Rights of Light and Daylight and Sunlight

We pride ourselves on our expertise in efficient and effective planning to optimise the potential of any given location, all while reducing risks associated with Right of Light and Daylight and Sunlight planning. Our unwavering dedication to our clients is rooted in our commitment to providing unparalleled service and expert advice, and we are dedicated to providing first-class solutions tailored to meet each project’s unique requirements. With our wealth of experience and deep understanding of the complexities involved, you can trust us to deliver results that provide you with a great outcome. Every time. 

What is Rights of Light and Daylight and Sunlight?

Rights of Light is a civil matter separate from daylight and sunlight amenity, as considered by Local Planning Authorities. Rights of light must, therefore, be considered even if the planning permission has been granted. It can affect both domestic and non-domestic properties – even non-habitable rooms are capable of enjoying a right to light.

Rights of light is one of the most difficult constraints for developers to overcome. As value and demand for space increases in our cities, landowners progressively build taller and closer to common boundaries, giving rise to disputes over access to natural light.

Whilst Daylight and Sunlight assessments are carried out before a development to measure both the impact and adequacy of natural light within surrounding buildings and the proposed.

How long do daylight and sunlight assessments take?

The assessment timescale will vary depending on the size and complexity of each project, but normally takes between five and ten working days.

What accreditations can I gain from daylight and sunlight assessments?

In addition to being a pre-requisite for the obtaining of planning consent for a development, our consultants can also provide assessments and reports to support BREEAM accreditation.

What will our Daylight and Sunlight Assessments will determine

When applying for planning permission, it’s important to consider the current and predicted levels of daylight, sunlight, and overshadowing on nearby properties. It’s also necessary to outline any steps that will be taken to minimize the expected impact of the development. In cases where there are ten or more new residential units, an assessment of the lighting within the new units and surrounding amenity areas is required to ensure that residents won’t experience poor lighting.

What do we do?

We collaborate with a range of stakeholders, including the client and design team, to ensure the project is a success. We provide all technical requirements for planning while also delivering on time and on budget.

Rights of light can be a constraint to development potential, but we have the knowledge to navigate through difficult rights of light restrictions. Our team is spearheaded by experienced Senior Associate Director, Desrine Oak, who has over twenty years of experience advising on party wall, rights of light and other neighbourly matters. Our services range from initial pre-acquisition advice, site appraisal and feasibility consideration, to mitigation, negotiations and resolution of Rights of Light matters.

Our extensive experience and unrivalled knowledge can meet the demands of all project sizes, throughout the UK.

Maximum envelopes and design advice

We can help clients and designers maximise site potential by calculating the optimum development size. This is known as a maximum envelope. However, it is often possible to go beyond the maximum envelope, provided an appropriate right of light strategy is put in place. This may include reaching agreements with affected neighbours or putting insurance in place to cover potential claims.

Who do we work with?

Our approach involves close collaboration with lawyers and insurance brokers, enabling us to deliver targeted strategic advice that effectively addresses Rights of Light risks. Our comprehensive solutions are designed to manage these risks appropriately, while our expert guidance helps clients navigate potential pitfalls and identify the best course of action. We secure Rights of Light agreements for our developer clients with their affected neighbours. We also provide expert assistance to adjoining owners affected by neighbouring developments with their Rights of Light claims.

Our Services

• High-level site appraisals.
• Pre-Acquisition Advice.
• Site Optimisation; Maximum Building Envelopes.
• Detailed Technical Analysis.
• Scheme cutbacks or enhancements.
• Bespoke Strategic Reporting.
• Expert Witness.
• Right to Light Negotiations.
• Light Obstruction Notices (LONs) (Explanatory Notes).
• Daylight and Sunlight Planning advice for both developers and occupiers.
• Pre-planning daylight and sunlight studies.
• Detailed BRE daylight and sunlight studies.
• EIA analysis and ES chapters.
• Expert witness and planning representation.
• Peer reviews.
• Overshadowing studies, including transient overshadowing studies.
• Tree impact assessments.
• BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Methodology) assessments.

To discuss how we can advise and support your needs, please get in touch with Desrine Oak, Senior Associate Director.

To visit our Rights of Light and Daylight and Sunlight service page, click here.

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Tamara Gonzalez Received a Promotion

We’re delighted to announce the promotion of our newest Senior Chartered Building Surveyor, Tamara Gonzalez.

