Ryebridge boss backs Luton expansion in face of legal challenge

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully has highlighted the benefits of expanding London Luton Airport in the face of a potential legal challenge.

Campaign group LADACAN (Luton and District Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise) claim the Development Consent Order ignored environmental concerns when granting approval.

The DCO allows LLA to expand from 19 million to 32 million passengers a year, which the airport’s owners Luton Rising say will create up to 11,000 new jobs and unlock an additional £1.5 billion in the economy every year.

As a local employer, we recognise that airport expansion will unlock investment and additional funds for public services and local communities, boosting Luton’s economy by creating jobs, enhancing skills development, and supporting the local charitable sector.

Speaking on BBC Three Counties’ JVS Show, Sean told presenter Jonathan Vernon Smith that the opportunities expansion brings would be significant to the town and wider region.

“We’ve been around Luton now for 16 years, and in this time it’s been a changing landscape, especially with recent events at Vauxhall, which are very damaging to the local area.

“We’re a Luton business, we’ve worked in and around the airport, and as a company we’ve got a massive supply chain which we procure locally, so it’s not just about Ryebridge and the airport, it's about the opportunities for them as well.

“I know that 150 local businesses and 10,000 local people signed a letter in support of expansion, and ultimately we are an island and there is a demand from people to fly.

“In my view if Luton can take advantage of that opportunity it would be fantastic for the community in the local area. All airports are looking at sustainable transport – we work at Bristol and lots of different airports – and they’re all on this journey from carbon neutral to zero.”

Luton school sends grateful thanks after Ryebridge team create sensory garden

A life-changing new sensory garden has been installed at a special needs school in Luton by a team of apprentices from Ryebridge Construction.

Woodlands Secondary School supports students aged 11-18 with severe learning difficulties or profound and multiple learning difficulties, many of whom also have additional complex needs including autistic spectrum disorder, epilepsy, physical or sensory impairments.

Teacher Selina Young worked with the school’s Eco Council on a vision for a sensory garden in the school grounds to provide a calm space to help students regulate away from the school environment.

But when it came to source quotes for the groundworks, local building firms came back with prohibitive estimates of between £4-5,000, well beyond her budget for the scheme.

Fortunately contacts at London Luton Airport put them in touch with Ryebridge, who agreed to carry out the work free of charge.

A team of apprentices supervised by project manager Don Wall, then spent the Easter holidays transforming a corner of the school grounds into the garden, including constructing a wooden shelter and paving footpaths.

Selina said afterwards: “Myself and the Eco Council at Woodlands would like to send a huge thank you to Ryebridge for helping us bring our ideas to life. We are excited to develop this space for the students of Woodlands to have a calm sensory space to enjoy our beautiful gardens.”

Acting headteacher Caroline Lowry said: “We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to your construction company for generously giving your time, expertise, and resources to build the new garden seating area.

“This important contribution is a key part of our vision for a sensory garden within the school grounds - a calm, nurturing space designed to help students regulate and recharge away from the busy school environment.

“The area will make a meaningful difference, allowing more students to benefit from the tranquillity and support the garden offers. We are grateful for your support in helping bring this vision to life.”

Student Mickey said: “20 out of 10, thank you for making the road”, while Justine added, "Amazing, good," with a thumbs up!

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “Giving back to the Luton community is at the very heart of what we try to achieve as a company, and I am proud of the work our lads did to ensure this facility was built quickly and to the very highest standards.

“I hope Woodlands pupils have many happy years of enjoyment out of the garden.”

Bristol Airport unveils new apron on site of former 'Secret Garden'

A disused part of Bristol Airport colloquially known as the “Secret Garden” is a secret no more – it’s now home to two new aircraft stands.

The land was previously used for storage, and unseen airside, but was completely transformed thanks to Ryebridge Construction in just a matter of weeks.

The major project involved creating a new West Apron on the site of the old storage area and bus charging station. On top of this Ryebridge installed a new emergency water tank holding over 220,000l of water future proofing airside operations.

The project was in the critical path and high levels of planning and liaison were required with security, airside operations, engineering and the excellent project team led by Tim Goodman supported by Quantum, Hydrock and Chase Consulting.

