to address the climate crisis has been evident since our first meeting. She is passionate and uses her networks wisely to build wider support for transformational change at a local and regional level.", "When Julie is passionate about something she gives 1000% of herself," "Julie is a true powerhouse of CSR with an energy for change and the sort of attitude which makes you believe the impossible is possible."
Karen Dunstan: Karen Dunstan, Co-Founder, General Counsel, and COO of Precede Capital, has been instrumental in establishing the B-Corp-certified platform as a leader in purpose driven debt financing for large-scale UK developments. Since its inception, Precede has extended approximately £1.8 billion in whole loans to developers. Karen’s advocacy for purpose-led lending has driven the incorporation of ESG into Precede’s core values and strategy. She has implemented proprietary ESG screenings for all transactions, designed a bespoke Green Loan Facility Agreement to promote sustainable construction, and developed a social value measurement tool for all transactions. Additionally, she has fostered a values-led culture with strong business ethics, employee satisfaction programs, DEI policies, and mentorship opportunities. Karen’s initiatives are reflected in major deals, including a £105.2 million Green Loan for a London MMC project and a £188 million whole-loan for a Birmingham regeneration scheme. Her leadership was pivotal in Precede achieving B Corp certification.
Linzzie Wallace: Linzzie Wallace's exceptional leadership at Novel Student has driven significant advancements in ESG initiatives, from renewable energy and waste reduction to resident engagement. Her innovative approach and dedication to sustainability set a high standard, making her an exemplary candidate for the ESG Leader of the Year award.
Vicky Cotton: Vicky Cotton, ESG Director at Workman, Chair of the BBP’s Managing Agents Partnership, and Co-Chair of the Managing for Performance Working Group, puts ESG at the forefront of everything Workman does, being the architect of multiple sustainability services and initiatives, and innovating in her development of the Managing for Performance Framework as part of her BBP/MAP role. Over the past 18 months, Vicky has expanded the Workman ESG team from 7 to 11 ESG specialists, while winning new appointments with leading investors. Over the past few years, as the entire industry has become more and more conscious of the need to stamp out greenwashing, there’s been a massive shift towards rigorously evidenced ESG impact. Increasingly, Vicky has been working closely with clients to capture actual building performance data and energy intensity measurement, beyond obtaining ESG certifications, which don’t always reflect the actual performance of buildings.
ESG New-Build Project of the Year – Large
ESG New-Build Project of the Year – Large
Acorn Property Group: Acorn Property Group, an independent housebuilder and regeneration specialist, has successfully developed residential and mixed-use schemes for nearly 30 years. Originating in London, Acorn has expanded into the South West with offices in Bristol, Exeter, Cornwall, and a branch in Cardiff, focusing on bespoke developments designed to meet the needs of local communities. The Old Printworks developed by Acorn Property Group offers 159 homes (1-4 bedrooms) and three commercial units in Frome, Somerset. This development transforms the former Butler, Tanner, and Dennis Printers site to deliver a range of sustainable and design-led new homes. Built with the community in mind, huge importance has been placed on creating outside space. Throughout the development there is 1.5 acres of public open space in addition to a children’s play area and new footpaths along the River Frome, designed to foster a community spirit with residents.
Konect62: Delivered by joint venture partners, Henderson Park and Cole Waterhouse, the first phase of Konect62 is a highly sustainable logistics and industrial development in Knottingley, West Yorkshire, which breathes new life into a disused brownfield site – the former Kellingley Colliery. The scheme comprises three highly sustainable units (161,000, 151,000 and 61,000 sq. ft) across 30 acres with a further 30-acre plot remediated and serviced with power and drainage. The wider estate benefits from access to the M62 and has the capability to create 1,500+ jobs in phase one and 1,000+ jobs in phase two. Cole Waterhouse is a UK developer with offices in Manchester and London. The company focusses on a small number of significantly sized projects at any given time, ensuring projects receive the high levels of detail, attention and management they require and deserve. Henderson Park is a private equity real estate manager headquartered in London, their investment strategy focuses exclusively on real estate investments, primarily in Western European capital and gateway cities.
MEPC and TP Bennett Architects: 11 & 12 Wellington Place exemplify sustainability, combining cutting-edge design with environmental responsibility. These buildings represent a new standard in green workspaces, aligning business success with a commitment to sustainability and social impact. Developed by MEPC, 11 & 12 Wellington Place are the latest addition to the thriving Wellington Place estate in Leeds. Featuring 228,986 sq ft of prime office space, the buildings are strategically located in the city’s West End, just a short walk from Leeds railway station. Redefining sustainable commercial office developments in Yorkshire, the buildings achieved BREEAM Outstanding, EPC A, and mark the first development outside of London to target a NABERS 5 Star rating. Featuring the latest in smart technology the buildings are fully electric and net zero carbon in operation, with a two-star Fitwel score which recognises commitment to designing buildings which are both good for the environment and for the health of occupants.
Native Land: Arbor, Bankside Yards, sets a new benchmark for operational sustainability with its all-electric, net-zero carbon operation from day one. Thoughtfully designed for inclusivity, with exceptional amenities, it adds significant social value to the community. Arbor has attracted top-tier businesses, affirming Native Land’s commitment to creating an exceptional, green workspace.
PLATFORM_: PLATFORM_ in Sheffield represents a landmark achievement in sustainable, community-focused development. Strategically located near key infrastructure and points of interest, the development offers flexible lease options, pet-friendly apartments, and curated social events, fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. PLATFORM_ integrates ESG principles by focusing on sustainability, evidenced by its recently launched Nurturing Neighbourhoods strategy. With initiatives like solar panels, air source heat pumps, and biodiversity enhancements, PLATFORM_ aims for net zero operation by 2030. The new neighbourhood features innovative amenities, including multi-functional spaces, three rooftop terraces, and extensive resident services. This development exemplifies true diversity and inclusion, with a multicultural resident community and a workforce whereby over half are female, reflecting our commitment to creating inclusive communities. By addressing the impacts of climate change and promoting well-being, PLATFORM_ in Sheffield sets a new benchmark in sustainable urban development, making it a strong contender for the ESG New-Build Project of the Year.
Winvic Construction: Commitment, innovative thinking and collaboration with green supply chain partners, education providers and the community have resulted in Plot 5, SEGRO Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway being an exemplar ESG-focused project. The Life Cycle Assessment at practical completion revealed a 39% carbon improvement (from RIBA Stage 4) due to numerous strategic carbon reducing materials and construction processes. The next generation was engaged through mentorships, on-site placements and visits, and local people benefitted; 27% of the site team were from within 30-mile radius, £21.2m was spent within the same local area and materials, resources and funds were donated to not-for-profit organisations.
ESG New-Build Project of the Year –Small
ESG New-Build Project of the Year –Small
ECF Eden: Eden is a £36 million, 115,000 sq ft 12-storey workspace, developed by ECF (formerly The English Cities Fund) – a joint venture between Muse, Legal & General and Homes England – and based in New Bailey, Salford.
ECF Greenhaus: Greenhaus is a development of 96 highly sustainable, affordable apartments on Salford’s Chapel Street. Delivered by ECF – a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse – alongside Salix Homes, and supported by Salford City Council, the development has been built to Passivhaus Classic certified standards, the leading low-energy design standard. It is one of the UK's first medium-rise Passivhaus apartment schemes and is the largest Passivhaus affordable scheme in the North West. The development has bridged the gap in the housing sector for affordable, high-specification living. The project incorporates triple glazing, air source heat pumps, and the latest in insulation technology contributing to higher thermal comfort and improved air quality. These features, in turn, contribute to a healthier living environment by reducing the risk of damp, mould and condensation.