David Goedecke, Director at Project and Building Consultancy, said:

“I am delighted to announce that Tamara was promoted to Senior Surveyor. Tamara had what can only be described as a challenging start with PBC, joining just a fortnight before the first Covid lockdown in 2020! She has, however, since shown her resilience, commitment, and unwavering dedication to looking after our clients and growing her experience in the years since, working with key clients including The Portman Estate, Ballymore, and Orchard Street, amongst others, culminating in this thoroughly deserved promotion. Well done, Tamara, and all the best for the years to come with PBC!”

To learn more about Tamara Gonzalez, please click here.

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Kate Greene Joins PBC as the Newest Quantity Surveyor

We are pleased to announce that Kate Greene has joined Project and Building Consultancy (PBC) as a Quantity Surveyor in the Cost Consultancy Department, led by Chris Jones, Director of Cost Consultancy.

Kate brings with her a wealth of experience in construction, having provided cost management services for clients and worked for a primary contractor on various high-profile companies supporting residential schemes in London.

Kate gained her degree in Quantity Surveying from an apprenticeship scheme, which propelled her love for construction. In her new role, Kate will advise on new and ongoing projects throughout the UK with her team consisting of Chris Jones, Director, Anthony Metelerkamp, Associate Director and George Clarke, Quantity Surveyor.

To learn more about Kate Greene and to view some of her projects, please click here.

Please click here to learn more about our Cost Consultancy department and how our team can better support your project.

To view the catalogue of our Cost Consultancy projects with full descriptions and project challenges and achievements, please click here.

10/08/2023

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Cost Commentary Q3 Summer Report 2023

Cost Commentary Review Q3 Market Report 2023

The Report

We’re delighted to share our Cost Commentary Q3 Market Report. We have summarised the last quarter’s cost predictions for the construction and building industry, offering predictions for the next quarter. The report discusses our UK Economy, Construction, Labour and Wages, Materials and Tender Pricing and how we can guide your business to achieve great outcomes during the challenging climate.

Click here to view our PBC Market and Cost Commentary Report

Why Hire a Cost Consultant?

Cost consultancy, often synonymous with quantity surveying, is the systematic process of estimating, analysing, and controlling the costs associated with construction projects. It encompasses a wide array of responsibilities, including cost estimation, budget preparation, cost control, procurement advice, and value engineering. By partnering with architects, contractors, and developers, cost consultants ensure that projects are not only completed within budget constraints but also maintain high standards of quality and efficiency.

In this evolving landscape, cost consultancy remains indispensable for stakeholders seeking to optimise their investments while adhering to these industry trends and challenges. By providing accurate cost assessments and strategic financial guidance, cost consultants play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of construction projects in 2023 and beyond.

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Dante Makin Joins the Team as a Chartered Senior Surveyor

Project and Building Consultancy (PBC) are pleased to announce the appointment of Dante Makin as a Chartered Senior Building Surveyor.

Dante has joined Project and Building Consultancy’s professional team, supporting Jack Dison, Director, in the Building Consultancy team. Dante will primarily deliver expert advice and guidance to clients on Contract Administration, Employers Agent and Dilapidations. His expertise includes handling traditional and design and build contracts ranging from one hundred thousand to one point five million pounds.

He joins with a wealth of experience, previously working for Lambert Smith Hampton and Cushman Wakefield. Dante has an excellent understanding of a range of building surveyor instructions for both investors and occupiers.

Dante Makin, Chartered Senior Building Surveyor, said: “I am passionate about the construction industry and find fulfilment in specifying and designing projects, overseeing their various phases, and watching them come to fruition”.

To learn more about Dante Makin and to view some of his projects, please click here.

To learn more about our Building Consultancy department and how our team can better support your project needs, click here.

To view the catalogue of our Contract Administration, Dilapidations and Employers Agent Projects with full descriptions and project challenges and achievements, please click the relevant links, or find the relevant case studies in our case study drop-down menu.

15/09/2023

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Jack Dison Celebrates Ten Year Anniversary

This month marks a milestone as it celebrates the tenth anniversary of its newest Director, Jack Dison, joining the team. Jack joined PBC in 2013 as a newly chartered Building Surveyor, becoming part of the Professional Team under Alistair Slater.

Living in Manchester at the time, Jack relocated to London to take up the opportunity to work for PBC.

Over the years, Jack has diversified and supported his clients with various services such as Project Management and Building Surveying. Just before reaching his tenth-year anniversary in May 2023, Jack was promoted to a member of the board of directors.

During his career, Jack has successfully delivered many high-profile commercial projects from conception to completion, providing professional advice for private sector clients, including property companies, PLCs, corporations, institutions and banks and specialising in contract administration, bank monitoring and dilapidations.

