Author: Gemma Meekings

Building the Next Generation of Crematoria

Category: Crematoria

Balancing Community, Compliance and Carbon Reduction

The crematoria sector is changing faster than at any point in its history. Operators and local authorities alike face three converging challenges: meeting stricter emissions requirements, responding to shifting customer expectations, and future proofing facilities for a low-carbon economy.

At Stepnell, with over 20 years’ experience delivering crematoria across the UK, we’ve seen first-hand how these pressures are reshaping project delivery. Our portfolio spans new builds, refurbishments and sensitive live upgrades across England, giving us unrivalled insight into what success looks like.

1. Future-ready energy and emissions control

With trials of hydrogen and electric cremators under way, and tighter air quality regulations anticipated, planning for flexibility is now non-negotiable. Our renewables specialist, Step Energy, bring early-stage carbon and energy modelling into every project.

On projects such as Shepton Mallet Crematorium for Mercia Crematoria and Dignity PLC, we integrated cutting-edge mercury gas abatement technology ahead of new EU emission guidelines. Meanwhile, at Exeter and Devon Crematorium, we delivered complex alterations to house new cremators and mercury abatement systems, working seamlessly with specialist installer Facultatieve Technologies.

Beyond crematoria, our work on decarbonisation schemes for Dorset Council demonstrates how Step Energy combines PV, ASHP and embodied carbon studies to dramatically cut emissions and operational costs. The lessons from these schemes transfer directly into crematoria design, where resilience, compliance and energy efficiency are paramount.

2. Community trust through design and engagement

Securing planning consent for new crematoria is as much about building community confidence as it is about architecture. Our approach prioritises early consultation, social value contributions, and careful mitigation of noise, traffic and visual impact. We understand that crematoria are sensitive neighbours, and our track record shows how proactive engagement fosters lasting local support.

At Fenland Crematorium, March, we carried out extensive landscaping from the outset, enabling the client to operate within an established natural setting on day one. This careful staging helped integrate the facility into the local community. For East Devon Crematorium, our design and build delivery balanced a sensitive rural setting with a need for capacity, ensuring community acceptance of the scheme.

Our teams also draw on experience managing disruption in live, sensitive environments, from schools to residential areas, using strategies such as tailored traffic management, dust and noise reduction, and proactive communication with stakeholders.

3. Spaces that reflect modern mourning

The growth of direct cremation and digital tributes means facilities must cater for diverse service types. We work with clients to deliver chapels that are flexible, technology-enabled and welcoming to multi-faith communities. Landscaped memorial gardens, thoughtful circulation routes and intuitive AV integration are all part of ensuring that families find comfort and dignity in difficult times.

At Waseley Hills Crematorium & Cemetery in Bromsgrove, we delivered a striking, dual-ellipse design with a green roof, designed to maximise natural light and calm. Meanwhile, our turnkey project at Lichfield & District Crematorium included chapel, crematory, AV systems, FF&E and landscaped memorial gardens—all designed for flexibility, technology integration and community remembrance.

Our specialist joinery business Lawford Bespoke Joinery further ensures high-quality finishes seen in oak joinery for chapels at Shepton Mallet and Lichfield, creating dignified, warm spaces for families at difficult times.

4. Proven delivery with specialist partners

From new builds such as Waseley Hills and Fenland, to upgrades at Exeter and Devon Crematorium, our teams understand the interface between building and cremator technology. Collaborating with market-leading equipment suppliers, we integrate cremators, abatement and building services seamlessly de-risking delivery and safeguarding operational resilience.

At Exeter & Devon, our alterations included raising roof levels, constructing a precise steel portal frame, and installing advanced abatement technology, all without disrupting ongoing operations. At Shepton Mallet, our early collaboration with the Environment Agency and utility providers meant successful diversion of a high-voltage cable and construction of a stormwater attenuation swale, mitigating environmental and regulatory risks.

5. Long-term value through stability and collaboration

Stepnell’s 157-year heritage, £40m+ net assets, and 72% repeat business mean clients can trust us to deliver complex, high-stakes projects. More importantly, our collaborative Teamship ethos ensures consultants, suppliers, operators and communities work as one team.

Looking ahead

As crematoria design evolves to meet carbon goals, regulatory shifts and community expectations, the projects that succeed will be those that integrate sustainability, sensitivity and technical expertise from the outset.

That is why Stepnell is uniquely positioned: combining deep sector knowledge with renewable energy expertise, and a proven ability to engage communities and regulators alike.

