/ WINTER
/ FORWARD ANDY DALRYMPLE
I would like to wish everyone a happy, safe and healthy new year as we look forward to 2025 which promises to see many positive improvements being implemented across the full business.
The start of the year saw us launch our new management structure which included the promotion of Scott Harvey to Compliance Director which reflects our commitment to safety being core to all decision making. Our new office at Prism House in East Kilbride, which will serve as an operational hub, is now open with the focus now on how best to use the space and improve the working environment within the Head office at Burnfield Avenue.
Workload continues to increase both in terms of value and geographical spread across the UK, working on behalf of both existing and new clients, which reinforces the importance of building on the improvements we made in 2024 regarding communication & engagement and training & development.
I would thank everyone for their hard work and commitment which made 2024 a successful year and I look forward to working with you in making 2025 even better.
July—December
Civils Training Day 2024
In November, over 130 staff and operatives from our regional offices came together for a Civils Training Day, reinforcing our commitment to safety, quality, and collaboration. Health and safety training days are essential in the workplace as they protect employees, reduce risks, and foster a safety-first culture. They equip staff with the knowledge to prevent accidents, comply with regulations, and confidently perform their roles, enhancing both productivity and quality. This session provided employees with updates on industry changes while promoting teamwork and a proactive approach to addressing hazards.
Ensuring a full day of engagement and covering critical topics, the training day kicked off at 8.30am.
Gavin Chesney opened the session with a company overview, setting the tone for a productive agenda. Key presentations followed, focusing on health, safety, and quality improvement.
Highlights included:
• Civils Update
• HAVS Awareness: Delivered by Ryan Taggart
• Permit to Break Surface: Chris Duffy
• Compliance and Quality: Rab Dyer shared best practices in recording defects and improving workflows.
• Specialised Presentations: Guest experts from Mabey Hire and Pipeline Energy Solutions demonstrated Temporary Works and Vacuum Excavation techniques, ensuring practical knowledge sharing.
• Silica Dust Management: David Gilmour from Socotec delivered an impactful session on minimising exposure risks.
• Lift Plan: Delivered by Gus Fenwick
The day revolved around fostering a proactive safety culture, with Scott Harvey, Compliance Manager, and the rest of the Compliance Team receiving commendation for their well-delivered assistance. Attendees were reminded of the importance of quality in daily operations, reinforcing our standards for excellence.
With contributions from internal and external experts, the event highlighted our dedication to employee welfare, operational safety, and continuous improvement. The inclusion of Investors in People discussions, delivered by HR Manager, Shirley McInnes, reaffirmed our commitment to team development and engagement.
We would like to thank all who participated and made the day a success. This training day reaffirms our commitment to fostering an informed and empowered workforce who are united in achieving our shared goals.
SRD Stand Down Day
On the 20th of September, Mackenzie Construction’s Structural Refurbishment Division held a highly successful Stand Down Day, designed to equip team members with cutting-edge skills and knowledge. Held at the Westerwood Hotel in Cumbernauld, the day had running themes of ‘ensuring a consistent delivery approach’, ‘continuous improvement’ and ‘working together as one team’ to ensure our success.
The day kicked off with an opening address from Structural Refurbishment General Manager, Mark Brown, who emphasized the importance of continuous learning in the evolving field of structural refurbishment,
"Our projects are becoming more intricate and the technology more advanced. This event is essential to ensure we remain at the forefront of the industry.”
Throughout the day, participants gained valuable insights into improving technical skills through a number of employee-led sessions. Ryan Taggart covered HAVS, Scott MacDonald discussed Testing Equipment and Rab Dyer & Mark Keegan spoke about Quality: ITPs, Recording of Defects, and Good & Bad Practice.
We were delighted to welcome Fosroc to our event, where they discussed Proofex 3000, a cold-applied, flexible waterproofing membrane which has Net Zero Credentials. Aligning with Mackenzie Construction’s ongoing commitment to Net Zero, we recently collaborated with Fosroc using the Proofex 3000 waterproofing membrane on a project in the Scottish Borders.
