Ryebridge team battle the elements on lighthouse road resurfacing

Working on one of the most exposed peninsulas on the English coast is no easy job at the best of times, but add in some of the winter’s most extreme weather and you’ve got a challenge which pushed Ryebridge’s team to their limits.

The Grade II listed Start Point Lighthouse runs sharply almost a mile into the sea on the south side of Start Bay between Kingsbridge and Dartmouth.

Built by Trinity House in 1836, it stands at 92ft tall and guides vessels crossing the English Channel, but is no longer manned and is instead operated remotely from Trinity House’s planning centre in Harwich.

Ryebridge was contracted to carry out remedial work on the upper section of Start Point Road leading from the car park to a water borehole on the cliffs, taking into account the need to protect features of the Site of Specific Scientific Interest and Special Areas of Conservation and obtain permission from relevant authorities.

The road was showing signs of significant wear, with numerous potholes and defects, so the works were necessary to ensure continued safe access for both operational personnel and members of the public visiting the lighthouse and nearby cottages.

Ryebridge needed to obtain permission from a neighbouring landowner to use the narrow access track, and also ensure that the lighthouse remained operational throughout the works and access by foot was maintained.

The works involved laying 80 tonnes of SMA 57 PSV asphalt, delivered as part of a zero‑waste process in which all planed material was reused within the lighthouse car park to improve the landowner’s surface conditions.

The team endured torrential rain throughout the three-day duration of the project, which not only affected visibility and working efficiency but also contributed to localised flooding along rural sections of the approach route.

The only access to the lighthouse is via 10 miles of single track roads, meaning that larger delivery vehicles and plant could not safely travel to the site during the works.

As a result, the team was required to use smaller asphalt delivery plant, which significantly slowed down the turn‑round times and required careful sequencing to maintain material temperature and compaction standards despite the wet conditions.

High winds also buffeted the workers when they arrived at the lighthouse car park, although they had some small relief by the resurfacing actually taking place in behind the lee of a hill.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “The combination of severe weather, poor ground conditions, restricted access, and the remote coastal environment made this an operationally challenging project - one that strongly reflects Ryebridge Construction’s proven expertise in delivering complex works in difficult‑to‑reach locations and under demanding circumstances.

“Despite these challenges, the works were delivered safely, to a high quality, and in accordance with the requirements of the client, supporting the ongoing operational needs of Start Point Lighthouse and its associated facilities.”

Ryebridge complete two-year project at Deddington Highways Depot

New state-of-the-art modular offices were craned into place at a highways depot as part of Ryebridge’s two-year work on modernising the site.

Having successfully completed the construction of a new winter gritting salt barn and washdown facility at Deddington Highways and Maintenance Depot – a design and build appointment on behalf of Oxfordshire County Council, Ryebridge was contracted to carry out the second phase of the project.

Planning approval was finally secured after a lengthy process and all conditions were successfully managed and discharged. Ryebridge then won the tender for the construction works in August 2025.

This involved the construction of new offices on the site, including a reception, meeting rooms, staff facilities, kitchen and conference room with capacity for approximately 20 people.

The existing modular offices were considered old and inefficient, and had various issues including inadequate toilet systems where water pipes froze during cold weather, a lack of disabled access and inadequate accommodation for meetings.

These were taken down and removed, and Ryebridge laid reinforced concrete slab with a full sub-structure including foul water and storm water drainage. A new manhole was fitted which tied in to the existing foul water system on site, and the slab was raised to accommodate the gradient and make the system adequate.

Any surplus spoil and concrete was removed from the site. A sub-main was provided from the salt barn to provide the necessary power for the new building.

The new offices are eight double-storey modular units consisting of open plan and private offices, built in Aberdeen by Texo Ltd and then lowered into place on the site using cranes. They are more thermally and energy efficient and more adaptable to severe weather.

A new electric feed was installed tieing them into the salt barn, which Ryebridge previously fitted with solar panels, ensuring the offices are able to use a large portion of renewable energy.

The work also involved asphalt surfacing the outside area and creating defined pedestrian footways, disabled parking spaces and zebra crossings.

The works started on October 13 and practical completion was on February 23. The new units were installed in just five days, including being made watertight.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “This was a natural follow-up to our successful work in constructing the salt barn in 2024, and means the depot now boasts state-of-the-art facilities across the site.

“Our collaborative partnership with the highways operations ensured the work was completed in a safe and timely manner on a live depot while leaving transport movements unaffected.

“We are delighted to report that the county council is very pleased with the finished building, and consequently we have been advised that we will be invited to tender for similar projects in the future.”

Ryebridge to bring new life to much-loved seaside resort

The historic Dovercourt area of Harwich is undergoing a major regeneration at the hands of a team from Ryebridge.

The seaside resort, which dates back to at least 1000AD, was the location for the filming of BBCTV sitcom Hi-De-Hi, and is celebrated for its sand and shingle beaches.

Ryebridge has been engaged to regenerate Dovercourt town centre by enhancing the public realm and green spaces, increasing footfall and connecting the area to the seaside, and generally improving residents’ quality of life and civic pride.

