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Office building of collapsed construction firm Harry Fairclough

Warrington HQ of Collapsed Construction Firm Harry Fairclough Set for Sale

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The former headquarters of the historic construction firm Harry Fairclough, based in Warrington, is set to be sold off by administrators. The company, which had a significant presence in civil engineering and building projects for over 120 years, entered administration and subsequently liquidation, leading to the redundancy of around 150 employees.

Key Takeaways

  • The Warrington headquarters of collapsed construction firm Harry Fairclough is being sold.
  • The company entered administration in February last year, leading to around 150 job losses.
  • The 1.4-acre site is expected to be redeveloped for housing.
  • Administrators aim to maximise realisations for creditors.

Sale Of The Warrington Headquarters

Administrators Smith and Williamson have confirmed the sale of the freehold premises located off Howley Lane, which fronts the River Mersey. The 1.4-acre site, which has been marketed for the past 12 months, has attracted a mix of conditional and unconditional offers. The sale is intended to maximise the funds available to the creditors of Harry Fairclough Limited.

Company’s Demise And Impact

Harry Fairclough Limited, founded in 1898, specialised in civil contracts and also had a division for building projects for private and public sector clients. The firm entered administration in February of the previous year, with around 150 employees made redundant from its Warrington headquarters and West Yorkshire office. The company’s collapse was reportedly blamed on late and non-paying customers. At the time of its demise, the firm had undertaken projects such as a lion enclosure at Chester Zoo and work on extensions for Blackpool Sixth Form College.

Future Of The Site

The sale of the Howley Lane site is expected to pave the way for new housing development. Savills, which handled the sale, noted that the transaction underscores a growing confidence in the regional property market and strong demand for development land, even amidst broader market uncertainties. This positive outlook suggests potential for increased land values and mainstream house prices in the area.

Legal Action From Former Employees

Following the company’s collapse, a number of former employees have reportedly sought legal action. Law firm Simpson Millar stated it had begun investigations after receiving calls from ex-employees regarding the redundancy process. The firm was looking to secure a ‘Protective Award’ on behalf of employees, which is a payment awarded by an employment tribunal when an employer fails to properly consult staff during mass redundancies. Such awards can be accessed via the Government Insolvency Service.

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New concrete road construction with heavy machinery.

£1 Billion Deal Awarded for Major Concrete Road Overhaul Across England

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A consortium has secured a significant £1 billion deal to reconstruct England’s aging concrete road network. The “Legacy Concrete Roads Reconstruction” framework, awarded by National Highways, will span from 2026 to 2032, marking a substantial shift from patch repairs to wholesale replacement of these vital routes.

Key Takeaways

  • A £1 billion framework has been awarded for the reconstruction of legacy concrete roads in England.
  • The initiative will run from 2026 to 2032, covering RIS3 and the start of RIS4.
  • The focus is on full reconstruction rather than repairs, doubling previous planned spend.
  • Modern, quieter, and more resilient road surfaces will be implemented.
  • Sustainability and circular economy practices, including recycling, are core components.

A New Era For Road Reconstruction

National Highways has identified approximately 400 miles of its Strategic Road Network, primarily built in the 1960s and 1970s, as “legacy” concrete carriageways. These sections, concentrated in the eastern parts of England, are among the most maintenance-intensive. The new framework represents a significant strategic pivot, moving away from the lifecycle extension and repairs that characterised the previous £400 million arrangement.

Scope Of Works

The comprehensive scope of the “Legacy Concrete Roads Reconstruction” framework includes the demolition of existing concrete pavements, full reconstruction, installation of new pavement furniture and markings, and upgrades to hardened central reserves. Contractors will also be responsible for temporary traffic management, acting as principal designer and contractor under CDM 2015 regulations, and providing carbon capture reporting. A key emphasis will be placed on the recovery, recycling, and reuse of materials, aligning with National Highways’ commitment to lower-carbon renewals and circular economy principles.

