Work has officially begun on the new state-of-the-art public mortuary in Northampton.
A groundbreaking ceremony took place last week, marking the beginning of construction on this important facility, which will provide better support for families and improve post-mortem services across Northamptonshire and the wider region.
Due to be completed in autumn 2025, the new mortuary will be a purpose-built facility designed to deliver the highest standards of care and compassion during some of life’s most difficult moments. It will provide modern, dignified spaces for families, including private viewing and identification areas, ensuring a respectful and supportive experience for those dealing with the loss of a loved one.
The facility will also bring key services under one roof, simplifying processes and reducing the need for travel between different sites. This will not only make it easier for families by reducing delays but will also improve efficiency for funeral directors, healthcare professionals, and other essential services.
Councillor Mike Hallam, Cabinet Member for HR and Corporate Services at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things anyone can go through, and we want to do everything we can to make that journey a little easier for families.
“Now that work has begun, we’re one step closer to providing a modern, compassionate space where people can say their goodbyes with dignity and care. This facility will not only offer vital support to grieving families but will also help professionals work more efficiently, ensuring faster outcomes and reducing stress during already difficult times.”
The mortuary will also help emergency services if there is ever a major incident, such as a disaster with multiple casualties. It will ensure that Northamptonshire is well-prepared to handle such situations while continuing to provide vital services for the community.
The project is being delivered by Stepnell, a contractor with extensive experience in managing large-scale construction projects.
Adrian Barnes, regional director at Stepnell said:
‘’We are really proud to be working with West Northamptonshire Council on this important facility for the area. Providing a good bereavement service at a time when people are feeling vulnerable is so important. The new facility will provide this and many other modern features like CT post mortem in certain circumstances.
We have experience in this sector and coupled with our more recent experience at Kettering and Northampton Hospitals the team are well equipped to deliver this modern facility”.
Millpond House Opens in Kidderminster
Category: Construction
A new facility providing short-term accommodation for people whilst they find permanent homes is now open in Kidderminster.
Stepnell is proud to announce the completion of Millpond House, a new facility providing temporary accommodation in Kidderminster. Developed in partnership with Wyre Forest District Council, MAKE Developments, Hive Projects, and WT Partnerships, the building offers 20 modern residential units designed to support individuals and families as they transition to permanent housing.
Located on the corner of Castle Road and New Road in Kidderminster town centre, the three-storey building includes shared kitchen diners, lounge areas on each floor, and outdoor space for residents. Office facilities, parking, and attractive landscaping complete the development, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for those in need of temporary housing.
Councillor Chris Rogers, Wyre Forest District Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Health and Wellbeing, said:
“It’s great to see Millpond House open its doors. The provision of short-term housing is a key part of our Corporate Plan 2023-26, and the completion of Millpond House is a crucial milestone. We are supporting individuals to find permanent housing and creating a positive impact within our local community.”
Stepnell served as the main construction partner, bringing their expertise in delivering high-quality community-focused developments.
Adrian Barnes, Regional Director at Stepnell, said:
“We are very proud to have been able to support Wyre Forest District Council with the delivery of Millpond House. The prominent development on Castle Road will provide much-needed short-term accommodation whilst families and individuals wait for permanent housing. At Stepnell, we pride ourselves on supporting the communities in which we live and work, providing not only new facilities for the council but positive social value impacts in the community.”
Patrick Hickey, Director at MAKE Developments, added:
“We are delighted to have worked with Wyre Forest District Council and Stepnell on such a valuable and socially important project. This scheme, with its focus on providing short-term accommodation, is now set to make a meaningful difference to the lives of those it directly impacts.”
Patrick O’Neill, Senior Quantity Surveyor at WT Partnership, said:
“We are extremely proud to be involved with the delivery of this amazing feel-good scheme which will provide vital short-term accommodation to the local area.”
Millpond House reflects a collaborative approach to community development, with local organisations and young artists contributing artwork displayed on site hoardings during construction. The first residents are expected to move in soon, marking a significant milestone in Wyre Forest District Council’s ongoing commitment to addressing housing needs.
Photo shows L to R: Patrick Hickey Director MAKE Developments, Mark Baker Project Manager Stepnell, Cllr Marcus Hart Leader Wyre Forest District Council, Cllr John Byng Wyre Forest District Council, Cllr Chris Rogers Wyre Forest District Council, Kate Bailey Head of Strategic Growth Wyre Forest District Council celebrating the completion of Millpond House, Kidderminster
Steel Frame Up at Sixth Form Expansion
Category: Construction
Stepnell is making strong progress on a new £6.2 million sixth form learning resource centre in Sutton Coldfield, on track for completion ahead of the next academic year.