The 10-week project consists of improvements to walkways and access to Marine Parade - including resurfacing pavements, replacing worn steps, adding ornamental decorative custom brass elements and lettering, solar powered lighting posts and enhanced up-lighting to the underpass.

The street level railings are to be overhauled and decorated and the Queen Victoria memorial statue is to get a wash and brush-up.

Further afield the street view is to be enhanced with circular planters and additional public seating strategically placed at Station Plaza, Orwell Road green space, Mill Lane North, and to various shop frontages to the High Street, Cliff Road and Kingsway frontages.

Ryebridge’s contract is being funded by Tendring District Council and their partners, and will be complemented by additional works to be carried out by Essex County Council from Station Plaza to Station Lane and Station Road.

As part of Ryebridge’s commitment to social value, we will recruit a local apprentice through our partnership with Essex Employment and Skills Board, who will be mentored by contracts manager Don Wall and gain hands-on experience in civil engineering.

We will also offer two work experience placements to students from Harwich and Dovercourt High School, coordinated via the Essex Provider Hub.

We will prioritise local suppliers for materials and services, including landscaping and electrical works. Our procurement team has identified vendors within a 15-mile radius of Dovercourt, and 65 per cent of our subcontractor spend will be from within the Tendring district.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “This is an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into this much-loved family seaside resort, giving it a well-deserved makeover to ensure it remains a popular destination for many generations to come.

“We hope that by successfully delivering this project on time and within budget will be the first step towards developing a long-term relationship with Tendring District Council and Essex County Council.”

East Anglian Air Ambulance provides life-saving training for Ryebridge staff

Restarting the heart of someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest is time-critical, with every minute the brain is deprived of oxygen contributing to a 10 per cent deterioration in its condition.

So training in how to effectively perform CPR and use a defibrillator is essential, because it can literally save lives.

That’s why Ryebridge Construction makes sure both site and office staff attend courses run by East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) on how to carry out these procedures in the event they come across a cardiac arrest victim.

The company has six defibrillators carried in Ryebridge vehicles, alongside others in our offices and site buildings.

Cardiac arrests can affect people of any age, but 95 per cent are the result of existing medical conditions, and 65 per cent of victims are men. For the 30-40,000 people who experience a cardiac arrest outside hospital each year, the survival rate in the UK is just 8%, but using a defibrillator alongside effective CPR within the first three to five minutes can increase this to between 40-70%.

Although CPR will keep oxygen moving to the brain and buying time before an ambulance arrives, using a defibrillator will actually shock the heart back into its normal rhythm, and ensures a much better chance of survival.

This week saw the latest group of Ryebridge staff receive training by a CPR and defibrillator instructor from EAAA, including managing director Sean Scully, transport manager Junior Charles, and trainee quantity surveyor Mason Pender, representing different roles across the company.

Staff were shown how to make a diagnosis of a cardiac arrest as opposed to a heart attack, in that the person will be unconscious, not breathing, non-responsive and technically dead, so it is crucial to start CPR immediately in order to provide oxygenated blood to the brain.

This involves tracing a path from the armpit to the centre of the chest, and pushing down hard at 120 beats per minute in a rocking motion. While this is taking place, 999 should be called and if someone else is available to help then a defibrillator should be fetched.

Automated External Defibrillators (AED) will prompt the user through each instruction from the moment it is opened, so anyone can use one if available, but being trained in the process will save time. The machine will make the decision when to shock the patient, so it is not the responsibility of the user, but the key thing is to get it in place as soon as possible.

Following the training, Sean said: “Although I knew it was important to use a defibrillator as quickly as possible, I had no idea how straightforward it was to use the machine. This training could be a life-saver for one of our staff, our contractors or a member of the public who has suffered a cardiac arrest, and while we hope it never happens, it’s good to know we’re ready if it does.”

Ryebridge sponsors Child of Courage category at Luton's Best Awards

Community spirit and inspirational acts of kindness were on display at the 16th annual Luton’s Best Awards, an opportunity to recognise individuals and groups who have gone the extra mile to contribute to making the town a better place.

Organised by Love Luton, the glamorous event was held in The Conservatory in the Walled Gardens of the Luton Hoo Estate, with special guests including Mayor Cllr Amy Nicholls, Luton South MP Rachel Hopkins, High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Camilla King, and Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Edward Phillips.

The host was once again former British tennis player and TV and radio broadcaster Andrew Castle, and

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

The winner was Lacey Hattle, a remarkable young woman whose courage is defined by resilience, grace, and unwavering determination in the face of unimaginable personal tragedy.

Two years after losing her father to suicide, she has channelled her grief into a source of inner strength, demonstrating a maturity and fortitude far beyond her years.

Her commitment to her studies became a testament to her father's memory and a beacon of hope for her own future and this summer, she achieved grade 8s and 9s in her GCSEs, and she has now been awarded a full scholarship to Berkhamsted School.