Fosroc were able to share the properties of Proofex 3000 with the wider Structural Refurbishment Division. The application process is faster and more resilient than alternative liquid applied alternatives, which reduces return to service times for our clients.
Georgina Mills (ReSano Occupational Health) attended the event to raise awareness of the hazards of Silica Dust in the Construction Industry. Georgina provided key background information about the activities which create dust, the harmful effects that exposure to dust can have and most importantly the mitigation measures we can take to prevent exposure.
We also had Jack Edwards from Natural Cement present on the day, Jack provided some really informative insight into Natural Cements Water Industry Products and how to select the best possible applications from their product line of all naturally produced cement-based solutions.
The Stand Down Day didn’t just focus on technical skills but also emphasized collaboration and communication—skills that are crucial when working in multidisciplinary teams on small and large-scale projects.
We were proud to have Mackenzie Construction's People Ambassador, Scott Meenagh present at the event. Scott spoke in the morning session about his preparations for the 2026 Winter Paralympics. It was fascinating to gain insight into an exciting time in Scott's career. Scott was also able to pull some key parallels between his preparations for the Paralympics and the workplace.
The people and the culture within Mackenzie Construction has and will always be one of the greatest assets to success. It is crucial that we continually provide development opportunities and build on our commitment to developing talent and providing training for our entire team to ensure our people reach their full potential.
"This day wasn't just about learning new techniques; it was about building the foundation for even greater success in the years to come. This forum gave us an invaluable opportunity to bring our full Structural Refurbishment Team together allowing our people to share how we can best deliver our commitment to continuous improvement and build on the already excellent reputation our structural refurbishment teams have."
Andy Dalrymple, Managing Director
Operational Staff Social Event to Golf It
On Friday 6th of September, Mackenzie Construction held its first ever Operational Staff social event at ‘Golf It’ in Hogganfield.
The day started by welcoming our site staff to ‘Golf It’ with a buffet lunch. The event was casual and informal with encouragement to steer clear of any work-related conversation!
As Glasgow Warriors’ Official Civil Engineering Partner, we were delighted that the Glasgow Warriors were able to share their URC Trophy with us on the day. Our Construction Director and big Glasgow Warrior’s fan, Mark Wilson, shared on a big screen the highlights from the final which led the Warriors to victory.
Our Operational Staff were then split into their groups, based on their chosen activity for the day. Groups were led by Alan Montgomery, Scott Harvey, Gus Fenwick, Mark Keegan, Ryan Boyd, and Shirley McInnes. Our staff had the choice of fishing the Hogganfield Loch, visiting the driving range, playing crazy golf, or a playing a 9-hole game of golf.
The weather was fantastic, with great feedback from all groups on the activities they partook in at ‘Golf It’. The activities held competitions, providing lots of laughter throughout the day.
This event allowed our Operational Staff the time and space to catch up with old colleagues and new. After the activities were completed for the day, a few groups stayed at the venue, enjoying the sunshine in the picnic area with a few beverages.
“It was great to have so many of our staff under the one roof on Friday. The Operational Staff, Group Leaders and I had a good laugh at the Golf It event. I enjoyed the opportunity to mingle with the wider team, put faces to names and build on my relationships with my colleagues. I hope to make this an annual event, and I am already looking forward to organising out next Operational Staff day out.”
Nina Devaney, Health & Wellbeing Coordinator
Munro Challenge
On Saturday 17th August, a team of seven Mackenzie Construction employees took part in the WaterAid Munro Challenge, climbing Ben Vorlich. Ben Vorlich (985m), is a prominent mountain in the Southern Highlands of Scotland and is one of the 282 Munros (mountains) across Scotland. We decided to take on this challenge to provide awareness and raise money for projects supported by Scottish Water in Rwanda delivering clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene in communities where these are all needed.
The team that took on the challenge was made up of Danny Veitch, Thomas McGuigan, Chris Russell, Mark Wilson, Alan Montgomery, Jay Stewart and Jamie Hislop. The climb came with some difficulties due to failing weather, visibility and high winds from above 800m, however, the team conquered Ben Vorlich, to make for a successful day.