With the steel structure now in place, the two and a half storey extension to the existing building at Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School will provide a modern sixth form centre. The space will comprise of a new library, additional classrooms, expanded dining space, and dedicated areas for sixth form social and study activities.
Designed by Baily Garner LLP, the extension is discretely integrated into the site’s natural tiered levels, sunken into the ground and featuring a facade that blends in with the grammar school.
Adrian Barnes, director at Stepnell said,
“The refurbishment will offer an environment designed to support the academic and social needs of the school’s growing sixth form community, delivering high-quality learning and recreation spaces that will inspire and empower post-16 students.
“In addition to essential enabling works, we are prioritising sustainable energy management and responsible material use through our specialist teams at Step Energy and Lawford Bespoke Joinery.“
“With the steel frame structure now complete, we remain on track for a late summer completion so that sixth form students can immediately benefit from the learning resource centre in the next academic year.”
Since working on the live site, Stepnell has ensured minimal disruption to the school’s daily operations by implementing bespoke hoarding, ramps and safety measures, considerately navigating the logistical challenge of limited site access.
The business is also dedicating considerable time on the project to social value delivery through an extensive careers support programme, including on-site apprenticeship shadowing and mock career interviews. Local expertise and supply chain remain integral to the project’s delivery, and progress updates continue to be regularly communicated to pupils and nearby residents.
The work marks a significant step in the school’s continued efforts to enhance its learning environment for students and increasing sixth form capacity.
Graham Swindells, Finance and Operations Director at Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School, said,
“We are excited to be working with Stepnell to construct our Learning Resource Centre, which will be a dynamic and networked space, that enables study, collaboration and innovation, preparing our Vesey students for the workplace of the future.
“The building has been designed specifically to meet the school’s specific organisational requirements and underpin the school’s vision and mission. The design is informed by ‘green’ principles, and the valuable partnership and collaboration with Stepnell throughout the project is providing our students with ‘hands-on’ learning opportunities relating to sustainable architecture and building processes through our shadow construction team.”
Lauren Oxland, Key Account Manager at Procure Partnerships Framework, said,
“We are delighted to support Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School and see the progress of this important project. The new learning resource centre will provide invaluable benefits to the school’s students and enhance the overall learning experience for the growing sixth form community. It is fantastic to see the project is on track for completion ahead of the next academic year, and we look forward to overseeing its progress.”
Building Skills for Life
Category: People
Apprenticeships at Stepnell
Investing in Future Talent
National Apprenticeship Week 2025 celebrates the transformational power of apprenticeships. At Stepnell, we’re committed to growing future talent, ensuring our apprentices gain Skills for Life that set them up for long-term success.
Why apprenticeships? Because they provide a structured, hands-on learning experience while allowing apprentices to earn, gain qualifications, and contribute to real projects from day one.
With 20% of our workforce made up of trainees, apprentices, and graduates, we know that apprenticeships aren’t just beneficial to individuals—they’re essential for the future of the construction industry.
A Pathway for Everyone
Stepnell apprenticeships aren’t limited to school leavers. We welcome:
✅ Young people looking to gain industry experience
✅ Career changers seeking new opportunities
✅ Ex-military personnel bringing their skills into construction
Our apprentices join us through a range of routes, each bringing unique strengths and aspirations.
Luke Walsh started his journey as an apprentice estimator and went on to be named Outstanding Apprentice of the Year at Nottingham Trent University. Melvin Ishiodu, now an Assistant Site Manager, transformed his summer placement into a full-time role leading major projects at Stepnell – earning 2nd place in the prestigious Interact National Rising Star Awards!
The diversity of entry points into Stepnell is inspiring. Michael Senwayo’s work experience placement began after a chance meeting with our Managing Director, while Josh Gilbert discovered us through the government website. These stories highlight our commitment to offering apprenticeships to individuals from all backgrounds, fostering an inclusive approach to building careers in construction.
Ryan Hanson’s journey further illustrates this commitment. After two decades in a different career, Ryan needed an apprenticeship that allowed him to earn while learning. With a young family and a mortgage, Stepnell’s structured programme and emphasis on social value provided the perfect fit, giving him the opportunity to gain experience across multiple disciplines rather than specialising too early.
These apprenticeships are more than just job opportunities—they’re pathways to long-term careers, helping individuals develop Skills for Life while making meaningful contributions to the construction industry.
Apprentices Making a Difference
Beyond technical skills, our apprentices contribute to social value projects:
Supporting schools & colleges – mentoring T-Level students and hosting career fairs
Community volunteering – helping to restore local spaces like the Dunchurch churchyard
Career guidance – attending mock interviews and speaking at student events
We believe that putting apprentices with the right people is key to their success. At Stepnell, they work alongside experienced professionals, gaining a broad understanding of projects, teamwork, and leadership.