Her nomination said: “In the wake of a life-altering tragedy, Lacey could have easily become a victim of her circumstances. Instead, she has become a survivor, a scholar, and a true inspiration. Her journey is a powerful reminder that resilience is not about avoiding hardship, but about facing it with unwavering courage and coming out stronger on the other side. She is a true Child of Courage, and I can think of no one more deserving of this award.”

Runner-up was Arisha Muhammad, who excelled academically despite experiencing difficult financial circumstances outside of school, demonstrating daily that courage is not just an abstract quality but a lived reality - an ability to keep moving forward, even when the path is hard.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully, who presented the award, said: “There were just so many incredible stories on the night that it’s fair to say a few tears were shed on our table and many others throughout the room.

“That said, the nominees for our own award highlighted the remarkable resilience and determination of a young woman who was dealt a terrible blow at a very young age. Ryebridge is proud to back these awards and stand shoulder to shoulder with the Luton community in recognising what a remarkable town it truly is.”

Linsey Sweet of Love Luton added: “We are delighted to have Ryebridge as one of our platinum sponsors and for their ongoing support.  The 16th Luton’s Best awards was another night of huge celebrations and acknowledgement of the amazing people and organisations that do so much for Luton and for going above and beyond.”

Andrew Castle, Lacey Hattle and Sean Scully

Free check-ups for Ryebridge staff during Men's Health Awareness Month

Ryebridge is once again highlighting its commitment to staff health and wellbeing by organising free medical check-ups as part of Men's Health Awareness Month.

An occupational nurse will be visiting the company's Luton and Southampton offices to carry out PSA (prostate-specific antigen), cholesterol and blood sugar tests.

PSA tests are not typically offered routinely by the NHS, but are blood tests that a protein made by the prostate gland, and are used to diagnose prostate problems including cancer.

A high cholesterol test is the only way of measuring cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, as high cholesterol has no symptoms, while a blood sugar test will check levels glucose in the blood to diagnose and monitor conditions like diabetes.

Ryebridge health, safety and wellbeing manager Karen Carter gave a presentation to staff about the signs of prostate cancer at a recent company meeting.

She said: "Men's Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness of the physical and mental health challenges men face, encouraging them to seek help and prioritise their well-being. During this month, there is a focus on issues such as prostate and testicular cancer, as well as mental health struggles like stress and depression, which are common in the construction industry.

"Ryebridge believes in a proactive approach to tackling these issues, and doing whatever we can to help our lads keep fit and healthy, both physically and mentally."

Ryebridge opens new office in Southampton

Ryebridge has laid down permanent roots in Southampton by opening a local office.

The company’s new premises is at New Forest Enterprise Centre, in the village of Totton, providing a workspace for office and site staff to meet up and showing our commitment to the region.

Ryebridge has been working in the area since August 2022, when we won the tender to build the Solent Rail Terminal, a joint initiative between Associated British Ports (ABP) and Solent Stevedores which expanded the existing intermodal rail transport site to offer additional laden and empty container handling, storage, maintenance, and repair.

The success of this project, the first of its type Ryebridge had worked on, led ABP to engage our services on Marchwood Phase 1, the redevelopment of the port for trading, including the construction of a vast vehicular storage hard-surface area with all kerbs, surfacing, drainage, ducts and manholes.

Additionally, the company built a new security gatehouse and entrance ready for when the site is fully operational, with Phase 1 expected to be completed in the next few weeks.

The project, which got underway in October 2023, involved the demolition of existing site buildings and off-site highway upgrades, alongside the realignment of the internal highway network and upgraded railway crossing points, and the installation of new high mast lights, site CCTV and the electrical infrastructure.

We recently completed work at Berth 35 at the Port, which involved removing parts of a suspended slab built more than a century ago and refurbishing approximately 4,000m2 of quay paving, and slot drain and concrete works at DP World.

Ryebridge’s ongoing commitment to Southampton has seen the company’s workforce grow from 10 local people and sub-contractors in 2022 to a staff of more than 50 people fully employed and drawn from the local workforce.

Recruiting first through agencies, we soon found we could pick up staff through local resources and referrals, and we have also invested in our first apprentice, training him in the operation of a forklift and dumper truck.

The company’s community engagement includes sponsoring the Ringwood Seals swimming club and the British Pedal Car Grand Prix, also in Ringwood, taking part in the Utilita charity golf day to help support people out of fuel and food poverty, and donating surplus materials to a local boxing gym for training equipment.

Managing director Sean Scully said: “We have always wanted to commit to a long-term future in the Southampton area and this new office is proof of that. There are a lot of exciting opportunities for a forward-thinking and engaging civil engineering company like Ryebridge in this part of the country, and we hope to be keeping very busy in the months to come.”

Ryebridge’s new offices: (L-R) design manager Matt Carter, project manager Robert Miller, managing director Sean Scully and construction manager Kevin Wilson.

Class of 2025: Ryebridge apprentices prepare for the year ahead

Ryebridge has renewed impetus in providing first-hand mentorship and invaluable practical support for its team of apprentices.

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.