In just one day more than 1,000 tonnes of asphalt was transported airside and the project itself required over 200 temporary passes. After the stands were completed, the boundary fence was moved and planes were on the West Apron stands just days later.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “This was a fantastic job by our Bristol team, ahead of schedule and with no hiccups along the way.

“We look forward to continuing our excellent relationship with the airport going forwards. Special mention to the excellent subcontractors without whom it wouldn’t have gone so smoothly, including J&G Fencing, Lincs Lining, Allpower, Balmoral Tanks and Stardom to name a few”

The “Secret Garden” before work commenced on site.

The “Secret Garden” before work commenced on site.

Work underway on the West Apron.

The finished apron.

Ryebridge are headline sponsor for British Pedal Car Grand Prix

Ryebridge has taken the chequered flag in becoming headline sponsor for the British Pedal Car Grand Prix.

This high speed event – on Sunday July 13 - sees up to 40 teams of daredevils race their pedal-powered hot-rods around a two-hour street circuit through the market town of Ringwood in Hampshire.

Inspired by the Pedal Car Races held in the twin town of Pont-Audemer in Normandy, Ringwood Round Table decided to organise a similar event back in 1987, and it has now been going for 36 years.

But last year’s event was cancelled with just two weeks to go after the organisers ran into financial difficulties.

They said at the time: “This decision was not made lightly and comes after extensive deliberation and consultation with all stakeholders involved. Several unforeseen circumstances have forced our hand, the foremost being the financial challenges driven by significant increases in the costs of holding the event, coupled with a significant number of local businesses having to reduce or cease sponsoring the event due to the current economic climate.

“Despite the best efforts of our volunteer team to address these issues, it has become clear that proceeding with the event as planned would compromise the quality and safety that participants and spectators expect.”

Determined that this year’s race should take place as planned, Ryebridge Construction put the pedal to the metal and stepped in as headline sponsor.

Managing director Sean Scully said: “As part of our ongoing investment into the Southampton area, Ryebridge is continuing to build bridges within communities around the city, and this event stood out as one in need of our support.

“We’re all really excited about getting behind the British Pedal Car Grand Prix, and hope this is the start of a long relationship.”

The organisers said: “Our sponsors, along with our race teams, are the lifeblood of the British Pedal Car Grand Prix. Costing in excess of £10,000 per year to run, our corporate sponsorship represents the bulk of the income of the event, and ensures that we’re able to deliver the event in the way that it deserves to be delivered! We are so grateful to our lovely sponsors like Ryebridge Construction.”

Ryebridge founder joins Sky Bet bike ride

Ryebridge founder and owner Daniel Coyle has completed a 28km ride as part of the Sky Bet EFL Every Minute Matters Relay.

He took on the challenge alongside cyclists representing Luton Town FC to inspire fellow football fans to donate 15 minutes of their time and learn CPR with the British Heart Foundation’s RevivR tool.

All 72 clubs in the EFL are taking part in a leg of a 4,000km relay route which sees participants run, walk and cycle between 72 stadiums before ending up at Wembley on Easter Monday.

Daniel joined Hatters club secretary Chris Clark, supporter Mark Crowther and sisters Sam and Joanne Ewington in cycling from Kenilworth Road to Stevenage’s Lamex Stadium.

He said: “This was a fantastic challenge alongside a group of great Hatters fans for a very worthwhile campaign, and I was delighted to represent Ryebridge in taking part.”

The relay is the latest phase of Sky Bet’s Every Minute Matters campaign, working with the British Heart Foundation to encourage 270,000 football fans to begin learning CPR and raise £3m towards the BHF’s vital research.

Find out how you can get involved at https://www.bhf.org.uk/how-you-can-help/how-to-save-a-life/how-to-do-cpr/learn-cpr-in-15-minutes

Ryebridge apprentices transforming school's outdoor area

A hard-working team of apprentices from Ryebridge Construction are spending the Easter holidays creating a sensory garden at a Luton-based special needs school.

Woodlands Secondary School supports students aged 11-18 with severe learning difficulties or profound and multiple learning difficulties, many of whom also have additional complex needs including autistic spectrum disorder, epilepsy, physical or sensory impairments.

The sensory garden is the brainchild of teacher Selina Young, who was inspired by Luton’s flagship initiative Climate Action Teachers Champion (CATCh), which is aimed at helping teachers and local schools access resource and support in delivering and embracing sustainability.