Ready to Build Your Future?
We’re proud to be part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, celebrating the impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and communities.
If you’re looking to start, switch, or advance your career in construction, Stepnell has opportunities waiting for you.
Stepnell has commenced refurbishment works for the first phase to transform the historic Leamington Spa Town Hall into a creative hub.
The project, undertaken for Warwick District Council, marks a significant step in revitalising the Landmark Building, built in 1884, with improvements set to enhance accessibility, safety, and functionality.
The initial phase of the refurbishment focuses on essential structural and accessibility upgrades, including upgrading the building’s reception area, installation of new toilet facilities, and the addition of a modern passenger lift. These updates aim to increase the building’s capacity and ensure that it meets current safety and accessibility standards.
Adrian Barnes, regional director at Stepnell, said:
“Leamington Town Hall has served as a vital community hub for many years, and our work will ensure that it continues to do so for future generations. “Working closely with Warwick District Council, we have focused on delivering a project that not only respects the building’s heritage but also enhances its functionality with modern amenities. The use of local suppliers and skilled tradespeople, alongside our commitment to social value, will ensure that this project benefits the wider community as well.”
Stepnell is also placing a strong emphasis on sustainability, adhering to industry standards to recycle waste and reduce the project’s environmental footprint. The use of locally sourced materials, including handmade and imperial bricks, further reinforces Stepnell’s commitment to conservation and local supply chains.
One of the key elements of Stepnell’s work is minimising disruption to the local environment, including measures to protect the peregrine falcons that have been nesting in the clock tower since 2017. The construction team has implemented special noise-reduction methods and scaffolding screens to ensure the safety of the birds during their nesting season.
As works continue into 2025, the refurbishment will create new opportunities for local apprentices and trainees, providing them with valuable hands-on experience. This aligns with Stepnell’s ongoing dedication to contributing positively to the local community through employment and social value initiatives.
Councillor Ella Billiald, Warwick district councillor for Leamington Willes, said:
“We are confident that working in partnership with Stepnell, we will be able to make Leamington’s Town Hall much more welcoming and accessible, whilst respecting the building’s History. This will create a legacy that we can all be proud of.”
Groundbreaking at Staveley Market Regeneration
Category: Construction
Stepnell has broken ground on a multimillion-pound town centre regeneration project in Staveley, near Chesterfield, marking the start of an exciting transformation for the local community.
Part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s Staveley 21 project, and funded through the Staveley Town Deal, the project includes the construction of a new landmark building in the town centre, improvements to the market square and rejuvenation of the high street. The works aim to support local infrastructure by creating a more welcoming and safer town centre.
Having broken ground, Stepnell has begun on site with the removal of the disused toilet block on the market square.
Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said:
“As we commence works on Staveley 21, early engagement and continued close collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council, partners and the local community has put works in a strong position. Our team is committed to delivering a rejuvenated public space, which will serve the future of a more attractive Staveley town centre.”
The Staveley 21 project also includes the transformation of the marketplace to create an enlarged public space, supporting existing uses such as Staveley Town Council’s regular markets, and becoming a new destination to host events in the town centre.
Stepnell will install new tiered outdoor seating to support outdoor theatre and performances, and natural play equipment to help make the marketplace more attractive to families. By engaging with pupils from Staveley Junior School through a site visit workshop, Stepnell has collaborated to develop designs for play equipment.
New paving, lighting, street furniture and planting will also be installed, to help create an enhanced atmosphere and visitor experience through the day and night, while new signage will help connect the town centre with Staveley’s other visitor attractions including the Chesterfield Canal and Staveley Hall.
Additionally, 2025 will see Stepnell construct a landmark building in the town centre. On the ground floor it will house Derbyshire County Council’s Staveley Library, with space upstairs for business premises, forming a new focal point for the town centre.
Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:
“It is fantastic to get this project underway as it will transform Staveley town centre and enhance it for visitors, businesses and residents. “It will expand what the town centre has to offer – creating new opportunities for events and social spaces but also encourage more people to visit to support both existing retailers and market traders. “This is an exciting and ambitious project that forms a key part of the Staveley Town Deal programme, and we look forward to seeing progress over the coming months.”
Approximately £5 million of funding has been provided through the Staveley Town Deal – a £25.2 million programme that aims to ensure Staveley is a place to start, stay and grow.
Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal, said:
“This is an exciting project for Staveley that will help the town centre to attract additional visitors and support local businesses. Almost all of our Town Deal projects are now being delivered on site. This is a fantastic achievement across all partners, and people will soon start to see the impact of all these projects in their community.”