The company is currently employing six apprentices across a wide range of fields including accountancy, project management and quantity surveying, who split their time between working and studying at various educational establishments.

James Arnall is studying for a degree in civil engineering at the University of Herts, Nancy Tucker is working on L3 AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) at Bedford College, Mason Pender is at London Southbank working on his quantity surveying BSc, Ronnie Costen is studying L4 site management at Bedford College, Finn Scully is working on his L3 survey technician QS at Bedford, and Max Banham is at the University of Herts studying a foundation degree in site management.

Speaking at the company’s annual apprenticeship breakfast, managing director Sean Scully told them there would be a renewed focus from within the company on providing them with hands-on experience alongside different teams, ensuring they are constantly learning even when away from college.

Managing director Sean Scully said: “You’re the future of this company. This is the best company I’ve ever worked for - the environment’s great, the culture’s great, the people are lovely and we’re very passionate about it, and there is a massive future for you all here if this is the route you want to go down.”

Company owner Daniel Coyle added: “You’ll get a lot more practical experience here than you will at college, but there’s a reason why you go to college and that’s to learn the basics and see how It all fits together.”

This past year has included spending a week transforming a corner of the grounds at Woodlands Secondary School into a sensory garden to provide a calm space for students with complex needs to regulate in a tranquil and beautiful environment.

The apprentices were involved in the full design and delivery of the scheme, including sourcing materials and carrying out the actual work, providing them with invaluable first-hand experience of project management.

Moving forwards, all of the apprentices will be given the opportunity to spend time working on major projects and to shadow key members of senior staff like health, safety and wellbeing manager Karen Carter, contracts manager Don Wall and project manager Salvo Cardinale.

There will also be training provided in areas like programming, and the chance to research the benefits of new technology becoming available to the construction industry.

Earlier this year Ryebridge was highly commended in the Best Small Employer for Apprenticeships category of the inaugural Luton Apprenticeship Awards, which recognised companies that excel in providing apprenticeships, with a strong focus on mentorship, targets growth, and opportunities for professional and personal development.

Ryebridge apprentices with owner Daniel Coyle.

Team TDOZ accept National Building and Construction Award for London Luton Airport project

The team behind the award-winning Temporary Drop Off Zone (TDOZ) at London Luton Airport have been presented with the official trophy recognising their efforts.

Project manager Salvo Cardinale, site manager Mick Byrne, senior site engineer Thangavelu “Vani” Vanithasan and project and operations manager Joe Hankins were responsible for the job winning the Project of the Year (up to £10m) accolade at this year’s National Building and Construction Awards.

The project was a necessary consequence of the fire which destroyed the airport’s multi-storey car park back in October 2023, leaving customers without access to the terminal and costing LLA in lost revenue.

With a timetable of just 16 weeks, completing the works ahead of the busy school holiday period was essential, but Ryebridge pulled out all the stops to hand it over in just 13 and a half weeks.

Salvo explained: “It was a major project which didn’t just involve creating a new drop-off site for passengers, but the relocation of the existing taxi rank, the diversion of the pedestrian walkway into the airport, a new car park, new street lighting, a new traffic system, a new barrierless payment system using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), plus new signage, lining and street furniture.”

Joe added: “We had to phase the works in order to keep the bus terminal live, with no delays to services, prevent any disruption to taxis when the rank was relocated, and all the while avoiding any disruption to airport operations. That it was completed so far ahead of schedule is down to the efforts of all the lads involved, and so we’re accepting this award on their behalf as well.”

The completion of works on a new multi-storey car park means the TDOZ is no longer in use.

Joe, Salvo, Vani and Mick with the award.

Ryebridge win gold in National Building and Construction Awards

It was a night to remember for Ryebridge at this year’s National Building and Construction Awards.

The company won the Project of the Year (up to £10m) accolade for our work on London Luton Airport’s Temporary Drop Off Zone (TDOZ).

We were presented with the Gold Winner award at a gala ceremony which took place at the Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge Hotel on Friday.

The TDOZ project was initiated following the fire and collapse of the multi-storey Terminal Car Park 2 in October 2023, and was deemed to be time critical due to the loss of revenue caused by the multi-storey car park fire.

The new TDOZ involved the relocation of the existing taxi rank, the diversion of the pedestrian walkway into the airport, a new car park, new street lighting, a new traffic system, a new barrierless payment system using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), plus new signage, lining and street furniture.

The project had to be phased in such a way as to keep the bus terminal live with no delays, while ensuring the relocation of the taxi rank without disruption, and keeping easyJet, goods in waste away and the executive car park fully operational.

It was completed in just 13 and a half weeks, far ahead of the original timetable of 20 weeks, and even quicker than a revised 16 weeks, ensuring it was ready for the start of the school holidays.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “What a fantastic result and great recognition for Ryebridge on the national stage. The award must be shared between all those involved in completing this project successfully ahead of schedule, in particular project manager Salvo Cardinale.”

As well as winning this award, we were also shortlisted for the Innovation of the Year category for building the mezzanine floor in LLA’s International Departures Lounge, and Community Engagement for our social value work in Luton.