CATCh has been specifically designed to help teachers embed climate change and sustainability within their learning programmes, and to help school leads and senior leadership to understand how they can access local resources, funding and support to help launch their school Climate Change Action Plan.

Selina worked with the school’s Eco Council on a vision for a sensory garden in the school grounds to provide a calm space to help students regulate away from the school environment.

The aim was to create a quiet, peaceful and pretty area incorporating elements which are visually appealing, smell nice and potentially even taste good as well.

But when she approached local companies for quotes to complete the groundworks, they came back with figures in the region of £4-5K, which was beyond the school’s budget, and the entire scheme faltered.

Fortunately a conversation with the school’s careers partner London Luton Airport put them in touch with Ryebridge, who agreed to carry out the work completely free of charge.

This week a team of apprentices from Ryebridge – supervised by project manager Don Wall - are transforming a corner of the school grounds into the garden.

Managing director Sean Scully said: “This is a fantastic project which was born out of a real passion and enthusiasm from Woodlands’ students, so we were determined to see it go ahead without any further delays.

“Our lads are glad to be working on such an inspirational initative, and I can’t wait to see the finished garden.”

Ryebridge apprentices working at Woodlands School.

Ryebridge shortlisted as Carbon Reduction Champion in Construction News Awards

Ryebridge has continued its roll of high-profile industry awards nominations with one of the biggest ones yet – a shortlisted position in the Construction News Awards 2025.

The awards saw the company named in the Carbon Reduction Champion for our work at Marchwood Port redevelopment in Southampton on behalf of Associated British Ports.

Ryebridge was praised for taking the unprecedented decision to transport 13,000 tonnes of material by two boatloads, even though the client had allowed for lorry movements in their planning application and it would have been cheaper by road.

This removed 3,800 lorry movements from the roads, preventing long-running congestion in the local area and eliminating the generation of 307 metric tonnes of CO2 emissions (based on 25 tonne vehicles travelling 10 miles each).

Director Sean Scully said: “It’s amazing news to be shortlisted by the country’s leading publication for the construction industry.

“The work we did in Southampton was a game-changer for the company, and set a new precedent for how we approach future projects.

“We wish all the finalists the very best of luck and look forward to seeing them at the awards.”

All of the winners will be announced at the Construction News Awards 2025 ceremony on Thursday July 10 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane in London.  

London Luton Airport expansion decision is "fantastic news" says Ryebridge boss

The decision to approve the expansion of London Luton Airport from 19 million to 32 million passengers a year has been welcomed by Ryebridge Construction.

As a long-term supporter of LLA for more than 15 years, the company recognises the huge benefits expansion will bring to the local area, including our hometown of Luton.

Creating up to 11,000 new jobs and unlocking an additional £1.5 billion in the economy every year, the plans will deliver one of the largest construction programmes for the town and wider region for decades.

Crucially, airport owners Luton Rising are balancing this growth with some of the most robust, far-reaching and comprehensive commitments to sustainability ever seen at a UK airport, including a legally binding and independently monitored framework with limits on noise, airport carbon emissions, air quality and surface access under a ‘Green Controlled Growth’ model.

As a local employer, Ryebridge is focused on supporting and promoting Luton wherever possible, with more than 90 per cent of our site and office staff coming from the immediate area, a local supply chain and close links with nearby colleges and schools which ensures a steady flow of apprentices and work experience students.

We recognise that airport expansion will unlock investment and additional funds for public services and local communities, boosting Luton’s economy by creating jobs, enhancing skills development, and supporting the local charitable sector.

Managing director Sean Scully said: “Since Ryebridge Construction was founded in 2009, the company has been immersed in the operation of London Luton Airport, and our team are now considered experts in airside and landside works, consistently meeting the high standards of airport environments.

“We are delighted that London Luton Airport’s aspirations for growth have been fulfilled, and look forward to continuing our close relationship in years to come.”

Speaking about the expansion on BBC Three Counties radio this morning, Sean said: “It’s fantastic news, fantastic for the community and fantastic for the area.

“Vauxhall was one of the biggest employers in Luton and they only closed their doors a few weeks ago, so the area and the community needs this… The airport plays such a huge role in generating economic growth…

“If you look at the wider spectrum, Heathrow are looking at another runway, Gatwick is looking to expand, and fundamentally there is a demand for people to fly. So if a town and community like Luton can benefit from that and want it, then it’s fantastic.”