Celebrate a Greener Christmas
Category: Sustainability
5 Simple and Sustainable Ideas
As we gear up for the holiday season – decking the halls, untangling twinkly lights, and dreaming of festive feasts – let’s also take a moment to think about how we can make small changes to making this season more sustainable.
Jennifer Pollard, Sustainability Manager at Stepnell, has put together this piece with simple tips to help you enjoy a more mindful and environmentally friendly Christmas. After all, Christmas is about more than just presents; it’s a time for presence, too – presence in our community, with our families, and with our planet.
This year, let’s unwrap a few tips to keep our carbon footprint in check (while keeping the spirit bright). From rented Christmas trees to zero-waste gift-wrapping hacks, read on to help make your Christmas merry, memorable, and mindful. There’s plenty we can do to keep the season green—no Grinch needed!
Did you know that Christmas excess on average equates to 280kgCO2e per adult in the UK, that’s the equivalent of the emissions from driving 1500 miles in a medium petrol car!
1. Rent a Live Christmas Tree!
Renting a live Christmas tree is one of the most eco-friendly ways to enjoy a tree during the holiday season. Unlike cut trees, live trees continue to capture carbon through photosynthesis, reducing atmospheric CO₂ while they’re with you. After the season, they’re replanted to keep growing and absorbing carbon for years to come.
Renting also supports local biodiversity, as many tree rental companies partner with farms, allowing trees to spend most of their life outdoors, where they provide shelter for wildlife and help maintain healthy soil. This approach also eliminates waste: rental trees don’t end up in landfills or release carbon through decomposition. Instead, each tree is reused season after season.
In contrast, artificial trees require significant resources to produce and are typically made from PVC plastic, contributing to plastic waste when discarded. Even with reuse, they must be kept for at least 10-20 years to offset their environmental footprint. A live rental tree, on the other hand, is a renewable, natural option that brings the authentic scent and beauty of the holiday season into your home without lasting environmental impact.
In summary, renting a live tree combines the best of all worlds: a festive, fragrant, and environmentally friendly tree that can bring cheer to your home each year while keeping waste and environmental impact to a minimum. This way, you can enjoy a truly green Christmas season!
No Amazon! Buy from local suppliers, local fairs, Etsy.
This Christmas, let’s keep it local and make a real impact with our gifts and festive feasts! Choosing local suppliers isn’t just good for the environment—it’s like giving a gift back to our community. When we shop nearby, we cut down on the long-haul shipping emissions and choose goods that are often fresher, unique, and crafted with extra care. Plus, the money we spend stays close to home, helping local businesses thrive and adding a little extra sparkle to our neighbourhood. Imagine a holiday where your gifts and food tell a story, full of local flavour and quality, while keeping sustainability at the heart of it all. Let’s make this a Christmas to remember by shopping local, celebrating local, and supporting each other.
Finding local suppliers is easier than you might think, and it can be a fun part of holiday shopping. Start by visiting nearby farmers’ markets or holiday fairs, which are full of unique local foods, handmade gifts, and seasonal specialties. Many areas also have online directories or apps that spotlight local artisans, food producers, and small businesses. Check out social media, too—many local creators and shops share their offerings and holiday specials on Instagram and Facebook. Don’t forget small, family-owned shops in your neighbourhood, which often feature items you won’t find anywhere else. You can also ask friends and family for their favourite local spots—sometimes the best hidden gems come from a good recommendation!
3. Zero-waste wrapping, or recyclable wrapping paper
Avoid foil and glitter-covered wrapping paper—they’re non-recyclable and not very festive for the planet. Instead, opt for kraft paper, newspaper, printed paper wrapping, or reusable fabric wraps like scarves or tea towels (a gift in themselves!). Tie it all together with twine or compostable tape and add a dash of nature with dried orange slices or sprigs of greenery. Upcycle old cards into tags, or let the kids decorate recycled paper for a personal touch. By keeping it creative and waste-free, you’ll give the planet a little gift too. Sustainable wrapping—because the earth deserves to sparkle all year round!
4. Secret Santa
This Christmas, why not swap the endless gift-giving frenzy for a family Secret Santa? It’s a triple win: more sustainable, easier on the wallet, and way more fun! Instead of everyone buying (and wrapping!) piles of presents, each person picks one thoughtful gift for someone else. Less shopping means fewer carbon-heavy deliveries and less waste—no more wrapping paper mountain! Plus, with just one gift to focus on, you can get creative and choose something truly meaningful. Add a festive twist by guessing who got who! A Secret Santa is proof that less really is more when it comes to spreading Christmas cheer sustainably.