This was the second time we have won the Project of the Year (up to £10m) award. In 2024 we received the title in recognition of Hat Gardens, the £1.6m transformation of a derelict wasteland into an asset of genuine community value in Luton town centre. 

Ryebridge team join Love Luton Runfest

Ryebridge runners put their best feet forwards to complete this year’s Love Luton Runfest.

The 12th town running event started and finished in St George’s Square in Luton town centre, and offered participants the chance to complete either a 5K, 10K or half-marathon route, with the furthest distances taking in the Luton Hoo estate.

Our team included managing director Sean Scully and company administrator Kate Downing and their daughter Amelie, plus Ryebridge supporter Paul Blessing, who all completed the 5K, and senior planner Patrick Gannon, who finished the 10K in an impressive 52 minutes.

Ryebridge was also one of the sponsors for this year’s Runfest, joining the likes of Luton Borough Council, the University of Bedfordshire, London Luton Airport and Barnfield College in backing the event.

Money raised from the race goes towards the Community Awards Fund, established by Love Luton to provide financial support and monetary awards to community groups, local charities and organisations that support the people of Luton.

The aim of the fund is to provide financial awards for projects and initiatives run by groups working in the local community for the benefit of people in Luton.

Sean said: “What a fantastic event! It’s great to see the whole Luton community come together to do something truly amazing for some great local causes, and Ryebridge were delighted to do our bit as participants and sponsors.

“A special shout out to Kamal Hussain from Community Interest Luton who helped Amelie to reach the finish line. He was amazing – she would have given up and walked if it wasn’t for his encouragement and support, and she ended up coming 4th out of 66 in her age group.”

The organisers say the event is a vibrant celebration of community action which helps fund projects that make a real difference in the lives of Luton residents.

Linsey Sweet, head of commercial operations at Love Luton, said: “The Love Luton Runfest is always a fabulous event and it is an opportunity to bring people from all over the town together at an event that highlights everything that is great about Luton, community, diversity, team work, support and fundraising for amazing causes.  We had visitors from across the UK and many participants from our Love Luton partners which is fantastic to see.”

Kamal Hussain, Amelie, Kate and Sean.

Patrick Gannon from Ryebridge.

Ryebridge named as a regional winner in Building Excellence Awards

Ryebridge’s run of awards successes continues with the news that the company has been recognised as a regional winner in the LABC Building Excellence Awards.

LABC (Local Authority Building Control) represents all local authority building control teams in England and Wales, and the awards are the largest business to business accolades in the sector.

They recognise quality in all types of building project and individual contributions in the construction industry, and reward excellent buildings, outstanding companies, and partnerships and individuals that go that extra mile.

Ryebridge was the winner for the Central region in the category of Best Non-residential Extension, Alteration or Conversion.

We had been nominated alongside our partners London Luton Airport and architects Rock Townsend for our work on constructing LLA’s new mezzanine floor in the International Departures Lounge.

This project, which has also been shortlisted for a host of other awards this year, drew on Ryebridge’s 15 years of experience as the framework civils company at the site, and was achieved in the spirit of collaboration between all stakeholders as part of our ongoing support of the airport’s growth.

Described as the most complex construction project ever undertaken inside the LLA terminal, the design and build of a new mezzanine floor in the IDL needed to take place without any disruption to airport operations.

It was delivered in partnership with the LLA Development Team, and required collaboration with designers, structural engineers, sub-contractors, airside operations, airport security, airport technical services, terminal duty managers and airport concessions.

Most of the work 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.

Careful consideration was given to minimise disruption to airport operations and maintain the comfort and safety of the public, surrounding concessionaires and other airport operatives and contractors at all times.

One new foundation base was positioned under the luggage chutes which had to remain operational throughout the project. This required a Ryebridge team working initially on their hands and knees, hand-digging the base and shovelling the soil onto a conveyor belt which discharged it into electric motored wheelbarrows to walk out to the skips.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “We always knew this was going to be an incredibly challenging project, working under rigorous conditions to maintain airport operations, and it is reassuring that our peers in the construction industry have recognised this with a host of nominations for the work in various awards.

“We hope this national coverage highlights just what Ryebridge is capable of, and encourages other organisations to engage us in the future.”

Luton Borough Council service manager for building control consultancy, Karen Amos, added: “Ryebridge is a local company who share Luton Borough Council’s vision to improve the quality and standards of building in the town, and these awards showcase the fantastic compliant builds that can be achieved with that ethos. Congratulations to all involved!”

The national finals of the LABC Building Excellence Awards will take place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Park Lane on Friday January 23, when Ryebridge will be up against winners from 11 other regions for the grand prize.

Ryebridge's London Luton Airport fire recovery work recognised with major award

Ryebridge’s invaluable work in helping London Luton Airport recover from the impact of a devastating fire has been recognised with a national award.

The Temporary Drop-Off Zone (TDOZ) contributed to LLA winning the Airport Achievement category in the prestigious Aviation Industry Awards UK 2025, which were held at London’s Park Plaza Riverbank hotel on Tuesday.

