Author: Gemma Meekings

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 provider Pagabo, 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.”

Celebrating a double recognition

Category: People

We are delighted to announce that two of our team members, Luke and Will, have been shortlisted for Construction Apprentice of the Year in the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2024.

Their dedication, hard work, and passion for the construction industry have made them invaluable assets to Stepnell, and their nominations reflect their exceptional contributions.

Luke: Rising Star in Pre-Construction

Luke joined Stepnell in November 2021 as a Trainee Estimator in our East Midlands Pre-Construction Department. Despite facing challenges early in his career, including the sudden closure of his previous employer, Luke’s determination never wavered. Now, he is pursuing a Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship in BSc Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management at Nottingham Trent University while excelling in his full-time role at Stepnell.

Balancing a demanding five-year course with his professional responsibilities, his hard work and resilience have already been recognised by Nottingham Trent University, where he won the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year – Construction and Engineering award.

At Stepnell, Luke’s talents have not gone unnoticed. Promoted to Assistant Estimator in just two years, he plays a vital role in the Pre-Construction Team, supporting Senior Estimators, managing tenders, and liaising with clients to deliver successful projects. His commitment to professional development, innovative approach, and proactive attitude set him apart.

Beyond his daily work, Luke is passionate about mentoring the next generation of construction professionals. He frequently participates in mock interviews, career days, and presentations at local schools, inspiring young people to consider careers in estimating and construction. His involvement in social value further highlights his dedication to making a positive impact on both his industry and community.

Will: A Future Leader in Site Management

Will joined Stepnell in January 2024 as a Trainee Site Manager, bringing four years of site management experience from previous roles. Passionate about construction from a young age, Will chose the apprenticeship route to gain hands-on, professional experience while pursuing academic qualifications. Currently enrolled in a Level 6 degree apprenticeship in Construction Site Management at Sheffield Hallam University, Will is balancing full-time work with intensive study blocks.

Since joining, Will has quickly made his mark. His responsibilities include managing projects such as the refurbishment of the Bluebell Ward at Walton Hospital, where he worked closely with stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of a sensitive, high-profile project. Will’s strong work ethic, leadership skills, and commitment to continuous learning have seen him take on increasing responsibilities, including managing his own sites as part of our School Summer Works Programme.

Will’s contributions extend beyond site management. As one of our regional SmartWaste Champions, he supports our sustainability agenda by ensuring projects are managed efficiently with minimal environmental impact. His dedication to supporting our goals, including volunteering to manage projects far from home, demonstrates his commitment to the company’s long-term strategy.

Will’s mentors, including Project Manager Scott Fullaway and Regional Manager Liam King, have praised his professionalism, maturity, and willingness to take on challenges. Will’s approach to his role exemplifies the values that we hold dear: commitment, integrity, and a drive for excellence.

We are incredibly proud of Luke and Will for being shortlisted for these prestigious awards. Their hard work, dedication, and passion for the industry not only benefit Stepnell but also inspire those around them.

Congratulations to all the finalists! We look forward to celebrating their achievements at the D&N Apprenticeship Awards 2024, where the winners will be announced.

Leicester College shortlisted for ProCon Leicestershire Award

Category: Construction

We are delighted to announce that the Leicester College Engineering Block, has been shortlisted for the esteemed ProCon Leicestershire Awards 2024 in the Small Non-Residential category.

This recognition highlights the exceptional transformation of the Engineering and Technology Centre, which has set a new benchmark in educational facilities across Leicestershire.

The redevelopment of this building is part of Leicester College’s commitment to providing cutting-edge resources and an enriched learning experience for students pursuing T-Level engineering qualifications. We are proud to have played a key role as the main contractor in this project, delivering a state-of-the-art educational environment that redefines the student learning journey.

A Transformation for the Future of Learning

The project involved the substantial remodelling and refurbishment of an existing building, designed to create a highly flexible and specialised engineering teaching centre. With improved acoustics, health and safety measures, and enhanced comfort and sustainability features, the facility now accommodates advanced equipment, ensuring a superior learner experience.

