Author: Louise Bilbie

North West office opening

Category: Construction

Stepnell has announced the opening of its new office in Liverpool, marking a significant step in the company’s expansion into the North West.

Building on its extensive experience delivering projects across the East and West Midlands as well as South of England, Stepnell is well positioned to serve a broader range of clients across the UK through a growing regional presence.

The new office, located on the Albert Docks, will allow Stepnell to provide dedicated support to projects in the North West, focusing on sectors which include education, healthcare, and commercial. The Liverpool office will serve as a hub for building strong relationships with local supply chains, with particular emphasis on developing framework opportunities.

Tom Sewell, director at Stepnell, said:
“The North West is a region full of potential and growth and our new Liverpool office puts us right at the heart of this opportunity, enabling us to work closely with local businesses, strengthen our partnerships, and further diversify our project portfolio.
By establishing this office, we can build on our existing frameworks, be agile in responding to client needs, and add significant value to the communities we work in, with particular emphasis on opportunities in the public sector, from healthcare to higher education.”

Stepnell is committed to integrating itself within the local economy, using its established public sector frameworks to enhance business diversity and strengthen its supply chain. With a strong reputation in public sector work and a focus on delivering projects that align with modern sustainability and social value goals, the company aims to meet the increasing demand for flexible and innovative construction services.

This move is part of Stepnell’s wider strategic vision to leverage its multi-regional model and bring the same high standards of service and delivery to Liverpool and the surrounding region.

Stepnell is poised to become a key player in supporting the North West’s development and progression, starting with the recent appointment of Peter Commins as non executive director from Kier, who has extensive knowledge of the North West market, and the latest appointment of Louise Morris as business development manager, formerly of SCAPE.

Louise Morris said:
“It is an exciting time to be joining Stepnell as it expands into the North West region. I look forward to applying my experience to support the company’s ambitious growth here, focusing on opportunities that align with our clients’ needs, developing strong relationships, and further broadening our project portfolio.”

Pictured from left to right: Tom Wakeford, Managing Director; Louise Morris, Business Development Manager; Liam King, Regional Manager; Tom Sewell, Regional Director; Richard Varney, Commercial Manager; Christian White, Senior Pre Construction Manager & SCAPE Framework Manager.

Work set to begin on Staveley market

Category: Public Realm

A multi-million pound regeneration project is set to begin in Staveley in November.

Chesterfield Borough Council’s Staveley 21 project, funded through the Staveley Town Deal, includes the construction of a new landmark building in the town centre, improvements to the market square and rejuvenation of the high street. Together the works will help support local businesses by creating a more attractive, welcoming and safe town centre for everyone to enjoy.

A drop-in session was held in Staveley market square from 1pm to 3pm on Wednesday 23rd October where local residents and business owners can come and find out more about the plans and the programme for construction.

Councillor Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said:
“This project will transform Staveley town centre and encourage more people to visit to support both existing retailers and market traders. The project will help expand the town centre offer, creating new opportunities for events and social spaces we want to boost visitor numbers and provide the space for local businesses to thrive.

We’ve been speaking with local businesses and hosting drop-in sessions throughout the design process to ensure the plans are right and at this next drop-in session you’ll be able to speak with the contractor who is delivering the project and find out more about the programme.

We’re trying to minimise the disruption caused in the town centre to ensure that businesses can continue to trade and will be ready to benefit from the improvements once work is complete.

This is a really exciting project for Staveley and will help ensure that the town can thrive for generations to come.”

Stepnell who have been working to complete the town centre designs have been appointed to lead construction on the Staveley 21 project.

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said:
“Staveley 21 will be incredibly transformative for the town centre and as a complete construction partner with vast experience enhancing public spaces, we recognise the importance of close collaboration with local authorities, partners and future users to exceed on these expectations.

Early engagement with the local community is vital to ensuring the landmark building, market and high street can maximise their impact and we have made great progress since our appointment. Social value can be just as transformative to the community as the build itself, and the Staveley Town Deal will encompass this approach as we look to commence works.”

