The O’Brien Approach – why we’re involved right from the start

With multiple moving parts and parties working together, being involved with projects right from the start helps to keep contractors and clients on the same page. At O’Brien Contractors, we aim to follow an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) strategy with clients wherever possible, demonstrating our commitment to our projects and strengthening relationships. 

As an experienced Principal Contractor, it’s our priority to be fully immersed into all aspects of the project – whether it’s embedding ourselves into the design and planning stages or signing off at practical completion. With a strong reputation spanning over 65 years, our ECI approach has been born out of in-depth knowledge and a passion for our industry, helping us build long lasting client relationships and repeat business.  

Cross-collaboration 

Getting involved early in the project is a great way of improving cross-communication and reducing the chance of misunderstandings before they happen. By working with other key players, including architects and engineers, we’re able to review designs for any construction concerns or challenges, and provide practical insights into what is feasible – mitigating against costly oversights later down the line. With our on-the-job knowledge of material availability and construction methods, we’re able to contribute to the most practical and cost-effective build possible.  

Effective scheduling 

With over six decades of experience, we’re acutely aware of project timelines and what can go wrong on site. Using our knowledge of construction methodology, we’re able to support with effective site logistics, all helping to keep the project on track to a realistic schedule, with fewer disruptions. Keeping the project running in line with the schedule helps keep both the client and any subcontractors happy, making for a better working environment for all.   

Budget control 

Keeping a project running efficiently means costs are kept down and project managers are kept happy. Being involved from the start means we are able to suggest methods and materials that can reduce costs or improve performance without compromising on quality. By providing clients with a detailed project plan at the start of the project, we can increase cost assurance and reduce the likelihood of overspending.  

Sustainability and carbon savings 

One of the most important features of a successful construction project is waste reduction and carbon savings. With our early involvement, we can foresee where material reductions or repurposing can be made – both helping to keep costs down and mitigating against unnecessary waste. During the planning stages, we can advise strategies for optimising landscapes to bring additional green benefits to site, helping the project reach its environmental targets, and create a site that will be enjoyed by many for years to come.  

Success at Shugborough Estate 

Starting on site in 2024, we worked competitively to provide the client with a tender-winning value engineering package that encompassed both civil engineering and design and build projects.  

When asked to streamline civil engineering costs, we were able to create a submission comprised of alternative materials, methodology and processes that equated to approximately £2 million in savings for the client. Upon pricing the design package, we took the initiative to provide our own value engineering programme, which demonstrated possible savings within the build package: this included new prefabricated walling systems, new roof coverings, different substructures, alternative fixtures and fittings, and mechanical and electrical savings throughout.  

All of this provided the client with confidence that we were the right team for the job, with the knowledge to get the project out of the ground on time and on budget. We have since been awarded further works on site – reinforcing the importance of ECI when looking to build strong, valuable relationships with clients. 

We’ve seen success through ECI across a number of projects. Check out our work with Chesterfield Canal Trust or Network Rail for more insights into our value engineering and ECI approach in practice.  

Want to know more about how our Early Contractor Involvement approach can help streamline your project? Get in touch with us online or via email.  

May round up at O’Brien Contractors

Rugby wins and project completions… May had it all!

Check out our social media highlights from the past month below!


We’re onsite in Gloucester, cracking on with major infrastructure works to the A38 and surrounding roads. 🏗️

Providing vital modifications to one of Gloucester’s busiest A roads, our works include the resurfacing of the A38 and flyover, linking it to the B4008 and further south. Pedestrian access will be supported with new footpaths and lighting, with signage, road markings and signaling throughout.

We know that operating in a live construction environment prevents a unique set of challenges, so our team of experts will be working hard to ensure a safe and efficient environment through the duration of works.

Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eawQEffd

 


 

As a key part of our works package for Clowes Developments, we’re proud to mark the much-anticipated official opening of Fairham Way. A vital piece of infrastructure and a major milestone in the development of Nottingham’s newest neighbourhood.💫

This newly opened route will serve as the main road spanning 2km through the Fairham community, improving connectivity and supporting long-term growth.🛣️

The road forms part of our mixed-use project in Nottingham, which brings over 3,000 new homes, one million square feet of employment, green open spaces and so much more. 🏡

Delivered right on time, our team has the knowledge to get your project completed to the highest standard. Want to know more about our work at Fairham? Check out our case study for more about the ongoing project: https://lnkd.in/eEy8Hjdr

 


We’ve been keeping a keen eye on the progress of all our sponsorships throughout the sporting season, and as the rugby season comes to a close, a big congratulations is in order for Veseyans Rugby Club! 🏉

The Colts team have had an incredible run and have been crowned 2025 champions, while the First XV took home the North Mids Shield Plate 2025 title with a win over Worcester! 🏆💪

It’s been a pleasure to support such a dedicated and inspiring group. We’re proud to be part of their journey and can’t wait to see what the next season holds for them!

Well done Veseyans! 👏


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