Key highlights of the project include the part-removal of the ground-floor workshop wall and its replacement with a glazed curtain wall. This modernisation not only transformed the building’s main entrance but also improved its thermal performance and connectivity with the wider campus, giving the entire facility a fresh, contemporary look.

A Recognition of Excellence: ProCon Leicestershire Awards 2024

The ProCon Leicestershire Awards are the region’s largest celebration of the built environment and the professionals who develop, design, and construct exemplary buildings. Being shortlisted for this award reflects the dedication and expertise of the entire team involved in the Leicester College Engineering Block redevelopment, from the initial design to the final construction phases.

Voting for the awards is now open to ProCon members, and we encourage everyone to support this fantastic project. The ProCon Awards ceremony, a much-anticipated annual event, celebrates the finest developments and rising stars in Leicestershire’s property and construction sectors.

About ProCon Leicestershire

Since 2000, ProCon Leicestershire has been a driving force in connecting professionals within the property and construction industries, while showcasing the very best in building projects. As a not-for-profit organisation, ProCon hosts numerous events throughout the year, fostering networking opportunities and sharing knowledge within its 500-strong membership of professionals.

Stepnell is honoured to have been a part of this award-nominated project, demonstrating our commitment to delivering sustainable, innovative, and future-proofed educational facilities. We look forward to the awards ceremony and the opportunity to celebrate this significant achievement.

For more information on the ProCon Leicestershire Awards and to cast your vote, visit ProCon Leicestershire.

Grand Opening of Marlborough Square Redevelopment

Category: Construction

Stepnell Celebrates the Grand Opening of Coalville’s £2.7 Million Marlborough Square Redevelopment

We are very proud to announce the official reopening of Marlborough Square in Coalville following the successful completion of a £2.7 million redevelopment project. This exciting milestone was celebrated with two days of community events.

Procured via the Procure Partnership Framework, the transformation of Marlborough Square has been a major project for both Stepnell and North West Leicestershire District Council. The redevelopment focused on creating a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly public space designed to host markets, events, and community gatherings.

A New Chapter for Coalville

The newly redesigned Marlborough Square boasts a central outdoor market and events space, high-quality street furniture, bespoke seating inspired by the nearby National Forest, raised planting, feature LED lighting, and elegant granite paving. A new one-way traffic system and limited vehicle access to the northern part of the square will ensure the space remains safe and accessible for pedestrians.

A Grand Opening

The official reopening kicked off with the first of what will be a regular Friday outdoor market. Visitors enjoyed a lively market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, cakes, and more.

On Saturday the square played host to a family fun day. The day’s events showcased Marlborough Square’s multi-use potential as a space where residents and visitors can gather for various activities, reinforcing the square’s role as a central community hub.

Investment in Coalville’s Future

This redevelopment represents more than just a physical transformation. North West Leicestershire District Council’s investment in Marlborough Square will provide long-term benefits for the community by supporting local businesses, encouraging local spending, and attracting private sector investment. The square is now poised to become a thriving, family-friendly destination, further boosting Coalville’s profile as a great place to live, work, and visit.

Marlborough Square’s redesign complements the town’s indoor market and event space, Newmarket, providing even more opportunities for markets and events throughout the year.

Looking Ahead

The successful reopening of Marlborough Square is just the beginning. With a diverse program of events planned throughout the year, the square will serve as a multi-use space at the heart of Coalville, fostering a vibrant community spirit and bringing people together.

Town Hall construction partner announced

Category: Construction

With preparatory works complete at Leamington Town Hall, Warwick District Council is pleased to announce the appointment of a specialist contractor to undertake a programme to upgrade and restore the public areas of the historic civic building.

On the back of a long history and experience in other similar projects across the country including the rejuvenation and conservation of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Costume Workshop in Stratford-upon-Avon, contractors Stepnell have been chosen to undertake the first phase of work to establish a new Creative Hub at the Town Hall.