London Luton Airport expansion decision imminent - and Ryebridge is backing it all the way

We’re just weeks away from perhaps the most important decision in Luton’s history – and Ryebridge Construction is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with everyone in the town in calling for the game-changing airport expansion to go ahead.

The owners of London Luton Airport (LLA), Luton Rising, have applied for a Development Consent Order (DCO) to add a second terminal and increase the number of annual passengers from 19 million to 32 million by the mid-2040s, unlocking £1.5 billion in economic growth.

This includes up to 11,000 new jobs at the airport and in the supply chain across the region, with around 4,800 directly in Luton. These would include fair, high-quality and well-paid jobs that are on average 34 per cent higher than the national average wage.

In addition, expansion would unlock a new Community First Fund providing an additional £1 for every additional passenger over and above the airport’s current capacity to be reinvested into Luton and its neighbouring communities.

The Chancellor Rachel Reeves MP gave fresh hope to the town in a speech which recognised that airport expansion will bring valuable growth to the UK economy, in which she mentioned the imminent decision on LLA.

Luton Rising has committed to introducing a unique and groundbreaking initiative called the Green Controlled Growth framework, which presents a legally-enforceable and environmentally-approached to managing growth, with maximum limits for greenhouse gas emissions, and controls over noise, air quality and surface access to the airport.

They said: “At a time when how to boost growth is the question on everyone’s lips, we also have a responsibility to minimise the environmental impacts of our progress whilst continuing to deliver sustainable development.”

Their proposals have been supported by more than 10,000 people who have signed a community-led petition, and more than 130 businesses that signed an open letter of support, including Ryebridge Construction.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to establish London Luton Airport as one of the driving forces for growth not only in the immediate area, but across the region.

“It will also ensure life-changing investment into some of the most deprived communities within Luton itself, and help fulfil the goal of it becoming a healthy, fair and sustainable town offering opportunities for everyone to thrive, where nobody has to live in poverty.”

Speaking at a House of Lords reception to promote the DCO, Gurinder Singh Josan CBE, Labour MP for Smethwick, highlighted how the proposed expansion at London Luton Airport will support the Government’s growth agenda.

“Generating jobs is massively important, everything this Government is doing to drive growth ultimately comes down to providing more quality jobs for local people.”

This view was reinforced by Marion Geoffroy, MD of Wizz Air UK, who argued: “We employ 650 people directly from Luton and with the expansion we can aim for hundreds more.”

Alasdair Reisner, CEO of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association, agreed: “The country’s big mission now is growth - there are few projects out there that offer a better opportunity around growth. It’s a massive engine for jobs in the local community, but will also inspire growth in the economy and do what only airports can do for the economy.”

Ryebridge has signed the Luton Rising pledge board.

New mezzanine floor at London Luton Airport's International Departures Lounge is another Ryebridge success story

Described as “the most logistically challenging construction project ever undertaken in the terminal”, the new mezzanine floor in the International Departures Lounge at London Luton Airport has officially opened and is now in full operation.

Ryebridge worked with the LLA development team to deliver the project, with collaboration from designers, structural engineers, sub-contractors, airside operations, airport security, airport technical services, terminal duty managers and airport concessions.

With LLA continuing to expand and the terminal becoming busier and busier as the demand for flights increases, it was recognised that the space in the lounge was becoming increasingly restricted, especially during peak periods when passengers found themselves uncomfortably rubbing shoulders and without sufficient seating.

There seemed to be no obvious way to increase the capacity without impacting on the customer experience, risking health and safety and affecting live terminal operations.

Building out was simply not possible, so it was decided to take advantage of the high level spaces above the second floor IDL and build a new 675 sqm mezzanine level supported by a steel structure coming up from the baggage area and through the ground floor check-in area.

The new floor dramatically increases the lounge capacity while also providing more access to food, drink and other facilities, with the creation of a new restaurant alongside.

The biggest challenge was constructing this project in a live airport environment, with all of the associated pressures and demands to take into account.

Because there was no room for machinery in the narrow spaces in the baggage area, some of the excavation work was carried out by hand, adding to the challenges faced by Ryebridge.

The foundations for the 18m steels were increased to make them more structurally robust and penetrations in the floors and ceilings took place at night, ensuring the steels could be set in one shift after being transported into the empty check-in area.