The team enjoyed the climb so much, that there are already conversations being had for which Munro they can climb next.
All money that is raised through the Munro Challenge 2024 is supporting WaterAid’s vital work in Rwanda, donate today at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/ mackenzie-construction-1716284274576
/ COMMUNITY
Celebrating Community Spirit at Pride of Queens Cross Awards
Mackenzie Construction demonstrated its commitment to supporting community-led initiatives by proudly sponsoring the "Improving Neighbourhoods" category at this year’s Pride of Queens Cross Awards.
The awards evening, held on Friday the 4th of October at the Grand Central Hotel, celebrated and recognised the local residents, community groups, local businesses and Queens Cross staff who go above and beyond in making Queens Cross and its communities a great place to live and work.
The "Improving Neighbourhoods" award, sponsored by Mackenzie Construction, recognises exceptional efforts by those who have contributed to positive change. Whether through improving local environments, organising community events, or spearheading initiatives that foster inclusion and sustainability, the award highlights the vital role local heroes play in creating vibrant and safe communities.
Speaking of the event, Contracts Manager at Mackenzie Construction, Robbie MacLean said,
“We are incredibly proud to sponsor the 'Improving Neighbourhoods' category. This award reflects our own values of community engagement and sustainable development. It’s inspiring to see the passion and creativity of those working hard to make our local areas better for everyone. We were proud to celebrate their efforts and look forward to continuing our support for community-driven initiatives.”
By sponsoring this key award, Mackenzie Construction underscores its long-standing commitment to fostering collaboration and positive change within local neighbourhoods, further cementing our role as a champion of community improvement.
Woodside Making Places Open Day
Mackenzie Construction is proud to be involved in the Making Places project, a £4m improvement project transforming the landscape of Woodside. The area will see improved streets, play areas, green spaces and travel paths.
We were delighted to attend the Woodside Making Places Open Day last on the 17th of October at the Cedar Community Hub.
There were a number of games and activities for the kids to enjoy, we held a basketball challenge for them in the new basketball court, they were able to play in the new park and there were a number of different bikes and trikes for them to try out.
For the adults, there was a sign-up section for the new, bike and mobility scooter storage area, as well as a workshop run on herbs and other edible plants.
We had a brilliant time and enjoyed meeting with the project architects Nathan Wilson and Rosie Bookless from RaeburnFarquharBowen Landscape Architecture & Urban Design.
The feedback from the community has been incredible with residents describing how the new green spaces are already enriching their daily lives.
Signing the Lease for Prism House
Mackenzie Construction has taken an exciting step forward by signing a lease for additional premises at Prism House, East Kilbride. The new space, designed to accommodate the company’s continued expansion, is an important milestone in enhancing both day-today operations and fostering a collaborative working environment.
As the business continues to grow, having a suitable and sufficient workspace is critical for encouraging teamwork and innovation. The new location will feature open-plan areas designed specifically to support collaboration between departments, as well as modern meeting rooms and creative breakout spaces to facilitate idea-sharing and problem-solving.
"We’re committed to creating a workspace that allows our teams to work together efficiently and creatively. The additional space not only provides room for growth but also allows us to design a layout that truly supports collaboration, which is key to our success.”
Andy Dalrymple, Managing Director
To ensure the new space meets these goals, Mackenzie Construction appointed a specialist internal architect to develop a tailored design that reflects the company’s vision for a productive and inspiring working environment. The architect has been working closely with the team at Mackenzie, with the aim of delivering a space that enhances comfort, productivity, and innovation.
As part of the process, the company held a staff open day on Thursday, 3rd October, offering team members the opportunity to view the premises and share their thoughts on the space. Employees were enthusiastic about the potential of the space, with many offering valuable feedback.
The new premises mark an exciting new chapter for Mackenzie Construction, aligning its physical environment with the business’s forward-thinking culture and growth ambitions.
We are looking forward to welcoming our staff into these new premises in early 2025.
Supporting East Renfrewshire Build Programme
In November, Mackenzie Construction was proud to host the East Renfrewshire Build Programme at the Mackenzie HQ in Glasgow. The initiative, spearheaded by East Renfrewshire Council and Business Gateway East Renfrewshire, aims to empower local businesses in the construction and associated industries by providing them with opportunities to grow through public and private sector collaborations.