Jack, Director at Project and Building Consultancy, said: “I’ve had the privilege of contributing to remarkable projects and serving exceptional clients, adapting my skills to meet their needs. Thanks to PBC’s investment in my growth, I’ve expanded my capabilities as a Project Manager and Building Surveyor and recently accepted my newest promotion to Director.”

Paul Philips, Managing Director at Project and Building Consultancy, said: “You are a real credit to the business, Jack; thank you for the last 10 years”.

To learn more about Jack Dison, click here.

If you would like to learn more about the Building Consultancy team and specialisms, click here.

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Matterport Service Launch

We are delighted to announce the official launch of Matterport as an extension to our Building Consultancy Services.

Our advanced imaging services and cutting-edge 3D scanning technology can now provide businesses with exceptional support for insurance claims, design, collaboration, measurement, and marketing activities.

You can access the service on a website or application, and customise it to your needs, with the ability to switch between various areas effortlessly. With small gestures, you can showcase an entire room, add text and voiceover to support tours.

We offer high-resolution 360° imagery and consultation to ensure we capture your business requirements and deliver results that align with your project or campaign goals.

Included in the service are 7 additional services:

• Aiding Project Design
• Project Progress Tracking (Before & After)
• Recording Dilapidations Liabilities
• Marketing & Virtual Tours
• Client Reporting
• Insurance Surveys
• Condition Reporting

Our Service Benefits include:

• The Matterport software can produce SKX files in both floor plan and 3D views for Xactimate™ software.
• The Matterport software can produce 2D floor plans for use as part of your marketing material.
• The Matterport software can integrate with design software such as Revit and AutoDesk.
• The Matterport model can be directly measured from to allow for accurate cost assessment when planning project costs.
• 4k print-ready Images, great for Marketing.
• Blur confidential items that were captured/ wall fixed.

We can help support your insurance claims:

• Comprehensive documentation for insurance and restoration professionals.
• Insurance loss adjusters no longer need to manually measure and sketch to record and estimate repair and rebuilding costs.
• Our service can provide objective documentation of as-built features and measurements to aid in accurate restoration.
• Detailed and immersive documentation for forensics professionals.
• Eliminate the need for physical reinspection at early project stages.

For more information about our service, please visit the Matterport Service page by clicking here.

To view an example of our 360° Matterport service, please click here.

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May Promotions

(May promotions)

We are delighted to announce the most recent May promotions within our PBC team:

Glenn Wright joined the PBC Board.

Jack Dison was appointed as Director.

Jim Heatley was appointed to Senior Associate, and,

Anthony Metelerkamp accepted the role of Associate.

As a growing company, it is essential for us to support and develop our team members to become leaders in our industry, providing them with the tools to grow within the business.

We congratulate our newly promoted for their excellent contribution, work ethic and commitment, and we also wish them the best of luck going forward in their new roles.

To find out more about joining our team at PBC, click here to be redirected to our careers page.

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PBC Industrial & Logistics Project Showcase | Spring 2023

PBC specialises in providing a wide range of construction consultancy services for industrial and logistics projects, including project management, cost management, pre-acquisition TDD surveys and dilapidations advice, as well as monitoring surveyor role on behalf of a funder or pre-lease tenant surveyor role on behalf of a proposed occupier. We’ve rounded up a few of the projects we have undertaken for clients.

The Falcon Centre in Milton Keynes

PBC was appointed to provide Project Management, Employer’s Agent and Cost Consultancy services for the fast-track refurbishment of a 50,000sq. ft. distribution warehouse at The Falcon Centre in Milton Keynes, plus updating of its office space to a CAT A standard.
Improving the sustainability / ESG credentials of the building was a key requirement of the project which included the following enhancements:

• PVs – 28 new PV panels installed, with a total installed capacity (kW) of 27.72 and estimated annual generation (kWh) of 25669.00
• EPC – Upgraded from a D rating to a B rating
• Electric heating – Gas fired boiler replaced with high efficiency electric boiler
• Lighting improvements – New LED installed throughout with PIR detectors
• Electric vehicle charging points – 5 new 7KW EV charging points
• External building fabric – New double glazed windows and cladding installed

Distribution Facility Centre Expansion, Colchester, Essex

PBC was appointed to project manage the development of a new 148,000 sq. ft., 21.5m high bay extension to an existing 288,000 sq. ft. book storage and distribution centre in Essex for an owner and occupier client. PBC managed the selection and appointment of the project team, the pre-planning and planning process, design and tender stages, followed by the construction and handover phase.