Works in November will begin with the removal of the disused toilet block on the market square.

In its place a new landmark building will be built that will form a new focal point for the town centre. Once completed the building will house Derbyshire County Council’s Staveley Library on the ground floor and the upstairs will provide space for new businesses.

Staveley 21 also includes the transformation of the marketplace to create an enlarged public space to support existing uses such as Staveley Town Council’s regular markets but also as a setting that can be used to host a wide range of new events to encourage more people to visit the town centre.

Proposals include new tiered outdoor seating to support outdoor theatre and performances, and natural play equipment to help make the marketplace more attractive to families.

Designs for the play equipment have been developed in collaboration with pupils from Staveley Junior School, who visited the site with Stepnell and took part in a workshop to discuss what kind of equipment they would like to see installed.

New paving, lighting, street furniture and planting will help create an enhanced atmosphere and visitor experience at any time of day or night whilst new signage will help connect the town centre with Staveley’s other visitor attractions including the Chesterfield Canal and Staveley Hall.

There is also a shop front improvement grant scheme for businesses based in the town centre. Up to 80% of the costs of shop front improvements like new signage, windows, canopies, and much more can be funded through the scheme.

Through the Animate Chesterfield public art project, Coralie Turpin has been appointed to work with the community and develop a new piece of artwork that will celebrate Staveley’s heritage and develop designs that can be incorporated into the new paving.

Coralie Turpin said:
“I am looking forward to working with the people of Staveley, we’re planning some fun activities reflecting the local canal heritage and nature to generate ideas for the design. I’m excited to create a great piece of public art for the new marketplace that is friendly and interactive.”

Around £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.

Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:
“I’m pleased that work will be starting soon on Staveley 21, this is a key project in the Town Deal programme and will make a real impact on the ability of the town centre to attract additional visitors to support local businesses and explore the Staveley area. I look forward to seeing the plans come to life over the next year.”

Working with Whittam Cox, Rodgers Leask, Ares Landscapes, Chesterfield Champions

Responsible Business Award Winners!

Category: Social Value

We are proud to announce that we have won the Responsible Business category at the prestigious East Midlands Bricks Awards, at the iconic Trent Bridge Cricket Ground in Nottingham. The award recognises our dedication to responsible practices and commitment to sustainable development in the region’s property and construction industry.

Hosted by Business Link Magazine, the annual East Midlands Bricks Awards celebrates the achievements of companies, teams, and individuals shaping the region’s built environment. The event gathered the brightest minds and leaders from across the property and construction sector, providing an opportunity for attendees to network and celebrate the contributions of those driving change in the East Midlands.

The highlight of the evening was the keynote speech delivered by Paul Southby, chair of Nottingham Partners and board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. As an influential figure in the local business community, Southby’s speech inspired attendees with insights into the future of the region and the importance of responsible development.

Our recognition in the Responsible Business category is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices. We are proud to contribute to the region’s growth while ensuring our projects make a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.

The evening was not just about celebrating accomplishments, but also about connecting with peers over nibbles and complimentary drinks in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere.

We look forward to continuing our mission of driving responsible growth in the East Midlands and contributing to a brighter, more sustainable future for the region.

Solar refurbishment surpasses energy saving predictions

Category: Leisure

One year following the installation of more than 800 new photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof of Aylestone Leisure Centre, Leicester City Council is reaping the benefits of saving 55 tonnes of CO2 annually through its continued investment into low carbon, energy efficient improvements to council buildings.

Delivered by Stepnell and its energy group Step Energy, the 347kWp system has generated 285MWh over the past 12 months, surpassing its 250.8 MWh predictions. Its CO2 savings were also 12% greater than forecasted, with the savings equating to planting 1,232 trees.

The project involved the replacement of the leaky 3,600m2 roof at the leisure centre with the installation of a new 1,800m2 array of photovoltaic panels. The 828 PV panels were mounted in a south facing ballasted array with five 50KW Inverters, with new insulation fitted to reduce heat loss.