Feldberg Capital: Studio 5 is a 34,728 sq ft office development, part of the Power Road Studios campus in London’s Chiswick. Spread across five floors, Studio 5 is a self-contained building within the campus, with excellent ESG credentials and best-in-class technology to support its small business tenants. At Studio 5, architect Barr Gazetas has driven the design to ensure the ESG credentials remain at the forefront of the development. Studio 5 has achieved numerous best-in-class sustainability credentials, including BREEAM Outstanding, Airscore Gold, NABERS UK 4.5 stars, and an EPC A rating. The building is 100% electric, with 84 solar panels onsite producing 21 MWh pa, and remaining energy procured from completely renewable sources. A comprehensive biophilia strategy has been applied to open areas, resulting in a minimum 15% net biodiversity gain, whilst Feldberg Capital’s bold approach to whole life carbon sees it exceed numerous net zero targets.
Greencore Homes: Greencore Homes, in collaboration with the Hook Norton Community Land Trust (HNLT) and Soha, has spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative in sustainable development and low-carbon living. Through a partnership rooted in community-driven values, this project pioneers innovative solutions to combat climate change while prioritising affordability, well-being, and sustainability. By championing cutting-edge sustainable design and construction practices, such as Climate Positive homes and renewable energy integration, each aspect of the development contributes to a healthier environment and a stronger sense of community. This visionary project not only addresses the critical need for affordable housing but also encourages local connections and ownership through an inclusive financing model. From triple-glazed windows to MVHR, every detail reflects a commitment to excellence in energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental stewardship. Collectively, Greencore Homes and its partners set a new standard for sustainable living, demonstrating how communities can thrive while minimising their carbon footprint.
Inspired Villages: Inspired Villages is a leading operator and developer of purpose-built, later living communities in the UK. Our purpose and guiding north star is creating communities where people can live the best years of their life. The need for more age-appropriate housing for over 65s is significant. At Inspired Villages, we are supporting this need with our plan to create 34 communities with over 5,100 purpose-built homes, supporting 8,000 residents through our £500 million Joint Venture agreement with NatWest Group Pension Fund and Legal & General. We champion holistic wellbeing and the enhancement to the lives of our residents is proven and significant. In addition to this, the place-based social impact of Inspired communities extends far beyond the villages themselves. As well as generating new jobs and facilities available to the wider community, IRCs play a key role in a diverse and agile property market by freeing up underpopulated housing.
Interaction: Osborne Clarke came to Bath-based design and build firm, Interaction, with one top priority: to create a truly authentic, sustainable place their people will love to work from. They were moving into the top five floors of Bristol’s Halo, one of the UK’s most sustainable buildings, and needed to provide a destination workplace for their 800 employees. What resulted is five floors of jaw-dropping, truly sustainable, inclusive and wellbeing-centric space which has absolutely transformed the way Osborne Clarke work. It is now one of the UK’s most notable offices, with ESG values integrated seamlessly throughout. As Judith Gee (Osborne Clarke’s Change Manager) summarised, 'to have created this vision and made it our reality is nothing short of genius."
McAleer & Rushe: Plot K1 is the first completed building in the 53-acre Canada Water Masterplan. Developed by British Land in partnership with AustralianSuper and built by McAleer & Rushe, it delivers 79 affordable homes for Southwark Council, with 60 designated as council homes, addressing local housing needs. Designed with families in mind, most homes feature two or more bedrooms and achieve a Home Quality Mark Level 3. The six-storey building maximises natural light and ventilation with its C-shaped design around a central courtyard. Sustainability is at the heart of Plot K1, achieving net zero embodied carbon and an astounding 866.4% Biodiversity Net Gain. The project is fully electric, water-efficient, and follows a zero-waste plan. Community engagement includes significant volunteer work and educational initiatives with local schools. Plot K1 exemplifies excellence in sustainable development, innovation, and community impact, setting a benchmark for future projects within the Canada Water Masterplan.
room2: room2 Belfast is a space where innovation meets sustainability. We’ve embarked on a journey to redefine hospitality by integrating concepts of the WELL Standard into the design and operations of the property. room2 Belfast is currently targeting WELL Platinum certification, the highest achievement, aiming to advance human health in built environments. Our commitment to WELL's ten concepts, from air quality to community engagement, ensures the space not only promotes well-being but also contributes to global sustainability goals.We have collaborated across departments and with external partners to bring the property to life, highlighting circular economy principles, better air quality, and sustainable products and materials. Every decision made during design aimed to decrease the environmental impact and create a safe space that promotes the wellbeing of its occupants. room2 Belfast is not just a hotel; it is a beacon of impactful change in the hospitality industry.
Verto Homes: Nexa Fields in Exeter is the UK’s first fully ‘Zero Bills’ residential development. This places it among the most energy efficient new schemes to be delivered this year, anywhere in the world. All 40 units in this development meet the highest possible standards in energy efficiency, resulting in full accreditation from Octopus Energy for Zero Bills – a new initiative which sees homeowners pay nothing for their household energy, guaranteed. Given that 25% of the UK’s carbon emissions come from buildings, the ability to decarbonise the housing sector is essential to reach the government’s net zero target by 2050. The vision for Zero Bills – and Nexa Fields – is to tackle this challenge head on.
x+why: Fivefields is a flexible, impact-driven workspace for charities and social value organisations, brought forward by Grosvenor for the Westminster Foundation in partnership with x+why, designed with accessibility, neurodiversity and sustainability at the fore. Located in the heart of Victoria, this listed building sets a new standard for designing for charitable initiative within a heritage context, embedding ESG principles to create outstanding environments for remarkable charities supporting children and young people.
Excellence in Community Engagement - Regeneration
Excellence in Community Engagement - Regeneration
Angel Central: Angel Central’s Wings fly high across Islington as a visible example of how community engagement and neighbourhood involvement are core to the centre’s visions and values for a successful future. Keeping the wings was, at first, not a part of the plans for the £16 million refurbishment of Angel Central. However, during a consultation, the new owners, CBRE Investment Management (CBRE IM), not only realised the importance of the wings to the community but also the significance of the centre as a hub for Angel. The centre manager, Adam Cummins, has driven this agenda with tangible results including significant long-term collaborations, and sustained positive impact on the community. Angel Central puts environmental, social, and governance (ESG) at the heart of everything it does, with the team delivering a compelling shopping environment where retailers can achieve their commercial needs without impacting the centre’s values.
Ballymore Brentford Project: The Brentford Project is a regeneration initiative by Ballymore, with 876 homes, over 40 retailers, and five acres of public space, creating a dynamic new neighborhood. The revitalised high street features lanes, yards, and a vibrant town center for dining, shopping, and cultural activities. Ballymore's efforts also include preserving heritage sites like the river wall and a Grade II Listed church. Ballymore’s innovative approach includes an award-winning meanwhile-use strategy with events like The Summer Series, fostering social cohesion and community engagement. The mixed-use development integrates residential, retail, and commercial spaces, enhancing the area's appeal. The waterways and paths offer recreational opportunities, complemented by numerous restaurants and cafes. Architectural designs by AHMM, Glenn Howells Architects, and Maccreanor Lavington reflect the area's industrial heritage. The Brentford Project’s strategic planning and community involvement exemplify successful urban regeneration creating a thriving, sustainable neighbourhood.
Ballymore Edgware Project: Ballymore and Places for London are bringing forward proposals for the transformation of Edgware Town Centre, making it a more dynamic, inclusive and sustainable place, for all generations. At the heart of our approach is a genuine and comprehensive programme of community engagement, consultation and relationship building. Between September 2022 and February 2024, we met with more than 2,000 local residents and community leaders to expand and enrich our understanding of local priorities, concerns and hopes for the future.
Our engagement programme during this period was designed to reflect the celebrated diversity of Edgware’s community, many of whom are often overlooked during the planning process. We conducted specific sessions with disability groups around making the development and consultation itself more accessible, with feedback used to inform accessibility designs across the development. Dialogue with faith groups ensured we held consultation events on both Saturdays and Sundays so as not to disadvantage any local residents.
Castle Quarter: Castle Quarter (originally Castle Mall) launched in Norwich in 1993. In 2019 Castle Quarter began the transformation from indoor shopping centre to Norwich’s leading social, leisure and lifestyle destination. It now has a 50/50 split between retail and leisure & entertainment tenants. What has remained constant throughout this period of change is the management’s commitment to local people and the community. Between September 2022 to February 2024, our community engagement activities have taken centre stage. So much more than a place to shop, watch, dine and play, Castle Quarter is at the heart of the city of Norwich, and makes community engagement an ongoing business priority.