Because for families, operators and communities, crematoria are more than buildings, they are places of comfort, remembrance and resilience for generations to come.

Stepnell Expands in North West and East Midlands with New Hires

Category: Corporate

Complete construction partner Stepnell has expanded its regional presence with two senior hires – appointing Tania Knowles as Business Development Manager for the North West and David Hughes as Pre-Construction Manager for the East Midlands.

Strengthening Stepnell’s North West presence

Tania Knowles brings 38 years of experience in construction and consultancy with expertise in business development, education, healthcare, commercial and decarbonisation projects.

Well-connected across Liverpool, Manchester and the wider North West, Tania has a strong track record of building client relationships and driving strategic growth. She is also chair of the Save Construction Initiative in North Wales, which focuses on tackling the construction skills gap.

Tania said:

“Stepnell’s culture and values built on integrity, collaboration and being progressive resonated with me and it’s an exciting time to be joining Stepnell to grow its presence in the North West. My market knowledge and innovative engagement strategies will help to strengthen Stepnell’s network, and build meaningful, long-term relationships across this crucial new growth area for the business.”

Tom Sewell, Director at Stepnell, added:

“Tania’s deep understanding of the North West construction landscape, in particular the education sector, makes her a valuable addition to lead our business development strategy. Her approach to building relationships aligns perfectly with Stepnell’s ambitions for growth and she will be a key figure as we become a more active presence, including membership organisations and events.”

Expanding pre-construction expertise in the East Midlands

Stepnell has also appointed David Hughes as Pre-Construction Manager, bringing more than 27 years’ experience in senior pre-construction roles, most recently at Kier.

David has managed projects across multiple public sector frameworks, ranging from £500k to £50m, covering health, education, defence, custodial and decarbonisation sectors. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening Stepnell’s pre-construction offering, developing client relationships and supporting framework opportunities.

David said:

“Stepnell strikes an appealing balance between governance and agility that enables its team to focus on delivering value for its clients, which really attracted me to the opportunity. I’m looking forward to building on our strong foundations through expanding framework opportunities in the East Midlands while supporting wider growth including in the North West.”

Tom Sewell concluded:

“David brings a wealth of technical expertise and leadership experience on projects of varying scale and requirements. His experience across design, commercial and operational provides the multiple perspectives that are instrumental to drive forward our pipelines of direct award and framework projects as a complete construction partner.”

Three Years on SCAPE

Category: Frameworks

Three years ago, Stepnell joined the SCAPE Regional Construction Framework with a shared vision: to deliver high-quality, community-focused projects that provide lasting value.

Since then, we’ve been proud to work alongside local authorities, schools, and community partners to deliver a wide range of schemes that enhance public services, support local supply chains, and create social value in the communities we serve.

Importantly, across these three years we’ve partnered with three of the six SCAPE framework shareholders – Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, and Warwickshire County Council – and we’re very proud to be continuing those relationships into the coming year.

In just three years, we’ve successfully delivered 28 projects, with a further 14 on site – from sensitive refurbishments to essential infrastructure upgrades – across healthcare, education, leisure, and infrastructure. Each one reflects our commitment to collaboration, innovation and integrity.

Our Three-Year SCAPE Performance at a Glance

  • On time and on budget – average 98%
  • Client satisfaction – average 9.14
  • Social value generated – £5.8m since joining the framework
  • £6.1m spent in local economy including £4.9m with local MSMEs
  • 200 hours of volunteering
  • 103 weeks of training and apprenticeships
  • 156 hours spent helping people into work
  • 203 hours school and college visits
  • £5,374 in-kind donations
  • 10.4 weeks of work placements

Warwickshire: Delivering Impact Through Education Projects

Our ongoing partnership with Warwickshire County Council is a great example of how the SCAPE framework enables meaningful, community-centred projects. We are currently on site with two important education schemes:

Oak Wood School – Post 16 SEND Centre

We are transforming a vacant office into a high-quality learning environment for 60 young people with special educational needs. By reusing the building’s roof structure, stairwell, and mechanical systems wherever possible, we’ve significantly reduced carbon impact, material use, and waste compared to a new-build scheme.

The CCS monitor awarded the project a perfect score of 45/45, praising our:
“extensive management systems,” “outstanding community engagement,” and “commitment to environmental best practice and Net Zero ambitions.”

Warton Nethersole C of E Primary School

We are delivering a new two-classroom timber extension alongside internal reconfigurations to enhance learning spaces, create a new library and family support facilities, and increase dining hall capacity. Designed to integrate sensitively with its rural surroundings, the single-storey build uses minimal external works to reduce environmental disruption.