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said:

“The bespoke approach to renewable installation through Step Energy has enabled Aylestone Leisure Centre to maximise its renewable output and carbon savings.

One year on its clear to see the savings benefits this has had and the value that such transformations can bring to public sector provision with local authorities. It is providing a substantial return on investment for the leisure centre and Leicester City Council and we anticipate growing demand for our Step Energy services as a result.”

The work was supported by circa £500,000 from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), forming part of Leicester City Council’s successful bid for more than £4 million of match-funding to support a range of projects that aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Procured through the Crown Commercial Services Construction Framework, the roof refurbishment has enabled the leisure centre to self-generate a large percentage of its energy requirements, reducing demand on the local electricity network and saving energy costs.

Based on the generation to date, cost savings are predicted to be circa £74,000, 114% of estimates, with the initial cost of installing the solar panels expected to be recouped through savings on electricity bills in approximately four years. 

Assistant city mayor Cllr Geoff Whittle, who leads on environment and transport, said:  

“The investment to improve the energy efficiency of Aylestone Leisure Centre with a huge solar array is an excellent example of the benefits of decarbonising our buildings.

By investing in ambitious energy efficiency measures – like the 800 panel array at his centre – we can cut our carbon emissions and make significant savings to running costs. These first-year figures are very encouraging.”

Derbyshire school upgrades

Category: Construction

Concertus and Stepnell partner on major Derbyshire school upgrades to enhance inclusive learning environments

Concertus Design & Property Consultants and Stepnell are collaborating on three transformative projects for Derbyshire County Council. The projects aim to enhance learning environments for students of all abilities in Derbyshire. The projects commissioned by Derbyshire County Council will significantly upgrade Tibshelf Community School, Swanwick Primary School, and Harpur Hill School.

With work progressing well at each site, we recently celebrated with a groundbreaking event at Harpur Hill (pictured).

Tibshelf Community School, Alfreton

A new, detached four-classroom block is being constructed at Tibshelf Community School specifically for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). This expansion supports the school’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that SEN children remain integrated within the mainstream setting. The project will allow SEN students to continue their education alongside their peers, promoting social inclusion and preventing isolation. Each new classroom will accommodate up to 30 students, offering a spacious, well-equipped environment where SEN pupils can thrive.

Swanwick Primary School, Alfreton

Swanwick Primary School is undergoing an innovative infill extension to its existing building. The development will introduce two versatile group rooms, separated by a sliding wall that can be adjusted to create a larger, adaptable space. In addition to the infill extension, internal alterations to the school layout are underway, including installing new fire doors and a single-storey mid-extension to add two more group spaces. The project also includes a comprehensive range of M&E and external works, such as new steps, balustrades, ramps, landscaping, and external lighting, enhancing accessibility and safety.

Harpur Hill School, Buxton

The project at Harpur Hill School will deliver much-needed KS2 accommodation, featuring two individual classrooms and a dedicated dance and activity studio connected by a central lobby. The plans include additional facilities such as a group room, unisex pupil toilets, an accessible toilet, a cleaner’s store, a plant room, and a storage room. A covered canopy entrance on the east elevation will link to the staff parking area, seamlessly connecting the new space with the existing modular teaching block.

Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Alex Dale said:
“We’re pleased that these three schemes are underway. Each one will make a big difference to the children and staff at the schools. We’re determined that every child should have the best start in life, and once finished these improvements will make a positive contribution to the education and care offered at these schools.”

Concertus Design & Property Consultants Operations Director Tom Marshall said:
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Derbyshire County Council and Stepnell on these three important projects. Each will bring immense benefits to the students and staff at the schools. These improvements will create a positive and nurturing educational environments for all, and we look forward to seeing everyone benefit from new facilities.”

