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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Major infrastructure needed? O’Brien Contractors have it covered.

Spring is already looking busy at O’Brien Contractors. Building on over 65 years of civil engineering experience, we’re working to deliver critical new junction works in Hardwicke, Gloucestershire.

Now underway and due for completion in December 2025, the Section 278 infrastructure works include key modifications to the A38, B4008, and further south on the Cross Keys roundabout, all of which will ensure efficient traffic flows in and around Gloucestershire, and support the ongoing expansion of Hunts Grove housing development, seven kilometres from the city centre.

Due for delivery later this year, our in-depth knowledge of live construction sites will be critical in managing contract works on a busy A road. The scope of works includes earthworks, and includes the re-forming of a slipped embankment, utility diversions, planing and resurfacing carriageways, drainage, new services, traffic signals, streetlighting, and the installation of new cycle safe parapets to the flyover.

For pedestrian access, new footpaths will be added to the A38 northbound and the flyover – all supported with streetlighting for safe access, and green landscaping to boost local biodiversity and create a more attractive environment.

As part of the project phasing, we’ve planned for the majority of works to be carried out offline, helping to reduce the duration and impact of live roadworks and minimise disruption to traffic and residents. Tom O’Brien, Director at O’Brien Contractors, said: “The A38 infrastructure works are an important step in easing congestion for local residents in and around Hunts Grove, and we’re really pleased to have secured this project.

“Live roadworks always present a unique set of challenges, it’s completely different from operating on a closed construction site away from the public. However, our team is experienced in delivering complex schemes efficiently and safely.

“We look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure the project is completed on time, on budget, and with safety at the forefront.”

Our works on the A38 are just one example of the major changes we’ve delivered across the Midlands. Check out more of our civil engineering capability here, or get in touch to discuss your next project.

April round up at O’Brien Contractors

Between Easter celebrations, netwalking events, and lots of company news, April has been jam-packed.

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


“Anything that streamlines timelines and costs is going to be a benefit to all involved.”

Last month, a new proposed shift in planning and infrastructure legislation promised positive reform for the construction industry.

Our own Lance GUDGER has been speaking to Building Magazine, sharing his thoughts on the proposed Bill and exploring the benefits for contractors across the country.

Read more here.


Egg-stra special deliveries this easter🐰🍫

The O’Brien team have been busy bringing smiles to The Community Pantry this Easter supporting Feed The Hungry UK!💛

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our team, we were able to donate a egg-cellent collection of Easter eggs to support our local charity in Cubbington. 🍫✨ (…too far with the egg puns?😆)

It’s small acts of kindness like these that make a big difference to local communities. Wishing everyone a joyful and chocolate-filled Easter Bank Holiday hopefully in the sunshine! 🌞 🌷


Delivering first-class results for clients across the Midlands 👷

Following the success of Copart Corby phase one, we’re eager to get onsite and underway on phase two.

The 22-week project is set to deliver a four-bay vehicle preparation building, an external wash area, and a 4,000m² concrete yard for vehicle storage and drainage. Together our works will deliver a safer, more efficient, and more environmentally-friendly working environment for all Copart staff.

Looking for the right contractor for your next construction project? Get in touch!


Last week our team had a fantastic time at the BfB Luau Party, Net-Walking their way across sunny Birmingham, proudly representing O’Brien Contractors and supporting Prostate Cancer UK alongside the “Business for Birmingham” networking organisation for their Spring ’25 Net-Walking event! 🏗️🌴

It was a brilliant day of fundraising that brought Birmingham’s construction community together, packed with quizzes, a healthy dose of competitiveness, and even a bit of collaboration by the end (nothing bonds like sharing answers at pub number 10!)😆

An incredible £6k was raised for an important cause! A huge thank you to Gary Church who did a brilliant job of organising, and everyone who supported, and showed up in full tropical flair, Birmingham truly became a colourful slice of Hawaii! 🌴🌺🍍

 


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March round up at O’Brien Contractors

Award sponsorships, excellent scores and thoughts on tackling technophobia… another busy month comes to an end!

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


We’re the proud sponsors of the Property Leader award at TheBusinessDesk.com Leadership Awards 2025!

We’re thrilled to be working with The Business Desk to award this fantastic accolade to a true sector leader at tonight’s ceremony.

With so many exciting developments happening across the West Midlands, we’re sure there are going to be plenty of worthy entries.

Good luck to everyone!


✨ A few snapshots from a fun-filled evening at the Midlands Leadership Awards! ✨

What a night! From inspiring stories to well-deserved wins, we had an amazing time celebrating the incredible leaders who are making a real difference in the Midlands. 👏🏼

A special shoutout to our very own Tony Mitchell, who took the stage to present an award 🎉

Huge congratulations to all the winners and nominees. Here’s to more success, innovation, and of course, nights like these! 💫


The scores are in!🏆

The Considerate Constructors Scheme is helping to raise the standard of of the industry and its impact on local communities, the environment and our own workforce.