FI Real Estate Management: The regeneration of The Bulb has created a landmark office building that raises the standard of workspace available in the Southampton city centre market. Designed to be flexible and adaptable, we work with all our clients to ensure that the space meets their bespoke requirements in an office market where needs are changing. The Bulb is designed to have a greater impact on the lives of employees and the local area. We engaged with the community throughout the design and development process, involving 10,000 people with the creation of the external mural which uses CO2 absorbent paint to create a unique landmark. 11 businesses have moved in since the refurbishment was completed, and a number of events have been held to cement The Bulb’s place as Southampton city centre’s premier office development.
Socius: In 2023, just two years after its formation, Socius cemented its position as one of the UK’s most forward-thinking and impact-focused developers. The company, which is privately-owned and employs 14 staff, has truly punched above its weight in delivering Brighton’s largest spec commercial scheme for 25 years which created £15.2m of social value. Socius has also been selected with Aviva Capital Partners to bring forward the £1bn London Cancer Hub, with the aim of delivering the world’s leading centre for cancer research and improve health outcomes around the world. Socius achieved B Corp status in 2023 with a score of 116, understood to be the third highest ever achieved by a UK property company. And following is first Social Impact Showcase attended by local authorities, investor and the development supply chain – Socius embedded new mandatory social value targets in all of its procurement processes.
St Edward: Hartland Village is an important brownfield regeneration site in Fleet, Hampshire. The site is embedded in a forest, with no pre-existing infrastructure or homes. Since 2018, we have been constructing a brand-new village of 1,500 homes, complete with its own village centre and school. Right from the outset, St Edward decided it was important to create a sense of community and links with the local neighbourhood. They employed a dedicated Community Engagement Manager, ringfenced over £250,000 to invest specifically in community activities and set aside £1.1 million for delivery of a community hall.
St Edward: Hartland Village is an important brownfield regeneration site in Fleet, Hampshire. The site is embedded in a forest, with no pre-existing infrastructure or homes. Since 2018, we have been constructing a brand-new village of 1,500 homes, complete with its own village centre and school. Right from the outset, St Edward decided it was important to create a sense of community and links with the local neighbourhood. They employed a dedicated Community Engagement Manager, ringfenced over £250,000 to invest specifically in community activities and set aside £1.1 million for delivery of a community hall.
Stevenage Borough Council: Engagement and collaboration is key to any programme of work that impacts local communities and businesses. In Stevenage, a £1bn transformation of the town centre is seeing evolution with a wide range of benefits. Communities need to feel informed about the work that is taking place, so they have the chance to shape change that is taking place in their town. From a new Sports & Leisure Centre to community space and increasing the visibility of arts & culture within the town, this wide-ranging programme is being delivered for the local community. Stevenage Borough Council is empowering local people and demonstrating that collaborative working is of critical importance. The council is using opportunities to allow as many people as possible to be directly involved in shaping their town. Co-production and collaboration is central to create lasting, positive impacts.
Excellence in Community Engagement - Partnerships
Excellence in Community Engagement - Partnerships
Annington Challenge: Military youngsters are the unsung heroes of the UK’s military community. Their parent’s choice of career leads to a unique set of challenges - frequent house moves, disruption to education, loss of friends plus concerns around parental safety and frequent and sustained parental absence - can have a profound impact. Developing resilience, self-confidence and banishing feelings of low self-worth are key to ensuring military youngsters have the skills needed to lead successful and productive lives. The Annington Challenge aims to help them achieve this. Since 2011 Annington and the Outward Bound Trust have run the Annington Challenge – a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these special youngsters. Through tackling one of the Outward Bound’s renowned outdoor courses that are designed to test and challenge, they are asked to dig deep and step outside their comfort zones. They discover new skills, a new outlook - and a new and positive view of themselves.
BiBO for Related Argent: BiBO is a collaborative multi-disciplinary practice bringing people together to design and develop more inclusive, resilient and sustainable places. We believe respectful and relevant communication throughout the development lifecycle is critical to delivering positive outcomes. Our pioneering service is built around this core belief, allowing us to seamlessly engage with stakeholders and professional teams across all our background disciplines including masterplanning & urban design, architecture, heritage & regeneration, strategic communications and development management.
Caridon Property: Caridon Property own and manage over 2000 properties in London, Crawley, Essex, Kent, Bristol and Croydon, they have been established since 2009. Their main developments have onsite Gyms, a soft play area, full outdoor playgrounds, I.T suites, Zen gardens and picnic areas - which are all provided for free to our residents. in 2023 Caridon were recognized in Parliament at the International CSR awards winning a Gold Accreditation for our social impact work and report, they also won Gold at The Green Apple environmental Awards.
Cushman & Wakefield: Situated in on the edge of Ipswich central, the Buttermarket Centre Is Suffolks go to leisure retail hub comprising twenty-two units, is fully enclosed trading across two levels with direct access to the 24/7 integrated car park below. The Buttermarket Centre stands as a welcoming gateway to the town, a fact that makes the management and its onsite teams work to involve the community in the life of the centre critical. As a retail leisure hub, who puts the community at the heart of everything they do, the team always aims to try to support their tenants, local families, and organisations. It is the centres firm belief it is their social responsibility to support its tenants and local community and is always stiving to improve tenant and customer experience by not just investing but engaging and delivering unique experiences for all.
Federated Hermes: Federated Hermes Real Estate, an institutional investment manager with $8.3bn of commercial real estate assets under management. Over four decades of real estate investment and a long track record in placemaking and urban regeneration has shown that the built environment has huge potential to deliver not only sustainable and long-term financial returns, but to also create more meaningful cities, providing citizens with a sense of belonging and social wellbeing. We are driven by a conviction to create new places where people will choose to work, visit and live, through developments that are innately focused on communities. This ethos of inclusivity and a sense of belonging helps us to create the ‘meaningful places’ of the future. We are proud to highlight the successful implementation of innovative community engagement initiatives across NOMA (Manchester) and Centre:mk (Milton Keynes).
Frasers Property UK: Frasers Property UK is a fully integrated developer, investor, and asset manager of residential, hospitality and commercial property in the UK. FPUK is continuously engaging and inspiring change for good across its communities and understands that the built environment plays an integral role in bringing societal value to its communities and improving social cohesion. FPUK works in partnership with its colleagues, occupiers, and communities, to ensure the spaces it delivers are future proof and reflect people’s needs for social interaction and greater wellbeing - its unwavering commitment to places, people and communities is what sets it apart from competitors.
Grand Arcade Cambridge: ‘Let’s Go Circular’ is the FIRST shopping centre initiative promoting the Circular Economy concept. They showcase the best circular initiatives from the community to inspire visitors to learn, share, meet and connect around the Circular Economy’s pillars:
- designing out waste
- keeping products in use
- regenerating natural systems.
To date, They have partnered with 50 local organisations and retailers to offer: 36 free workshops, 5 interactive pop-ups, multiple exhibitions, and a circular fashion show supporting refugees. From a Repair Café to sewing lessons, recipes to cook a meal out of food that would have gone to waste, tips to make your home more energy-efficient, or science activities about the importance of our wildlife, they have tackled 15 crucial topics. Featured in top media outlets like BBC National News and The I Paper, their annual main event attracted 344,302 visitors in 2023, a 6% increase from the previous year.
Grosvenor Property UK: People Positive cements Grosvenor’s commitment to increase the wellbeing of our people and the communities we are a part of. We’re tracking and responding to what impacts wellbeing in our places and offering employees a sector leading programme of activities and advice that responds to their needs.
