Brent Cross Plot 14 structurally complete!

Plot 14, part of Related Argent’s £8bn Brent Cross Town development, has reached a major milestone with the installation of its final structural component, just 44 weeks after the first component was installed.

Spanning 25,000m², the hybrid structure combines precast concrete with structural steel (up to 90% recycled) to deliver 286 one, two, and three-bedroom build-to-rent apartments across three blocks rising up to 12 storeys. With four different coloured brick-faced façades, the development captures architect Whittam Cox’s architectural intent, adding character and variation to the Brent Cross Town skyline. Nearly 4,500 components — including precast solid and twin walls, integrated structural façade panels, stairs, landings, hollowcore flooring, and steel composite beams — were manufactured offsite by five specialist suppliers across six factories in four countries.

This showcases the scale, coordination, and precision that define this Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) project.

Systemised Structural Solution

Appointed by main contractor Galliford Try, PCE’s hyTower® system build solution was used to deliver the structure with speed and certainty. Based on Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) principles, hyTower® uses a Kit of Parts approach; repeatable components with integrated elements such as structural façades, windows, balcony connections, handrails, and M&E. All components were produced in factory controlled environments and delivered just-in-time, ready for rapid installation by a team of 22 multiskilled PCE operatives.

Using Ynomia’s cutting-edge digital twin track and trace technology, every component is comprehensively monitored across its lifecycle, capturing real-time data on status, dimensions, quality, and engineering insights. This provided full visibility from design through to installation, improving precision, accountability, and efficiency.

This offsite-first strategy not only enhanced quality and safety but also eliminated the need for back-propping and scaffolding - maximising workspace, reducing risk, and allowing earlier access for follow-on trades. The result: faster fit-out and accelerated handover.

The offsite DfMA approach also supports sustainability. Plot 14’s homes achieve at least a 35% reduction in CO2 emissions below Building Regulations Part L.

Plot 14 is a standout example of what Modern Methods of Construction can achieve - delivering structural completion with added value across safety, quality, speed, and sustainability.

Matthew Pool, Managing Director of Galliford Try Building London and South East Commercial, commented:

“As we reach this key milestone with Plot 14, we are delighted to continue delivering high-quality build-to-rent homes and exceptional amenities for future residents. This is a significant step forward in the overall vision for Brent Cross Town, and we are proud to contribute to this vibrant, sustainable community.” 

Craig Billyeald, PCE Project Director, commented:

“It makes me immensely proud that PCE have reached the point of structural completion on Brent Cross Plot 14. The achievement has been a culmination of hard work, dedication and commitment from the PCE teams in all aspects of design, manufacture and assembly. The collaboration required with our client team and their design and extended supplier partners in order to deliver the architectural vision has seen new relationships grow through learning, aligned values and unrivalled commitment to overall project success, to enable a great sense of shared satisfaction in the result”