Stepnell Regional Director Tom Sewell said:
“We have a focus on delivering effective and functional education projects and by extending our partnership with Concertus and Derbyshire County Council through multiple projects, we will be able to show the value of a complete construction partner in delivering optimal and top-quality build results and facilities. This is a major milestone for revitalising the education offering in Derbyshire and we look forward to bringing these builds to fruition.”

These projects reflect a shared commitment by Derbyshire County Council, Concertus and Stepnell to create inspiring, inclusive, and functional educational spaces that cater to the diverse needs of students and staff. The developments at Tibshelf Community School, Swanwick Primary School, and Harpur Hill School will provide students with updated learning environments that encourage growth, creativity, and collaboration.

Fascinating archaeological discoveries

Category: Construction

Archaeology work at Stodman Street, Newark has identified Medieval features including walls, wells, enclosure boundaries and pits, one of which contained a fully intact horse burial.  Other discoveries include roof tiles, pottery, metalwork, and animal bones. These are just some of the amazing finds discovered by archaeologists as part of the redevelopment at 32 Stodman Street.

For the past few weeks, the centre of Newark has been host to an exciting archaeological dig which is exploring the history of the town dating back to the Medieval Period. This excavation is a vital part of the redevelopment phase, as it’s a once in the lifetime opportunity to look at the history underneath a key area in Newark to ensure nothing is missed before building work commences.

A specialist team from Contour Archaeology Ltd are currently completing the excavation and are developing an understanding of the historical events that occurred on the site, and its place within the history of Newark.

This work is part of ambitious plans to transform the former M&S building on Stodman Street in Newark bringing back into use and life this impressive and important building.  

Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “It’s exciting to see what unearthed discoveries might be found right in the heart of the town. Newark is rich in history so it’s important we use this time to find out more about the town and to see what we can find.  

Louise Casey-Simpson, Chair of the Newark Towns Fund, said: 
“Without the Council’s intervention, these findings wouldn’t have come to light so we are delighted to be part of this historic moment. The work on the project will pause while we fully explore the grounds and seeking advice from archaeologists before continuing with any work. It’s always fascinating to see what digs like this can tell us about our history and it’s important we undertake this process so we don’t miss the opportunity to see what certain discoveries can tell us about Newark. We’re excited about the 32 Stodman Street project and everyone wants a town centre that is thriving where living, working, shopping, leisure and enjoyment can all merge together.

This is an opportunity to transform a large empty building into something that will be hugely beneficial to the health of our high street in the future. Across the country retail in towns and cities is in decline which is why we’ve put this project together to inject new life in the area with the aim to make the heart of Newark a great place to live and shop.

There are many other projects running alongside the development including Newark Heart which has already brought people to the town centre through creating exciting events and programmes and the Stodman Street work is an extra step in encouraging more to visit, stay longer and take advantage of the activities and hospitality on offer.”

Neil Jefferson at Contour Archaeology Ltd said: 
“The discoveries that are being found daily by our team of archaeologists on site are highlighting the use of this area of Newark during the Medieval Period. We have found lovely, green-glazed pottery likely to be part of large jug, which is specific to this period. We have also recovered many animal bones, such as boar’s tusks as well as cow and sheep bones which indicate the type of diet Medieval people of Newark had. Our most exciting find was the intact horse burial found unexpectedly at the bottom of a large pit.”

This Newark Town Board project in partnership with Newark and Sherwood District Council, has already finished the dismantling of the former M&S building which proved a complex process.

Construction specialists Stepnell have now completed the first phase of work, all that remains now is the front façade of the building which will be worked into the new design of the building.

Tom Sewell, Director at Stepnell, said: 
“Through these recent finds, it’s exciting to see this project already becoming a beating heart for the local area. The creation of a space consistently appealing to the community is a core value for our related work, and we continue to strive for enhanced community collaboration across our projects in the East Midlands.

“Working alongside the project partners, we’ll continue to ensure the site is fully explored, operating safely in coordination with the pause in development.”

