Shard clicks with WiredScore
The Shard, SE1, has been awarded a Wired Platinum certification by connectivity rating company WiredScore. The 920,000 sq ft skyscraper won its rating by providing a variety of high-speed internet services and robust emergency back-up to prevent service disruption. It has internet speeds of up to 100Gbps.
Countryside builds in Essex
Countryside has begun work on a £73m scheme in Harlow, Essex, that will deliver 343 homes. The first phase of the Briars, Copshall Close and Aylets Field estate will supply 103 homes, 53 of which will be affordable. The scheme is being developed in partnership with Home Group and Harlow Council. Gardner Stewart Architects designed the masterplan.
Investors grab London retail
Investors acquired £1bn of prime central London retail property in H1, according to CBRE. The total beats the H1 average of £700m reported in recent years. Key deals include the £65m sale of 169 New Bond Street, W1, and the £400m sale of Debenhams’ Oxford Street flagship by British Land.
NW partners to build housing
L&Q and Trafford Housing Trust have formed a North West-focused 50/50 joint venture to deliver 2,000 homes over the next four years. Each partner will invest around £80m. The first schemes are due to begin in early 2017.
L&G hires Russell
Legal & General Investment Management Real Assets has appointed Fizzy Living’s Adam Russell as its residential transactions manager, overseeing its build-to-rent team. Russell was head of acquisitions at Fizzy Living and worked previously at Savills, where he was associate director of funding and development and residential capital markets.