PBC were tasked with managing delivery of the project in a “live” client environment, so all works needed to be carefully planned to minimise disruption. The existing facility was part mechanised and included both low bay and high bay storage facilities. As part of the project, the viability of automated storage solutions was assessed and this led to the installation of a high bay expansion to suit a new racking solution.

In addition to the warehouse expansion, the project included new HGV parking and service yard, marshalling areas and loading docks to deliver a modernised storage facility in access of 436,000 sq. ft.

Improvements to the sustainability and ESG credentials of the development included the following:

• BREEAM – BREEAM “Very Good” certification achieved at Design Stage with an enhanced target score of 60.98% for the completed project, awaited from BRE for New Construction 2018 Scheme
• Renewable Resources – Minimising the use of finite resources, favouring sustainable and renewable resources
• EPC – EPC A energy rating achieved, against a target B
• Energy monitoring – Energy in use metering and monitoring throughout via BMS controls installed
• Low carbon design – Thermal modelling and passive design analysis carried out
• Lighting improvements – New LED installed throughout with PIR detectors
• External building fabric – Building air test certification exceeded building regulations maximum air leakage requirements
• New Glazing – New glazing providing excellent thermal performance and optimum reflectance, minimising solar heat gain
• Rainwater harvesting systems and water conserving sanitaryware

E-Leather Production Facility, Peterborough

PBC was appointed as Fund Monitoring Surveyor for a private fund managed by Aberdeen Standard Life for the development of a new 220,000 sq. ft high-bay production facility on a greenfield site for an end user/occupier who are an award-winning materials technology company.

The building was designed to meet the fund’s institutional standards, with 18,000m2 warehouse and 2,000m2 offices, 12.5m internal clear height and a 50KN/m2 floor load.

The built-in sustainability / ESG credentials of the building included the following:

• BREEAM – BREEAM “Very Good” certification achieved for New Construction 2018 Scheme
• EPC – EPC A certificate rating achieved for the completed development
• Energy monitoring – Energy in use metering and monitoring throughout via BMS controls installed
• Lighting improvements – New LED installed throughout with PIR detectors
• External building fabric – Building air test certification exceeded building regulations maximum air leakage requirements

Costa Coffee Bean Roastery facility, Basildon, Essex

PBC was appointed by Prologis Plc to project manage the development of a new, 85,000 sq. ft. high bay, coffee bean roasting facility for Costa Coffee. The new roastery was designed to service Costa’s UK and overseas markets and represented a £38 million investment by the company.

Logic 305, Brooklands Industrial Park, Weybridge, Surrey

PBC was instructed to Project Manage and as Employer’s Agent for the fast track refurbishment of a 300,000 sq. ft distribution warehouse in Surrey over a 6 months period. The works entailed new concrete yard, new warehouse roof, cladding treatment and a full CAT A refurbishment of the office accommodation. This included a new rainscreen cladding system, new windows and doors.

Amazon was secured as a tenant and PBC managed the interface between the tenant and Landlord to ensure early access and partial possession were achieved to enable the tenant to commence their fit out works prior to PC of the Landlord’s works. The project was completed ahead of schedule and has added substantial value to the client’s asset.

Market Place Industrial Unit, Southall

PBC recently acted for Orchard Investment Management as Project Manager and Contract Administrator for the refurbishment of this industrial unit.

The client wanted to ensure sustainability / ESG improvements were made as part of the refurbishment which included:

• Replacing the existing gas boiler with electric point of use heating and wall panels
• Installing an electric vehicle charging points externally
• All gas services to the unit were terminated in replace of electric provisions

PBC is also assisting clients with other major development projects providing:

• Pre-acquisition Technical Due Diligence surveys and reports
• Front-end construction appraisal and feasibility advice, including advice on cost, programme and procurement
• Project management and cost management services for private clients, landlords and property developers
• Development monitoring services for funders and lenders
• Client representative services
• Contract Administration, Employer’s Agent and Party Wall services

Our expertise and track record across key sectors, including commercial, retail, residential and industrial uses, means we have current information in-house, as well as having formed strong working relationships with leading consultants and contractors in each sector. All of this is applied to our clients’ projects, ensuring the best outcome every time.

PBC is continuing to build on these achievements by helping clients to deliver even more successful industrial & logistics projects. For more information, or to discuss how PBC can assist with your project, contact Paul Philips, Managing Director on M +44 (0)7778 614 384 T +44 (0)20 3478 0626 E: pphilips@pandbc.co.uk.

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Happy Easter from the team PBC!