Industry Collaboration And Future Vision

Companies like Kier Infrastructure and Sisk Infrastructure have expressed enthusiasm for their roles in this vital project. James Birch, managing director for transportation at Kier Infrastructure, highlighted the “integrated design and build expertise” and the opportunity to “play a key role in delivering essential upgrades.” Alan Rodger, Managing Director Sisk Infrastructure, looks forward to continuing a “long-standing relationship with National Highways” and collaborating with framework partners and the local supply chain.

Nick Knorr, head of the National Concrete Roads Programme, stated that the replacement of aging concrete roads with modern designs will ensure “smoother, quieter, and more resilient routes for millions of people.” This next phase, delivered in partnership with the supply chain, aims to bring lasting improvements to communities and businesses across England.

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Construction and engineering training bodies merging.

Construction and Engineering Training Bodies Face Potential Merger Following Government Review

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The UK government is set to launch a 12-week public consultation on the potential merger of the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB). This move follows an independent review that highlighted the need for greater collaboration and a strengthened role for industry training bodies in addressing critical skills gaps within the construction and engineering sectors.

Key Takeaways

  • A government consultation will commence this month on merging CITB and ECITB.
  • An independent review recommended a “fundamental reset” and a single, rebranded body.
  • The review identified significant skills challenges and proposed 63 recommendations.
  • Both training boards have already increased collaboration on key projects.

Review Highlights Need for Consolidation

An independent review, finalised in early 2025, assessed the effectiveness of both the ECITB and CITB. It concluded that while these Industry Training Boards (ITBs) play a vital role in addressing skills needs, their effectiveness could be significantly enhanced through a unified approach. The review proposed merging the two organisations into a single, rebranded body tasked with improving workforce capacity, capability, and resilience across both sectors. It also stressed the importance of retaining the levy-grant model but recommended a refocused strategy with clearer Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to drive measurable outcomes.

Enhanced Collaboration Underway

In anticipation of the review’s findings and to address common workforce challenges, the CITB and ECITB have been increasing their collaboration over the past year. Joint workstreams have focused on areas such as infrastructure development, increasing the number of trainers and assessors, clean energy job creation, and skills passporting. Examples include strategic skills planning for major projects like Sizewell C, where training pathways are being developed to span both civil construction and engineering construction phases.

Industry Response and Future Outlook

Andrew Hockey, CEO of ECITB, emphasised the critical role of both industries in meeting government growth and clean energy targets, noting the forecast need for 40,000 additional workers in engineering construction by 2030. He stressed that any structural changes should not detract from the immediate need to attract and retain skilled workers. Tim Balcon, CEO of CITB, welcomed the review’s recognition of the skills challenges and highlighted the industry’s vital contribution to the wider economy. He added that the CITB is already implementing many of the report’s recommendations through its strategic plan and is committed to working collaboratively to meet industry needs.

Government’s Next Steps

The government has confirmed it will launch a 12-week consultation to gather further input on the proposed merger. While the review recommended a single body, the Department for Education has stated it currently has no plans to legislate for such a merger but will work with the ITBs and other government departments to implement many of the report’s recommendations over the coming year. A steering group will be established to oversee the implementation of all recommendations.

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Construction boss banned after Covid loan fraud.

Construction Boss Faces Six-Year Ban After £150,000 Covid Loan Fraud

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A construction firm director has been disqualified from acting as a company director for six years after fraudulently obtaining £150,000 in Covid Bounce Back Loans. Adebanjo Adebayo Talabi, 42, was sentenced at Southwark Crown Court after admitting to three counts of fraud by false representation. He received a suspended prison sentence and was ordered to complete unpaid work as part of his punishment.

Key Takeaways

  • Adebanjo Adebayo Talabi, director of Bebo Construction Ltd, fraudulently claimed three Covid Bounce Back Loans totalling £150,000.
  • He exaggerated the company’s turnover to secure the maximum loan amount on each occasion.
  • Talabi has been banned from being a company director for six years and received a suspended prison sentence.
  • The Insolvency Service is continuing to pursue individuals who exploited the government’s pandemic support schemes.

