Author: Gemma Meekings

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.”

Stepnell celebrates growth and impact in the South West

Category: Construction

Stepnell is celebrating remarkable growth in Bristol, underpinned by a diverse portfolio of public sector projects that reflect its commitment to quality and sustainability.

Since establishing a presence in the city, Stepnell has grown its Bristol team from an initial five employees to more than 25, reflecting the rapid expansion of its operations in the South West.

With a focus on public sector projects, Stepnell has delivered schemes across the healthcare, education, and residential sectors. Highlights include major contributions to Bristol City Council projects, partnerships with University Hospitals Bristol and Western NHS Foundation Trust, and the ongoing delivery of education facilities such as New College Swindon.

Jon West, business development manager at Stepnell, said: “Opening the Bristol office was a natural progression for us, driven by the growing opportunities in the region. In the last two years, we’ve established strong partnerships with local authorities, healthcare providers, and educational institutions.

“Our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions, including renewable energy and in-house joinery expertise through Step Energy and Stepnell Joinery respectively, positions us as a trusted partner for ambitious projects. Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue making a positive impact on Bristol and its surrounding areas.”

In total, Stepnell is set to oversee projects worth £50 million in the coming year, further consolidating its position as a key player in the region.

Stepnell’s residential projects in Bristol feature energy solutions, including solar, air-source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps and EV charging points, reflecting the company’s dedication to sustainability. Projects in Bristol routinely require the support of our in-house expertise, including Lawford Bespoke Joinery and Stepnell Plant. The company’s financial stability and family-run ethos have also contributed to its success, providing reassurance to clients and enabling long-term investment in the community.

Future growth for the Bristol office includes expanding along the M5 and M4 corridors into Somerset, Bath, and Swindon. Stepnell’s collaborative culture and dedication to training have also been a significant draw, with the team welcoming apprentices and graduates into its ranks, while supporting individuals on rehabilitation training programmes, showcasing the company’s inclusive approach to workforce development.

Rob Speirs, regional director at Stepnell, said: “With a healthy project pipeline extending into 2027, Stepnell is well-positioned to continue thriving in Bristol and beyond.”

Stepnell Supports Community Mural

Category: Public Sector

Warwick Underpass to Be Transformed by Vibrant Community-Led Mural Project Backed by Stepnell

A tired pedestrian underpass in Warwick is about to be transformed into a vibrant piece of public art, thanks to a new community mural project celebrating the town’s past, present, and future.

Led by Priory Pools Community Centre (PPCC) and Packmores Residents Association (PAC), the project is powered by local collaboration and creativity, with support from regional construction partner Stepnell, renowned street art organisation BRINK, and a host of local supporters.

The transformation will be brought to life by BRINK founder Tim, the creative force behind the Leamington Mural Festival, known for delivering striking murals across the region. Tim has already begun engaging with local groups to shape a final design that reflects Warwick’s community voices, heritage and aspirations. The finished mural will be unveiled in May.

Tim, founder of BRINK, said:

“Bringing street art to Warwick is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time. This project is especially exciting because it’s rooted in community – the design is being shaped by local voices, memories and hopes for the future. I can’t wait to get painting and help transform a space that so many people walk through every day.”

As a key supporter, Stepnell has donated a team of volunteers to help prepare the underpass, cleaning the brickwork and applying a base coat of paint to get the site mural-ready.

With a strong regional presence and a commitment to creating social value through community engagement, Stepnell is proud to contribute to projects that have a lasting, positive impact.

Adrian Barnes, Director at Stepnell, said:

“We’re really pleased to be supporting this inspiring local project. Creating spaces that communities can be proud of is something we care deeply about, and this mural is a fantastic example of how creativity and collaboration can make a real difference. Our team is looking forward to getting stuck in and helping bring this space to life.”

The mural project has attracted further generous support from Crown Paints, who donated all materials via their Project Possible ESG programme.

Lauren Burnett, Architectural & Design Consultant at Crown Paints, said:

“At Crown, we believe sustainability means investing in the communities we serve. It’s incredible to see how a splash of colour can uplift public spaces. BRINK’s passion for transforming urban landscapes is truly inspiring.”

The mural is the first artistic initiative linked to the development of the new Priory Pools Community Centre, a future facility planned near Priory Park and the Packmores estate. The project has received funding and support from Warwick District Council, King Henry VIII Endowed Trust, Warwick Relief in Need, Warwick Lions, Warwick Rotary Club, Warwickshire County Council, Friends of Priory Park, Network Rail, Warwickshire County Record Office and St Mary Immaculate Catholic Primary School.

BRINK’s creative flair has already made a mark locally. During the Packmores Easter Event, Tim (aka Lord Numb) and fellow artist Gordon (Mig29) led a mural workshop for local teens, producing a Kingfisher mural that celebrates the historical ‘Priory Pools’ – a design that will live on at the future community centre.

Work on the underpass will begin in the coming weeks, bringing a fresh splash of colour to Warwick’s streetscape and reinforcing the power of community-driven regeneration through the arts.

For more about the Priory Pools Community Centre project, visit: www.priorypoolscc.org

Stepnell Launches Lawford Bespoke Joinery

Category: Joinery

Stepnell, a trusted complete construction partner, has launched Lawford Bespoke Joinery—a standalone custom joinery business delivering high-quality services from design consultation through to precision installation.

Based in Rugby and operating nationally, Lawford Bespoke Joinery builds on Stepnell’s 155+ years of experience in construction and specialist joinery. The new business offers bespoke joinery solutions across key sectors including commercial, residential, heritage, and hospitality.

With a skilled team of eight joiners and craftsmen, Lawford Bespoke Joinery delivers made-to-measure joinery crafted to the highest standards. Services range from intricate heritage restorations and modern interior joinery to bespoke furniture, IPS units, and acoustic panel manufacturing.

Lee Grant, Joinery Manager at Lawford Bespoke Joinery, said:

“Joinery has always been at the heart of Stepnell’s construction services. This new venture allows our team to grow as a dedicated joinery business, offering sustainable, custom solutions that enhance every project.”

The joinery team will continue to support Stepnell projects, while growing its own client base. Recent works include bespoke joinery at Oakley Grange Care Home in Warwick for Cinnamon Care, Eton College boarding facilities, and outdoor seating at Greenstone Primary School in Coalville.

Tom Wakeford, Managing Director at Stepnell, added:

“Lawford Bespoke Joinery gives us the opportunity to expand our specialist services externally while maintaining the exceptional craftsmanship our clients expect. This aligns with our strategic approach—similar to the successful launch of our energy management business, Step Energy.”

Stepnell’s launch of Lawford Bespoke Joinery reflects its commitment to providing agile, expert-led services that respond to both public and private sector client needs.

🔗 Learn more about Lawford Bespoke Joinery: www.lawfordbespokejoinery.co.uk