Podcast

Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep05 with Tom Smith, Development Advisory Lead

News & Updates Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep05 with Tom Smith, Development Advisory Lead Turning Ambition into Deliverable Development What stops a promising development or regeneration project from moving forward? In this episode of Black Cat Chat, Andy is joined by Tom Smith, Head of Development Advisory at Black Cat, to explore how complex, underperforming and stalled sites can be unlocked. Tom explains how development advisory brings together commercial insight, viability testing, funding, planning and delivery strategy to help clients turn ambitious ideas into practical, deliverable projects. The conversation covers: Why development and regeneration schemes stall How viability challenges can be identified and addressed The changing role of town and city centres Why residential development is increasingly important to regeneration How Mayoral Development Corporations can help accelerate delivery Tom’s experience supporting the regeneration of Stockport The value of bringing commercial and technical advice together early Tom also shares how he joined Black Cat to establish the Development Advisory service and how the new offer connects with the wider multidisciplinary team. A practical and positive conversation about unlocking opportunity, overcoming barriers and creating places where people can live, work and thrive. Click here for the full episode. Watch, listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep04 with Elected Mayor Peter Taylor July 29, 2026 News Jade Hall strengthens our support team! July 20, 2026 Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep04 with Elected Mayor Peter Taylor July 16, 2026

Jade Hall joins the Black Cat team to strengthen our Support Team.
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Jade Hall strengthens our support team!

News & Updates Jade Hall strengthens our support team! We’re delighted to welcome Jade Hall to the Black Cat team! With more than a decade of experience supporting building consultancy and property management teams, Jade brings a wealth of expertise in keeping projects, people and processes running smoothly. From coordinating day-to-day operations and managing key documentation through to preparing reports and working closely with clients and contractors, she’s someone who understands what great project support looks like. At Black Cat, we know that delivering exceptional client service relies on brilliant people behind the scenes as much as those on site, and Jade’s experience will be a fantastic addition to our growing team. Outside of work, Jade enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, and whenever she gets the chance you’ll find her heading back to the Lake District to spend time with family. Welcome to Black Cat, Jade – we’re delighted to have you on board. Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News News We’re delighted to welcome Jade Hall to the Black Cat team! July 20, 2026 Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep04 with Elected Mayor Peter Taylor July 16, 2026 News Black Cat launches Environmental Consultancy service July 15, 2026

Peter Taylor on Black Cat Chat
Podcast

Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep04 with Elected Mayor Peter Taylor

News & Updates Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep04 with Elected Mayor Peter Taylor What makes a town an attractive place to live, work and invest? In this episode of Black Cat Chat, Andy Clow is joined by Peter Taylor, the elected Mayor of Watford, to explore the continued growth and evolution of one of Hertfordshire’s most commercially important towns. Peter discusses the advantages of Watford’s location, transport connections and highly connected business community, as well as the role that major employers, business parks and the creative industries play in the local economy. The conversation also looks at the changing demands of the commercial property market, including the growing focus on high-quality office space, the importance of balancing new homes with places to work, and how brownfield development can support sustainable growth. Peter also shares the plans to reimagine Watford Town Hall as a more accessible civic destination, incorporating an innovation and incubation hub, museum, community facilities and workspace. It is a positive conversation about investment, regeneration and the partnerships helping towns like Watford continue to thrive. Click here for the full episode. Watch, listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep04 with Elected Mayor Peter Taylor July 16, 2026 News Black Cat launches Environmental Consultancy service July 15, 2026 News Andrew Griffiths joins Black Cat July 13, 2026

Black Cat launches new Environmental Consultancy service
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Black Cat launches Environmental Consultancy service