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International Women’s Day and Women in Construction Week

At PBC, we are proud to support and empower our female employees in construction. As part of our celebration, we did a Q&A with Chantel Stead, Tamara Gonzalez and Whitney Senti Boateng who shared their experience and thoughts on the industry and how we can encourage the next generation of women to pursue careers in this field. We’re committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and supporting women in construction at all stages of their careers. Let’s continue to work towards a more equitable future for all.

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PBC Gets Carbon Neutral Status for Third Year Running

PBC is delighted to announce that, for the third year running, the company has achieved Carbon Neutral status, and is committed to help combat climate change.

The company’s day-to-business practices were assessed over a 12 month period by Carbon Footprint Ltd, who help businesses to support environmental change by reducing their environmental impact and minimising their carbon emissions. It reported that PBC had offset 19 tonnes of carbon dioxide through its support of a global portfolio of carbon reduction projects.

PBC Managing Director Paul Philips said: “PBC is committed to helping reduce the impact of climate change, so we are delighted to have been awarded Carbon Neutral status again.  I would like to thank our teams and our clients for wholeheartedly supporting us and our sustainability goals over the past year.”

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Anthony Joins PBC’s Cost Consultancy Team

PBC is delighted to welcome Senior Quantity Surveyor Anthony Metelerkamp to its growing Cost Consultancy Team, which has made significant gains over the past few years under Chris Jones’ leadership.

Anthony has a diverse range of experience covering residential, commercial, retail and mixed-use schemes throughout the UK and Europe, with values ranging from £0.5m to £500m. At PBC he will be responsible for managing the company’s service across a variety of different projects.

Commenting on his new role Anthony said: “I love the challenge a new scheme brings. Each development project has its own individual obstacles, and every project and client team are unique. You meet, collaborate, and learn to work with new people every day in a fast-paced environment. I’m delighted to be playing a role in building on PBC’s success by helping Chris to continue the development of our team and service offering.”

Outside of work Anthony enjoys socialising, travelling, and playing a variety of sport – particularly golf where he can often be found on the 19^th hole!

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We’re Celebrating Something Rather Special!

The PBC Team is celebrating something rather special this month… Emma Knight’s 10-year and Rob Newcombe’s 20-year anniversary with us!  Known as the duo who hold the business together, our Team Admin & Office Manager, Emma, and Administrator, Rob, share all the best bits…

How would you describe working at PBC Emma?
“PBC is a fast paced company that always strives for excellence for their clients. The teams work well together and are always on hand to help one another out and enjoy socialising together. I enjoy the flexibility PBC provides – they understand you also have a life outside of work – and I love the company culture and overall the team I work with.”

What do you love most about your job Rob?
“We have an incredible team and everyone works so well together to produce a high-quality, professional service whilst maintaining a very happy workplace with lots of social activities. The company is always listening to ideas and suggestions, and acts quickly to adopt many of these. The MD’s door is always open.”

Congratulations to both, and here’s to another 10 very happy years at PBC!

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See you at MIPIM 2023!

If you and your colleagues are attending and would like to get a meeting in the diary, please get in touch with Paul Philips or Mark Merritt.

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Liam Celebrates 5 Years at PBC

This month, we’re celebrating 5 years of Liam Horton at PBC!

Liam joined our Building Consultancy team in 2018 and has continued to build on his strengths on a number of fantastic projects.

“I’m really happy to be celebrating 5 years at PBC,” said Liam. “Throughout that time I’ve worked on many rewarding, varied and interesting projects for a variety of clients, and I’ve really enjoyed learning and developing my skills. I’m grateful that PBC encourages a healthy work-life balance, which allows me to take on the challenges of work with a clear mind.”

“Going forward, I’m glad to have a number of exciting projects in the pipeline which will definitely keep me busy!”

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PBC Launches New Development Monitoring Department

PBC is delighted to announce the launch of a new Development Monitoring Department, which will be headed up by Mark Merritt MRICS MAPM.

Mark, who has over 20 years’ experience in the industry, previously worked as Director of Project Monitoring where he was part of developing a dedicated department, growing this into a team of 18 project monitors. He has worked on a vast range of projects, across a broad range of sectors, including Local Authority and Super-Prime Residential.

In his previous role, Mark helped developed a robust procedures and processes that included developing efficiencies, in-house benchmarking, strict QA procedures and training. His background of Project Management and Cost Consulting also brings a wide breadth of knowledge and expertise to PBC.