The CCS monitor awarded the project an excellent 41/45, commending our:
“positive community engagement through the school,” “76% local employment,” and “commitment to minimising environmental impact through timber construction and eco measures.”

Delivered through the SCAPE Framework, these projects benefit from:

  • Early contractor involvement – ensuring cost certainty, programme efficiency, and design optimisation.
  • Sustainable construction methods – from reusing existing structures and systems at Oakwood to reducing embodied carbon through timber-frame construction at Warton.
  • Community focus – works carefully planned to minimise disruption, deliver meaningful social value, and engage directly with local schools, residents, and jobseekers.

Social Value in Action

We believe construction should leave a lasting positive legacy. At Oakwood Post 16 and Warton Nethersole, that’s meant creating opportunities for young people, supporting local communities, and helping individuals take the next step in their careers.

Building Teamwork and Confidence with Oakwood SEND Students

Working closely with Oakwood’s SEND secondary school, we hosted 10 students on a live construction site for a hands-on session focused on safety and teamwork. Activities included:

  • A guided site tour to identify risks and hazards.
  • A bridge-building challenge to test problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

To embed their learning, we followed up with four in-school workshops exploring teamwork in construction, using the bridge task as a practical, confidence-building tool.

Inspiring Future Builders Through Business

Through a partnership with Inspire in Arts, we worked with home-educated students on a ‘Build a Business’ challenge. Participants explored different roles in construction, formed mock companies, and planned their own 10-house housing estates – considering layout, costing, and project delivery roles.

This programme introduced construction as a career pathway and built enterprise, planning, and financial skills in a real-world context.

Supporting Local Communities at Valley House

Our team volunteered at Valley House, a community charity providing housing and support services, to improve their outdoor spaces – maintaining planters, painting fences, and creating a more welcoming environment for residents.

Careers Inspiration at Etone College

We delivered interactive “careers in construction” sessions to five Year 7 and Year 8 classes, showcasing the wide range of roles available and encouraging students to see construction as an exciting, accessible career choice.

Creating Impact at Warton Nethersole

At Warton Nethersole Primary School, our team supported the community through:

  • Mock interviews for jobseekers claiming benefits, boosting their confidence and employability skills.
  • Volunteering at the school sports day, with five Stepnell volunteers helping run activities and refreshments.
  • Donating a hamper for the summer fair to raise funds for the Parents and Teachers Society (PTS).

These contributions – big and small – demonstrate our commitment to supporting communities at every level, from skills development to showing up for local events.

A Framework for Long-Term Impact

Three years on, our SCAPE journey shows that construction is about more than delivering projects. By combining sustainable methods, collaborative working, and meaningful community investment, we’re creating lasting value for the people and places we serve.

Construction of landmark Rail innovation centre takes shape

Category: Construction

Steel Frame Rises for Landmark Rail Innovation and Training Centre

Construction of a modern rail innovation and training centre in Barrow Hill is beginning to take shape as construction of the steel frame begins.

Procured via the Procure Partnership Framework, The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) is being built next to the historic Barrow Hill Roundhouse. Once complete it will provide classroom and training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial workshop space.

Work on the project began on site in early June and has progressed quickly with the foundations being completed and construction of the steelwork frame in progress. The next stages of the build will see work on the external cladding begin.

Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and Vice Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“It is fantastic to see this project coming together so quickly. DRIIVe will help grow our local economy by providing local people with the skills they need to access great careers in the rail sector and will help cement our borough’s position in the sector by attracting new businesses to the area.

“Not only is it a key part of the Staveley Town Deal programme but it is a key development that will support the nearby Hartington-Staveley East Midlands Investment Zone site – providing crucial facilities that will drive growth in new sectors and benefit future generations.”

The DRIIVe project is funded primarily through the Staveley Town Deal but has also received funding from Chesterfield Borough Council, East Midlands Combined County Authority and from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

It is being delivered in collaboration with Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, which will manage the centre on a day-to-day basis following completion. Any profits from the centre will be re-invested into the Roundhouse site.

Bob Burgess, Director and Trustee at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said:

“We’re thrilled with the works on site. Once complete this facility will help local people to access new opportunities and ensure that we can continue to help people connect with our heritage at the Roundhouse.”

DRIIVe is a key project within the Staveley Town Deal programme and through the creation of training opportunities and attracting new businesses it will help ensure that Staveley is a place where people can start, stay and grow.