5 – Christmas Crackers
This Christmas, it’s time to ditch those standard crackers filled with plastic “prizes” that get tossed aside faster than you can say “New Year’s resolution”. Eco-friendly crackers bring all the festive cheer – without the waste – and they come with a lot more than just a paper crown. Forget the useless plastic junk – these crackers are packed with games, challenges, and even trivia questions that’ll have everyone actually *engaged* (yes, even Aunt Susan).
Going green with your Christmas crackers doesn’t just feel good; it *is* good. You’re reducing waste, giving everyone something worth keeping, and turning holiday moments into memorable experiences. So, this year, let’s say goodbye to the mini plastic screwdriver set and hello to a Christmas table full of games, laughter, and crackers that make everyone (including the planet) a little merrier! No waste, no landfill, and no guilt.
As we celebrate two successful years on the SCAPE Regional Construction Framework, Stepnell is proud to reflect on the meaningful partnerships, collaborative spirit, and impressive outcomes that have driven this journey. Over the past two years, we’ve delivered 26 impactful projects, ranging from renovations to essential infrastructure upgrades across a variety of sectors including healthcare, education, leisure and infrastructure. Each project highlights our commitment to quality, innovation, and community-focused solutions.
Key performance highlights:
On time and on budget – Average 100%
Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS): Average 40.50
Client Satisfaction – Average 9.3
276 hours spent supporting young people and those facing barriers to work
£5m spent in the local economy
53 SEN students from 5 schools engaged through workplace experiences and mock interviews
Among the standout examples is our ongoing partnership with Derby City Council, showcasing how the SCAPE framework empowers all stakeholders and enables meaningful, community-centred projects.
Leveraging SCAPE to Drive Community Value
Over the past two years, Stepnell has successfully delivered more than 20 projects for Derby City Council, across a diverse mix of facilities, including demolitions, refurbishments, structural repairs, and upgrades to educational, leisure, and community spaces. This collaboration has benefited local communities while aligning with Derby City Council’s goals. The SCAPE framework has been essential in facilitating early contractor engagement, allowing Stepnell to collaborate with the Council from the very start, ensuring projects are efficient, timely, and cost-effective.
Sustainable Solutions for Derby’s Needs
Derby Arena: Lighting Upgrade for Energy Efficiency
In support of the Council’s carbon reduction objectives, Stepnell replaced outdated halogen lights at Derby Arena with energy-efficient LED alternatives. This upgrade is set to save 97,531 kWh of energy annually, reduces carbon emissions by 22.72 tons, and yields annual savings of £28,284. The collaboration between Stepnell and Derby City Council highlights how environmentally sustainable construction benefits both the community and the local budget.
Redevelopment of Charlotte Street and Shaftesbury Sports Centre
To address challenges in a disadvantaged area of Derby, Stepnell demolished a set of garages and a disused sports centre, paving the way for a larger car park and revitalising the neighbourhood. With a focus on safety and compliance, this project involved asbestos removal, 24-hour security, and handling issues related to fly-tipping.
Clare Hill, Principal Building Surveyor at Derby City Council, commended Stepnell’s commitment, noting the site manager’s effective communication with residents and the project’s ahead-of-schedule completion.
Delivering Education Infrastructure: 2024 School Summer Works
A recent addition to our SCAPE framework portfolio is the 2024 Derby City Council Children and Young People Capital Programme, an ambitious project to complete essential improvement works across eight schools during the summer break. Valued at £1.6 million, these upgrades ranged from asbestos removal and fire safety enhancements to door and window replacements, roofing, and electrical rewiring.
The Stepnell team proactively managed resources to ensure continuity and quality across each school site. Early engagement with Derby City Council and Atkins Realis enabled better planning, allowing Stepnell to accommodate the addition of an extra school to the programme even as the summer works commenced.
Leanne Ward, Project Manager at Derby City Council, praised Stepnell’s dedication: “Appointing Stepnell gave me confidence that it could be done… a big ask, but they did their best and delivered.”
Supporting Local Communities and Youth through Social Value Initiatives
Stepnell’s commitment to social value extends well beyond physical projects. We actively engage with local schools to promote construction careers and support youth employment. Our initiatives include workshops on construction careers and hands-on STEM challenges for students. This outreach is vital in encouraging the next generation of talent in the industry.
In partnership with Derby City Council, Stepnell has achieved:
74.6% local spend, with 47.7% going to MSMEs (micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises)
22 career events across multiple schools, including mainstream, SEND, and alternative provision schools.
Direct engagement with 410 students through workshops on construction careers, STEM activities, and CV preparation, with a total reach of 1,657 students
29 work insight days provided for students in Years 10-12 to help prepare them for employment
Strengthening Supply Chain Relationships
Our SCAPE partnership has fostered deeper relationships within our supply chain, ensuring a collaborative and transparent approach. Gary Cleaver, Director at Highcross Building Services, highlighted the value of the SCAPE framework in supporting shared goals:
“The SCAPE framework has given us a fantastic platform to grow, while ensuring we work together to deliver meaningful results.”