News & Updates Black Cat launches Environmental Consultancy service Environmental risk is now a core part of commercial property decision-making. Whether acquiring, funding, leasing, redeveloping or disposing of an asset, clients are increasingly having to consider environmental liability, sustainability credentials, regulatory compliance and long-term site risk alongside the more traditional building consultancy advice. That is why we are pleased to launch our new Environmental Consultancy service, led by Andrew Griffiths, who joins Black Cat as Associate Director. Andrew, based in Glasgow, will support clients nationwide across the UK and Ireland, further strengthening our technical coverage and reflecting our continued commitment to growing Black Cat’s reach across key regional markets. He joins us following eight years at Hollis Global and brings extensive experience in environmental due diligence and transactional risk advisory. He has supported clients across single-asset instructions and large-scale portfolios of more than 100 sites, working with commercial and institutional lenders, developers, investors and occupiers. His expertise includes contaminated land risk assessment, environmental permitting, pre-lease advisory, development monitoring and the supervision of Phase II site investigations. He has also supported clients through the planning process, advising on environmental submissions for sites earmarked for redevelopment. For us, this is a natural next step. Over the last 18 months, we have expanded our specialist advisory offer with the launch of ESG and Development Advisory services. Environmental Consultancy adds another important layer, helping us provide comprehensive joined-up advice across the full lifecycle of a property transaction. By bringing environmental due diligence in-house, we can help clients identify risk earlier, make more informed decisions and keep transactions moving. Andrew commented: “By bringing environmental due diligence in-house, Black Cat is positioned to offer clients a more joined-up service across the full lifecycle of a property transaction, from acquisition and pre-lease advice through to development monitoring and disposal. “Environmental considerations are now a central part of commercial property decision-making. Our role is to help clients understand the risks, respond pragmatically and keep transactions moving.” Since joining Black Cat, Andrew has already delivered environmental due diligence on a portfolio of student accommodation assets, working to a tight timescale to meet the requirements of a US-based lender and support a smooth transaction. This launch is another example of Black Cat investing in specialist expertise where we know our clients need clear, practical advice. It also strengthens our ability to provide national coverage with local understanding, supporting clients across the UK and Ireland with straightforward commercial property advice. To find out more, contact Andrew on: 07904 325 605 or andrew.griffiths@bcconsultancy.co.uk Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News Insight, News Black Cat launches Environmental Consultancy service July 15, 2026 News Andrew Griffiths joins Black Cat July 13, 2026 News Meet Ollie Spriggs, our new IT Director July 6, 2026

Welcoming Andrew Griffiths to the team!
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Andrew Griffiths joins Black Cat

News & Updates Andrew Griffiths joins Black Cat! We’re delighted to welcome Andrew Griffiths to the team as Associate Director, leading the launch of our new Environmental Consultancy service line. Based in Glasgow and supporting clients nationwide, Andrew brings more than eight years’ experience in environmental due diligence and transactional risk advisory. His expertise includes contaminated land risk assessment, environmental permitting, pre-lease advice and development monitoring. Andrew’s focus is simple: providing clear, practical advice, backed by robust scientific understanding, to help clients identify environmental risks and make informed commercial decisions. In his own words: “From my first day, I could see what kind of company Black Cat is – one with great people doing exceptional work. I’m excited to establish our Environmental Consultancy service line and bring environmental advice directly into Black Cat’s wider building consultancy offer.” Outside of work, Andrew enjoys trail running through the Scottish countryside, making the most of Glasgow’s music scene and fitting in as many holidays as the bank balance allows. Welcome to the team, Andrew. It’s great to have you with us! Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News News Andrew Griffiths joins Black Cat July 13, 2026 News Meet Ollie Spriggs, our new IT Director July 6, 2026 Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep03 with Accessibility Expert Nick Goss July 2, 2026

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Meet Ollie Spriggs, our new IT Director

News & Updates Meet Ollie Spriggs, our new IT Director! We’re delighted to welcome Ollie to Black Cat! Ollie joins us with more than a decade of experience across IT leadership, service delivery and technical support, with a clear focus on helping people work smarter and making technology feel practical, useful and straightforward. At Black Cat, he’ll be supporting our growing team, strengthening our technology capability and helping make sure our systems continue to evolve with the business. He brings strong experience across cloud technology, Microsoft 365, infrastructure and service management, all underpinned by a real commitment to giving people a great user experience. Ollie is also passionate about the practical use of AI, and will be helping us identify sensible opportunities to improve efficiency, support collaboration and help our people get more value from the tools they use every day. Outside of work, Ollie is happiest outdoors. You’ll usually find him surfing, cycling, climbing, or trying to improve his padel game. The competitive spirit is definitely there, even if the success rate occasionally depends on the weather. Welcome to Black Cat, Ollie. It’s great to have you with us! Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep03 with Accessibility Expert Nick Goss July 2, 2026 News Progress continues to take shape on site for Zeta Analytical! June 25, 2026 News Investing in the future of our industry June 23, 2026

Black Cat Chat with Nick Goss
Podcast

Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep03 with Accessibility Expert Nick Goss