The first phase of work is likely to take place until late summer 2024 with the construction taking place soon after. Completion is expected to be in 2026.

Outstanding Apprentice Award

Category: People

Big congratulations to Luke Walsh for winning the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year – Construction and Engineering at the NTU Apprenticeship Awards 2024. The awards recognise the outstanding achievements of both apprentices and their employers and were held in May at Nottingham Trent University.

Luke effortlessly combines his undergraduate studies in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management with being a key member of the Pre-construction Team. Since joining the business, Luke has developed tremendously within his role and has developed his interpersonal skills through asking questions, getting involved with the wider pre construction team and by listening and learning from his colleagues. Luke is a valued member of the team, contributes positively within the department, and actively takes the time to understand other key functions within the business.

Tom Sewell, Regional Director, Stepnell, said:
“Since joining the business, Luke has demonstrated a passion and professional approach in everything he does. He openly listens to advice and experience around him, and applies it within his role. Actively questioning things to assist his development is never an issue. Very quickly demonstrating a real skill for estimating while approaching everything in a skilled and methodical way, he has quickly gained confidence from the pre-construction team around him. 

He is able and willing to hold himself confidently in a meeting and get his point across clearly. Luke is already pricing projects for the business and has quickly run with the NEC projects and ethos behind them. A very capable individual who has a very bright future ahead of him. Luke is adding real value to the business and our clients.”

These awards recognise the outstanding achievements of both our apprentices and their employers. All awards are voted for by current NTU employer partners and studying apprentices, with nominations across 11 categories shortlisted by an independent panel of judges.

Sue Woollett, Social Value Manager, Stepnell Ltd:
“Luke has embraced social value as part of his role and understands it is integral to what we do. He participates enthusiastically in events, helps to promote our industry to young people, and is always willing to challenge himself and learn more.”

Read more about the awards and the winners here:
https://www.ntu.ac.uk/business-and-employers/apprenticeships/ntu-your-apprenticeship-partner/ntu-apprenticeship-awards-2024

Stepnell Work Insights Programme

Category: Frameworks

Our recent work insight programme welcomed students from five schools and colleges across the D2N2 area to our Nottingham office for four days of work experience. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with students enjoying the talks delivered by professionals from all areas of construction, engaging in associated activities, and having the opportunity to complete a group project which they presented to a panel of judges at the end of the week.

High quality careers education is anchored in a framework known as the Gatsby Benchmarks.

The eight benchmarks of Good Career Guidance are:

  1. A stable careers programme
  2. Learning from career and labour market information
  3. Addressing the needs of each pupil
  4. Linking curriculum learning to careers
  5. Encounters with employers and employees
  6. Experiences of workplaces
  7. Encounters with further and higher education
  8. Personal guidance

Gatsby Benchmark 6 states:
By the age of 16, every pupil should have had at least one experience of a workplace, in addition to any part-time jobs they may have.” Schools are increasingly challenged to help students find such experiences, even as people return to office settings. Our offering supports schools in achieving this goal and aims to broaden young people’s understanding of construction.

“What does construction mean to you?”

This was the initial question posed to our students, resulting in a word cloud highlighting key themes such as teamwork, building, architecture, and planning.

Throughout the week, we deepened their understanding of the approximately 300 careers available in our industry through presentations covering bid writing, social value, marketing, business development, construction management, design, sustainability, quantity surveying, estimating, and IT. Fay, our business development manager, guided them in essential networking skills, such as choosing which group to join at events, confidently shaking hands, and crafting elevator pitches.

Apprenticeships

Many students expressed a keen interest in learning about apprenticeships and discovered that people’s initial career choices often evolve into unexpected industries and roles.

P, Year 10
“I feel like a lot of the talks were eye-opening and provided me with loads of encouragement to keep trying to do what I enjoy, regardless of what others might say, because there are plenty of opportunities along the way.”

Throughout the week, they honed their teamwork, planning, and decision-making abilities while working on their group project. This culminated in presentations to a panel of judges comprising three Stepnell employees and a careers teacher. 