Fraudulent Loan Applications

Adebanjo Adebayo Talabi, formerly the director of London-based Bebo Construction Ltd, applied for three separate Covid Bounce Back Loans between August and November 2020. The loans, each for the maximum available amount of £50,000, totalled £150,000. An investigation by the Insolvency Service (IS) revealed that Bebo Construction Ltd would have only been entitled to a single loan of approximately £1,300 based on its actual turnover.

Exaggerated Turnover and Misrepresentation

During the application process, Talabi significantly inflated the company’s turnover, stating it was between £200,000 and £220,000 to justify the loan amounts. For the second and third loan applications, he falsely claimed they were the first and only applications made by the company. Evidence gathered by the IS indicated that the loan funds were transferred to personal accounts rather than being used for the economic benefit of the company, a key condition of the Bounce Back Loan scheme.

Sentencing and Consequences

Talabi pleaded guilty to three counts of fraud by false representation and was sentenced on February 24, 2026. He received a two-year prison sentence, suspended for two years, and was ordered to undertake 200 hours of unpaid work. In addition to these penalties, he has been disqualified from acting as a company director for a period of six years.

David Snasdell, chief investigator at the Insolvency Service, commented on the sentence, stating it imposes significant long-term restrictions on Talabi. He also highlighted the IS’s commitment to prosecuting those who exploited the pandemic relief schemes. The IS will not be pursuing action under the Proceeds of Crime Act, as Talabi has already begun repaying the money owed.

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Construction site with cranes and workers in the Midlands.

Midlands Construction Boom: Subcontractors Urgently Needed for Regional Projects

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The Midlands region is experiencing a significant surge in construction activity, leading to a high demand for skilled subcontractors. Numerous projects are underway or planned across various sectors, creating substantial opportunities for tradespeople and specialist firms. This expansion signals a robust period for the construction industry in the heart of the UK.

Key Takeaways

  • A growing number of construction projects are launching across the Midlands.
  • There is a pressing need for a diverse range of subcontractors.
  • This presents a significant opportunity for skilled trades and specialist firms.

Opportunities Abound

The construction sector in the Midlands is gearing up for a busy period, with a wide array of projects requiring specialised skills. From infrastructure upgrades to new commercial and residential developments, the demand for reliable and experienced subcontractors is at an all-time high. This presents a golden opportunity for businesses looking to expand their portfolio and secure lucrative contracts.

Diverse Project Landscape

Projects span across multiple areas, including:

  • Infrastructure: Road improvements, public transport enhancements, and utility works.
  • Commercial: New office buildings, retail spaces, and industrial units.
  • Residential: Housing developments and apartment complexes.

This diversity means that a broad spectrum of trades, from electricians and plumbers to bricklayers and groundworkers, will be in demand. Specialist services such as demolition, scaffolding, and surveying are also expected to see increased requirements.

Navigating the Demand

Construction firms operating in the Midlands are actively seeking to partner with competent subcontractors to ensure timely project completion and maintain high standards of quality. Companies are encouraged to highlight their expertise and track record to secure their place in this burgeoning market. The region’s strategic location and ongoing investment are driving this sustained growth, promising a dynamic environment for the foreseeable future.

Somerset Gigafactory construction site with cranes and buildings.

Somerset Gigafactory Reaches Major Construction Milestone

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A significant construction milestone has been achieved at Agratas’ £4 billion gigafactory in Bridgwater, Somerset, marking a crucial step in the development of the UK’s largest electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility. The completion of the steel frame for ‘Building One’ signifies substantial progress for this landmark project, which is set to bolster the UK’s clean technology sector.

Key Takeaways

  • The steel frame for Agratas’ ‘Building One’ has been successfully erected.
  • The facility is poised to become the UK’s largest EV battery plant.
  • The project represents a £4 billion investment by Tata Group’s global battery business.
  • It is expected to create around 4,000 jobs and contribute significantly to the local economy.

