UK law firm Blake Morgan is celebrating the success of Cardiff Council following its recognition as Client of the Year at the prestigious 2026 Construction News Awards, a win which reflects the impact of the council’s ambitious Fairwater Community Campus programme.
Blake Morgan advised Cardiff Council on the Fairwater programme, an ambitious education development project, which will create a net-zero campus bringing together three local schools and accommodating over 1800 students.
The campus is set to be one of the most advanced educational institutions in the UK and is testament to the determination of all parties to see the project succeed following ISG’s insolvency in Autumn 2024. Cardiff Council stepped in with a rescue strategy that kept the supply chain in place without job losses.
The project, which was nominated for the award by BESL/CMB Engineering, has been widely recognised for its innovation, collaborative delivery approach and strong social value outcomes.
The Construction News Awards are among the most respected accolades in the UK construction sector, celebrating excellence across clients, contractors, advisers and projects.
The Judges praised the council’s winning project, stating:
Cardiff County Council demonstrated exceptional leadership while delivering one of the city’s most significant construction investments. Faced with major project challenge, the council protected delivery, safeguarded the supply chain and retained public value throughout. An outstanding example of resilient client leadership.
Blake Morgan played an important role in supporting Cardiff Council on the Fairwater project, advising on legal aspects of the programme. The firm’s involvement formed part of a wider advisory team working to overcome challenges and enable the successful revival of the scheme.
Joanna Rees, Partner in Blake Morgan’s Construction team, said:
Cardiff Council’s recognition as Client of the Year is thoroughly deserved and reflects its commitment to delivering for its communities. The Fairwater project is a strong example of what can be achieved through collaboration, clear vision and determination to overcome challenges. Blake Morgan is proud to have supported the council on this important scheme.
Blake Morgan has extensive experience advising public sector bodies, developers and contractors on complex regeneration and construction projects across the UK. The firm’s Construction team supports clients throughout the lifecycle of projects, from procurement and structuring through to delivery and dispute resolution, combining legal expertise with a practical understanding of the sector.
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