Most of the other works also took place at night to avoid disruption caused by noise and dust, and because of the risks posed by carrying out major construction work in an active terminal.

Challenges included reducing the security inspection area, ensuring that baggage handlers could operate adjacent to works and have access to baggage chutes, and preventing vibration and dust from operations interfering with the baggage trolley system.

Once the new floor had been created they poured concrete and screed, and completed shell and core works including stairs, lift, air-handling units, a new window and balustrade, and mechanical and electrical services.

The concrete works were significant as getting the material in required a pump system with the only means of access being through the roof.

Ryebridge planned these works for the quiet time between Christmas and New Year, which provided the largest night window at the terminal.

As the works are classed as airside so access for material and waste away was challenging. All construction material was delivered onto a bespoke scaffolding platform during the day, ready for the team to use at night and replace with any waste which would be removed on days.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “This was an extremely complex and technical project, and I would like to thank all of the team for carrying it out so efficiently.”

As part of the works, Ryebridge also stripped out the former Frankie & Benny’s restaurant, with the unit to be fitted out for a new concession now handover has taken place.

Ryebridge recognised for its support of Luton apprentices

Ryebridge joined in the celebrations for the inaugural Luton Apprenticeship Awards, a glittering event recognising the outstanding accomplishments of apprentices, employers and training providers in the town.

The gala ceremony, which was hosted by Luton Borough Council at Putteridge Bury country house, welcomed representatives from a variety of local businesses and organisations, including TUI, the University of Bedfordshire and Barnfield College.

Ryebridge sponsored the Apprentice Provider of the Year category, which recognises organisations which have delivered exceptional apprenticeships programmes to individuals living or working in Luton, including showing a commitment to professional development and career progression.

The winner was Luton Adult Learning, which works closely with local employers to ensure apprentices received high quality mentorship from people with real industry experience.

Run by Luton Borough Council, LAL promotes apprenticeships through social media, partnerships and its Passport to Employment program, which helps with CV writing and interview preparation.

Ryebridge founder and owner Daniel Coyle, who presented the award, said: “Luton Adult Learning is a showcase for what can be done to empower learners, strengthen communities and support local businesses, and I was delighted to recognise their achievements with this award.”

Ryebridge was also highly commended in the Best Small Employer for Apprenticeships category, recognising companies that excel in providing apprenticeships, with a strong focus on mentorship, targets growth, and opportunities for professional and personal development.

Through a structured apprenticeship programme, Ryebridge invests in the next generation of construction professionals, combining site and office-based learning with part-time college courses, providing apprentices with hands-on experience and academic knowledge.

Daniel explained: “We believe wholeheartedly in investing in the future of our industry, with a focus on tapping into Luton-grown talent by working in close partnership with our schools, colleges and the local community.

“I am pleased to accept this award on behalf of Ryebridge and everyone in the company who goes above and beyond in order to support our remarkable apprentices in their continued development.”

Ryebridge joins Luton Rising reception at House of Lords

Ryebridge pledged its support for the expansion of London Luton Airport at a high-profile event held at the House of Lords.

The reception was organised by the East of England all-party Parliamentary group and airport owners Luton Rising to explore how key infrastructure development in Luton has the potential to unlock economic growth across the region.

It took place in the Cholmondeley Room and Terrace, overlooking the River Thames and providing breathtaking views of various London landmarks.

The packed event was hosted by the co-chair of the East of England All-Party Parliamentary Group, Jess Asato MP ahead of April’s decision on whether LLA is given the go-ahead to expand its capacity from 19 million passengers per year to 32 million by the mid-2040s, unlocking £1.5 billion in economic growth.

A Development Consent Order (DCO) was submitted by Luton Rising in February 2023 because the proposal is considered to be of such a size and scale that it is considered a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project.

Ms Asato spoke ahead of a panel discussion featuring the chief executive of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association, Alasdair Reisner, LLA chief executive Alberto Martin, Wizz Air UK managing director Marion Geoffroy, the chief executive of the Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation Karen Perkins, and Luton Borough Council leader Cllr Hazel Simmons.

Ms Asato said: “To achieve the East's full potential, the Government must invest in core areas of infrastructure, digital connectivity, water and energy, housing, climate mitigation and of course transport.