Looking Ahead: Building on Success
Stepnell’s journey on the SCAPE Regional Construction Framework is a testament to the power of collaboration, community engagement, and a commitment to quality and social impact. As we continue our partnership with Derby City Council, we remain focused on delivering high-quality, sustainable projects that benefit the community while promoting social value. Our proactive, collaborative approach is already paving the way for further innovation, ensuring Derby’s infrastructure not only meets today’s needs but also supports future generations.
Client Satisfaction and Feedback
Our dedication to quality and community-focused delivery has been reflected in client feedback scores, averaging:
Service: 9/10
Product: 9/10
Value for Money: 9/10
As we celebrate these milestones, Stepnell looks forward to another year of positive change and collaboration under the SCAPE framework, delivering impactful projects that make a difference in Derby and beyond.
Continued Success at Stepnell
Category: Corporate
REFLECTING continued improvement, successful 2023/24 financial results have been reported by complete construction partner, Stepnell Limited.
The business, which operates regionally from offices in Nottingham, Rugby, Wantage, Bristol, Southampton and Poole, posted profits in excess of £1m with turnover increasing by more than 15% in the period.
This success, within a period of economic instability in the construction market, was attributed to a continued focus on overall business strategy and operational performance, including comprehensive project programming and change control measures to increase business efficiency.
The business places early engagement as a core client priority, facilitating budget transparency and creating a collaborative, well managed and successful working environment for all parties.
Looking ahead, Stepnell has already secured 90% of its 2024/25 planned revenue budget – a ten per cent increase from last year – citing frameworks and repeat business as the principal sources of its workload.
Tom Wakeford, managing director, said: “Our latest performance has seen us consolidate our position through improved performance across a range of key indicators. The increase in turnover is a demonstration of planned growth in targeted areas and progress across the business, despite the prevailing market challenges.
“High interest rates continue to affect projects starting on site as client budgets come under pressure. Transparency over budgets is absolutely critical in this regard, creating and nurturing positive relationships that improve client and project outcomes.
“Where we are engaged early on a project, we see a far greater probability that the scheme will progress as we are able to provide early budget advice, identify and address technical problems, and deliver value-led solutions for clients and their communities.
“We operate with a healthy project pipeline, our property portfolio remains strong, and we continue to secure placement on key industry public sector frameworks. This facilitates continual improvement of our offering to our clients and the supply chain we work with.”
Social value is a key performance indicator for Stepnell, with social value managers in place across its regional business units. ESG practices and a strong focus on internal culture remain key drivers for the firm’s development.
Tom added: “We’re finding enhanced governance and selectivity at all levels is allowing us to recognise and manage significant business risks that are typically associated with lowest price single stage tendering.
“We are now accredited to ISO 50001 and Investors in People Gold, recognised as a Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 and hold a seventh consecutive win under the ‘Gold’ RoSPA Award. Stepnell has also achieved a Net Promotor Score (NPS) of 61, which is in the upper quartile for UK construction businesses.”
The publishing of its strong financial performance for YE 2024 follows agreement by shareholders to demerge the Stepnell Group – splitting the construction, property management and property investment elements of the business.
Stepnell aims to conclude the demerger in January 2025, whereupon Tom Wakeford will continue to lead Stepnell Ltd, the construction business with its existing leadership team and Step Energy, its decarbonisation & renewables business.
Certified for a Greener Future
Category: Sustainability
Stepnell’s ISO 50001 Milestone
In October 2023, we achieved certification to ISO 50001. This is a valuable asset to us at Stepnell, as it demonstrates our dedication to sustainable energy management and efficient operations. This international standard gives us a solid framework to improve energy performance, reduce our environmental impact, and manage energy costs. Data collected in line with our EnMS contributes significantly to our 4-yearly ESOS (Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme) Report and annual ESOS Action Plan, a legal requirement to report on energy use and opportunities for energy savings.
By embedding ISO 50001 and our Energy Management System, we’re not only minimising our carbon footprint but also enhancing our competitive edge in a marketplace that increasingly values sustainability. For our clients and prospective clients, this certification shows that we’re committed to responsible, forward-thinking practices—making us a strong partner for projects where sustainability matters.
A year later, and we’re pleased to share the results of last month’s ISO 50001 Surveillance Audit with NQA, which included visits to some of our permanent offices, and project sites.
The audit included a thorough review of the Energy Management System (EnMS) and core aspects of the Business Management System (BMS), focusing on our operational controls, central energy management processes, and our energy measurement and monitoring.