The Buttermarket: The Buttermarket, a retail and leisure hub in Ipswich, champions inclusivity and community well-being through its Buttermarket Beneficiaries initiative. Unlike traditional charity partnerships, it collaborates with numerous local charities and groups, aiming to address diverse community needs. Since its launch in 2022, this initiative has positively impacted nearly 50 local organisations, raising over £6,500 and contributing over 30 hours of volunteer time. By offering free access to mall spaces and establishing a Community Hub Board, The Buttermarket fosters community engagement and awareness. Notable partnerships include supporting the National Citizens Service mentorship program and initiatives like the National Salvation Army Present Appeal and addressing period poverty through "Ask Poppy." These efforts have transformed The Buttermarket into a vibrant community hub, promoting unity and warmth. With plans for expansion, the initiative continues to amplify its impact, showcasing the power of collaboration and community engagement in driving meaningful progress.
Trilogy Real Estate: Trilogy partnered with Forever Manchester to take an innovative approach to ongoing community engagement work through Asset Based Community Development. This is an ongoing body of work that identifies positive community assets and awards grant funding to projects that connect people together based on shared interests.
Workman: At Workman, ESG is a green thread running through everything our property managers, building consultants, placemaking specialists, project managers and building technology specialists do. It stitches us together with a common cause – the advancement of environmentally and socially responsible principles for our clients’ portfolios, in turn benefitting their occupiers. To help reach goals, we have developed a clear ESG pathway, which begins with understanding risks and opportunities at acquisition with our ESG due diligence report and runs through our ESG Account Management approach to transparent disposal, with clear data and future opportunities identified with ESG Vendor Surveys. Over the past 18 months, we have helped clients achieve demonstrable results through energy efficiency, social impact, and clear reporting in line with benchmark standards. For example, Workman’s ESG experts have created Net Zero Asset Plans (NZAPs) or Sustainability Asset Plans across more than 5 million sq. ft of commercial real estate.
Yugo: Yugo is the first global student housing brand and operator created to enhance students’ overall experiences throughout and beyond college life. It offers a truly differentiated living experience that is environmentally and socially conscious, emotionally supportive and safe. At Yugo, students are encouraged to grow personally and professionally through collaborative events and projects, such as the Yugo Movement. These are crucial in developing supportive communities that foster personal and professional growth for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Through tailored educational programs and initiatives, regular social events that promote networking, and educational workshops and volunteer opportunities, Yugo cultivates a sense of belonging and collaboration, whilst building students’ confidence for life beyond university.
Excellence in Habitat Restoration
Excellence in Habitat Restoration
Berkeley Group: Having championed and pioneered the successful implementation of biodiversity net gain (BNG) on new developments since 2017, we welcomed the national milestone of mandatory BNG for new developments in February 2024. In 2023 we partnered with Natural England and the Local Government Association to deliver a major conference on implementing BNG and preparing the industry to meet the challenges involved. Over 500 people attended from the public, private and voluntary sectors to receive practical guidance and case studies on delivering BNG. Following this event, we partnered with Natural England again to host four workshops for local authorities and SMEs to give detailed advice and resources on meeting the new Government requirements. Knowledge sharing and collaboration is key in Berkeley’s approach to regeneration and supporting nature recovery.
Bidwells: To provide a solution to developments with off-site Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirements, Bidwells has partnered with Cambridgeshire County Council to develop an innovative scheme at Lower Valley Farm in South Cambridgeshire. This scheme has created a c. 170-acre habitat bank, where over 65 biodiversity units have already been allocated to developments. This project was a pioneer developed while the BNG legislation was still evolving, which proved a challenge when developing the legal agreement to secure the site for the purpose of generating biodiversity units as a solution to developments with off-site BNG requirements. A showcase for effective BNG delivery, this scheme maximises environmental outcomes by creating habitat in an ecologically strategic location and on a landscape scale, considering the whole ecosystem. The scheme's benefits are already being seen, with sightings of short-eared owls, corn buntings, and skylarks using the habitats created here.
Here East: Here East is deeply committed to promoting biodiversity and biophilia. This commitment is evident in our collaborative efforts with expert ecologists and various stakeholders across the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (QEOP). Together, we are implementing strategies to create and maintain a thriving natural environment that benefits everyone who interacts with our space. These efforts include planting native species, creating green corridors, and developing habitats that support local wildlife. Our goal is to foster a connection between people and nature, enhancing the wellbeing of our visitors, employees, and the local community by ensuring everyone can enjoy and benefit from a rich, diverse, and sustainable environment.
Oxford Properties: James Snow Business Park – the largest speculative industrial project in Canada - has included substantial work to preserve, restore and enhance the local natural heritage system:
• Realignment of two existing watercourses on site and the creation of three stormwater management ponds.
• Expert engagement: geomorphologists, species at risk experts, civil engineers, and three levels of government stakeholders – which included subsequently engagement of the consultation services of the local Indigenous/First Nations community – The Mississauga's of the Credit First Nation.
• In studying the surroundings, Oxford observed 39 different types of wildlife. To protect these vital and sensitive ecosystems Oxford introduced: turtle nests, snake hibernacula, raptor logs where birds of prey can take refuge and and hunt from.
• Ultimately, Oxford took a holistic approach that saw it introduce significant habitat that encourages the procreation of said species as well as the protection of these species and habitats.
St. Modwen: St. Modwen's River Rea restoration project exemplifies excellence in habitat restoration, promoting biodiversity, sustainability, and social value. As stewards of the natural environment, they are honoured to be considered for this award and remain committed to restoring and protecting natural habitats for generations to come.
Excellence in Site Regeneration
Excellence in Site Regeneration
Ballymore: The Brentford Project is a regeneration initiative by Ballymore, with 876 homes, over 40 retailers, and five acres of public space, creating a dynamic new neighborhood. The revitalised high street features lanes, yards, and a vibrant town center for dining, shopping, and cultural activities. Ballymore's efforts also include preserving heritage sites like the river wall and a Grade II Listed church. Ballymore’s innovative approach includes an award-winning meanwhile-use strategy with events like The Summer Series, fostering social cohesion and community engagement. The mixed-use development integrates residential, retail, and commercial spaces, enhancing the area's appeal. The waterways and paths offer recreational opportunities, complemented by numerous restaurants and cafes. Architectural designs by AHMM, Glenn Howells Architects, and Maccreanor Lavington reflect the area's industrial heritage. The Brentford Project’s strategic planning and community involvement exemplify successful urban regeneration creating a thriving, sustainable neighbourhood.
Battersea Power Station: In October 2022, the crown jewel of the 42-acre Battersea Power Station (BPS) neighbourhood – the iconic Grade II* listed Power Station – opened to the public alongside Electric Boulevard, a new pedestrianised high street for the first time in history. It transformed the former brownfield site into a world-class destination for the local community, residents, shoppers, workers and visitors, whilst saving one of London’s most important industrial landmarks. Today, it is home to a unique mix of shops, bars, restaurants, leisure and entertainment venues, parks and historical spaces. Establishing the sixth town centre for the London Borough of Wandsworth, BPS has over 2,500 residents, 6,500 workers and welcomed more than 11.2 million visitors in 2023. ESG principles underpin the development strategy and are critical to its success. A strong programme of community engagement, charitable initiatives and sustainable building practices have been delivered to foster a thriving and sustainable community.
Bellway: Bellway London is playing a key role in a genuinely transformative project to regenerate the former Barking Power Station site. The housebuilder’s dedicated Barking Project Team is driving the delivery of nearly 1,500 homes at Barking Riverside – at Fielders Quarter and Eastbrooke Village – and the past 18 months has seen a step-change in progress. Construction has started on four new phases of construction, and a fifth parcel at Fielders Quarter has been purchased, while the team has developed close relationships with local stakeholders to bring forward the wider benefits of the scheme. This is an innovative and sustainable new community which meets the needs of local people in Barking, providing high-quality, energy-efficient affordable and private housing, as well as creating significant local employment opportunities. Underpinned by Bellway’s overarching Better with Bellway commitment to sustainability, the new homes at Barking Riverside aim to put people and planet first.