Ivan Fomin, Chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:

“It’s exciting to see works on this project and the wider Town Deal progressing. It has taken time to get to this stage but hopefully people are now seeing the projects coming out of the ground and will be able to benefit from these projects.”

Stepnell are carrying out the design and construction of the building on behalf of Chesterfield Borough Council.

Tom Sewell, Regional Director at Stepnell, said:

“Following the completion of the foundations for the DRIIVe project, we’re progressing on schedule with the steel frame now taking shape – a key milestone as the centre begins to come to life.

“As we move toward the installation of external cladding, we’re actively engaging with the community to ensure alignment with the ambitions of the Staveley Town Deal and Chesterfield Borough Council. We’re committed to delivering meaningful opportunities for local people throughout the build, through targeted local spend and support for employability.”

DRIIVe is a first step in the development of the nearby Hartington-Staveley East Midlands Investment Zone site by creating a place where businesses can carry out crucial research and development it will support the growth of the advanced manufacturing and clean technology sectors.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said:

“DRIIVe is a powerful example of how we’re turning ambition into action with the East Midlands Investment Zone. By investing in skills and innovation, we’re building the foundations of a smarter and greener economy while making sure that local people are at the heart of our journey. The East Midlands is stepping up as a leader in clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable transport – and DRIIVe is proof of that progress in motion.”

DRIIVe will include classroom and training areas, specialist research and development facilities including a digital laboratory, and commercial workshop space.

The centre will support a network of specialist training providers – offering rail-related education from level two through to postgraduate training and research.

Becoming a prominent location for rail technology, DRIIVe will also serve as a base for rail-related supply chain businesses which will have access to the very latest research and innovation.

Funding for the project is mostly being provided through the Staveley Town Deal – the Staveley area was one of 101 towns across England invited to submit an investment plan to the Government’s Towns Fund and received £25.2 million. 

Stepnell appoints new strategic director

Category: Corporate

Stepnell has committed to expanding the group’s specialist construction services with the appointment of Mike Smedley as strategic director.

Operating across all of Stepnell’s geography, Mike brings more than three decades of experience with major national contractors. He has a proven track record in building high-performing teams and business units, having most recently served as managing director at Brymor Group Southern. His career also includes senior roles at Geoffrey Osborne, Kier, and VolkerFitzpatrick.

A chartered quantity surveyor (MRICS) and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building (FCIOB), Mike will apply his expertise in business planning, risk management, tendering, and operational leadership to support the development of Stepnell’s specialist divisions into independent business lines. These include Step Energy, Lawford Bespoke Joinery, plant and fleet services, concrete repairs, and a new CCTV offering currently in development.

Mike said:

“This is an exciting opportunity to drive the growth of Stepnell’s wider business portfolio. Working closely with the senior leaders of each division, my aim is to help shape these services into self-sufficient, stand-alone units with strong management structures – capable of delivering outstanding service and commercial performance nationwide, in line with Stepnell’s complete construction approach.”

Tom Wakeford, managing director at Stepnell, added:

“Mike’s leadership and depth of experience in building regional and national teams will be a huge enabler as we expand our project capabilities and become even more responsive to our customers’ needs for specialist services.

“His proven ability to develop and grow business units aligns perfectly with our ambition to create resilient, service-led operations across the business – rooted in strong leadership and mentoring, innovation, and collaboration.”

Stepnell to Lead Construction of New Dorset Ambulance Base

Category: Construction

Stepnell is set to deliver a Main Operating Base (MOB) in Dorset for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), aiming to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency services across the South West.

Scheduled for completion this autumn by healthcare construction specialists Stepnell, based in Southampton, the MOB will serve as a central regional hub for ambulance services. The new multi-functional building forms part of the Trust’s multi-year programme to modernise healthcare infrastructure, which includes a wider network of MOBs, ambulance stations, and community ambulance points.

Rob Speirs, regional director at Stepnell, said:

“With extensive experience delivering healthcare infrastructure across the South West, we understand what it takes to build spaces that meet the complex needs of frontline services. Our work on this project ensures that ambulance crews have the right environment to effectively deliver emergency care for Dorset and wider communities.

“This main operating base consolidates operations – making a real difference to the lives of people across the South West. The final build, alongside our comprehensive social value delivery, will create substantial local spend and deliver further opportunities for the community, which will have a lasting impact for generations to come.”