We’re pleased to share that our enabling works project at the University of Warwick has been marked ‘Excellent’ across all areas, with a special mention to our code of compliance and engagement with the University and it’s local supply chain members.🤝

Click here to read more about our works at this site:

https://lnkd.in/eXx46cNm


How can we tackle technophobia in an aging construction industry?

With the increasing influence of tech-savvy Gen Z workers in the sector, who embrace technology for convivence and efficiency, the benefits of full industry modernisation led by the younger generation are endless.

Speaking to BIM+ our director Tony Mitchell discusses the significance of training and adoption of emerging technologies so the whole workforce can excel ensuring smarter, safer, and more sustainable projects are achieved.

Click here to read the full article: https://lnkd.in/eRS5Ktbn

 


We’re already 4 months into our National Trust, Shugborough estate reorientation project… let’s check in!👀

The 57-week project, due to complete in December 2025, is part of a major development programme to cultivate and promote the site’s natural landscape and highlight it’s unique history.

We are honoured to have the opportunity to enhance access to such an important part of Staffordshire’s heritage and create a space that will cater for a wide range of needs for the local community for years to come!

Read our update on the project here: https://lnkd.in/d8uf_yfp

 


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Tackling technophobia in an aging construction industry

As in all industries, people are the most valuable assets to any company and new technologies, both in the office and on site, are streamlining tasks for many workers. However, for technology to work efficiently, ensuring employees are trained and confident with all operating processes is critically important. But, as many of us in the sector know, our industry has been notoriously slow to adopt a digitalised workforce. 

We know that automation will lead the future of the construction industry and with the rapid advancement of AI, robotics and advanced software such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), seamless integration is essential. We have seen particular success in our investment in drones. Not only are they assisting our land surveying team, but we are able to achieve more accurate surveys and create realistic earthworks models, which help advance us both pre and post tender.  

Our innovative approach to adopting the right tech means we have also invested heavily in GPS and 3D modelling for our excavator fleet: keeping our team ahead of the game and highlighting our commitment to embracing the new available technology. But this is only the beginning.  

There are already numerous examples of autonomous technology being used in all elements of construction. From driverless vehicles, drone equipment and robotic machines, modern technology is simultaneously increasing efficiency whilst also improving the safety of those onsite.   

To bridge the gap between existing industry professionals and those just starting out in their careers, firms need to ensure that their company is embracing innovation to keep their workforce as efficient and competitive as possible. But this is not always an easy task. Some teams may be more resistant to change, and whilst that is understandable, there are ways to approach it.  

Be aware of your team’s resistance to change and have patience – not everybody learns at the same pace. Start small with your changes and be sure to provide plenty of support to those that need it. Whilst embedding new processes into a workforce, make sure there’s a clear channel of communication, and that employees feel comfortable coming to you with their concerns. Building a culture of trust will make these changes more accessible for everyone.  

Although there is certainly a time and cost impact to integrating new practices into a business, for those looking to be ahead of the competition, you’ve got to lead the way with technology. However, to fully unlock the benefits of emerging technologies, tackling internal resistance must be at the forefront of every firm’s change initiative. 

Want to find out how our tech-focused approach to construction can help get your project out of the ground? Get in touch with us online or email 

February round up at O’Brien Contractors


Time to Talk, home-baked treats and a trip to the SAPCA exhibition, February was a busy one at O’Brien Contractors.

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


Time to Talk Day is the nation’s biggest mental health conversation. 💬 It’s a day for friends, families, communities and workplaces to come together to talk, listen and change lives.

Construction workers are 3.7 times more likely to commit suicide than any other industry so it’s extremely important for our industry to take the time to talk.

At O’Brien Contractors, we strive to create an environment for everyone to feel comfortable talking about their mental health. We know opening up is important, but it can be difficult to take that first step.

This afternoon, we’re taking the time to talk over some cake and coffee! 🍰☕

If you, or anyone you know is struggling, here are a few support systems that can help:

matesinmind.org 🧠
thelighthouseclub.org 👷‍♂️
samaritans.org 🫂
mind.org.uk 🗣️

Take time to talk today.


This afternoon, our Time to Talk cake and coffee hour was a hit, with scones topped with cream and jam and some delicious homemade cakes🧁

The main topic of conversation? A very competitive debate …
You guessed it: Jam first, then cream or cream first, then jam?

After some spirited discussions around the table, we discovered that the “Buckingham Palace” method is to put the jam first, then the cream. So, we guess that must be the rule, right? 😆

Everyone took the time to take a break from their busy day to connect with each other and discuss things other than work. It was a fun and light-hearted way to bring everyone together, and we’re proud to keep the conversation going as part of Time to Talk Day!💬


‘Get yourself out there, gain experience and make yourself known in the industry.’