The audit report highlighted no non-conformances or Opportunities for Improvement. With the auditor being impressed with our strong strategy with sustainable practices and consistent carbon reduction, evidenced in our Carbon Reduction Plan and Carbon Reduction Strategy. Continual improvement was evidenced by our ongoing enhancements and refurbishment of our Head Office at Lawford Road.
We are pleased to announce that NQA has confirmed our continued certification to ISO 50001, recognising the ongoing improvement and integration of our EnMS. This accomplishment would not be possible without the dedication of our project and office teams
We look forward to the coming year and our second surveillance audit to be confirmed for Autumn 2025.
Stepnell Group announce demerger for progression
Category: Corporate
Company shareholders at Stepnell Group have announced a demerger – splitting the construction, property management and property investment elements of the business.
The demerger will see shareholders Peter Wakeford, Tom Wakeford, Ed Wakeford and David Wakeford each owning companies within the current Stepnell Group – reflecting their expertise and boosting growth.
Tom Wakeford will continue to lead Stepnell Ltd, the construction business with its existing leadership team and Step Energy, the decarbonisation & renewables business, and Ed Wakeford will continue to lead the property and development business.
In a collective statement, shareholders said: “The effect of the demerger will positively benefit current and potential clients providing clear leadership for each of the respective businesses and their employees.
“Operating the group as independent businesses will enable us to be more agile to focus on our clients, boosting these robust businesses in our chosen markets – and creating greater potential for each business to expand, invest and further improve the offering to its clients and employees.
“We aim to conclude the demerger in January 2025; the businesses will continue to deliver for our clients and stakeholders as we transition into full demerger.”
Construction gets underway for £9.5m Leisure Centre
Procured through the Procure Partnerships Framework, the work will deliver a brand-new centre in a bid to support the diverse health and wellbeing needs of Lichfield’s residents. This includes a 25 metre, six-lane pool, bathrooms, changing rooms, circulation spaces, a gym, fitness/dance studio, spin studio and lobby, as well as associated works including plant and stores.
The new centre will replace the ageing Friary Grange Leisure Centre and will offer provisions to cater for all abilities.
Stepnell will dedicate significant time on the project to social value delivery through continued engagement with the local community. As is standard practice for its range of projects within both the private and public sector, the Stepnell team will work closely with the local supply chain, utilising the expertise of the local area.
To ensure this continued collaboration, dedicated monthly notice boards, newsletters, drop-in sessions and leaflet drops will all be undertaken across the duration of the project, which is set to complete in late 2025.
Adrian Barnes, regional director at Stepnell said: “Following an in-depth procurement process, our appointment to Stychbrook Park is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with Lichfield District Council and add to the growing expertise within the leisure sector.
“As with all our projects, our teams are committed to delivering a strong level of collaboration and communication with the local community and will actively seek engagement throughout the build process to ensure the end result is something the whole community can be proud of.
Alongside Stepnell, the project team also includes architecture firm Box Architects, civil and structural engineers Adept, and building services design, BWB Consulting.
Doug Pullen, leader at Lichfield District Council said: “I’m delighted that this long-awaited project is now underway, and we are delivering on our promise to deliver a brand-new leisure centre for Lichfield. This project has been shaped by the community since the very beginning – I’m confident it will serve our district well for many years to come.”
Further works to construct a new car park and collection of 3G pitches is set to be undertaken in the near future.
Refurbishment works complete for Oxford Brookes University
Category: Construction
Stepnell grows education expertise with £1m university refurbishment works completion.
As part of wider refurbishment works taking place at Oxford Brookes University’s Headington Campus, work has been completed to increase the number of teaching spaces available to staff and students and improve existing buildings, collectively valued at £1M.
Completed over the summer in preparation for the new academic year, parts of the John Henry Brookes Building have been redeveloped over ten weeks to create two new large teaching spaces. Stepnell, which heavily specialises in the higher education sector, completed mechanical and electrical works along with necessary demolitions and construction of the new streamlined office space.
As part of the project Stepnell also undertook the fire protection work on the Gibbs building over a nine-week period, upgrading the 1970s building to latest safety standards.
Procured through the Refit & Refurbishment Framework from national providerPagabo, the respective project completions build on Stepnell’s long-standing relationship with Oxford Brookes University as the sixth and seventh projects completed with the University.
Ian Batchelor, operations manager at Stepnell said:
“These refurbishment projects have allowed us to showcase our expertise, not only in the education realm but also within Oxford and South of England. Working alongside our Oxford-based team and their knowledge of the local supply chain, our construction and joinery capabilities have shone in support of the university’s ongoing ambitions for its campus.