In addition to housing ambulance vehicle operations, the MOB will integrate various Trust departments and consolidate staff and services currently based at Bournemouth, Wimborne, and St Leonards ambulance stations. Stepnell is constructing the new facility to offer improved welfare and training amenities for staff, and its strategic layout will reduce non-clinical workloads for frontline personnel, enabling them to focus on patient care.

Andrew Rosser, chief financial officer at SWASFT, said:

“Establishing a new Main Operating Base in Dorset is a vital step in strengthening our service’s presence and responsiveness within the community. This facility will enhance our operational capabilities, ensure faster support, and foster closer collaboration with local partners – ultimately improving safety and service quality for everyone we serve.”

Leading Contractors Join Forces to Back New Industry Centre

Category: Corporate

Leading Contractors Join Forces to Back New Industry Centre in a Landmark Push for Innovation and Collaboration.

Wates, Stepnell, Morgan Sindall, Kier and BAM have partnered with the newly formed Centre for Construction Best Practice (CCBP) as Gold Corporate Partners, in a move that signals growing momentum behind a sector-wide push for collaboration, innovation and improved delivery standards.

The five firms are among the UK’s most prominent contractors, committed to supporting CCBP’s mission to tackle long-standing issues in the industry, including supply chain instability, skills shortages, and the need for stronger, more collaborative relationships between clients and delivery teams. As founding partners, they will contribute their knowledge and expertise to help shape the Centre’s future direction.

The centre is focused on closing the gap between academia and practice by facilitating meaningful collaboration through its academic Advisory Boards and Corporate Partner network. This unique partnership ensures feedback and research flows both ways to encourage tangible improvements in project delivery, sustainability and sector culture.

Robbie Blackhurst, Chair of the Centre for Construction Best Practice, said: “At CCBP, we believe innovation and best practice in the built environment can only happen through collaboration. The commitment from BAM, Kier, Wates, Morgan Sindall, and Stepnell shows they share that vision.

With major government investment underway and urgent challenges around skills, net zero and delivery capability, we need joined up and research-led action.

CCBP connects industry and academia to address these issues head on, not through a talking shop, but by driving practical change through research and collaboration.

It’s encouraging to see companies who normally compete working together for the benefit of the wider industry.”

Stephen Beechey, Group Public Sector Director at Wates Group, said: “Improving how we deliver the built environment requires more than technical solutions – it takes genuine collaboration, shared learning, and a long-term view of value. That’s why we’re pleased to support the Centre for Construction Best Practice. Its focus on bridging industry and academia aligns with our belief that thriving places are created when expertise is shared, and delivery is reimagined.”

Rebecca Boundy, Managing Director for Clients and Markets at Kier added: “We joined CCBP because we believe in the value of bringing together industry expertise and academic research to drive meaningful change.

Working alongside other contractors and researchers, we will create practical solutions which improve how we deliver projects. It’s about combining knowledge, technology, and collaboration to raise standards and create lasting impact. We’re excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities this partnership will bring—not just for Kier, but for the wider industry.”

Adrian Blackie, Pre-Construction Director at BAM echoed this point, commenting: “As a corporate partner for the Centre for Construction Best Practice our ambition is to collaborate with industry partners and academia to drive best practice, promote innovation, and make our vision possible.”

CCBP recently hosted its first roundtable, where partner organisations agreed a focus on improving the UK’s construction delivery model. Key concerns raised included a lack of early contractor engagement, inconsistent accountability, and poor risk allocation, all of which can lead to programme delays and cost overruns.

The Centre will work to promote earlier collaboration between clients, designers and contractors, with an emphasis on role-based competency frameworks, transparent risk sharing, and quality-led procurement strategies.

Steffan Speer, Technical Director, Morgan Sindall Construction said: “At Morgan Sindall Construction, we’re always seeking better ways to deliver. To create real, lasting value for our customers and communities. My role allows me to work across the business to embed best practice and explore innovation wherever it can drive positive change – whether through technology, quality, or collaboration.

That’s why becoming a corporate partner of CCBP made sense. It connects us with like-minded businesses who are equally focused on improving how we design and build – not only in terms of performance, but in purpose. We want to be part of something that challenges the status quo, shares learning openly, and accelerates change and innovation across our industry.

This partnership is an opportunity to shape the future of construction in a more conscious, efficient and impactful way. That’s something I’m proud to support, and something I believe will benefit the entire built environment.”

Tom Sewell, Regional Director of Stepnell, added: “We’re proud to align ourselves with an organisation that shares our ambition to shape a more conscious, forward-thinking built environment. This partnership offers valuable opportunities to collaborate with like-minded peers, contribute to meaningful research, and help influence the future of policy.”