Steel Frame Completion

Agratas, the global battery business of Tata Group, has announced the completion of the steel frame for its expansive battery manufacturing facility located in Bridgwater, Somerset. This structure, which forms the first phase of the project known as ‘Building One’, spans an impressive 525 metres in length, 167 metres in width, and reaches a height of 34 metres at its peak. The construction utilized 23,000 tonnes of steel, an amount equivalent to that used in Wembley Stadium, with 100 per cent of the steel sourced from the UK.

Project Significance and Economic Impact

This milestone is a critical step towards bringing the facility to life and underscores the project’s momentum. The gigafactory is designed to produce battery cells for both automotive use and energy storage, playing a vital role in advancing clean technology and sustainable energy solutions in the UK. Industry minister Chris McDonald highlighted the site’s importance in the nation’s clean energy transition and the Modern Industrial Strategy. Once fully operational, the facility is projected to create approximately 4,000 jobs and inject over £700 million in annual economic value into the South West region.

Next Steps and Job Creation

The completion of the steel frame paves the way for subsequent construction phases, including the installation of external cladding and roofing, followed by the internal fit-out. Recruitment efforts are ongoing, with plans to employ around 1,600 people to support battery production in the coming year. Positions will span operations, maintenance, quality control, technical, engineering, and logistics functions. The project is being delivered by Agratas’ construction partner, Sir Robert McAlpine, in collaboration with steel contractor Severfield and the design and engineering team at Stantec.

Timeline and Development

Construction work on the multi-billion-pound project commenced in 2024. While initial plans aimed for completion of ‘Building One’ in 2026, recent information suggests a revised target of 2027 for its completion. The project also involves significant infrastructure development, including a new junction on the M5 motorway, contracted to Costain Group.

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Bristol's tallest tower under construction against a blue sky.

Olympian Homes Secures Funding and Approvals for Bristol’s Tallest Tower

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Olympian Homes has successfully secured crucial funding and cleared a significant regulatory hurdle, paving the way for the construction of Bristol’s tallest building. The development, a partnership with Cain, will feature two towers, one rising to 28 storeys for student accommodation and an 18-storey building for co-living units. This milestone marks a significant step forward for Olympian’s growth strategy in a challenging market.

Key Takeaways

  • Funding secured from Cain International and Apollo.
  • Gateway 2 approval obtained, enabling immediate construction.
  • Project completion targeted for mid-2028, ready for the 28/29 academic year.
  • The development will include 442 student beds and 150 co-living units.

Project Details and Timeline

The ambitious project involves the construction of two towers. The taller, 28-storey block will house 442 student bedrooms, while a separate 18-storey building will offer 150 co-living units. RG Group is set to deliver the construction, with completion anticipated by mid-2028, in time for the 2028/29 academic year.

Regulatory Approval and Collaboration

A major step forward was the approval of Gateway 2, achieved through a highly collaborative process. Olympian Homes worked closely with the Building Safety Regulator’s innovation unit, which significantly accelerated the application timeline. Richard Goodwin, construction director at Olympian, highlighted the efficiency, stating the process was completed in just 14 weeks, a testament to the strong working relationship among the project team.

Amenities and Affordable Housing

Beyond accommodation, the development will feature approximately 15,000 sq. ft of amenity space. This includes facilities such as a cinema room, fitness suite, study areas, a games room, and group dining facilities. Of the 132 co-living homes planned, 20% will be designated as affordable, with rents aligned with local housing allowance rates.

Olympian Homes’ Strategic Growth

Olympian chairman Mark Slatter commented on the company’s continued progress, emphasizing that Olympian Homes is advancing its growth strategy despite a challenging market. The company remains focused on acquiring and redeveloping high-quality urban sites, with this Bristol project representing a significant addition to its portfolio of over 2 million sq. ft of ‘in construction’ deals.

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New Black Country headquarters building for S&R Construction.