This partnership-driven programme, involving Hub West and top-tier contractors, provides invaluable resources for local businesses. It includes workshops, presentations, and expert insights to help participants navigate procurement processes and unlock potential growth opportunities.
Mark Brown of Mackenzie Construction delivered a compelling presentation on pre-construction strategies, offering attendees a deep dive into the company’s operations. The event also featured contributions from Managing Director Andy Dalrymple, further showcasing Mackenzie's commitment to the region.
Reflecting on the session, Colin McNally of Business Gateway highlighted the positive impact of Mackenzie Construction’s involvement:
“The East Renfrewshire Build Programme moved to the Headquarters of Mackenzie Construction this week. What a warm welcome we received and what truly insightful presentations from Andy Dalrymple and Mark Brown on what Mackenzie does. The Construction company business owners who attended were grateful to Mackenzie for hosting this week of the programme and also for providing so much information on the business and what it does. A company which is embedded in East Renfrewshire and one Business Gateway is looking to work with in the months and years to come.”
This collaboration underscores Mackenzie Construction’s dedication to fostering local economic development and strengthening community ties.
Spirit of Christmas 2024 A Record Year of Giving
We are thrilled to share that 2024 has been our best year yet for supporting children during the holiday season. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our team and supporters, we delivered around 80 gift parcels to bring joy to children and families in need.
We chose to support two wonderful charities, The Halliday Foundation and The Les Hoey DreamMaker Foundation.
In addition to the gifts, we proudly continued our annual tradition of donating funds to The Les Hoey DreamMaker Foundation through the Glasgow Spirit of Christmas initiative. In December, alongside Garnock MOT, we donated £350 that will contribute to a trip to Disneyland Paris for five kids and their families.
With 1 in 5 children in Scotland living in poverty, it is important at this time of year that businesses and individuals alike pull together and make sure that everyone has a wonderful Christmas regardless of their circumstances.
At Mackenzie Construction, we are proud to give back to the communities in which we live and work, and this year’s effort is a testament to the kindness and commitment of our team. We are happy that we can play a part in helping to create unforgettable memories for children and families during the holiday season.
Spreading Holiday Cheer in the North with Mission Christmas
In December, Mackenzie Construction’s regional office in the North proudly supported the Moray Firth Radio (MFR) Cash for Kids Mission Christmas Gift Appeal, helping to ensure that as many children as possible experienced the magic of Christmas. The appeal, which launched on Monday, 18th November 2024, focuses on providing gifts for children and young people across the region who might not otherwise receive anything on Christmas Day.
Mission Christmas supports children from birth to 18 years old but faces particular challenges collecting gifts for babies and teenagers, especially boys. Recognising the importance of this cause, our Regional Office staff, alongside support from the wider Mackenzie Construction team, rallied together to make a significant contribution to the appeal.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our employees and financial backing from the business, we were able to donate a wide array of gifts, ensuring that even more children will feel the excitement and joy of Christmas this year. From toys for younger children to practical and age-appropriate items for teenagers, our team’s thoughtful contributions reflected the diverse needs of the children supported by the campaign.
On Monday, 16th December, we proudly delivered the donated gifts to the Mission Christmas HQ. The team at Mission Christmas expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the contribution, which will go a long way toward fulfilling the high volume of requests they’ve received this year.
To find out more about this initiative, visit MFR’s Cash for Kids website: https://hellorayo.co.uk/mfr/charity/ events/mission-christmas-2024-north-scotland/
Gathering Essential Items for Homeless Project Scotland
Mackenzie Construction is proud to announce the success of our recent initiative to support Homeless Project Scotland, its chosen charity of the year. We have been actively collecting essential items to assist individuals experiencing homelessness in Scotland. Homeless Project Scotland offers a safe haven for those experiencing homelessness, working collaboratively to help break the cycle of homelessness.