The TDOZ project was initiated following the fire and collapse of the multi-storey Terminal Car Park 2 in October 2023, and was deemed to be time critical due to the loss of revenue caused by the multi-storey car park fire.

The new TDOZ involved the relocation of the existing taxi rank, the diversion of the pedestrian walkway into the airport, a new car park, new street lighting, a new traffic system, a new barrierless payment system using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), plus new signage, lining and street furniture.

The project had to be phased in such a way as to keep the bus terminal live with no delays, while ensuring the relocation of the taxi rank without disruption, and keeping easyJet, goods in waste away and the executive car park fully operational.

Ryebridge completed the work in just 13 and a half weeks, far ahead of the original timetable of 20 weeks, and even quicker than a revised 16 weeks, ensuring it was ready for the start of the school holidays.

Managing director Sean Scully said: “This was a technically complex project which took place in a live airport environment, and ensuring it was finished as quickly as possible while also to a high standard of quality was crucial to LLA’s operations. I would like to thank everyone involved in this project for all of their hard work in achieving this objective.

“We are delighted that the judges at this year’s Aviation Industry Awards recognised how important it was to the airport’s recovery after the fire, and are pleased to be celebrating this accolade with our partners at London Luton Airport.”

Ryebridge at work on berth dating back more than 100 years

Carrying out major construction work on an operating berth is a challenge in itself, but Ryebridge have also had to deal with the implications of removing parts of a suspended slab built more than a century ago.

The project, at Berth 35 at the Port of Southampton, involves the refurbishment of approximately 4,000m2 of quay paving, carried out in two phases to ensure operational access is maintained throughout the works.

With around two to three boats docking each week for periods of between one and two days, the Ryebridge team has had to stand-down during tie-up, and remove permanent fencing to allow access to the quayside, replacing it with Heras fencing for the duration.

The quayside itself is a suspended slab with crane rails installed on the top, infilled at a depth of 140mm to ensure a level surface, and dates back to more than 100 years ago.

It was actually the key docking point for the luxury ocean liner Queen Elizabeth 2 from 1969 to 2008, and is now part of the regeneration plan for the whole port, no longer being in use as a passenger cruise terminal.

Ryebridge was tasked with removing sections of existing concrete, and installing new surfacing layers and associated infrastructure upgrades, but because works were being carried out on a suspended slab they couldn’t go in with their usual big diggers and concrete breakers.

The solution was to sawcut the concrete 100mm either side of the crane rails, and then use handheld machinery to break up the concrete before cutting the rails into pieces and removing them.

Only then can a concrete planer be used to remove the infill off the slab in preparation for Tarmac to be laid.

Construction manager Kevin Wilson said: “The hand-breaking process is very tedious and very time-consuming, and because of the tight programme we have been working in horrific weather conditions to keep the works on schedule.

“It has been a whole learning experience, involving training in the use of this equipment, ensuring there was a rotation of teams to avoid hand/arm vibration injuries, and the use of specialised PPE like anti-vibration gloves.

“Added to this has been the challenge of working in an operational berth, with regular boat movements throughout the week, but I am pleased to say we are on target to meet the programme, and should be starting Tarmacing soon.”

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully added: “This has been a very challenging project under some extremely difficult conditions, but we have learned on the job and will be able to take this experience forwards to ensure successful completion of other projects of this nature.”

Ryebridge director interviewed on Five Live

With the UK’s rate of inflation holding at 3.8 per cent, Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully was invited onto the BBC’s Five Live Breakfast to discuss the impact on the construction industry.

Presenter Rachel Burden told listeners that Ryebridge specialises in civil engineering in airports, ports and NHS hospitals, and asked Sean how the national economic picture was affecting the company.

He said things are challenging generally for the construction industry, but it was the rise in the cost of living for their employees which was taking the biggest toll as Ryebridge tried to ensure staff could keep up with soaring prices.

“What we’ve seen is a massive increase in wages since 2020, with rises of 25 per cent up to 45 per cent for people still doing the same job.”

Rachel asked if market demand was also pushing prices up due to a shortage of construction workers across the country, and Sean said there were loads of different factors at work.

“I think what we've tried to do as a business is be very specific about the things we're good at.

“We're very successful in operationally sensitive areas, like airports, ports and hospitals. We were the civils contractor on the groundworks for the new Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and again that's an operationally restrictive area.”

He said in order to survive and thrive as a company, Ryebridge has had to become operational specialists, although this did not mean charging a premium for their services.

“I think what we try and do is work in areas where we know we can be successful and can do a good job, because ultimately, to make money out of jobs, you have to make sure you deliver a programme; for example, we’ve just finished a job in Southampton and handed over an area that the port can trade in three weeks early, which is obviously brilliant for everyone.

“But it's an area that we understand and it's a role we can do, and I think strategically as a business it’s about focusing on the things that we're successful at.”

Rachel asked about the cost of building materials in recent years, which has filtered down not only to large scale projects but even small housing improvements.