We’re proud to support 6 apprentices as they lay the foundations for a career in construction.👷‍♂️

During National Apprenticeship Week we spoke to one of our trainee site engineers, Brandon, and asked him why he chose an apprenticeship in construction.

Swipe to find out what he said!➡️


Last week, our very own Andrew Foster and Anthony Watson, along with five other brave adventurers, kicked off their preparations for the Arctic Challenge this March with a Podcast!❄️🎙️They’ll be trekking and dog sledging 180km across the icy Arctic Circle to raise funds for their individual incredible causes.

Tune into the Building Brum Podcast with host Conor Nolan, to hear why each participant is taking on this 7-day journey, the charities they’re supporting, and the personal challenges they’re preparing to face. From battling freezing temperatures as low as -20°C 🥶 to overcoming fears and tough obstacles, they’re pushing their limits for something meaningful.

With no electricity, no running water, and a whole lot of grit 💪, these Arctic Trekkers are embracing the extreme because the cause is worth it! If you would like to support the brave bunch heading off to the Arctic, please donate using the link below. The team is so close to reaching their £40,000 target, and every contribution counts as we enter the final 23-day countdown to their flight! ⏳

https://lnkd.in/e_GFMeeT

🎧 Listen now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts:
Spotify: https://lnkd.in/earw_vbW
Apple: https://lnkd.in/dt9WY9j


So as you’ve heard …The countdown is on to our first O’Brien Charitable Trust fundraiser of the year!

And this time, we’re going cold…🥶

That’s right, we’re heading on an Arctic expedition, travelling across Finland with nothing but snow dogs and each other to get us through the extreme cold conditions! 🐕‍🦺💭

A huge well done to Andrew Foster & Anthony Watson and everyone taking part for their training and preparation so far, and an even bigger thank you to all of our kind sponsors!❄️

GW Consulting Engineers Ltd | Naismiths | Edge Careers | STARDOM LIMITED | Howden | Link Engineering | HOLEMASTERS DEMTECH LTD | Edmond Shipway | Crispin Recruitment Ltd | ONE Creative environments (ONE)

Any more donations as we count down to the challenge would be greatly appreciated! Every contribution helps us get closer to our goal. You can donate easily using the JustGiving link below:

https://lnkd.in/e_GFMeeT


 

 

 

Our team is thrilled to be attending the SAPCA Annual Conference & Awards this Thursday at Emirates Old Trafford! 🎉 It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the incredible work being done in the sports and play construction industry. 🏗️🥅

We’re excited to connect with industry professionals, gain insights from thought provoking talks by key figures in the sports sector, and celebrate the innovation happening in the sports and play construction world. 👏⚽

If anyone is attending and would like to chat about how O’Brien can assist with your next sports pitch project, come and find us to see what we do best! See you there!

 

 


🚀 SAPCA Success at The Emirates Old Trafford! 🏟️
What a fantastic experience at the SAPCA Conference and Awards! Our team had a great time connecting with industry leaders, sharing insights, and exploring exciting collaborations that will drive our industry forward.
From thought-provoking discussions on future trends to celebrating the incredible projects shaping sports and play facilities, the event was truly inspiring. A huge congratulations to all the winners! 🎉
We’re proud to be part of SAPCA, an association that champions excellence and innovation in sports and play construction. Here’s to a bright future and continued success for all SAPCA members! 🦺✨

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Preserving history at Shugborough, National Trust

Prioritising sustainability and preserving history at Shugborough 

Shugborough Estate, a historic National Trust property in Staffordshire, is undergoing a major development programme to cultivate and promote the site’s natural landscape and highlight its unique past. 

On track for transformation 

As part of the 57-week project, which kicked off in November 2024, we were instructed to deliver a series of reorientation works which would transform the site’s accessibility. This includes an additional car park, bridge, woodland paths, visitor centre and facilities.  

We are also adding a new entrance and access road from the A513, a new exit road which includes a new bridge over the existing Sher Brook, and new pathways across the site. The works will improve access to the site, allowing visitors to easily enter and leave the historic estate through the woodland areas. 

Our construction works are prioritising eco-friendly practices and sustainability, echoing the National Trust’s shared values, of driving sustainability and supporting local communities. For example, we’re using straw bales, UK-felled timber, lime, clay and other porous materials for buildings and tapping into solar energy with panels and lighting bollards to enable safe navigation for visitors during all hours of the day.  

To maintain the integrity of Shugborough’s local flora, all plants are quarantined before being brought to site. By adopting a nature-first approach, we’re preserving the site’s woodlands and gardens for a future generation of visitors. 