The team from Stepnell are expected to be on site until early 2025, with the initial works aimed at remodelling and opening up the entrance and reception area, and the installation of new toilet facilities and passenger lift. These works mark the first step on the journey toward achieving the much bigger ambition of developing this iconic Leamington landmark as a creative and cultural hub.

Warwick District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Arts and Economy Councillor Ella Billiald commented:

“Creating modern, uplifting and accessible facilities whilst respecting the integrity and history of this important public building, requires the utmost skill to blend long-held tradition with contemporary styles and techniques. We are confident that working in partnership with Stepnell, we can a create a new future for Leamington’s Town Hall and a legacy that we can all be proud of.”

Adrian Barnes, Director at Stepnell, added:

“We are delighted to be working with Warwick District Council on the specialist refurbishment works at Leamington Town Hall. The works will carefully remodel existing areas of the building into a modern and accessible building. The partnering approach the whole team has taken is exemplary and we look forward to seeing the results in the near future.”

Celebrating Creativity & Community

Category: Residential

We recently held a fantastic event at our Castle Road site in Kidderminster, celebrating the artistic talents of participants from Nova Training and Nightstop.

These talented individuals worked diligently to create stunning artwork for our site hoarding, centred on the theme of “What secure accommodation means to you.” The artwork is now proudly displayed on our site hoardings.

The event was attended by Councillor Ian Hardiman, who expressed his heartfelt thanks to all the participants for their contributions. He also had the honour of handing out certificates, recognising the creativity and effort that went into each piece of artwork.

A huge thank you to Nova Training and Nightstop for their collaboration and to all the participants for sharing their vision and talents with us. Your artwork has not only enhanced our site but also brought to life the importance of secure accommodation in our community.

Design a mural for Derbyshire Healthcare

Category: Social Value

As part of our social value commitments to NHS Derbyshire Healthcare, we are looking for artistic Chesterfield residents to design a mural for a wall in the therapeutic garden of Bluebell Ward at Walton Hospital. 

It needs to provide a calming backdrop for an area where those using the service will be able to relax and undertake some gardening tasks. All entries will become the property of the hospital trust. 

The winning design will cover an area 3m x 2m and will be painted onto the wall by volunteers.

Please prepare your entry on A3 landscape white paper and submit a photograph of your work to eastmidlands@stepnell.co.uk by 31 August 2024

Local Community Group Collaboration

Category: Social Value

In support of our social value commitments to the Bilton Grange Prep School, new boarding house project the site team have been forging relationships with local community group Friends of Dunchurch, an organisation dedicated to preserving local heritage and community spaces.

The community group put us in touch with St Peter’s Church in Dunchurch who happily accepted our offer of a day of voluntary support.

Joining forces with our subcontractor R.O.Donaghey the team cleared away overgrown bushes and ivy that had obscured many of the graves. The volunteers also installed edging to create a dedicated space for crematorium memorials, creating an area for families and friends to honour and remember their loved ones.

Eddie Cronshaw Project Manager, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments.

“It was inspiring to see everyone come together with such enthusiasm and dedication. Clearing the overgrown areas and creating the new memorial space will have a lasting impact on the community and visitors to St Peter’s Church.”

Chris Sarson, Churchyard Manager said:

“Thank you so much to your team, you all worked really hard and were polite and friendly. Several of our church gardening volunteers and I came to watch during the course of the day, and we are so grateful for what you have done in a few hours, that would have taken us much longer. Indeed I don’t think we would have been able to face doing it at all! Your work has enhanced the churchyard environment at St Peter’s, an asset much loved and used by our local community. One of my volunteers was heard to say, “Can you come back next year”.

The community group was also invited to a tour of the construction site and the school, followed by afternoon tea. Group members expressed how much they enjoyed the visit and the school said:

“It was an absolutely splendid event and the goodwill and connections created will be so very helpful going forward.” – Amanda Hunter – Rugby school

Warwick’s Newest Care Home Oakley Grange

Category: Care

Reinforcing its care industry credentials, Stepnell has handed over a £9.4m care home to residential care provider Cinnamon Care Collection.