Civic Engineers: Delivering significant social and environmental impact, the project is transforming Northfield Grove, a social-housing estate in Edinburgh, into a climate-adapted neighbourhood. Through innovative design, the project team – including Civic Engineers, Thomas & Adamson and RaeburnFarquharBowen - is helping to create attractive, multi-functional green infrastructure and sustainable rainwater drainage, by way of a “green Spine Raingarden” providing a rich environment within which residents and nature can flourish. The environmental improvements to Northfield Grove are in support of the City of Edinburgh Council’s objectives to help to create strong, sustainable and healthier communities, so as to ensure all residents can enjoy a high quality of life and to improve the environment in and around the city for the benefit of future generations in a rapidly-changing climate. The project is enhancing street environments, local walking, wheeling and cycling connectivity, and transforming the area into a desirable, high-quality, vibrant and sustainable local community.
GSA: St. Crispin's House (SCH) is a purpose-built student accommodation property for 684 students at the University of East Anglia, and Norwich University of the Arts. SCH opened in September 2023. Students benefit from on-site facilities including communal spaces, a gym, podcast studio, multi-purpose event room and both individual and collaborative study spaces. Originally a 1970’s office block, SCH is an example of how buildings can be repurposed, refurbished, extended, and given a new lease of life. By retaining the existing structure, the impacts of the development process were significantly minimised. Benefits include the reduction in environmental impact, a reduced development timeframe and a reduced impact on the local community.
PLATFORM_: PLATFORM_ in Glasgow has transformed a Brownfield site, unused for over 20 years, into Scotland's largest Build-to-Rent development. Launched in November 2023, this landmark project revitalises the Clyde waterfront with 498 tech-enabled, design-conscious homes. The development has acted as a catalyst for further regeneration, with an additional 775 apartments constructed by other operators in the area after we began development. Committed to sustainability, PLATFORM_ Glasgow has achieved 100% EPC B rated apartments as well as rooftop photovoltaics, air-source heat pumps, and numerous energy-efficient technologies. The project aligns with Glasgow City Council’s City Centre Living Strategy, aiming to double the city centre population by 2035, and embodies PLATFORM_’s dedication to creating vibrant, sustainable communities for the future.
PRP: The Salford PassivHaus project has transformed three unused sites in Salford into 104 energy-efficient homes. Aimed at reducing the long waiting lists for housing, this initiative brings affordable living options to areas needing support. By adopting the PassivHaus standard, it offers a practical solution to high energy costs, a significant issue in Salford. Beyond the homes themselves, the project creates community spaces and better links to the city, making it easier for people to connect and engage. At its core, the project is about more than just buildings; it's about fostering a sense of belonging and support through thoughtful design and community-focused actions. Partnering with local charities, the development also addresses broader social needs, making sure the new housing is accessible and inclusive. This approach not only meets immediate housing needs but also builds a foundation for a stronger, more connected community.
St George: Grand Union in Alperton is the pioneering brownfield regeneration by St George, a proud member of the Berkeley Group, of a derelict 22-acre former industrial estate into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood alongside the Grand Union Canal. When complete, it will comprise 3,350 mixed tenure new homes (35% affordable), including, one, two and three-bedroom apartments. The development features a new Canalside Piazza, which will bring this once-neglected area alive with cafés, restaurants and bars, creating a new destination for the community. At the heart of St George’s commitment to community and placemaking is the 5,000 sq ft Community Hub. The landscape-led masterplan dedicates 50% of the site to high-quality open space comprising landscaped gardens, riverside meadows, waterside pathways and play areas. Grand Union’s nature strategy focuses on biodiversity net gain and is on track to achieve an impressive 240%. Grand Union is in its seventh year and second phase of construction.
St.Modwen: St. Modwen Developments has been the mastermind behind the regeneration of Longbridge for almost 20 years, ever since the 500-acre, former MG Rover car plant closed in 2005. Over that period, the delivery team’s passion for and pride in the resurgence of Longbridge, South Birmingham, has put the project at the cutting edge of urban regeneration. It is now home to global headquarters, schools and colleges, shops, restaurants, and a selection of houses and apartments - all in a beautiful regenerated setting full of nature and greenery.
Trilogy Real Estate: The Amp has transformed a distressed asset into a thriving innovation campus with one foot in the City of London and another in the creative scene of Whitechapel. This remarkable refurbishment took fewer than 12 months to create a hub for students in a building with dramatically upgraded environmental performance.
Outstanding Achievement in ESG
Outstanding Achievement in ESG
Hazaar: Hazaar collaborated with The University of Manchester in June 2023 to empower a student-led initiative that promoted sustainability during summer turnaround. By introducing drop-off points across Victoria Park halls of residence, students easily disposed of reusable items, culminating in diverting 4.060 tonnes from waste and reselling 1,970 items at a community-focused event. Furthermore, 30% of items were donated to Sharewear charity. Scaling up in 2024, the partnership aims to support 6 times more beds, creating employment opportunities for UoM students and fostering community through events. This initiative not only reduces waste but also addresses the cost of living crisis while promoting a circular economy.
Host & Stay: We are nominating Dale for this award due to his unwavering commitment to ESG. Dale’s ethos is that we need to push boundaries to create better places to live, work and stay. With this in mind, he has invested in local communities, introduced amazing initiatives for employees and worked tirelessly on Host & Stay’s ESG strategy. Dale is working hard with the team at Host & Stay to reshape the landscape of holiday let and short-term rental management with a focus on fostering sustainability, conscious travel, and environmental responsibility. By embracing sustainability as a core value, Dale is working to set a new standard for holiday home management, demonstrating that environmental responsibility and exceptional hospitality can go hand in hand.
Knight Frank Promise: BREEAM Excellent EPC "A" Rating Expected 100% renewable electricity Procured for use across the development. -36% Operational Carbon Base Building operational carbon emissions predicted to be 36% lower than regulations. Hybrid Coolers High efficiency, low-carbon units recover the heat rather than it being rejected into the atmosphere. Rainwater harvesting & greywater recycling Intelligent Building Management System via digital analytics. Responsible Building Management Photovoltaic panels 109,000kWh of onsite energy saving 15 tonnes of CO2 per year. Double-skin glazed façade Reducing the need for additional cooling or heating. Intelligent blind system Sensor-activated blinds reduce solar heat gain and reduce the need for cooling while retaining the views of London. Planting 1.35-acre new public realm with soft planting of green living walls. Connectivity Rail and LUL services reduces secondary journeys. Commuting facilities of 530 cycle parking spaces. Social Impact Value £45.1m of social value generated.
Lamington Group: Lamington Group is a multi-award winning independent family-owned real estate investment and development company, which was founded in the 1960s and is based in West London. Led by CEO, Robert Godwin, and Managing Director, Stuart Godwin, the group has made the commitment to only build and operate to whole-life net zero standards for any new properties that started being developed after the launch of their net zero roadmap in September 2021. Lamington Group has a family of brands comprising room2; Lamington Apartments; Lamington Developments; Lamington Lettings and Missionworks coworking. room2 is the UK’s first hometel brand, conceived in 2015 by Lamington Group. room2 currently has four operational locations, in Southampton, Hammersmith, Belfast and room2 Chiswick, which opened in December 2021 marking the group’s first net zero hotel.
Oparo Social: Oparo, founded on strong ESG principles, excels in the social housing sector with innovative technology and transparent operations. We prioritize resident well-being and ethical conduct, balancing financial performance with meaningful social contributions. Partnering with regulated social housing providers, we enhance spaces, boost energy efficiency, and improve well-being. Our collaboration with local authorities emphasizes transparency and integrity, resulting in high-quality housing that positively impacts communities. Our financing model aligns with our mission to provide affordable housing while maintaining financial stability. Oparo's commitment to ESG principles is evident in the lives we've improved, showcasing our dedication to sustainable and socially responsible practices. Winning this award would highlight our impact and enhance our ability to continue making a difference in vulnerable communities.
Precede Capital Partners: Precede Capital, a leading UK lending platform, partners with top developers, sponsors, banks, and institutional investors to provide innovative debt financing solutions for real estate developments. To date, the platform has extended nearly £1.8 billion in whole loans. In December 2023, Precede became one of fewer than 40 UK real estate firms to achieve B Corp certification, reflecting its commitment to purpose-led lending and deeply embedded ESG values. Co-Founders Karen Dunstan and Randeesh Sandhu have spearheaded initiatives such as proprietary ESG screenings, a bespoke Green Loan Facility Agreement, and a social value measurement tool. Precede's significant deals include a £105.2 million Green Loan for an MMC project in London and the largest regional BTR financing package in the UK, a £188 million whole-loan for a major Birmingham scheme. The firm's dedication to sustainable business practices and social impact underpins its industry leadership.