We have decades of experience combining excellence and practicality and are working closely with the National Trust team to create visually appealing spaces that can be enjoyed by the local community and visitors. In order to incorporate Staffordshire’s rich nature into the design, we will be building the new visitor centre around an ancient oak tree. 

The right touch to improve accessibility  

Improving access is a crucial part of this project and one of the estate’s key commitments, which makes this an exceptionally rewarding project for our specialist in-house team. From design to implementation, our expert team are experienced in providing the right touch to create accessible, dynamic spaces that meet a variety of needs.  

Through collaborating with the National Trust team, our aim is to create a space that will serve a wide range of needs for visitors, the local community, and nature for years to come. 

Find out more about how we transform sites when delivering civil engineering projects across the country. 

Prioritising sustainability, innovation and workforce skills to achieve success in 2025

2025 marks a pivotal year for construction to advance towards net zero goals, increase innovation, and boost efficiency. However, to step towards a more streamlined, and resilient future, key strategies including keeping sustainability at the forefront of the industry, implementing new technologies and project management tools and upskilling the workforce, must be prioritised. 

Breaking new boundaries in 2025 will depend on the industry keeping sustainable policies and practices at the top of the agenda. To achieve progress, firms need to implement the core principles of the circular economy: reusing, recycling, or repurposing materials and components. Embracing this approach will minimise the need for new resources, reduce landfill waste, conserve resources and cut costs. 

Increased innovation is also essential to see growth in 2025. According to recent research of over 1,000 technology decision makers in construction, 87 per cent of firms invest in new technologies to address their key business challenges. However, new technologies present a concern for the industry due to the range of different systems and file formats working together to output information.  

Since it’s becoming difficult to understand and absorb data in a way that is tangible and useful, a Common Data Environment (CDE), a centralised system for managing all project documentation and data, should be utilised as a viable solution to improve productivity and profitability. A CDE will make it easier for supply chain participants to access information, lower the cost of storing and retrieving documents, and ensure accurate decision-making. 

Firms should also focus on upskilling their workforce in 2025. To bridge the skills gap and guarantee the construction industry’s sustained prosperity, it is critical to promote construction careers to the younger generations and invest in training such as apprenticeships, both on site and in office roles. 

During times of rapid change, including implementing new automated solutions, adjusting to new regulations, and developing green construction, construction businesses need to take a more proactive approach to upskilling trades and attracting fresh talent in 2025. 

The momentum from 2024, bolstered by infrastructure investment and government commitments, sets a promising foundation. To sustain it and reach new limits, the industry’s focus must lie on sustainability, adopting advanced technologies and circular economy practices and developing a skilled workforce. 

Click to find out more about our civil and construction work. 

January round up at O’Brien Contractors


Project completions, mental health walks and a chocolate factory… January has had it all!

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


Another project ticked off!✅

Kickstarting in 2024, our work on the extension of Rainsbrook Crematorium has come to an end.

After months of hard work, the site is looking great, if we do say so ourselves!👀

 


With the New Year in full swing, many will be committing to resolutions like cutting out sugar and chocolate… 🍫

Speaking of chocolate, we’re looking back at our project with the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate & cocoa, Barry Callebaut.

We carried out major alteration and refurbishment works to Barry Callebaut’s existing production facility at Banbury, including the construction of an extension and new standalone building that would enable the factory to increase its production by circa 20%.

Read more about the project here:

 

 

Barry Callebaut Chocolate Factory Extension, Banbury

 


There were no Monday blues here this week!💙✨  

Whether it’s a marketing gimmick or not, ‘Blue Monday’ serves as a reminder to reflect on mental health and check in with those around us. Mental health isn’t just a topic for one day of the year, it’s something we should consider daily. It’s a conversation starter that encourages us to pause, step away from our screens, and truly connect with others.

This week, some of our team decided to take a 3k walk outside away from the office, into the fresh air, and just to catch up and check in with each other. As you can see from the smiles, it was a success! It’s easy to forget moments like these when the new year kicks off and we’re swept up in projects and deadlines. But this year, we’ve made it a priority to get out of the office, enjoy the outdoors, and connect beyond just work. Making the Cubbington 3k a monthly group connection and catchup walk!🚶‍♀️⛅🍃💬️

In the midst of a busy work life, it’s crucial to remember the importance of balance. ⚖️ Taking even just 10 minutes to reset can make a big difference. It’s also vital to connect with others—whether that means sharing experiences, offering help, or seeking support from friends and loved ones when needed. 


 

SPARKing growth in the Midlands💥  

Last week, our work infrastructure works at SPARK Walsall came to an end.  

Within the 25-weeks on site, our team took on an extensive programme of highway works to improve access to the hub for both pedestrians and drivers.   

Want to find out more about how we delivered this project? Click the link below to read our latest case study: https://obriencontractors.co.uk/projects/spark-walsall-midlands-highway-infrastructure-works/  


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