News & Updates Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep03 with Accessibility Expert Nick Goss In this episode of Black Cat Chat, Andy Clow is joined by Nick Goss, founder of Goss Consultancy Ltd, to discuss accessibility, inclusive design and why the built environment needs to think beyond minimum compliance. Drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience, Nick shares practical insights into how buildings, public spaces and customer experiences can be designed to work better for everyone. We explore: The difference between compliance and best practice Why accessibility should be considered from day one The growing importance of lived experience in design decisions The commercial impact of the “Purple Pound” Simple changes that can make a significant difference One of my favourite takeaways:“It’s not only about how you get into a building. It’s about how you benefit from and enjoy what’s inside it.” If you’re involved in property, construction, design, asset management or placemaking, this is a conversation worth listening to. Watch or listen  this and all our other episodes here: Black Cat Chat Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 Ep03 with Accessibility Expert Nick Goss July 2, 2026 News Progress continues to take shape on site for Zeta Analytical! June 25, 2026 News Investing in the future of our industry June 23, 2026

Progress continues to take shape on site for Zeta Analytical!
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Progress continues to take shape on site for Zeta Analytical!

News & Updates Progress continues to take shape on site for Zeta Analytical! Following on from our previous update, significant progress continues to be made, with both the enabling works and M&E installations advancing in line with programme. Key mechanical milestones have now been achieved, including the installation of condensers, the air handling unit and fume extract ductwork, while all first-fix pipework is complete. https://bcplugin.centillioncorp.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Zeta-Analytical-part-2-update-social-clip.mp4 Electrical works are also progressing strongly, with containment completed throughout the project, first-fix installations substantially complete and data infrastructure nearing completion. Second-fix activities are now well underway across the development. It’s great to see the project continuing to build momentum, with the wider team maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality and programme as we move towards the next phase of delivery. If you’re planning a workplace, industrial or specialist fit-out project and would like to discuss how Black Cat can support your delivery objectives, get in touch with Sam Sims or Sam Jennings to see how we can help you achieve your next project. Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News News Investing in the future of our industry June 23, 2026 Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 E02 with Rich Millington & Peter Fearon Brown June 18, 2026 News Black Cat Takes on the Elifar Challenge! ???? June 12, 2026

Investing in the future of our industry
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Investing in the future of our industry

News & Updates Investing in the future of our industry Building the future of our industry starts with investing in the next generation. That’s why we were proud to support the fantastic work of the Construction Youth Trust at our client event in London. For nearly two decades, the Trust has been helping young people across London explore careers in construction and the built environment, connecting them with opportunities, developing their skills and helping them build brighter futures. Their work not only changes individual lives but also helps address one of the industry’s biggest challenges: attracting and developing future talent. Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended, we are proud to have raised more than £900 in support of their vital work. A huge thank you to all our guests, colleagues and partners who contributed on the day. Every penny raised will help the Trust continue inspiring young people and opening doors to careers across our sector. As an industry, we all have a role to play in creating opportunities and ensuring construction remains an accessible, diverse and rewarding career path for future generations. Find out how you can help at: constructionyouth.org.uk Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News News Investing in the future of our industry June 23, 2026 Podcast Black Cat Chat: S2 E02 with Rich Millington & Peter Fearon Brown June 18, 2026 News Black Cat Takes on the Elifar Challenge! ???? June 12, 2026

Sandon Global Black Cat Chat
Podcast

Black Cat Chat: S2 E02 with Rich Millington & Peter Fearon Brown

News & Updates Black Cat Chat: S2 E02 with Rich Millington & Peter Fearon Brown Sandon Global: Building a World-Class Manufacturing Facility In this episode of Black Cat Chat, Andy Clow is joined by Rich Millington, Managing Director of Sandon Global, and Peter Fearon Brown of 2M2 Studio to explore the story behind one of the UK’s most impressive advanced manufacturing facilities. Together, they discuss how a long-term vision evolved from an ageing industrial unit into a purpose-built headquarters designed to support innovation, growth and global ambition. The conversation covers the importance of understanding a client’s business before putting pen to paper, the role design plays in shaping company culture, and how thoughtful workplace environments can bring teams together. Rich and Peter also share the challenges faced throughout the project, including land acquisition, power supply issues and navigating construction during the Covid-19 pandemic. From showcasing cutting-edge manufacturing processes to creating collaborative spaces that break down barriers between office and production teams, this episode highlights how great buildings can become powerful business tools. A fascinating listen for anyone involved in property, construction, manufacturing, workplace design or business leadership. We’re looking forward to welcoming guests from across the built environment in upcoming episodes. Subscribe wherever you get your podcaststo make sure you don’t miss an episode! Latest News… All Posts Blog Insight News Podcast Team News News Black Cat Takes on the Elifar Challenge! ???? June 12, 2026 News Supporting Zeta Analytical’s next stage of growth June 8, 2026 News Green Light for £10m Rhyl Skills Workshop June 5, 2026

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