The work insight programme was a great way to introduce people to our industry and also for us to learn about them, with a view to them as potential employees. Our succession planning requires us to spot talent in order to ensure a future workforce, and work experience provides an excellent opportunity for an extended interview. 

Feedback

To find out how much they enjoyed the week and help us improve the experience for future participants, we asked the students for some feedback. 

What did you enjoy?

  • Group project
  • Talks from professionals
  • Activities

What could we improve?

  • More on-site or office experience
  • Space the talks and activities differently

Get in touch

Our work experience and insight opportunities are coordinated by our social value managers
Sue (East Midlands), Tash (Midlands) and Lindsay (South). If you would like to find out more, please email workexperience@stepnell.co.uk

Volunteering with Hurst Farm Regeneration Project

Category: Social Value

Stepnell volunteers recently undertook a unique construction challenge by assisting the Hurst Farm Regeneration Project in Matlock.

A team of Stepnell volunteers rebuild a drystone wall in Matlock, a unique construction challenge assisting the Hurst Farm Regeneration project.

On a mostly dry and sunny day, the volunteers worked alongside park ranger Amanda, an experienced drystone waller, to dismantle a broken drystone wall and rebuild its foundations. They received instructions on the wall’s components and appropriate tools, which they were able to use after a thorough health and safety briefing.

Additionally, the volunteers assisted in a local woodland, planting trees and removing invasive species such as sycamore and maples. They learned techniques for uprooting smaller plants and safely felling trees using the “step cut” and “80% front cut”. Aftercare manager Shaun was  particularly impressed with the inverted grass plug method of tree planting.

Hurst Farm, one of Derbyshire’s most deprived areas, hosts the Hurst Farm Regeneration Project, which aims to cultivate a thriving and vibrant community. The project includes social enterprises that offer locals opportunities to learn gardening, dry stone walling, woodland management, plus hospitality through initiatives like the Milk Churn Cafe. There is also the Farmer’s Larder, a farm shop which supplies locals with affordable fresh produce through a partnership with FareShare. 

After their efforts, the volunteers enjoyed a guided walk along part of the heritage trail, led by Louise, an apprentice ranger. They visited the Wishing Stone, and learned about plans to enhance views of Lumsdale Valley and proposals for planting native trees, plants, and wildflowers to boost biodiversity.

Stepnell offers all employees two volunteer days each year to support them to being proactive in activities that mutually benefit the individual, the company and the community. This opportunity was coordinated by Derbyshire Time Swap, a platform facilitating time exchanges between individuals and organisations to support community projects.

Lindsey Coombs, Time Swap Development Officer, High Peak & Derbyshire Dales said,
“The group of staff from Stepnell were enthusiastic, friendly and worked hard all day with smiles on their faces. It was an absolute joy to facilitate this exchange which made a big difference to a fantastic community project.”

All the volunteers said how much they had enjoyed getting out of the office and learning something new.

“The opportunity to get outdoors among nature is good for your physical and mental wellbeing and has given us an important insight to what these organisations are doing for their local communities. To be just a small part of this gives me a great sense of pride and achievement,”
Commented trainee quantity surveyor, Rachel.

Senior estimator David, was full of praise for the rangers at Hurst Farm.
“Amanda and Louise, our hosts extraordinaire, were not just fantastic, but loads of fun and overflowing with knowledge.”

The Stepnell volunteers are looking forward to returning later in the year, accompanied by more colleagues to make a bigger impact.

Staveley regeneration scheme moves ahead

Category: Construction

Plans for a landmark structure as part of a £6 million town centre improvement plan in Staveley, Derbyshire have been formally submitted.

The news means Staveley town centre is now a step closer to being revitalised under the Staveley 21 scheme, which will deliver a new marketplace, public realm, shops and connectivity with Chesterfield Canal.