Marking the fourth project completed between the two firms, Oakley Grange in Bishop’s Tachbrook, Warwickshire, will provide 66 beds and five care suites set across a traditional brick structure.

The facility will offer premium care facilities that cater for assisted living and specialist dementia care, with a range of features including cinema rooms and private dining, supported with a commercial kitchen. Stepnell also constructed a dedicated therapy room – the first to be offered in a Cinnamon Care collection facility.

Stepnell commenced the build in January 2023 and completed in 73 weeks, handing over to the client for fit out two weeks ahead of schedule. To ensure the project ran smoothly, the firm led on numerous collaborative meetings between stakeholders so that delivery expectations and adjustments could be met.

Steve Hollins, project manager at Stepnell, said:

“Calling on our collective healthcare experience, including an established relationship with Cinnamon Care Collection, we were pleased to deliver a first-class assisted living facility for older residents in rural Warwickshire. This is a project that really highlights our exemplary standards, with a smooth operation that enabled our teams to handover to the client earlier than planned, allowing greater time for fit out and final preparations for its opening.”

Using its complete construction expertise, Stepnell was able to take advantage of its Step Energy and in-house joinery department, providing energy specialists to install a 70-panel solar array, as well as numerous bespoke fitted furniture items suitable for later-living requirements, and all made locally in Warwickshire.

Stepnell was able to utilise a local workforce, providing further development opportunities for a team that was experienced with completing the Bennett Drive Care Home in Hagley for Cinnamon Care Collection in 2022. The team coordinated activities to overcome operational challenges, including delivering with restricted access through the housing estate and ensuring minimal noise disturbances for neighbouring residential properties and schools.

The building is designed to offer a stylish space for residents and visitors to stay, situated within ten minutes from Warwick town centre’s local shops and amenities, as well as being only five minutes from the main motorway routes.

James Gant, development director at Cinnamon Care Collection, said:

“We are delighted to have completed our fourth project with Stepnell. Oakley Grange is a brand-new luxury care home, which will offer premium care facilities that cater for residential and specialist dementia care. The home boasts lavish and luxurious interiors, superb onsite amenities, and high-class quality hospitality. Oakley Grange offers first-class residential care and dementia care set within a stunning care home environment.

“Thanks to highest standard of workmanship and excellent craftsmen that Stepnell employed, our development was completed ahead of the schedule and to a very high specification that is typical of a Cinnamon development.

“There were a number of challenges that had to be overcome such as limited access and construction noise management that required careful planning. Stepnell’s positive and pro-active attitude throughout the process ensured that another project came in ahead of time. We look forward to working with Stepnell on future projects and to continue to develop our homes.”

Bilton Grange Architecture & Sustainability talks

Category: Education

In enriching sessions designed to spark curiosity and inspire young minds, Design Lead and Architect, Katherine Morton and Sustainability Manager Sheona Green, visited Bilton Grange Prep School to deliver talks on Architecture and Sustainability.

The primary objective was to introduce students to the field of architecture and sustainability, highlighting its importance, the creative processes involved, and potential career paths.

Each session started with a presentation and then followed by a lively Q and A session by the students.

Sheona recounted her experiences working on various projects, including the challenges faced and the successes achieved. Her journey demonstrated the rewarding nature of a career dedicated to sustainability, While Katherine answered questions on “what inspired you to become an architect and what is your favourite project you have worked on and why?”

The talks received overwhelmingly positive feedback from both students and teachers. Students expressed increased interest in architecture and sustainability, with many inspired to explore the subject further. Teachers noted the educational value of the session, appreciating the real-world connection it provided to classroom learning.