Thoth London: Discover Thoth London, pioneering sustainability with cutting-edge technology.
Their Osiris platform, utilising blockchain and AI, revolutionises ESG data management for transparent sustainability reporting. From eco-friendly housing to renewable energy projects, they prioritise non-toxic materials and harness natural resources. Committed to ESG principles, they drive positive change and recognised by industry accolades.
Join us in shaping a greener, more sustainable future.
Outstanding Carbon Reduction Initiative
Outstanding Carbon Reduction Initiative
Baytree Logistics Developments: The innovative specification and management of the entire project process achieved significant carbon benefits. It showcases Baytree’s sustainability goals and has delivered a building that will help occupier Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK achieve its goals of reducing direct carbon emissions by 60 percent by 2030 and net zero carbon emissions by 2045. Baytree appointed a dedicated Sustainability Champion to present an extensive list of solutions to the design team ensure that opportunities to minimise carbon were not missed during the design stage. Solutions were considered and then modelled by the Life Cycle Analysis Consultant to understand carbon reduction potential and cost impact.
• Baytree Nuneaton achieved a whole life carbon reduction of 14,554 tonnes CO2e.
• The embodied carbon saving was 7,396 tonnes CO2e and operational carbon 7,158 tonnes CO2e, over a 30 year period, 25.7% lower whole life carbon emissions.
ECF: Eden is a £36 million, 115,000 sq ft 12-storey office building, developed by ECF (formerly The English Cities Fund) – a joint venture with Muse, Homes England and Legal & General – based in New Bailey, Salford.
Feldberg Capital: Lonsdale Road is a project spearheaded by Feldberg Capital as part of its Akoya venture, which creates smaller sustainable workspaces in London neighbourhoods. Located in London’s Queen’s Park, the road will be London’s first ever net zero carbon street; Feldberg Capital has regenerated this 160,000 sq ft mixed-use estate into an exemplary ESG-led area with innovative energy efficient solutions that directly benefit SME tenants and the local community, by helping them be more sustainable. A wholly owned mews street, Lonsdale Road is now a creative community for SMEs, with workspaces and restaurant units alongside a yoga studio, micro-brewery, vet, and dentist – a village within a street. Lonsdale Road’s rolling refurbishment programme achieves net zero in construction and has a commitment to offset 100% of upfront embodied carbon. Feldberg has committed to making all refurbished tenant spaces net zero by 2030 and is on the way to achieving this.
Greencore Homes: Greencore Homes, in collaboration with the Hook Norton Community Land Trust (HNLT) and Soha, has spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative in sustainable development and low-carbon living. Through a partnership rooted in community-driven values, this project pioneers innovative solutions to combat climate change while prioritising affordability, well-being, and sustainability. By championing cutting-edge sustainable design and construction practices, such as Climate Positive homes and renewable energy integration, each aspect of the development contributes to a healthier environment and a stronger sense of community. This visionary project not only addresses the critical need for affordable housing but also encourages local connections and ownership through an inclusive financing model. From triple-glazed windows to MVHR, every detail reflects a commitment to excellence in energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental stewardship. Collectively, Greencore Homes and its partners set a new standard for sustainable living, demonstrating how communities can thrive while minimising their carbon footprint.
Orchard Street Investment Management: Orchard Street Investment Management (Orchard Street) is a leading property investment manager focused on the UK market. Our approach to responsible investment is central to delivering performance, impact and future proofing our clients’ portfolios. Decarbonising to reach net zero is a primary goal for our clients and our occupiers. Through our Roadmap to Net Zero, published in 2021, we set a target to install 10 MW of onsite solar PV capacity by September 2030 and an interim target of 4 MW by September 2025. As at March 2024, we had 2.47 MW of onsite solar capacity installed and commissioned through 52 solar PV arrays. These are expected to generate 2,317 MWh per year, saving 480 tonnes of carbon and provide cheaper, zero carbon electricity to 50 unique occupiers.
Quadrum Global: Quadrum Global has delivered one of the UK’s most sustainable buildings, in London’s Victoria. A new biophilia-inspired ‘living landmark’, the 150,000 sq ft 11 Belgrave is net zero in design, construction and in its full lifecycle operational performance. Achieving significant and measurable CO2 savings and setting a blueprint for what a sustainable and wellbeing-led workplace can look like, 11 Belgrave has been recognised with prestigious accreditations including a NABERS UK 5.5 Star design-reviewed target rating (the first in the UK to achieve this) and BREEAM Outstanding. As in its business practices, Quadrum demonstrated strong governance, including environmental metrics assessment throughout the project, a vision to contribute to a greener industry and planet, and a drive to bring long-term value for the community. Quadrum collaborated with an outstanding project team, including BAM, Eric Parry Architects, Gillespies and Max Fordham, with a united vision informed by rigorous ESG criteria from the outset.
Syzygy: Founded in 2010, Syzygy is Europe’s leading and fastest growing consultancy in renewable energy, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and energy storage. Working in the commercial real estate sector, Syzygy simplifies the path to net zero, bridging the gap between real estate and low carbon technologies. Based in the UK, Syzygy now offers consulting services in 12 EU jurisdictions, with dedicated country managers in the Netherlands, France, Spain and Italy. We achieved B Corporation certification in July 2023 and are now part of a community of businesses that operate with three key pillars at the heart of our business: people, planet, profit. Syzygy has completed more projects than anyone else, over 1,500 low-carbon green technology projects for over 100 clients. These projects have saved over 120,000 tons of CO2 and generated over 500gw of clean energy, enough for an electric car to drive more than 1 billion miles.
Verto Homes: In partnership with Octopus Energy, we’ve launched a world first ‘Zero Bills’ initiative. Together, we are bringing some of the world’s most sustainable homes to the UK market, while ensuring homeowners pay absolutely nothing for their energy bills for at least five years, guaranteed. Zero Bills is made possible by the extraordinary energy efficiency and renewable energy generation capacity of our new homes, which ensure they create more clean electricity than they consume. Given that 25% of the UK’s carbon emissions come from buildings, the ability to decarbonise the housing sector is essential to reach the government’s net zero target by 2050. The vision for Zero Bills is to tackle this challenge head on.
Wates: Winchester City Council wants to be carbon neutral by 2030. It chose Wates to build high-quality, sustainable social housing at Winnall. Our multi-storey residential blocks are the first to achieve the PHI Low Energy Building Standard using a light gauge steel frame (LGSF) construction system in the UK.
XLB Property: XLB is a leading UK asset and development manager. Founded in 2009, the business has delieverd best in class schemes across the business space sectors. Focussed on delivering sustainable, market leading returns through the activeassetmanagement of existing assets and the development of best in class business space across the UK.
Outstanding Placemaking – Large Scheme
Outstanding Placemaking – Large Scheme
Ballymore: Riverscape is one of Ballymore's most transformative developments, creating two adjoining neighborhoods in the Royal Docks where the Thames meets Lyle Park. This thriving community features versatile amenities, flexibly designed apartments, and landscaped parkland. Located in London’s only Enterprise Zone, it’s set to flourish with £8bn investment over the next twenty years. Riverscape comprises 769 homes across six residential blocks. Phase one includes 249 apartments with panoramic views, and 207 new affordable homes, part of Ballymore’s commitment to addressing London’s housing supply. Sustainability is key, with significant carbon reductions, efficient energy schemes, and high-performance insulation. The development offers excellent connectivity, minutes from DLR stations, Crossrail, and the award-winning Royal Wharf Pier. Residents enjoy 5,500 m² of landscaped courtyards inspired by coastal vegetation, alongside extensive community amenities like schools, healthcare, shops, and event spaces. Riverscape embodies Ballymore’s dedication to creating well-connected, desirable neighborhoods that enhance residents' lifestyles.