Regional complete construction partner Stepnell, appointed through the Procure Partnerships Framework (PPF), has worked collaboratively with Chesterfield Borough Council and consultant partners, Whittam Cox, Rodgers Leask and Ares Landscapes, to progress the project’s plans and prepare it for the design and build stage.

The scheme forms part of a wider package of projects being delivered under the Staveley Town Deal, which saw it awarded £25.2m in March 2021 through the government’s Towns Fund deal.

If planning is approved, the new two-storey landmark pavilion building will sit between the Staveley Miners Welfare building and Staveley High Street, as a striking new focal point in the heart of the town centre.

Designed by local architects, Whittam Cox, the pavilion building aims to reflect Staveley’s heritage with a modern twist, opening up the view of the historic town from the marketplace. Several uses for the building are currently being considered, including as a potential site for a new library, retail and leisure amenities, and business start-ups.

Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said:
“Staveley 21 is our latest project on the Procure Partnerships Framework, through which we are showcasing our vast experience of collaborating with local authorities and partners to enhance public town centre spaces.

“We are a Champion of Chesterfield, and have previously delivered the Wellbeing Hub at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Trust. The same team is currently nearing completion on the refurbishment of the Bluebell Ward at the town’s Walton Hospital as part of the NHS’s Make Room for Dignity Programme to improve mental health provision for older patients.

“As a complete construction partner, we will deliver exceptional quality throughout all aspects of the design and build stages that will generate lasting value to the community of Staveley. By working alongside the needs of residents and businesses in the town, Staveley 21 will enhance the wider package of works as part of the Staveley Town Deal.”

Staveley 21 includes the transformation of the marketplace to create an enlarged public space to support existing uses, such as regular markets, and provide a new public space to host a wide range of outdoor events to encourage footfall to the town centre.

Proposals include tiered seating to support an outdoor theatre and open-air cinema screenings, as well as natural play equipment to help make the marketplace feel more attractive to families.

New paving, energy efficient lighting, street furniture and landscaping will help create an enhanced atmosphere and visitor experience at any time of day or night, while new signage will help connect the town centre with Staveley’s other visitor attractions, including Chesterfield Canal and Staveley Hall.

Ivan Fomin, chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said:
“The Staveley 21 project has the potential to be transformative for the town centre, ensuring that it is a place where local people and visitors will want to spend time whilst also supporting local businesses to grow not only now but in the future. Our aim through the town deal is ensuring that Staveley is a place where people can Start, Stay and Grow and the town centre reflects this with something to entice all ages to visit, support local businesses and to help them to grow.”

During the development of Staveley 21, Stepnell will work with local schools and colleges to increase employment opportunities, particularly for those facing barriers to employment, and engage with the town centre’s community stakeholders.

If the proposals are passed, works are expected to start summer 2024, with completion scheduled for July 2025.

Innovation in construction

Category: Education

Construction works recently started on a new forest school in Coalville, Leicestershire, for Harworth Group plc, a leading regenerator of land and property for sustainable development and investment, with support from North West Leicestershire District Council and Leicestershire County Council.

Designed by award-winning firm Lungfish Architects, the two-form entry school is scheduled to open in 2024, and is being constructed using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) rather than traditional methods.

Our teams paid the manufacturer, Innovaré Offsite, a visit to see how they will work. i-FAST SIPS panels have excellent insulation properties, reducing energy consumption and costs associated with heating and cooling.

i-FAST is a patented closed-panel framed wall system manufactured offsite with intrinsic fire, acoustic, structural, and thermal performance.

Advantages of this system:

  • The i-FAST panels are faced with A1 Non-combustible board and factory filled with A1 rated stone wool. The staggered stud arrangement reduces thermal bridging and acoustic transmission, while allowing protection of the stud in a fire scenario. This allows a unique proposal of a standalone panel system that exceeds 60 minutes’ fire resistance without reliance on additional lining boards.
  • The panels can be used to form the building structure or as infill. All components are recyclable, CE Marked or BBA Certified. The i-FAST system allows architects, specifiers and inspectors to be confident that the building will achieve a minimum level of performance and is fully supported by Innovaré’s in-house design, manufacturing and installation teams offering complete control over the project.
  • This construction method will accelerate the Forest School’s delivery and deliver ambitious building performance outcomes for the school, such as giving thermal values and airtightness significantly below DfE targets, helping to reduce energy demand and lower operational carbon.