Nicola Sodhi, Assistant Head commented, ‘I wanted to send a quick message to say how impressed I was by Sheona Green’s workshop to Year Eight about sustainability in the construction industry today; I was lucky enough to catch the second group. The topic was the perfect way to round off the Year Eight Geography topic on Sustainability, and it was great to consider this topic in a completely different manner – I learnt a lot about carbon!  Sheona had put a lot of work into her presentation and workshop, and the pupils’ actively engaged in the group activity. I really like how Sheona talked about the career pathway she has taken to becoming the Stepnell Sustainability Manager. It was a good insight into future careers for our pupils. The social value and engagement project keeps getting better and better.’

Beating Time & Stepnell Collaboration

Category: Social Value

We are currently on site at Castle Road, Kidderminster, where we are constructing a new 20 unit residential building that will help to support those needing short term accommodation for Wyre Forest District Council.

Procured through Procure Partnerships Framework we are committed to delivering back into the local economy through social value. As part of our commitment to create meaningful impact on the project we have partnered with Beating Time, a charity that supports prisoners’ rehabilitation through music and employment-focused initiatives.

The collaboration, aimed to provide tailored 1:1 careers advice and guidance to inmates at HMP Onley and HMP Hewell, forms part of our broader strategy to enhance social value by facilitating smoother transitions from prison to community life.

Working closely with prison staff and Beating Time we identified inmates who were within six months of their release date. Social Value Manager Natasha Heritage, along with advisors from Beating Time, conducted one-on-one sessions with the inmates focusing on several key areas:

  • CV Writing and Job Applications: Providing guidance on how to craft effective CVs and job applications, highlighting transferable skills and relevant experiences.
  • Career Planning: Assisting inmates in setting realistic career goals and developing actionable plans to achieve them, considering their skills, interests, and the job market.

To ensure continuity, the program includes follow-up support post-release. This will include regular check-ins and additional guidance as needed, helping former inmates navigate the early stages of their employment journey.

This collaboration with Beating Time at HMP Onley and HMP Hewell demonstrates how strategic partnerships and tailored interventions can create significant social value.

Plant & Fleet Manager Appointment

Category: People

Stepnell invests in plant and machinery expert to grow in-house fleet efficiency

A NEW strategic role created by complete construction partner Stepnell has led to the appointment of Noel Pluck, an experienced plant and fleet manager. The move helps to improve the procurement and management of plant operations and forms part of the firm’s continued commitment to delivering solutions and expertise to customers, and bringing more of its business operations in-house.

Based at Stepnell’s plant and fleet facility at its head office in Rugby, Noel will be working with the business leadership team to create effective strategies for the plant and machinery division. This serves for the betterment of project work, improving efficiency, reliability and passing on cost savings to customers, from all of its offices across England, which in addition to Rugby includes Nottingham, Wantage, Bristol, Southampton and Poole.

Noel brings more than 30 years of experience within the service industry, specialising within the plant and commercial vehicles sector over the past 15 years. Noel will be leading the efficient development, performance and maintenance of Stepnell’s entire plant, equipment, and fleet facilities, reducing reliance on hired-in equipment.

Noel said: “I have a strong background in all things plant and commercial vehicles from planning to performance, so I’m confident in my abilities to make sure that as a business we are utilising our own assets and avoiding unnecessary external plant hire where possible. “As well as leading on training and best practice, I will be digitalising our processes to aid in maximising customer service, performance, value and reliability. What’s more, I’ll be working in collaboration with Step Energy, our embedded energy and renewables company, to reduce emissions across the division.”

Stepnell aims to bolster its own plant and fleet portfolio, achieving the highest standards of proactive maintenance of its plant, ensuring a quality and competitive service for clients. Noel’s appointment coincides with a series of new starters at Stepnell, with the complete construction partner continuing to build from a strong point of growth.

Tom Wakeford, managing director at Stepnell, said: “Building our in-house teams and capabilities is an important part of our business growth strategy, to meet the wide ranging and unique challenges of our customers. We are pleased to announce the steps we are taking through Noel’s appointment as plant and fleet manager. “As part of our One Stepnell approach, our teams across central and southern regions will benefit tremendously from having this on hand expertise. By growing our own internal resources, we can leverage greater understanding of what our people and projects need to succeed in 2024 and beyond.”