With backing from its Gold Corporate Partners, the Centre will now press ahead with its research agenda and sector engagement programme. This will include the publication of government whitepapers, industry-wide working groups, and events that bring together practitioners and academics to address real world challenges and shape practical solutions that can be adopted across the supply chain.

See more information on the CCBP website HERE

Structural Milestone Reached at Lichfield Leisure Centre

Category: Construction

Stepnell Hits Structural Milestone at New Lichfield Leisure Centre

Stepnell has successfully completed the main structural works on the £11.3 million leisure development at Stychbrook Park, Lichfield, marking a key milestone in the project’s progress.

The project, commissioned by Lichfield District Council and procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, will replace the ageing Friary Grange Sports Centre and is due to open in December 2025.

A ‘topping out’ ceremony was held to celebrate the achievement, with Double Olympic gold medallist Rebecca Adlington OBE in attendance.

The state-of-the-art facility will feature a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool, an 80-station gym, spin and dance studios, a community room, and a 3G pitch with upgraded changing rooms—creating a dynamic hub for sport, fitness and wellbeing.

Tom Wakeford, Managing Director at Stepnell, said:
“We are incredibly proud to be delivering the Lichfield leisure centre. It’s fantastic to see the vision for this state-of-the-art facility truly coming together. Our team has worked diligently to ensure the project progresses well, and we’re excited for the community to benefit from this fantastic new centre.”

Stepnell’s commitment to social value has been evident throughout the build, with engagement initiatives involving local students from Chase Terrace Academy, material procurement from local suppliers, monthly community newsletters, drop-in sessions and on-site updates.

Councillor Doug Pullen, Leader of Lichfield District Council, added:
“Today isn’t just about concrete and steel – it’s a celebration of how far we’ve come as a community in creating a leisure centre we can all be proud of.”

The project team includes Box Architects, civil and structural engineers Adept, building services consultants BWB Consulting, and ReCreation, the specialist leisure consultancy supporting the delivery.

Once complete, the centre will offer inclusive and modern facilities that promote active lifestyles and long-term community wellbeing.

Stepnell Joins NHS NOE CPC Framework for Minor Works

Category: Frameworks

Stepnell appointed to NHS North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative – Minor Works Trades and Associated Services Dynamic Purchasing System (NOE CPC) Framework.

Stepnell is pleased to announce our appointment to the NHS North of England Commercial Procurement Collaborative (NOE CPC) framework, strengthening our position as a trusted delivery partner for healthcare and public sector projects.

Established in 2007 and wholly owned by the NHS, NOE CPC provides collaborative and bespoke procurement solutions to the NHS and other public sector organisations. By harnessing collective buying power and category expertise, NOE CPC delivers award-winning, compliant and innovative procurement solutions that generate savings and efficiencies for its members.

This appointment reflects Stepnell’s continued commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable construction services that support better outcomes for healthcare providers and the communities they serve. Our extensive experience delivering complex projects in live environments ensures we are well-placed to meet the unique needs of NHS trusts and public bodies.

Through the NOE CPC framework, we look forward to playing a key role in delivering infrastructure that supports the health and wellbeing of people across the country—safely, efficiently, and with lasting social value.

For more information about NOE CPC, visit https://www.noecpc.nhs.uk

Eighth Consecutive RoSPA Gold

Category: Corporate

We are delighted to share that Stepnell has been awarded the RoSPA Gold Medal in recognition of our continued excellence in health and safety performance throughout 2024.

The RoSPA Health and Safety Awards are among the most prestigious and internationally recognised accolades in occupational health and safety. Receiving the Gold Medal, for eight consecutive years, demonstrates Stepnell’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and setting high standards across the construction industry.

A culture of care and accountability

At Stepnell, safety isn’t just a priority — it’s embedded in our culture. From our boardrooms to our building sites, we take a proactive approach to ensuring that everyone who works with us or alongside us goes home safely every day.

In 2024, we strengthened this commitment by:

  • Enhancing our leadership accountability with a refreshed Health and Safety Leadership Standard
  • Expanding our SHEQ team to ensure wider visibility and direct support across all regions
  • Rolling out new pre-start inspections and toolbox talks to better support our site teams
  • Introducing QR-coded Stepnell Go hard hat stickers, encouraging real-time near-miss and good practice reporting
  • Increasing engagement with our supply chain through open forums, and shared safety learnings
  • Expanding in-house CITB-affiliated training to ensure consistent, high-quality safety education for all teams
  • Promoting wellbeing with fatigue risk management, mental health support, and 12 trained Mental Health First Aiders

Our approach to health and safety is shaped by continuous improvement, open communication, and genuine collaboration — with our people, our clients, and our partners. In 2024, we worked alongside peers across several public sector frameworks to raise industry standards and share best practice.