“It is because of this need for investment in transport infrastructure that we've come together today to discuss the immense contribution that investment in Luton Airport can bring to both the town and, as I said, the wider region.

“It is estimated that the proposed expansion will provide 11,000 new jobs at the airport and in the supply chain and an additional £1.5 billion to the economy each year with up to an additional £13 million per year for vital community causes.”

Luton Borough Council leader Cllr Hazel Simmons

Cllr Simmons explained why the airport expansion was vital to tackling poverty in the town: “The heartbreaking reality is that almost 10 per cent of households in Luton are living in deprivation and a further 12 per cent struggling to meet basic needs, this is why the expansion of Luton Airport - our major asset - is central to our plans.

“Everything that we do is aimed at working with our partners to create a town where everyone can thrive and no one lives in poverty. I know this seems a very bold and ambitious vision, but if we don't tackle poverty head-on, we will not improve and change people's life chances and their opportunities for the future.”

She said expansion would trigger the biggest job creation programme in a generation, with high quality, well-paid employment that will raise living standards and help people improve their lives, and would also see an additional £13m per year invested into the voluntary and community sector across Luton and neighbouring areas.

“Luton is a town with ambition, with heart and with determination. We have seen tough times and believe that the wealth, skills and jobs that will be created by the expansion of our airport will provide the potential to transform the lives of our residents in Luton and across the region.”

The reception concluded with an opportunity for guests to sign a placard reflecting their support of the DCO.

Ryebridge Construction has worked alongside LLA since 2009, with work including civils and building construction and specialist maintenance services within all areas of the premises, both landside and airside, including snow clearance, taxiway maintenance and annual runway works.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully

Speaking afterwards, managing director Sean Scully said: “There was a who’s who of Luton’s key stakeholders at this reception, which took place in the glorious sunshine on a terrace overlooking the Thames, and we are proud to include ourselves among their number.

“The company recognises the very real benefits airport expansion will bring to the people living and working in Luton – it’s no exaggeration to say that it will be truly transformational.

“Ryebridge is happy to publicly support the DCO and have a presence at events like this to strengthen the campaign for expansion.”

Ryebridge returns to Bristol Airport for major new project

Ryebridge have been back airside at Bristol Airport, working on the West Apron project to create more space for this busy and thriving transport hub.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “We are absolutely delighted to be back at Bristol Airport.

“The project is going well and we are ahead of the programme while making the most of the Bristol sunshine.

“The site clearance and formation dig is complete, the kerbs are nearly all in and works for the new emergency water supply tank are moving along.

“The first phase of the fence work is complete, and thanks as ever to the excellent and willing J&G Fencing who will be back for more later.

“While we were there we were also happy to help and mobilise with a couple of critical airside repairs - well done team Ryebridge!”

This is just the latest job for Ryebridge at the airport. At the end of last year the company was involved in the construction of a new fillet for Foxtrot Taxiway.

This saw the team working tight windows of a maximum five hours a night - including handover to air ops and establishing a safe taxiway - with just five nights to complete all the works – while also managing security, permits, passes and full project delivery.

Ryebridge owner honours Child of Courage winner at Luton's Best Awards

Ryebridge founder Daniel Coyle was proud to present the Child of Courage accolade at this year’s Luton’s Best Awards.

The awards, which are run by Love Luton, have been recognising community achievement for 15 year, celebrating those truly remarkable individuals and organisations who make the town a better place to live and work.

The Child of Courage Award recognises any young person up to the age of 18 who has put themselves in danger to help or save the life of another, has battled against the odds to overcome adversity in their personal life, or has made a stand to improve the lot of themselves or others.

This year’s nominees were Haresh Sivalingam and Luton Youth Council, with Haresh taking the gong.

Haresh is a student of the Queen Elizabeth school in Luton. He was nominated for his bravery and quick reactions when a lady collapsed in front of him when he was out shopping.

Haresh was able to put her in the recovery position, and waited with her until the ambulance had arrived. He had only undertaken his first aid training a few weeks before and his quick reactions and care for the lady was able to ensure she was safe when the ambulance arrived.

Daniel Coyle said: “What a remarkable young man, and definitely someone you want on the scene in an emergency like this. His quick-thinking and calm manner ensured this lady was cared for and supported following this traumatic experience, and was in the best hands until the ambulance arrived.