Battersea Power Station: In October 2022, the crown jewel of the 42-acre Battersea Power Station (BPS) neighbourhood – the iconic Grade II* listed Power Station – opened to the public alongside Electric Boulevard, a new pedestrianised high street for the first time in history. It transformed the former brownfield site into a world-class destination for the local community, residents, shoppers, workers and visitors, whilst saving one of London’s most important industrial landmarks. Today, it is home to a unique mix of shops, bars, restaurants, leisure and entertainment venues, parks and historical spaces. Establishing the sixth town centre for the London Borough of Wandsworth, BPS has over 2,500 residents, 6,500 workers and welcomed more than 11.2 million visitors in 2023. ESG principles underpin the development strategy and are critical to its success. A strong programme of community engagement, charitable initiatives and sustainable building practices have been delivered to foster a thriving and sustainable community.
Berkeley (East Thames), Kidbrooke Village: Berkeley, in partnership with the Greater London Authority, Royal Borough of Greenwich and the Mayor of London, is transforming a former notorious estate in Greenwich into Kidbrooke Village - a thriving new neighbourhood of 5,268 homes set in 136-acres of biodiverse green space together with 90,000 sq ft of community and commercial space. This once deprived area has been brought to life; it is a fantastic place to live and visit, is substantially boosting the local economy and bringing the wider community together. To date, our ambitious £1billion regeneration has delivered 2,407 homes and a new village centre complete with shops, restaurants, a newly opened nursery, and healthcare facilities, providing a vibrant hub for residents and people from the surrounding neighbourhoods. Our comprehensive and strategic community plan, alongside our collaborative methods of working, mean that this is a new place truly shaped by the people who live and work here.
ECF: Salford Central is now a community of world class workspaces for businesses, over 1,000 new homes and sits right at the forefront of Salford’s success. Through partnership and collaboration with multiple partners for over 10 years, the vision of Salford Central has been achieved but we’re not finished yet.
Here East: Here East has epitomised outstanding placemaking since its inception. Our mission was to design a technology and innovation campus at the heart of London’s nascent Olympic Park district. We saw this as an opportunity to celebrate London’s Olympic legacy and create a space for local people to collaborate, innovate, and create. Our social and environmental impact has always been at the forefront of our governance strategy, utilising grassroots start-ups in the design process and beyond. The Press and Broadcast centres at the heart of our campus were to be knocked down after the 2012 Games, but Here East repurposed them into the thriving hubs they are today. Maintaining their original structures, the buildings now hold thousands of tonnes in embodied carbon. Our sustainable and inclusive ambitions have attracted a diverse and thriving network of tenants who are proud to call Here East their home.
Muse: ‘Your New Town Hall’ was designed with the Brixton community at its heart. Through restoring what was already there, and creating new and much needed homes, we set out to improve an already much-loved area. It spanned five sites on Brixton Hill, incorporating both new build and historic building restoration. Including a civic centre, refurbishing the Grade II listed town hall, private and affordable homes, community medical and retail facilities. ‘Your New Town Hall’ serves as a catalyst for community empowerment, boasting a comprehensive array of amenities including a 120,000 sq. Ft BREEAM Excellent civic center. This multifaceted approach fosters a sense of belonging and connectivity, transforming the development into a vibrant hub where residents can live, work, and thrive.
St George (Berkeley Group): Imperial Wharf demonstrates a successful blend of sustainability, social value, stakeholder engagement and biodiversity improvement. The scheme is a model for future brownfield regeneration schemes, illustrating what can be achieved through investing in the transformation of underutilised land. The positive impact this development has had on the community and environment will leave a lasting legacy within this revitalised neighbourhood.
The Land Trust: Beaulieu is an exemplar of outstanding placemaking and a great place to live. Collaboration throughout the project life cycle, innovative design, ongoing community engagement, and early consideration of long-term, high-quality stewardship has allowed the development to deliver maximum social value, for both residents and the wider community.
Outstanding Placemaking – Small Scheme
Outstanding Placemaking – Small Scheme
Civic Engineers: A pioneering project that has delivered significant public realm improvements to the streets and squares across Altrincham town centre, prioritising active travel, nature-based solutions and climate resilience. The multi-award-winning project is widely regarded as a ‘blueprint’ for resilient town centre regeneration. Altrincham has transformed from a ‘ghost town’ to The Sunday Times Best Place To Live, with increased footfall and wellbeing and reduced vacancy rates.
Corn Exchange Manchester: The Corn Exchange Manchester is a premium dining and leisure destination committed to thoughtful placemaking that prioritises environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. Our pioneering "Read, Swap, Repeat" book vending machine tackles book waste, promoting a circular economy, diverting over 2,500 books from landfills and saving significant energy and resources. We prioritise visitor well-being with dementia-trained staff and customer-friendly uniforms. Consistently achieving a perfect 100% in customer service mystery shopper reports exemplifies our dedication. Gained recognition by the Green Apple Award for Beautiful Buildings underscores our commitment to responsible practices and historic preservation. The Corn Exchange Manchester is a testament to the power of thoughtful placemaking. By prioritising ESG principles and implementing impactful initiatives, we create a vibrant and sustainable destination for the Manchester community.
PRP: Salford PassivHaus was developed in response to the growing number of people on housing waiting lists in Salford, with over 4,000 households who are desperate for sustainable and truly affordable new homes to live in.
This was the first Passivhaus scheme completed in Salford, ensuring low energy bills for residents who are amongst some of the region’s most vulnerable residents and enabling the City of Salford to achieve its joint commitment to be NetZero by 2038.
Salford PassivHaus provides a desirable and sustainable place to live for present and future generations, enhancing local economic prosperity, job opportunities and skills creation, and generating a sense of civic pride which helps prevent anti-social behaviour and promotes inclusivity for marginalised and socially disadvantaged groups.
Retrofit Project of the Year - Commercial
Retrofit Project of the Year - Commercial
Argyll: Argyll is London’s premium officer provider. We are proud custodians of some of the city’s most iconic listed buildings. Over the last 18 months we have completed a £23m retrofit project to transform seven of our buildings – all listed, and including architectural gems such as 1 Cornhill. With the project we were determined to navigate the challenge of honouring the architectural and historic values or our buildings, while ensuring that we minimise our carbon, energy, water and material use and align with best practice standards. We have been successful, improving EPC ratings ahead of Government targets. Working sustainably, an approach of ‘minimum intervention’ saw us maximise re-use of existing materials, minimising our need for new. In parallel we have made significant strides against our social and governance goals, with new reporting around gender and ethnicity, and mandatory D&I training, contributing to a cut in staff turnover to just 3.5%.
DWS: https://thenorthcliffe.com/
Feldberg Capital: Mosaic East represents the sustainable transformation of two iconic 1960s Croydon office buildings into a modern 190,000 sq ft neighbourhood workplace with sustainability, occupier health and supporting local community initiatives at its heart. Mosaic East, which sits a minute’s walk from East Croydon Station, is now one of south London’s most energy efficient workspaces with an array of new amenities designed to make working in a sustainable and modern way an easy choice for Croydon’s SMEs. Formerly known as Knollys & Stephenson House, the buildings that comprise Mosaic East, were acquired by Feldberg Capital in 2021 as part of its Akoya neighbourhood workplace strategy. Akoya was formed in 2021 to develop sustainable workspaces in greater London neighbourhoods, where there is a growing demand from SMEs for ESG-led workspace close to employees’ homes. Mosaic East plays a major role in reinventing this part of Croydon, one of London’s fastest changing locations.
Quadrant: YY London represents the transformation of one of Canary Wharf’s first office buildings into a cutting-edge, sustainable workspace. Innovatively retrofitted, the 415,000 sq ft all-electric BREEAM Outstanding and NABERS 5* building aims for net zero in operation, setting a new benchmark for ESG focused workspaces. With exceptional environmental credentials, SMART technology, productivity enhancing amenities and wellness features,, YY London has achieved a WELL Platinum Rating. Through the refurbishment, much of the building’s existing structure was reused, saving an estimated 10,260 tonnes of CO2 emissions. YY London is part of the catalyst driving the wider reimagination of Canary Wharf, providing a sustainable Grade-A building suited to modern occupier requirements, demonstrating how older buildings can be sustainably revitalised, ensuring Canary Wharf appeals to modern businesses long into the future.