“We have been able to demonstrate our clear understanding of live site working, which is incredibly common within education projects, working with our project partners collaboratively on elements such as dust suppression and noise control plans, to ensure that teaching quality retains its already high standard. We’re pleased to have been able to call on our expertise to prepare the buildings in sufficient time before the new academic year.”
As well as working with the university, the Stepnell team also worked closely with appointed management team MGAC, architects ADP Architecture and licensed approved contractor Maylarch, the latter of whom supported Stepnell with the removal of asbestos from the Gibbs building.
Mark Tugwell, deputy director of estates at Oxford Brookes University, commented:
“The creation of two large teaching spaces within our John Henry Brookes Building has been an important project for the University. As part of our Oxford Campus Vision, we are in the process of bringing together our Oxford-based activity on the Headington Campus and these high-quality spaces and improvements to the Gibbs building will help to ensure we continue providing an excellent student and staff experience.
“Our campus spaces need to respond to the evolving needs of the University’s community and the rapidly changing world of education. We are pleased to have worked with Stepnell on this project as they have helped to make this a reality and understand the importance of ensuring work was completed in time for the new academic year.”
Ben Jones, southern region head of delivery at Pagabo, said:
“There is a huge amount of potential in every existing building, with refurbishment playing a huge role in their future success – something particularly important within education estates. We’re always pleased to see the positive outcomes of the projects procured through our frameworks – in this case, students benefitting from improved and increased teaching space, and the university generating positive social value and making best use of its estate.”
Offered as standard throughout all of Stepnell’s projects in both the private and public sector, increased focus on social value impact was considered throughout the project. As part of this, Stepnell offered project placement work for students in relevant study courses at the university.
Stepnell completes two refurbs at University of Southampton
Category: Construction
Complete construction partner Stepnell has finished two refurbishment projects for the University of Southampton, enhancing support for teaching and residential provision ahead of the start of the next academic year.
The refurbishment of the Nightingale Building, part of the university’s School of Health Sciences, has reconfigured existing areas and created new rooms to provide modern training facilities and mock-up wards. These meet the latest NHS specification for teaching programs across nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, podiatry, and cardiac physiology.
Pictured: Malcolm Wright – Cliftons Projects, Laura Palmour – Associate Director of Residences at University of Southampton, Rob Speirs – Regional Director Stepnell
Stepnell completed design adjustments in collaboration with the design team and client stakeholders, prioritising energy efficiency considerations, diverting 96% of waste from landfill and a strong focus on utilising local suppliers, sourcing two thirds of contractors from within 30 miles of the site.
Stepnell has also completed a multi-million pound refurbishment of the university’s Old Terrace student accommodation at the Glen Eyre halls of residence, ready to meet the needs of the university’s growing student population.
The comprehensive refurbishment, completed over a 24-week programme, includes a complete replacement of communal kitchens, reconfiguring communal washrooms into self-contained pods with showers, WCs, and toilets, as well as external refurbishments.
Early contractor engagement, detailed surveys, and strategic procurement planning allowed Stepnell to de-risk main works packages and secure necessary materials with long lead times.
Rob Speirs, regional director at Stepnell, said:
“These refurbishment projects combine our excellence in education and healthcare sector projects in the South of England. Operating from our Southampton office, we were able to maximise our local supply chain to meet the university’s requirements and create opportunities through the builds, navigating scheduling and design refinements.“The successful refurbishment of the Nightingale Building and the Old Terrace underscores Stepnell’s capability to deliver high-quality construction projects under tight deadlines, demonstrating a strong commitment to client satisfaction and excellence in construction.“Through robust client engagement, sector specialism and a proactive approach, we were able to maintain seamless operations without additional costs, which has enabled the university to revitalise its existing teaching and accommodation resources for the next academic year.”
Declan O’Riordan of Cliftons Projects, acting on behalf of the university, said:
“The refurbished Nightingale Building will provide a crucial hub for the Department of Nursing and Midwifery and the Department of Allied Health Professions. This facility is instrumental in training future healthcare professionals, providing state-of-the-art mock-up wards, teaching areas, and conference rooms, and we are pleased that Stepnell could deliver to meet NHS standards.”
Malcolm Wright of Cliftons Projects, acting on behalf of the university for the Old Terrace accommodation refurbishment, said:
“Stepnell’s team has shown remarkable adaptability to changes, absorbing additional work and contract modifications within the original schedule, including addressing an unexpected mains water supply issue. This was facilitated by their early engagement and effective de-risking of the project, which will provide a safe and welcoming environment where students feel at home.”
Jonathan Face, director of special projects at the University of Southampton, said:
“I would like to thank Stepnell for their hard work, dedication and professionalism while completing both refurbishment projects for the University. The refurbishment projects will not only enhance our campus but will contribute to shaping the minds and careers of countless students for years to come.”