“Ryebridge is delighted to support the Luton’s Best Awards each year, and do our part in recognising all that is great about our remarkable community.”

The awards were hosted by the Luton Hoo Hotel and attended by special guests including the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire Susan Lousada, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Bav Shah, the Mayor of Luton Cllr Tahmina Saleem, local MPs, councillors, shortlisted nominees and sponsors.

The compere for the evening was Andrew Castle, a former British tennis player and TV and radio broadcaster, who was back for his 11th year, and the keynote speaker was Paul Kehoe, chair of Luton Rising.

Andrew Castle, Haresh Sivalingam and Daniel Coyle at the Luton’s Best Awards.

Seasons greetings from everyone at Ryebridge!

What better way to end 2024 than by reflecting on our milestone anniversary?

The award-winning civil engineering and building contractor, which was founded in 2009 by Daniel Coyle, has recently moved into a new headquarters on the doorstep of London Luton Airport.

Last month we recognised 15 years in business with a birthday party at prestigious hotel Luton Hoo, attended by clients, councillors, charity partners and staff.

And to add to the celebrations, we have recently been shortlisted for another prestigious accolade – the sustainability category of the 2025 Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Awards – for our work in both Luton and Southampton, with sustainable working practices going hand in hand with investment in these communities.

Daniel said: “It’s been an exciting year for Ryebridge, and we’re looking forward to lots of fresh opportunities in 2025.

“From all of the team, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all of our clients, contractors and partners!”

Ryebridge backing Lighthouse to support wellbeing in construction

Helping mental health

Ryebridge has reinforced its commitment to men’s mental health by becoming a supporter of Lighthouse, the only charity dedicated to the emotional, physical and financial wellbeing of the construction industry and their families.

The company is doing its bit to support Lighthouse’s work with an annual donation, and continuing to highlight its services across all its workplaces.

Stress, depression or anxiety accounts for 20 per cent of all work-related illness in construction, and every single working day in the UK two construction workers take their own lives.

Ryebridge HSQE (health, safety, quality and environment) manager Karen Carter said: “I first heard about Lighthouse during Covid, and donated personally to help towards the support they were offering to construction employees who were unable to work.

“We were recently visited by Lighthouse’s Make It Visible team, who shared their real-life experiences in construction with staff. Our lads were so engrossed in what you were saying you could have heard a pin drop, and some of them stayed behind afterwards to talk further with the team.

“In supporting Lighthouse we’re also supporting our lads, so everyone is benefiting from the relationship.”
For information on the work of the Lighthouse charity, visit https://www.lighthouseclub.org/mental-health/

Winter roads kept ice-free thanks to Ryebridge salt barn

Keeping Oxfordshire moving this winter

A new salt barn holding thousands of tonnes of grit is playing its part in keeping roads in Oxfordshire free of ice over the winter months.

The barn, at the Deddington highways depot, near Banbury, was built by Ryebridge on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council, and keeps road salt in the optimum conditions for spreading while reducing wastage from exposure to the elements.

It can hold up to 2,800 tonnes of road salt, enough to grit over 23,333km of roads, and the roof is fitted with solar panels, generating approximately 50kw power for the grid.

The barn is used by a new fleet of gritting vehicles, consisting of 16 26-tonne trucks, 11 18-tonne vehicles, two 7.5-tonne trucks and one 3.5-tonne ‘baby gritter’, to treat very narrow roads and park and rides.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said it had been crucial to finish construction before the start of the winter season.

“The challenge was doing the construction in an operational yard. So there was lots of work out of hours and at weekends, but it’s all about planning your work, and if you know something is going to be disruptive you give lots of notice.

“Oxfordshire County Council will recover the cost of the barn relatively quickly in terms of the wasted and unusable salt, and we hope this inspires other councils to invest in similar projects.”

Ryebridge staff trained in defibrillator use

A cohort of Ryebridge staff are fully trained in what to do in the event of a colleague or a member of the public suffering a life-threatening cardiac arrest.

A team from the company received training in life-saving defibrillator and CPR skills from Andy Lewis of East Anglian Air Ambulance.

The out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival rate in the UK is around 8 per cent if only resuscitation/CPR is attempted. However, if a defibrillator is used alongside effective CPR within the first three to five minutes, the chances of survival can increase to between 40 per cent-70 per cent.