Thank You

This award is a reflection of the hard work, vigilance and dedication of every single person at Stepnell and our supply chain. Whether on-site or in the office, everyone plays a role in building a safer future.

Congratulations to the entire team — and thank you for putting safety first, always.

Stepnell Achieves ISO 14064-1 Verification

Category: Sustainability

We are proud to announce that Stepnell has successfully achieved verification of our Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions inventory for the 2023-2024 reporting period, in accordance with the internationally recognised standard ISO 14064-1.

This significant milestone underscores our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and transparency in our operations.

This rigorous verification process, conducted by NQA, provides assurance to our stakeholders that our reported emissions are accurate, complete, and consistent. This achievement brings numerous benefits:

  • Enhanced Credibility and Trust: Demonstrating our commitment to accurate and transparent environmental reporting strengthens our reputation and builds trust with our clients, partners, and the wider community.
  • Improved Risk Management: Understanding our emissions footprint allows us to identify and mitigate potential environmental risks, ensuring long-term sustainability.
  • Market Leading Advantage: Meeting and exceeding environmental standards positions us as a leader in sustainable construction, attracting clients who prioritise responsible practices.
  • Data-Driven Decarbonisation: The verified data provides a solid foundation for developing and implementing targeted decarbonisation strategies across our activities.

For our clients, this verification translates to:

  • Sustainable Project Delivery: Assurance that their projects are being executed by a company committed to minimising environmental impact.
  • Alignment with Sustainability Goals: Support in achieving their own sustainability targets and reporting requirements.
  • Reduced Supply Chain Emissions: Contributing to a more sustainable construction value chain.

Looking ahead, we are committed to:

  • Maintaining annual verification of our GHG emissions to ensure continuous improvement in our reporting.
  • Utilising the verified data to drive meaningful reductions in our carbon footprint through targeted decarbonisation initiatives.
  • Collaborating with our clients and partners to promote sustainable construction practices across the industry.

This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team. We are excited to continue our journey towards a more sustainable future.

Stepnell Delivers Complex University Refurbishments in Oxford

Category: Construction

Stepnell Enhances Higher Education Facilities Across Oxfordshire

Stepnell is reinforcing its reputation as a trusted higher education construction partner in Oxfordshire, delivering a series of technically challenging refurbishments for two of the region’s leading institutions: the University of Oxford and Oxford Brookes University.

Currently on site at the Henry Wellcome Building at the University of Oxford, Stepnell is undertaking a £3.3 million laboratory refurbishment to modernise specialist molecular physiology and particle imaging laboratories. Due for completion in September, the works are being delivered within a live, operational research environment, requiring precision planning and collaborative delivery.

Working closely with university stakeholders including the Nuffield Department of Medicine, and project partners Gleeds and TMD, Stepnell has carefully phased the refurbishment and laboratory decanting process to avoid disruption and prevent contamination to sensitive scientific equipment such as electron microscopes.

“It is incredibly rewarding for our team based in Wantage to support a nearby institution that is world-leading in education and research,” said Mark Knowlden, senior project manager at Stepnell. “Our proven track record in live refurbishments, laboratory upgrades and sensitive heritage work, combined with our collaborative approach and technical expertise, ensures we consistently deliver high-quality, cost-effective outcomes.”

Local Supply Chain and Social Value

Demonstrating its commitment to local investment, Stepnell has directed 70% of spend on the Henry Wellcome project to supply chain businesses within 30 miles and supported employment for five local people. The project also delivered wider social value, including an initiative with Longworth Primary School, where donated laboratory equipment and £1,100 of supply chain materials were used to create a mud kitchen for pupils—achieving a 30% social value return on investment.

Completed Projects for Oxford Brookes University

Stepnell also completed several key higher education refurbishments for Oxford Brookes University in 2023 under the Pagabo framework. These included an £805k refurbishment of teaching spaces at the flagship John Henry Brookes Building, and a £350k project to realign fire containment and upgrade ventilation systems in the Gibbs Building.