S&R Construction Unveils £8 Million Black Country Headquarters to Fuel Expansion

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S&R Construction has officially opened its new £8 million state-of-the-art headquarters in Kingswinford, marking a significant investment in the Black Country. The move to the regenerated 2.3-acre site on Dawley Brook Road signifies the company’s substantial growth and commitment to facilitating future expansion.

Key Takeaways

  • Significant Investment: £8 million invested in a new, modern headquarters.
  • Growth Facilitation: The facility is designed to support the company’s ambitious growth plans.
  • Employee Focus: Features include a training academy, events space, and a well-equipped gym.
  • Operational Hub: Includes a large depot for traffic management operations and fleet maintenance.
  • Local Roots: The family-run business, founded in 1998, continues to invest in the Black Country.

A New Home for Growth

The newly established headquarters boasts a modern two-storey office block, serving as the firm’s administrative hub. It incorporates a dedicated training academy, an events space, and an expansive gym accessible to all staff and partners, underscoring the company’s commitment to employee wellbeing and development. The rear of the site features a substantial depot area with specialized facilities for the traffic management operation and ample space for the maintenance and upkeep of its extensive fleet of plant equipment and vehicles.

From Humble Beginnings to £51 Million Turnover

This new facility represents a remarkable local success story. Founded in 1998 by Steven Sankey with a small team focused on tarmac laying, S&R Construction has evolved into a multi-utility services provider, groundworks specialist, traffic management expert, and housing developer. The family-run business, now joined by Steven’s three sons Chris, Jamie, and Ryan, has surpassed £51 million in turnover and directly and indirectly employs 350 people. The journey from its inception to this significant investment has taken nearly three years from land acquisition to completion.

Vision for the Future

Steven Sankey expressed his vision for the new headquarters: “We wanted to regenerate an old traditional Black Country site and create something special, a home where our team wanted to come to work and a place where we could entertain clients.” The offices are ergonomically designed with the latest lighting, and various relaxation spaces have been created for staff. The emphasis on mental wellbeing is evident, with a gym featuring cardio machines, weights, and even a boxing ring.

Diversification and Ambition

S&R Construction’s growth has been driven by versatility and diversification. While traditionally strong in multi-utility services, laying millions of metres of gas, water, and electricity mains across the UK, the company has expanded significantly over the last seven years. It has developed its own groundworks and traffic management divisions and launched two housing development companies, Wychbury Developments and Dwello Partnerships. This integrated approach has been key to winning new contracts and enhancing the customer experience. The company has ambitious plans, aiming to reach £70 million in turnover by the end of 2026, which is expected to necessitate further recruitment. S&R Construction remains committed to its Black Country roots, actively investing in apprentices, supporting local charities, and sponsoring local sporting talent.

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HS2 tunnel boring machine at Euston, London.

HS2 Tunnelling to Euston Commences: A New Era for High-Speed Rail in London

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The first of two colossal tunnel boring machines (TBMs) has officially begun its journey from Old Oak Common to Euston Station, marking a significant milestone for the High Speed Two (HS2) project. This crucial step brings the high-speed railway closer to its central London terminus, promising substantial economic benefits and improved connectivity.

Key Takeaways

  • Tunnelling for HS2 into Euston has officially begun, with the first of two TBMs starting its 4.5-mile journey.
  • This development is seen as essential for unlocking HS2’s full economic potential, with estimates suggesting up to £41 billion could be added to the UK economy by 2053.
  • The project is expected to support approximately 34,000 jobs through redevelopment around Euston.
  • The start of tunnelling signifies renewed momentum for HS2, addressing previous concerns about the line potentially terminating at Old Oak Common.

A Monumental Engineering Feat

The TBM, named ‘Madeleine’ after Madeleine Nobbs, former president of the Women’s Engineering Society, weighs a staggering 1,624 tonnes. As it advances, it simultaneously excavates the tunnel and constructs its lining using pre-cast concrete segments. This process will remove over 1.5 million tonnes of excavated material, much of which will be transported by rail to minimise environmental impact and disruption.