The hour-long training covered the difference between a cardiac arrest and a heart attack, as well as how to recognise a cardiac arrest, calling emergency services, starting CPR and using a community defibrillator.

Being confident in using a defibrillator to restart someone’s heart is vital. For every minute that the patient is left without defibrillation, their chances of survival decrease by 10 per cent.

It included an element of practical hands-on, which the Ryebridge team enthusiastically participated in.

Ryebridge health, safety and wellbeing Manager Karen Carter said: “We are going to put our defibrillator in the hallway downstairs at our headquarters so other companies  in the building can have access.

“We have also registered it with the local ambulance service so they are aware there is one in the area if other people need to use it.”

Ryebridge are also purchasing some portable defibrillators to keep in company vehicles, ensuring they are able to give somebody the best chance of survival and recovery in the event of a life-threatening medical emergency.

EAAA aims to train 20,000 people each year in how to perform CPR and use a defibrillator, so they can have the confidence to start the chain of survival as soon as possible in the event of a cardiac arrest.

Any local business or organisation looking to book training can do so via this link: https://www.eaaa.org.uk/learn-cpr

Ryebridge apprentices are the next generation of construction industry

Securing the future of the construction industry

This year’s cohort of Ryebridge apprentices are looking forward to their futures with the company.

The group of seven recruits – all at various stages in their training – were tasked with predicting what they would be doing in a year’s time, with their answers put into a sealed envelope for the next 12 months.

The line-up of apprentices includes: James Arnall, studying Civil Engineering at the University of Herts; Nancy Tucker, studying Accountancy Level 2 at Bedford College; Mason Pender, in his first year of a BSC in Quantity Surveying at London South Bank University; Ronnie Costen, studying Construction Management at Oaklands College; Finn Scully, on a Level 3 Survey Technician course at Bedford College; Max Banham, studying Level 3 Site Management at Bedford College; and newly recruited Mason Hendy, who has yet to begin a course.

They reflect the company’s commitment to investing in the next generation of employees by supporting them with education, experience and insight into how the business works.

As part of their training, all new recruits are assigned a mentor within the firm who will have time put aside specifically for working with them, ensuring there is always someone they can talk to if they need advice or help.

One of the jobs many of them will be working on will be the new Alpha taxiway extension at London Luton Airport, after Ryebridge recently won the tender for the multi-million pound project.

Ryebridge founder and owner Daniel Coyle told them: “The construction industry will give you experience in many different facets of life, and as such can just be the means to get you to the next stage of your career.

“Where you see yourself next year might not be where you end up, as there are always new opportunities becoming available.

“But although it’s good to continually question yourself, ultimately being happy at work is the most important thing, as your career will go by very quickly.”

Shortlisted candidates revealed for Luton's Child of Courage award

Recognising Luton’s Best

The Child of Courage category in this year’s Luton’s Best Awards is proudly sponsored by Ryebridge Construction, with two exceptional nominees on the shortlist.

The awards, which are run by Love Luton, have been recognising community achievement for 15 year, celebrating those truly remarkable individuals and organisations who make the town a better place to live and work.

The Child of Courage Award recognises any young person up to the age of 18 who has put themselves in danger to help or save the life of another, has battled against the odds to overcome adversity in their personal life, or has made a stand to improve the lot of themselves or others.

This year’s nominees are Haresh Sivalingam and Luton Youth Council.

Haresh is a student of the Queen Elizabeth school in Luton. He was nominated for his bravery and quick reactions when a lady collapsed in front of him when out shopping.

Haresh was able to put her in the recovery position, and waited with her until the ambulance had arrived. He had only undertaken his first aid training a few weeks before and his quick reactions and care for the lady was able to ensure she was safe when the ambulance arrived.

Youth Council have been nominated for the number of projects and the inspiration they provide to the young people of Luton.

They are an elected team of 15 young councillors, dedicated to improving the lives of young people in Luton, and their key campaigns are mental health, domestic abuse awareness and disability awareness.

Their overarching aim is to provide a source of inspiration for young people through various committees, projects and actions that will allow them to flourish into leading citizens and adults of the future. As the nomination said: “They are true children of courage”.

The nominees will be honoured at a gala ceremony taking place at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf and Spa on Friday January 17.