In the new Department, Mark will be joined by Associate Director James Gregory, who has been specialising in providing Development Monitoring services within PBC for key bank and project funders for a number of years. Typical project values for his Development Monitoring instructions have ranged from £600,000 up to £30 million, and these have included prime and super-prime residential schemes for private bank clients within London, the home counties and Cotswolds with construction values up to £10 million, as well as a range of residential focused and mixed-use developments with construction values up to £30 million and hotel and student accommodation projects with construction values up to £25 million. James brings a vast private practice building surveying experience with commercial, industrial and residential properties for property companies, plcs, corporations, institutions, and banks to the new Department.

The new Development Monitoring Department will sit alongside PBC’s highly successful Building Consultancy, Project Management and Cost Consultancy Teams. It adds a new dimension to the range of professional services offered by PBC, and continues the company’s ongoing plans for structured growth that reflects the needs of both it clients and the industry as a whole.

Commenting on the launch, Mark Merritt said: “I’m delighted to be joining PBC as Head of Development Monitoring, joining a team with the wealth of knowledge and expertise already present, and to grow this base to be able to offer a dedicated and centralised service to our clients.”

For further information about PBC’s Development Monitoring capabilities click here or contact Mark Merritt on 020 3478 0635.

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2022 End of Year Review – Paul Philips

John Nassari Photography

PBC Managing Director, Paul Philips, shares his thoughts on 2022 and his insights on where the property sector is heading over the next 12 months.

What external factors have had the biggest impact upon PBC and its business this year? 

“Over the last year, we have seen economic and political pressures both on a domestic and global scale. The tail end of Covid-19 pandemic, Russia’s war with Ukraine through the year, and a lack of UK political stability during the last quarter has given rise to volatility in many markets, with energy price and interest rate rises, and continuing public sector pay disputes, leading to strikes impacting UK business.

 Our latest Cost Consultancy Lead Times and Cost Commentary reports an increase in construction output across three consecutive months from July to September, with an increase in new orders, less material shortages and improved supply chain performances beating market expectations.  In fact, the UK Construction Industry was the only main sector of the economy that expanded in recent months.

 This was mainly due to unfinished work and a strong pipeline, principally related to the private commercial, infrastructure and housing projects. 

However, the above reported growth in Q3 came ahead of the Government’s disastrous mini budget, which significantly impacted the UK economy, resulting in a forecasted fall in construction output for the year ahead, coupled with a tight labour market and a slowdown in real estate investment and finance.

 What key trends have you seen this year and what do you think has driven them?

Labour shortages, high vacancy rates and recruitment difficulties have remained a constant obstacle to growth for construction companies and consultancy businesses, and this looks set to continue into Q1 2023 while the construction project pipeline is strong.  However, this is likely to change as wages struggle to keep up with the cost of living and we see more redundancies.

 The Global Cop 26 and 27 Summits, and the UK drive for Net Zero, has been a key trend this year, with most of our clients being focused on ESG and improving the green ratings for their properties. Investors have been leaning towards green building loans, and our property clients have been keen to understand the strategy and pathway to achieving Net Zero carbon for their property portfolios and the use of more renewable products and materials.  Indeed, the construction industry has been promoting decarbonising construction projects. However, the lack of Government recognition of the sector’s abilities, and associated funding, has made the target of achieving Net Zero in construction by 2030 a slim prospect.

 Post pandemic flexible working is another trend we have seen this year, with many businesses, including PBC, offering staff more flexible working arrangements between office and home, with productivity being maintained.  In conjunction with this we have seen changes in the way businesses occupy their space, with a shift towards the serviced office market, with more emphasis on breakout areas, collaboration spaces and noise proof phone booths for Zoom and Teams calls.

 What major achievements has PBC recorded in the past year?

Rising inflation, higher interest rates and energy costs have been the key economic barometer this year. However, notwithstanding these pressures since the start of the year, PBC saw an upswing in new property investments and development finance transactions and an increase in new project starts. Our profile in the market has increased due to the quality of our service, giving rise to repeat business from our clients, and also from more effective marketing and promotional activities. A mix of showcase features, case studies, and an improved social media campaign, has further helped to drive growth over the past year.

The demand for our extensive range of Professional and Construction Consultancy Services has remained both strong and diverse, with healthy activity in the commercial, industrial and logistics and residential sectors. The average size of our instructions continues to grow across all departments and saw an upturn in 2022.

Our Projects Team has delivered a £74 million commercial office development in Southwark for a world leading advertising company and will also be handing over a new 150,000 sq. ft. distribution facility extension in Colchester for a major book publisher, with a BREEAM “very good” certification. 

 Our Cost Consultancy division has recently secured a 66,000 sq. ft. comprehensive CAT B office fit out in the City for a major insurance company and has completed QS services on the refurbishment of a 50,000 sq. ft. industrial unit in Milton Keynes for a leading institutional fund, incorporating many sustainability upgrade features.  Both our PM and QS teams are also busy project and cost managing an extensive CAT A+ office refurbishment project at the former Terence Conran HQ at Shad Thames in SE1.

