Foster + Partners unveils new Heathrow airport designs, 14 design firms shortlisted for Mumbai urban renewal and American architects ponder how many jobs will be created if the American Clean Energy Security Act goes ahead...
INDIA
Fourteen international companies have been shortlisted by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to reshape Mumbai and its surrounding area into a cleaner, greener, high-tech metropolis. Those shortlisted include Jurong Consultants (Singapore), Lea International (Canada), Buro Happold (UK) and Urbis (Dubai). The winning consultant is to be named by the end of October, 2009. The plan will include housing projects aimed at reducing slums, developing economic centres in the metropolitan region, focussing on transport and ensuring better use of the land. The winning candidate will also help to devise a development plan for the region for the next 30 to 40 years.
UNITED STATES
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) conducted a study to determine how many design and construction jobs could be created if the American Clean Energy Security Act was enacted. The findings estimate that up to 270,000 jobs could be created or saved if the provisions become law. "We have been actively calling for investments in infrastructure that create greener buildings, vibrant communities, and a 21st century transportation network that is good for both the environment and economy," said AIA executive vice president, Christine McEntee. "Investing in such projects will both create jobs and reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from the built environment."
UNITED KINGDOM
BAA has released designs by Foster + Partners for a new terminal at Heathrow airport. The $2 billion Terminal 2 will become the new home for Star Alliance airlines and will host approximately 20 million passengers every year. The new building is designed to produce 40 per cent less carbon than the existing buildings by using large north facing windows in the roof and solar gathering panels. A new energy centre, partially fuelled by renewable resources, will provide heating and cooling for the building. Construction of the new terminal is to take place in two phases, the first of which is due for completion in 2013.
SAUDI ARABIA
Nearly 80 projects in Saudi Arabia have been cancelled or delayed in the past year, according to new research. Saudi Arabian projects worth more than $20bn have been cancelled or put on hold, says a new report by Proleads. Emil Rademeyer, director of Proleads Global, said: "The economic crisis has not had a great effect on the rate at which projects have been cancelled in Saudi Arabia. Our cash-flow projections show the Saudi Arabian industry will continue building from a position of strength well into 2010, whereas other Arabian Gulf markets continue to seek stability."