Neil Ward, assistant director of capital projects at Oxford Brookes, commented: “These high-quality improvements have helped ensure we continue delivering an excellent student and staff experience. Stepnell understood our needs and completed the work on time for the 2024/25 academic year.”

Looking Ahead

Stepnell has now begun a £1.1 million refurbishment at the Townsend Building within the Clarendon Laboratory at the University of Oxford—further strengthening its position as a leading university refurbishment contractor in Oxford.

Steel Frame Complete for New Northamptonshire Mortuary

Category: Construction

Work progresses on modern facility designed to support families and essential services

Construction of Northamptonshire’s new public mortuary has reached a major milestone, with the steel frame now complete at the Riverside Business Park site in Northampton. Due for completion in autumn 2025, the new facility is being delivered by Stepnell on behalf of West Northamptonshire Council.

To mark this important step in the build, a ‘golden bolt’ event was held on site, celebrating the structural completion with partners and stakeholders. The symbolic moment recognised the collaborative efforts of all involved in bringing this essential facility to life.

Purpose-built to deliver the highest standards of dignity, care, and efficiency, the new mortuary will provide much-needed improvements to post-mortem services across the region. Once complete, the facility will offer faster support to bereaved families, funeral directors, and healthcare professionals by bringing services together under one roof.

The mortuary has been designed with sensitivity and functionality in mind. It will include private viewing and identification rooms to ensure families have access to calm, respectful spaces during some of life’s most difficult moments. The centralised location and integrated service model will also reduce travel requirements and streamline processes for key professionals.

Anna Earnshaw, Chief Executive of West Northamptonshire Council, said:

“Losing someone you love is one of the hardest things any of us will ever face. We want families to feel supported, respected and cared for every step of the way. Now that the structure is in place, we’re one step closer to providing a modern, respectful facility that will better serve families and professionals across Northamptonshire.”

In addition to improving day-to-day services, the new mortuary will provide greater resilience for major incidents, enabling Northamptonshire to respond quickly and effectively in the event of an emergency involving multiple casualties.

Adrian Barnes, Director at Stepnell, said:

“Reaching this stage is a significant milestone, and we’re proud to be delivering a facility that will make such an important difference to families and frontline services. With the steel frame complete, the building’s shape is now clear, and we’re progressing well towards the next phase.”

This project reflects Stepnell’s commitment to delivering high-quality, sensitive public infrastructure that meets the needs of communities across the UK.

📎 To follow project updates, visit the West Northamptonshire Council website.

Stepnell Supports Technical Learning at New College Swindon

Category: Construction

Stepnell has completed the core structure of a new communal area that will link two technical and vocational teaching blocks at New College Swindon.

With the reinforced concrete structure now in place and the steel framing on the external facade complete, the new central two-storey Welcome Hub will integrate the college’s Lyra and Phoenix buildings at the North Star Campus, New College Swindon’s technical and vocational teaching facility.

Secured under the Procure Partnerships Framework (PPF) and designed by Expedite, the facility is due to open in August ahead of the next academic year. The project will incorporate a centralised reception area, as well as upstairs meeting rooms, offices, welfare facilities and a multi-faith room. This will create a new entrance that affords easier traffic flow, room availability, accessibility and security provision.

Rob Speirs, regional director at Stepnell, said: “We aim to deliver the new central hub through an approach to construction that, like the design, is harmonious with the existing facilities and meets the needs of students and staff to enhance the on-campus experience.”

Externally, the scope of works will also include landscaping to enhance its visual appeal and a dedicated drop-off zone to optimise pedestrian and traffic flow.

To support its social value commitments to the project, complete construction partner Stepnell has been liaising closely with senior staff in supporting the delivery of its construction related courses at the college. A work experience programme provides students with site visits and the opportunity to be supervised while gaining valuable experience of working alongside a range of bricklayers, carpenters, electricians and plumbers.

To date, more than 120 students studying various technical and construction-related disciplines have been provided with visits to the live construction site, and this is scheduled to expand with the start of a comprehensive work experience and careers support programme that spans over 13 weeks during the summer months.

Rob added: “Through close collaboration across various construction-related teaching specialisms we are ensuring that the live site is facilitating the opportunity to enhance the learning experience of the technical college students.

“Our commitment to student engagement is testament to the strong relationship we have built with PPF to deliver phenomenal project value in the public sector.”

Matt Butcher, vice president of commercial skill & partnerships at New College Swindon said: “Students undertaking work experience is vital at New College Swindon, so for them to have this opportunity to work alongside Stepnell and gain a vast range of real-world experience is fantastic.”