Staff, partners, and the wider Mackenzie Construction community have come together over the past few weeks to donate an incredible array of essential goods, including warm clothing, toiletries, feminine hygiene products and many more. These donations will be distributed to those in need through Homeless Project Scotland, which provides vital support to some of the country’s most vulnerable individuals.
The initiative reflects Mackenzie Construction’s commitment to giving back to the communities in which we operate. By partnering with Homeless Project Scotland, the company is helping address the urgent challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness, particularly during the colder winter months.
Mackenzie Construction’s Health & Wellbeing Coordinator, Nina Devaney said,
“We’re deeply moved by the generosity of our team and supporters who have contributed to this initiative. Partnering with Homeless Project Scotland has opened our eyes to the immense need for support within our communities. Every item donated will go directly to those who need it most, and we’re humbled to play a small part in supporting such a vital cause.”
We are proud to have supported Homeless Project Scotland through the duration of 2024 as our Chosen Charity of the Year, raising a total of £1800 through various charity initiatives.
Donations are still welcome at our Just Giving Page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/mackenzieconstruction-1706273543543
To learn more about Homeless Project Scotland and how you can get involved with the charity, visit their websites at: https://homelessprojectscotland.org/
/ PARTNERSHIPS
Mackenzie Construction Sponsors Hearts + Balls Jim Taylor Memorial Match and Rugby Sevens Teams
Mackenzie Construction is honoured to have sponsored the Jim Taylor Memorial Match, hosted by Hearts + Balls on the 27th of December 2024, in Edinburgh at Oriam, Scotland's Sports Performance Centre. This special event paid tribute to the life and legacy of Jim Taylor, a dedicated ambassador for Hearts + Balls and a long-time supporter of rugby, including his many years working with the Glasgow Warriors.
"It is a lovely tribute to Jim that Mackenzie Construction agreed to sponsor Jim’s memorial match. Jim first met Andy Dalrymple the CEO of Mackenzie Construction when he signed them as members of Glasgow Warriors Business Club back in 2017, and I know Jim would have been honoured that they are supporting this match and wish to thank him for his support of Hearts + Balls MB ."
Sandra Taylor, Jim Taylor’s wife
In addition to sponsoring the memorial match, Mackenzie Construction is delighted to announce a new partnership with Hearts + Balls MB. The company will be the primary sponsor for both the Hearts + Balls men’s and women’s 7’s teams for the next three years. The sponsorship reflects Mackenzie Construction's ongoing commitment to the rugby community and its support for the vital work Hearts + Balls does for players affected by life-altering injuries.
"At Mackenzie Construction, we are incredibly proud to support a cause that honours Jim Taylor's contribution to the sport he loved and cared so much about," said Andy Dalrymple. "Hearts + Balls makes a tangible difference in the lives of players facing life-changing circumstances, and we are excited to support their efforts both through the memorial match and our longer-term sponsorship of their rugby sevens teams."
Hearts + Balls Charitable Trust assist rugby players who have sustained serious, life-changing injuries. Their work provides essential support and financial aid, helping individuals rebuild their lives in the face of challenging circumstances.
Hugh Dan MacLennan, Chair of the Hearts + Balls Charitable Trust, said "The Hearts and Balls Charitable Trust is delighted that Andy Dalrymple and Mackenzie Construction supported our traditional festive match
where H+BMB met the Pigbarians. The indoor fixture is always significant on our calendar and is a great opportunity for everyone to get together to work off Christmas excesses and contribute to the Charity’s profile and fund-raising. We hope that many people enjoyed celebrating the spirit of Jim Taylor who was such a key figure in our development. Andy knew Jim very well from his time at Glasgow Warriors and I know Jim held Andy in very high regard with respect to everything he did for rugby. It is a great association to have, linking the company with the charity and its aims."
Glasgow Warriors Managing Director, Al Kellock, said, "We're delighted that Mackenzie Construction put their name to the Jim Taylor Memorial Match in December, carrying on his legacy. Jim was a valued member of our team, particularly amongst our sponsors and partners, and I know he would have enjoyed having a match named after him, so thank you to our partner for remembering him in this way and supporting the charity that meant a lot to him, Hearts + Balls."