Newark College student visits

Category: Construction

Newark College Electrical Installations Students Embark on an Exciting Enrichment Project to Transform Newark Town Centre

In a remarkable initiative, that combines education, hands-on experience, and community development, students from Newark College‘s Electrical Installation Study Programmes and Apprenticeships are shaping the future of Newark’s town centre.

The event led by Stepnell, with Newark and Sherwood District Council, allows the students to observe the project through the different stages of transforming the M&S foodhall on Stodman Street into a vibrant hub of residential homes and retail units. Beyond their initial site visit this week, the students will revisit the site for the demolition phase and continue to monitor the project until its successful completion.

Penny Taylor, MBE, Head of Newark Campuses, said: “We are delighted for our students to be involved in such a project; it reinforces our commitment to providing students with enriching experiences making them work-ready. The collaboration between educational institutions and local government and employers underscores the importance of nurturing the next generation of industry experts. As a college, we can’t replicate these experiences in the classroom – local employers enhance student experience, allowing them to visualise theory on a real project whilst actively investing in the betterment of the community.”

Under the expert guidance of professionals, students will have the unique opportunity to witness and contribute to the entire project life cycle. This enriching work experience with a local employer equips students with sector-specific knowledge for future employment within the industry.

Councillor Matthew Spoors, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Economic Development at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “This was a great opportunity where we could provide local students with a unique experience to support them in their learning by visiting a major construction project. We’re always looking for opportunities to work with partners and to find ways we can support them in the work that we do. The plan for the former M&S building will help transform the empty building into a thriving area where living, working and shopping come together. We’re excited to get this project underway, and our Officers enjoyed informing students on the challenges and work that goes into renovating such a unique site.”

Image credit: rg+p Ltd

During this week’s site tour, Stepnell Senior Pre-Construction Manager Christian White provided students with valuable insights into the various stages of the project, including the complexities of demolishing a site in a highly pedestrianised town centre, emphasising the need for a controlled process over a 20-week period. Students also gained an understanding of the diverse professionals involved in such a large-scale project, including the coordination with the National Grid to ensure the absence of live cables during the demolition phase and the involvement of archaeologists to assess the need for an archaeological dig to preserve any artifacts – teaching students the importance of liaising with the different trades to ensure safety and efficiency throughout the project.

Christian said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to meet with the electrical installation students from Newark College for their first site visit to this multifaceted and significant development in the town centre. This project showcases the variety and complexity of works that electrical installers may expect to undertake with similar high street projects. We’re looking forward to continuing to engage with the students as the works progress. This education initiative adds to our social value plans during the project, including carbon reduction initiatives, employability programmes and targeted regional spending. These are all integral to generating the added value that we pride ourselves on delivering as a complete construction partner.”

Following their visit students had an engaging and innovative session with Stepnell on the importance of employer encounters. Students learned how they can enhance their CVs, key interview skills and ideal attributes of candidates. Reinforcing our employer-led commitment as a college to deliver an enriching curriculum.

Jake Wood, Level 3 Electrical Installations Apprentice at Newark College, said: “We are doing design at the moment in college which I’m really enjoying. Being on site, we got to see design plans for the new building. It’s good to understand the layout from the start and end of the project.”

The Stodman Street project was procured through the Procure Partnership Framework, these activities form part of our KPI commitments to delivering social value within the local communities of our framework schemes.

More information regarding the scheme please visit:

Work underway on major project in Newark Town Centre

For more information on the Newark College Electrical Installations provision, please head to: https://shorturl.at/gtvB7