Meanwhile the larger Building Consultancy team has carried out over 25 pre-acquisition Technical Due Diligence (TDD) surveys for property investors, including an industrial park in Essex, a multi-storey office building in the City, two hotels and Judges Lodging’s in the heart of historic Lincoln and another hotel situated on a clifftop overlooking the Lizard in Cornwall.

 In addition to these TDD surveys, our Building Consultancy team has continued to manage the delivery of a range of serviced office fit-out projects for operators and landlords, across the South-East of England, including “Flex space” offices for Great Portland Estates. 

 We continue to act for many blue-chip clients, including The Portman Estate, CLS Holdings Plc, Columbia Threadneedle Investments, Aviva Investors and Ballymore.

Our experience and expertise over the last 22 years in providing Project Monitoring Services to banks and other development funders, has enabled us to secure Independent Monitoring Surveyor roles on many exciting projects, including the £25 million conversion of Richmond Hospital to private and affordable residencies, a 57,000 sq. ft. development of new contemporary offices and light industrial space in Kings Cross and a £20 million, 298 unit build to rent office residential conversion scheme in Swindon.

All of PBC’s departments are growing in size and you are taking on more staff. Why is this?

PBC has grown this year, with two new building surveyors in our Building Consultancy Team, a Senior PM and Assistant PM added to our Projects Team and a new Senior QS joining our Costs Consultancy Team.  We are also excited to be starting a new departmental “centre of excellence” for Development Monitoring, headed up by Mark Merritt BSc Hons MRICS MAPM, our new Director of Development Monitoring, who is joining us in January 2023. 

 Our graduates are aiming for their RICS APC in 2023 with our support and Ben Hallowell successfully passed his APC this year and became a member of the RICS 

Our Director of Cost Consultancy Chris Jones MRICS was welcomed to the Board of PBC from 1st May during the year and in terms of company performance, 2021/22 was the best year we have had to date with 54% growth on the previous year and 23% over our budgeted profit. The Building Consultancy Team achieved a 30% increase on budgeted fee income, Cost Consultancy achieved a 38% increase, and the Projects Team achieved an 8% increase and their best performance to date.

 Are there any trends amongst PBC’s commercial, industrial and residential clients that have emerged over the past year?

The last year has seen ESG and sustainability top of most clients’ corporate agenda, which has seen PBC focus on addressing energy efficiency and decarbonising carbon in construction. Across the business, we recognise the importance of introducing sustainable and renewable features into projects, including PV panels, air and ground source heat pumps, EV charging points, energy monitors, HVRF HVAC systems, end of journey commuter and cycle facilities and Net Zero pathway portfolio assessment.  Advice on measures to improve the EPC rating of our clients’ buildings and property portfolios has also seen an increase.

 From PBC’s own perspective, we achieved Carbon Neutral Plus Accreditation and certification in 2022

What are your plans for developing the business further in 2023 and are there any external factors or trends that you think will continue to affect the sector next year?

The year ahead looks both exciting and challenging and we remain cautiously optimistic.  Our strong pipeline of new business opportunities across all departments, with potential for adding more new clients, is one of our key strengths going forward into 2023.  The challenges, however, come from increased costs and the continued impact of the war in Ukraine across Europe, and the need for economic stability in the UK.

Whilst overall economic growth expectations remain subdued, there are some areas offering opportunities for property and construction consultancies.  The drive towards Net Zero will undoubtedly give rise to more opportunities for advising clients on their proposed property purchases, existing portfolio upgrades and for managing client’s Net Zero pathway implementation projects.

Smart building technology is another growth area for construction, which is a must have for many larger property developers. Modern methods of construction, such as modular buildings and the greater use of close laminated timber, will also be more widely adopted across the industry.

Faced with further economic uncertainty and more financial pressures in 2023, clients should be taking early advice from their professional consultants to secure cost and programme resources for their projects.  PBC is well placed to respond to our client’s demands as we continue to be a financially robust, with strong management and experience across our Building Consultancy, Project Management, Development Monitoring and Cost Consultancy Teams.  Our motto is ‘to ensure the best outcome every time’ and we wholeheartedly believe that PBC achieves this for our clients.

If you weren’t the Managing Director of PBC, what job or challenge would you relish most?