Sean said: “There are lots of different factors which affect how the price of materials have gone up, obviously Brexit, the cost of steel after the Ukraine-Russian war, and the cost of living impacts on us all.

“We use local suppliers wherever we are working, but with the rise in the cost of living not just our costs go up, but everybody else’s do too. Businesses are run to make money, and the only way they can look to do that is to increase the cost of the products that we build with. It's a bit of a perfect storm, unfortunately.”

He said construction companies also enter into fixed price agreements where clients cannot take into account inflation, so costs will go up during the course of the job.

Yet despite all of these challenges, Sean stressed how Ryebridge has been relatively stable as a business for the past few years.

Sean added: “Coming out of COVID was particularly difficult for us being in airports, and that's when we started working in hospitals and other areas.

“But there are still additional challenges that affect all businesses, like National Insurance, how VAT is managed, and there are lots of other complexities in the construction sector, as you'd imagine.”

'It was the toughest thing I've ever done' - Ryebridge bosses complete gruelling London to Bristol cycle challenge

A team from Ryebridge embarked on a brutal 160-mile cycle from London to Bristol which saw them in the saddle for a staggering 15 hours.

Founder Daniel Coyle and managing director Sean Scully joined a team from Bristol Airport on the challenge in aid of the airport’s charity partner Great Western Air Ambulance.

They started off at The Brunel Museum in London on Monday and made their way along the Great West Way, finishing at Bristol Airport the following Wednesday.

They rode 100 miles over eight and a half hours on the first day and the remaining 60 miles over six and a half hours on the second, pushing themselves to the limits of their stamina and endurance.

Sean said: “It was by far the toughest thing I’ve ever done. The weather was horrific, it was mental torture and I didn’t think it was ever going to end.

“I knew it would be brutal, but had no idea just how bad it would be. I’m glad I did it as it took me completely outside my comfort zone, but now I need to recover.”

Part of the ride took them off-road for 40km, cycling along bridalways, tow paths and gravel roads, but the team worked together to overcome these obstacles, making sure nobody was left behind.

Then just 20 miles out from Bristol, they hit the wall, and found themselves struggling to complete the final stretch: “I didn’t think it would ever end,” Sean recalled. “It was relentless. Nobody was speaking, we were just desperately pedalling to reach the finish line. I couldn’t feel the tips of my fingers and there were pains all the way down my legs.”

They arrived to cheers and celebrations on Wednesday afternoon, having raised in excess of £87,000 for the charity.

Daniel added: “I don’t think either of us appreciated quite how challenging this was going to be, but every penny raised from our pain will be going towards ensuring this vital service keeps flying, so it was all worth it!”

Last year Sean and Daniel took part in a gruelling 220-mile charity bike ride organised by London Luton Airport which took them across the Republic of Ireland in aid of the Luton Foodbank and the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

At the time Sean said it was the most challenging thing he had ever done, but the Bristol ride has since upped the stakes: “With a lot of charity events people end up paying to take part in something they’d always wanted to do, but this was not something you’d ever want to do!”

You can still make a donation in recognition of Sean and Daniel’s efforts here: https://greatwesternairambulance.enthuse.com/pf/london-bristol-cycle-2025
 

Pioneering machinery allows Ryebridge to finish project TWO weeks early

A team from Ryebridge shaved weeks off a major project through the use of a game-changing new piece of equipment.

After the company was contracted to carry out concrete paving reconstruction works at Tilbury Docks, the decision was taken to engage a 2m wide concrete planer, a piece of machinery which has only been used in the UK for the past couple of years.

This planed out 2,000 sq m of concrete, 300mm deep, in just two days.

All the material was graded as recycled part 1, which meant it was ready to be used elsewhere.

Traditionally a project of this scope would have involved using two or three diggers to break up the existing concrete and then transporting it to a crusher, and would have taken between two to three weeks.

The time saved was important not only for Ryebridge, but also for the port, where the use of space is commercially crucial, so the project will be completed two weeks ahead of the 10 week schedule.

Project manager Kevin Wilson said: “This machinery really is a gamechanger for the industry, and our client was extremely pleased to have this part of the docks back in use for storage much earlier than they anticipated.”

Managing director Sean Scully added: “The innovative and successful use of a concrete planer means this approach will be used on future jobs elsewhere, ensuring Ryebridge brings this best practice approach to other projects.”

Pedal to the metal! Ryebridge sponsors racing event

Ryebridge took pole position to back one of the country’s most exciting racing events.

The company was headline sponsor for the British Pedal Car Grand Prix, a high speed event which 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.

After last year’s event was cancelled when the organisers ran into financial difficulties, Ryebridge stepped in with the offer of sponsorship and provided the crowd barriers for the race.

The 2025 British Pedal Car Grand Prix proved to be a resounding success, drawing huge crowds and delivering thrilling, wheel-to-wheel action despite the scorching summer heat.

A spokesperson for the Round Table said: “The atmosphere was electric from start to finish, with families, racing fans, and teams from across the UK turning out in force to celebrate this unique and much-loved event.