Meet the Team

Category: Joinery

With a combined 154 years of service at Stepnell, our in-house joinery team are an absolute asset to the business. Providing customers with bespoke joinery through time-served technical skill, attention to detail, creativity, and professionalism. 

All six members of the team served their apprenticeships with Stepnell and have remained valued colleagues within the business ever since. Striving for excellence in every project they undertake the teams hallmark is craftsmanship and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.

Here we put the spotlight on the team members and their process for delivering high quality joinery solutions.

Lee Grant has been with the business for 40 years and heads up the team as Joinery Shop Manager.

Lee and has overall responsibility for delivering an excellent customer service, ensuring deadlines are met and work is produced efficiently by the team. Lee ensures communication is clear between the customer, suppliers and team, which is essential for understanding and effectively articulating requirements.

Responsible for the tendering of new projects and design of bespoke joinery pieces, Lee contributes creative ideas and solutions, he is resourceful and adaptable in his approach with a good eye for design, proportion, and aesthetics.

With a depth of knowledge of materials, different types of wood, their properties, and how they behave under different conditions, Lee specifies and orders materials for projects.

Lee ensures quality control measures are in place throughout the entire process and that all work is delivered to an excellent standard.

Lee’s interests include following Leeds United with his sons and playing his collection of old vinyl. His perfect day would be a long walk in the countryside with his partner, Amanda. Getting home and cooking a roast dinner for the family and washing it down with a bottle of red.

Ben Roberts is the Joinery Shop Foreman, with 20 years’ experience at Stepnell.

As well as the production of bespoke joinery pieces, including reception desks, bars, stairs and windows, Ben undertakes Foreman duties such as assisting with workload management, quality control, supporting team members with their work and ordering of materials.

Ben enjoys the challenge of complicated and tricky projects that take time to work out the best solutions for and produce, he finds it rewarding when it all starts to come together and seeing the finished product fitted on site makes the hard work all worthwhile.

Outside of work Ben used to play rugby and now coaches his boy’s rugby teams.

Paul Blencowe has served 34 years at Stepnell, alongside the production of joinery pieces he has varied roles in the workshop including a forklift driver.

Paul helps to keep the workshop running smoothly, unloading deliveries and safely storing materials. He has assisted many apprentices, helping them to settle in and learn the ropes.

A keen follower of sports such as football, cricket and horse racing, Paul is the key organiser of the workshop sweepstakes over the years.

Mark Skidmore has 43 years’ service at Stepnell, he is one of our leading joiners whose eye for detail is second to none. Mark is a time-served joiner who combines technical skill with creativity and design sense in the pieces he produces. Joinery projects can vary widely in scope and requirements, Mark is flexible and adaptable and able to tackle different types of projects with ease.

Marks interests outside of work include poetry, philosophy, wildlife photography and fishing.

Gary Painter is a Senior Joiner with 16 years’ service at Stepnell.

Gary undertakes the role of CAD technician, he takes the sketches from Lee and the architects and works them into technical CAD drawings that are then used by the team in the accurate creation of each piece. Gary also undertakes the roles of machine repair & maintenance, and forklift driver.

Gary is proud to have purchased his home and achieving everything he has set his mind to. He enjoys keeping fit, going to the gym most days and being healthy, physically and mentally. The best advice he has been given is to always listen before forming opinions on anything, as we are not always right.

Harvey Heise is our newest member and is currently serving his apprenticeship.

Alongside producing high quality joinery he ensures the workshop is kept clean and organised.

Harvey is looking forward to being as qualified and skilled as his colleagues, he enjoys the diversity of his work and is proud of the set of stairs he has manufactured that are installed in the woodshed at the workshop. Outside of work he likes gaming, running and sleeping.

Visit our Joinery page to find out more about the services and products available.