Quadrum Global: Quadrum Global, together with a world-class project team, has revitalised a tired 1950s structure at 11 Belgrave Road into a net zero workspace based on an ambitious vision, while succeeding in retaining a substantial portion of the original structure. The project demonstrates a deep commitment to the ESG agenda. Adhering to modern sustainability standards, along with the highest wellbeing credentials and outstanding social value, the team has delivered an enhanced community asset with publicly accessible café, gym and co-working space along with extensive urban greening in Victoria, central London. 11 Belgrave drives positive local economic and employment impact, as well as delivering exceptional carbon savings. 11 Belgrave stands apart from the rest as the UK’s first building to attain a NABERS UK design-reviewed 5.5 Star target rating for building efficiency. It also achieved a BREEAM Outstanding Rating and was also one only six buildings to secure a WELL Platinum pre-certification.
Runway East: Runway East Bloomsbury is an exceptional case study in adapting an under-utilised asset into a hybrid workspace. A joint venture with Abrdn transformed a historic London site into a vibrant, tech-savvy office space. A sustainable retrofit, adorned with advanced facilities and a focus on member well-being, Runway East Bloomsbury is an exemplary contender for the ESG EDGE Awards - Retrofit Project of the Year.
Savills Investment Management: Savills Investment Management is a dedicated Real Estate and Real Estate debt specialist managing circa €26bn on behalf of institutional investors globally. Our global platform of 16 offices in 13 countries enables us to combine a truly global perspective with local expertise to offer investors a range of compelling investment strategies. The firm has over 30 years of experience providing real estate investment opportunities, and employs over 400 staff who are committed to delivering positive client outcomes. Our strategies span the Office, Logistics & Industrial, Retail, Debt and Living sectors and have been designed with the flexibility to meet the needs of a wide range of investors. ESG is integrated into our investment management process to ensure that ESG risks and opportunities are not siloed, but recognised. Institutionally backed by the Savills group, we remain operationally independent.
SEGRO: SEGRO set a new industry benchmark for sustainable refurbishment with the completion of six-month long project at 2 Auriol Drive, Greenford Park in West London – the first industrial refurbishment to achieve BREEAM Outstanding Certification (90.8%), globally. This is also SEGRO’s most sustainable refurbishment of a warehouse undertaken so far.
Shelborn Asset Management: Developing more than just buildings. At Shelborn Asset Management, we enhance the value of our clients’ investments through proactive management, income growth and property development. We identify opportunities that are underperforming and utilise our skills to unlock the potential. At Shelborn Asset Management, we are committed to responsible business practice, enhancing the social, environmental and financial value of our clients’ investments through proactive management, income growth and development.
The Kensington Building: At The Kensington Building, AshbyCapital has created an inspiring place to work in one of London’s most sustainable office buildings. A tired and bleak five-storey 1970s former department store has been transformed into a seven-storey mixed-use building providing next-generation office space, demonstrating how buildings can be reused and repurposed, rather than demolished and built anew. By reusing and repurposing more than 60% of the original structure and foundations, 30% less embodied carbon has been created versus industry benchmarks, however reusing the existing structure didn’t mean compromising on the finished product, proving that the highest quality buildings can be created through retrofit. The 130,000 sq ft development exemplifies how the environmental impact of new office buildings can be vastly reduced, not only in construction but also in operation, as building management systems and sensors are brought together to improve sustainability.
TSP: In December 2023, TSP completed the retrofit of 60 Ironmonger, a storied Edwardian warehouse in the vibrant heart of East London. 60 Ironmonger redefines the traditional office concept. Adopting a resimercial design philosophy, we have created a highly functional workspace that simultaneously feels homely; instilling calm while fostering a collaborative, nourishing environment. 60 Ironmonger is a successful experiment in Circular Salutogenic design: every element meticulously curated to elevate sustainability, wellbeing and productivity. Despite inherent challenges of working within the constraints of a century-old building, 60 Ironmonger has achieved BREEAM Excellent, Ska Gold, Well-Enabled, and EPC B. Through thoughtful design and restoration, it showcases the possibility of utilising and cherishing older structures. The end result: a respectful nod to the past, uniquely characterful, highly coveted.
Retrofit Project of the Year - Residential
Retrofit Project of the Year - Residential
Annington: Annington’s annual retrofit and refurbishment programme of former military housing brings these long-serving family homes back to life for their communities. In March 2023, the Ministry of Defence returned five properties at Devizes, Wiltshire to Annington. Built between 1945-1964, the homes had been left empty for several years and were in a considerable state of disrepair, as well as being hugely energy inefficient with an EPC rating of D. The project provided Annington with the opportunity to undertake a retrofit project focused on both dramatically improving energy efficiency as well as setting a blueprint for future retrofit projects of former military housing. In February 2024, the properties launched with an EPC A rating, competing with local new builds in the immediate area.
Berkeley St Edward: Milbank Residences is Grade II listed. This meant the team consulted with heritage experts on every detail, from the flooring, facades and staircases, right down to every carved wooden panel and ornamental plastering. It took three months of surveying to find out what was lurking behind the original building, as well as the refurbishment it underwent in the 1980s. A bespoke design had to be created to overcome the complex interface between the existing structure and a new building being constructed next door. We transformed the listed building from its previous office layout, into a collection of 93 bespoke homes, which included the introduction of additional habitable space within the existing building and roof voids. This called for complex site investigations and innovative materials so the historic steel-framed building could take the weight of the additional restructured apartments and floors.
Cenergist and Vital Energi: According to government figures, the housing sector accounts for a fifth of the UK’s carbon emissions and is a top priority for local authorities with residential stock. In tandem, it is also imperative to help vulnerable residents weather energy price volatility and improve quality of homes with efficient, modern heating and hot water systems. Retrofits will be the focus of continued debate as technologies and strategic thinking evolves. However, what has been achieved with the partnership of Cenergist and Vital Energi is to make Leeds City Council a flag bearer for city-wide district heating decarbonisation for social housing. It has also shown that projects are readily achievable and delivered in a way which maximises budget potential, generates solid resident satisfaction, supports some of the most vulnerable people and ensures meaningful carbon reductions.
Clarion Housing Group: Clarion Housing Group’s SHDF Demonstrator Project is a pioneering initiative to retrofit 117 hard-to-heat homes, achieving outstanding energy efficiency and sustainability standards. Achieved in partnership with local councils and funded by the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy, this project set ambitious goals: achieving a minimum EPC rating of C and a space heat demand of 50kWh/m2/year. The project surpassed these targets, with homes reaching EPC ratings of B and A, significantly reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions by 66% and 74%, respectively. Transparent management and regular stakeholder engagement fostered community trust and satisfaction. The project's success and learnings promise substantial cost savings for future retrofits, positioning Clarion as an innovator in sustainable housing. This project exemplifies excellence in ESG integration and sets a benchmark for large-scale retrofitting.
Next Energy Solutions: Next Energy specialises in Turnkey retrofit delivery across the full spectrum of fabric and renewable heating installation measures. We are PAS2030 certified, and Trustmark verified, delivering all works per our ISO9001-accredited Quality Management System and providing all relevant certification & guarantees. Our commitment to quality is the bedrock of our business, which is crucial in ensuring measures installed maximise benefit the resident in terms of increased comfort and reduced fuel usage with no unintended consequences. Our commitment to a turnkey delivery model covering all PAS2035 roles ensures ‘trouble-free’ ownership of the contract, meaning a seamless and hassle-free experience for our clients and minimal disruption for the resident, reflecting our dedication to efficient project execution. In 2023, we grew our revenue by 102%, introduced 150+ newpartners to our supply chain, and grew our in-house resource from 57 to 210, supporting the development of the green economy.
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