This operation is one of the most complex engineering challenges on the HS2 project, with the two parallel tunnels requiring the installation of over 8,000 pre-cast tunnel rings. The entire tunnelling phase is anticipated to take between 12 to 18 months.

Unlocking Economic Potential

Bringing HS2 into Euston is considered vital for realising the project’s full economic benefits. Estimates suggest that redevelopment around Euston could inject approximately £41 billion into the UK economy by 2053, creating around 34,000 jobs. Furthermore, HS2 is projected to contribute £10 billion to the west London economy over the next decade, fostering the development of new homes and employment opportunities.

Rail Minister, Lord Hendy, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It was brilliant to switch on the tunnel boring machine at Old Oak Common today – not just because it’s an engineering marvel – but because it brings HS2’s journey to Euston another step closer to reality.”

A Modern Transport Hub for London

The plans for Euston extend beyond the new HS2 station, envisioning a fully integrated transport hub. This will combine the new HS2 facilities with a redeveloped mainline station and upgraded London Underground services. A new body, the Euston Delivery Company, will oversee both the transport improvements and wider commercial development at the site.

Broader Railway Modernisation

The commencement of tunnelling to Euston underscores the government’s commitment to modernising Britain’s railways. This initiative aligns with wider reforms aimed at consolidating rail services under Great British Railways, with the objective of enhancing value, reliability, and passenger experience across the network.

With over 33,000 people currently employed on HS2, the project continues to be a significant driver of employment and economic activity. The successful completion of the Euston tunnels is seen as a crucial step in delivering faster, more reliable journeys and freeing up capacity on existing rail lines.

Sources

Builder threatens inspectors, claims to be James Bond.

Builder Fined Over £10,000 After Threatening HSE Inspectors and Claiming to Be ‘James Bond’

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A site manager, who identified himself to Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors as ‘James Bond’, has been fined over £10,000 for threatening behaviour and obstructing their work. David Robert Lane, 59, refused to cooperate with inspectors investigating unsafe practices at a cottage refurbishment site in Staffordshire.

Key Takeaways

  • A builder claimed to be ‘James Bond’ when confronted by HSE inspectors.
  • He threatened the inspectors and refused to allow them to inspect the site.
  • The builder was fined £3,000, with £6,450 in court costs and a £1,200 victim surcharge.
  • The HSE emphasised its zero-tolerance policy towards the obstruction of its inspectors.

Confrontation and Threats

The incident occurred on February 11, 2025, when two HSE inspectors observed workers accessing a roof from an excavator bucket at a site in Rugeley. When they approached to conduct their inspection, Lane intervened. He refused to provide his real name, stating he was ‘James Bond’, and claimed to be the property owner. He asserted that the workers were unpaid friends and relatives and that the inspectors had no legal right to be there. Lane then made threats of violence, leading the inspectors to withdraw from the site.

Return with Police and Prosecution

The inspectors returned a week later, accompanied by officers from Staffordshire Police. Lane greeted them with a shout of “It’s PC Plod!” and continued to refuse identification. He instructed his staff not to speak to the HSE, reiterating that they were not at work and that the inspectors should leave. Following further inquiries, Lane was identified as the site manager and served with enforcement action. Upon notification of prosecution for obstruction under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, Lane sent three expletive-laden emails, stating, “I won’t jump through your hoops.”

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

David Robert Lane, of Rugeley, Staffordshire, failed to attend Birmingham Magistrates Court on two separate occasions. He was found guilty in his absence on January 9 and subsequently fined £3,000. He was also ordered to pay £6,450 in court costs and a £1,200 victim surcharge, bringing the total to £10,650.

HSE Statement

HSE inspector Gareth Langston commented on the case, highlighting the challenges faced in ensuring workplace health and safety across Great Britain. He stressed that HSE inspectors have a vital role in safeguarding workers and that while most employers cooperate professionally, obstruction will not be tolerated. “HSE will not tolerate the obstruction of its inspectors, and may prosecute offenders in rare cases such as this, where this is necessary,” Langston stated.

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