After 22 years, I still get up every morning and look forward to the challenges of running PBC.  Working alongside our amazing teams, our fantastic clients and the job itself makes it all worthwhile. However, anyone who knows me well knows that I am an avid rugby fan. There is, therefore, only one job that would entice me away from my role of Managing Director at PBC, and that is the England Rugby Union Manager’s job.  I’m still waiting for the call!

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Whitney Joins PBC’s Building Consultancy Team

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PBC Lead Times and Cost Commentary – November 2022

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Exciting New Project for PBC

PBC is delighted to have assisted Travel Sector Property Limited (TSPL) with their acquisition of The White Hart Hotel and the Judge’s Lodgings in the heart of the historic City of Lincoln.

PBC provided pre-acquisition technical due diligence advice, and reinstatement cost assessments.

The White Hart first opened more than 600 years ago as a Coaching Inn and has been one of Lincoln’s premier hotels since being substantially rebuilt and extended in the early 1800s.

The Eastgate Suite (Orangery) has a well-established reputation as a prestigious wedding and function venue, which also includes the former King Richard Restaurant.

In relation to the White Hart Hotel, Andrew Long, Principal Director of TSPL, said: “We are delighted to have acquired this historic 50-bedroom hotel in its unique Uphill location, located within the imposing presence of the iconic Lincoln Cathedral and a few steps away from the city’s Norman Castle. We are committing substantial resources to create a prestigious and welcoming upgraded hotel and look forward to progressing our proposals for significant capital investment to upgrade and improve the existing facilities.

The Judge’s Lodgings is a Grade II Listed *Georgian building which was first built in 1810.  It has a commanding landmark location overlooking Castle Hill Square, immediately adjacent to the Eastern Main Gate of Lincoln Castle (built by William Conqueror in 1068).

Announcing the acquisition of the Judge’s Lodgings, Andrew Long, summarised his overall proposals for this historic location: “My TSP Group of Companies are working closely with locally based John Roberts Architects and our wider project team to produce a major redevelopment and significant overall enhancement scheme for the St Paul’s Lane, Bailgate and Castle Hill quarter of the City.  Subject to obtaining the respective Statutory Consents, there is now a unique opportunity to deliver a fully interrelated redevelopment scheme for the White Hart Garages and car park site, in conjunction with the refurbishment and sustainable long-term future use of the Judge’s Lodgings.”

Shoosmiths Solicitors of Leeds acted on behalf of TSP Developments, in conjunction with PBC, Andrew having worked closely with both of these companies on major projects throughout the UK for in excess of 25 years.

PBC have been retained to provide project management and cost consultancy services for the redevelopment of the White Hart Garages and car park site, in conjunction with the refurbishment and enhancement of the Judge’s Lodgings.

PBC’s Managing Director Paul Philips commented: “We are very pleased to be working with Andrew in the wonderful Historic City of Lincoln, based on established long-term professional relationships and also Andrew’s renewed close working relationship with John Roberts Architects, together with other locally based members of the Project Team.”

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Bakery Fit-Out Project Gets The Green Light

Our Professional and Cost consultancy teams have been busy advising on this East London commercial unit near the Thames.

We’ll be fitting out the vacant unit, which sits within a vibrant residential development, to include a lounge-style workspace, in-house bakery and café with a focus on sustainable and natural materials.

More details coming soon… watch this space!

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PBC Welcomes Brad Trickett!

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PBC Listed in Top 150 Consultants

We’re proud that PBC has featured in Building Magazine’s recently announced ‘Top 150 Consultants’ of 2022.

It’s great to see that our continued growth, talented staff and in-depth industry knowledge has moved us into 133rd place.

View the Building Magazines top list here: https://lnkd.in/eYBAq4Dm

(Please note that a subscription to Building Magazine is required to view this information)

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Team PBC Abseils for St Mungo’s!

Four intrepid (and very brave) PBC team members took part in an abseil organised by the St Mungo’s Charity to mark this year’s World Homeless Day.

James Gregory, Robbie Brightman, George Clark and David Goedecke abseiled down the outside of the ArcelorMittal building in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford to raise money for St Mungo’s and support the vital work they do to rebuild lives and end homelessness.

PBC and their clients and suppliers* donated very generously and the team raised an amazing £2,300.

Well done team PBC – it looked very scary up there!

Thank you to our very generous sponsors:*

• Michael Ross
• Whistlers Ltd
• G A Harpers Construction
• Lightworks
• P J Harte Ltd
• Atlas Property Lettings & Services Ltd
• London Fit Out Ltd
• Computer System Ltd
• RE Capital
• Lateral Investments
• Adam Cramer
• Tim Attwood
• Furness Partnerhsip
• Francis Ho

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