“In true Grand Prix spirit, the heat did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of competitors or spectators. Teams showed remarkable endurance and sportsmanship under tough conditions, pushing both their engineering and athletic limits over the gruelling two-hour race.

“This year’s podium saw an outstanding performance from the Polton Boys, who took first place with a commanding lead as only the second duo to take the crown. Peletony Racing followed closely in second, while Doughty Racing secured third after a fierce battle in the closing stages.

“With fantastic community support, exciting racing, and a brilliant display of teamwork and ingenuity, the 2025 British Pedal Car Grand Prix was one of the most successful to date. The event not only upheld its tradition of fun and fierce competition but also strengthened its reputation as one of the UK’s most distinctive and entertaining sporting spectacles. Planning is already underway to make 2026 even bigger and better.”

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “This was a fantastic event for us to get behind, and highlights our ongoing commitment to supporting the community in and around Southampton.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership in the years to come.”

Ryebridge keep things moving for road users in St Albans

A team from Ryebridge Construction completed work on a major drainage project five days earlier than expected - ensuring minimum disruption for residents, businesses and other road users.

The project, at Ridgeview Lodge in Barnet Road, London Colney, involved the excavation and installation of a new storm drain, with the road expected to be closed until Sunday.

But the determination and resourcefulness of the Ryebridge team resulted in all work finished well ahead of schedule.

Project manager Don Wall said: “Ryebridge Construction have successfully opened Barnet Road to the public this morning after a tremendous push on site to install the storm drain through a forest of services with great success.

“The road closure was until Sunday August 17, so to open the main road five days early to appease the public and remove the diversion will only benefit the council and local businesses.”

Managing director Sean Scully added: “Highway construction works are always challenging and timeframes can be difficult to achieve. We pride ourselves on accurate programming and delivery.

“Paramount importance is always safety with no exceptions however we are aware of the impact on surrounding areas and take every measure to complete on time. We had engaged with local businesses and residents and got a huge sense of frustration about these essential works and the closure so to be out early is great for everyone.”

Ryebridge makes the shortlist for four national awards categories

Ryebridge’s run of nominations for leading national awards continues…

Our work constructing a new mezzanine floor in the International Departures Lounge at London Luton Airport has been shortlisted in the Airport Achievement category for the Aviation Industry Awards UK 2025, an event which sees the cream of the United Kingdom’s aviation industry recognised and celebrated in front of hundreds of senior executives.

This recognises the challenges of constructing the 675 sq m floor in a live airport environment, a complex and extremely technical project delivered in partnership with the LLA Development Team, which required collaboration with designers, structural engineers, sub-contractors, airside operations, airport security, airport technical services, terminal duty managers and airport concessions.

The awards ceremony takes place on September 9 at the Park Plaza London Riverbank.

The mezzanine floor project has also secured us a shortlist place in the Innovation of the Year category of the National Building and Construction Awards, held at the Leonardo Royal London Tower Bridge Hotel on October 10.

Alongside that particular project, we have reached the finals of the NCBA’s Project of the Year (up to £10m) category for the Temporary Drop-Off Zone (TDOZ) at London Luton Airport, and the Community Engagement category for our social value work in Luton.

The TDOZ project was initiated following the fire and collapse of the multi-storey Terminal Car Park 2 in October 2023, and was deemed to be time critical due to the loss of revenue caused by the multi-storey car park fire.

The new TDOZ involved the relocation of the existing taxi rank, the diversion of the pedestrian walkway into the airport, a new car park, new street lighting, a new traffic system, a new barrierless payment system using ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), plus new signage, lining and street furniture.

The project had to be phased in such a way as to keep the bus terminal live with no delays, while ensuring the relocation of the taxi rank without disruption, and keeping easyJet, goods in waste away and the executive car park fully operational.

It was completed in just 13 and a half weeks, far ahead of the original timetable of 20 weeks, and even quicker than a revised 16 weeks, ensuring it was ready for the start of the school holidays.

Ryebridge Construction’s finalist slot for Community Engagement comes after we were recognised as ‘hero stakeholder’ for the socio-economic value created because of our work with Luton Airport, the town and the surrounding region.

This means focus on supporting and promoting the town wherever possible, with more than 90% of 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.

This mutually-beneficial relationship also includes raising more than £400,000 for local charities including Keech Hospice, Level Trust, Luton Food Bank and Age Concern Luton - as we recognise they are the lifeblood of the local community - being an active member of Love Luton and sponsoring Luton Town FC.

We are committed to Luton becoming a healthy, fair and sustainable town offering opportunities for everyone to thrive, where nobody has to live in poverty, which also means supporting local charities and activities wherever possible.

Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully said: “We are genuinely humbled to be recognised for our work across these different awards and categories, and would like to thank everyone involved in these projects and initiatives for all of their hard work.

“While we’ll be keeping our fingers crossed for a win in the autumn, we’re just delighted to be able to celebrate these achievements with our partners and peers.”

The TDOZ at LLA.

The mezzanine floor in the International Departures Lounge at London Luton Airport.