The Jim Taylor Memorial Match is always a memorable and heartfelt tribute to a man who gave so much to the rugby world. Proceeds from the event went directly to Hearts + Balls, enabling the charity to continue its critical work within the rugby community.
To learn about the work Hearts + Balls does, please visit https://heartsandballs.org.uk/
Dirrans Athletic AFC Preseason Tournament Sponsorship
Mackenzie Construction is proud to support a number of community initiatives across Scotland as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility strategy. The focus of this strategy is to support the local communities in which we live and work.
We were delighted to sponsor the 18th annual Donnie McManus Trophy - a preseason tournament hosted by Dirrans Athletic AFC at Kilwinning Sports Club. The competition comprises of 8 adult amateur football clubs from Ayrshire who play against each other in a knockout format.
The tournament commenced in July and finished on Friday 2nd August, with the final being played between Mauchline AFC and Beith AFC. Mauchline AFC took home the trophy after a 2-1 win, in a tightly contested final.
The Plate was won by Calderglen who defeated Irvine Thistle 2-1.
The tournament has become a massive part of the amateur football pre-season schedule in Ayrshire and Mackenzie Construction were delighted to contribute to its success this year.
“At Mackenzie Construction we are always looking for opportunities to support our local community. We were delighted to sponsor the Donnie McManus Trophy tournament for Dirrans Athletic AFC and wish them the best for their upcoming season.”
Andy
Dalrymple, Managing Director
Sponsoring the Washington AFC U12 Panthers
Mackenzie Construction is delighted to be sponsoring the Washington AFC U12 Panthers, a top-performing youth football team in the Northumberland Football League. This new partnership highlights Mackenzie Construction’s commitment to supporting the local community and empowering young athletes to reach their full potential.
The sponsorship deal will see the young players sporting brand-new kits with Mackenzie Construction’s logo, helping to build team pride as they continue their journey through a successful season. With a reputation for fostering community connections, Mackenzie Construction’s support extends beyond business, reinforcing the values of teamwork, dedication, and resilience within their local area.
Washington AFC Panthers are currently leading the Northumberland Football League table and are charging towards the semi-final of the Cup with impressive performances. Coaches, players, and supporters alike are thrilled to have Mackenzie Construction as part of their team, with hopes that the sponsorship will propel them forward as they aim to bring home more victories.
“We are incredibly grateful to Mackenzie Construction for their belief in our team and their dedication to supporting the Panthers. It is inspiring to see a local business invest in our young players, and we’re excited for the season ahead with them behind us.”
We would like to wish the young Panthers the best of luck for the season ahead,
"At Mackenzie Construction, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting young talent, and we’re thrilled to be part of their journey this season. We look forward to cheering them on and watching these young athletes thrive both on and off the pitch."
Andy Dalrymple, Managing Director
2024 Golf Days
This year we have had the pleasure of attending a number of golf days. Many of our keen golfers were out and about enjoying the various golf days over the summer. The golf days are a great way for us to engage with our partners and colleagues and strengthen our relationships.
In September, we attended WaterAid Scotland’s Charity Golf Day at Fairmont, St Andrews, where a total of £26k was raised. Mackenzie Construction proudly sponsored the 11th hole and the team playing, thoroughly enjoyed the day. WaterAid UK works tirelessly to provide clean water and toilets to communities worldwide, and we are very proud to support their work.
August saw Mackenzie attending the CECA Scotland’s Annual Golf Day at Bruntsfield Links Golf Club in Edinburgh. Gavin Chesney captained our team alongside Hans Cook, Kevin Kneeshaw and Steven Rankin from Landmarc. With 60 golfers representing CECA member companies, our team had an enjoyable day with industry peers.
We also had our very own annual Mackenzie Construction golf day, where 35 staff members attended Cochrane Castle Golf Club. The day was structured in a stableford format, with the top of the leaderboard being a tight affair between players. Sean Mallon, Project Manager finished runner-up on 40 points and was narrowly pipped at the post by Site Engineer, Kyle Mclean who finished on 45 points. Congratulations Kyle, our Mackenzie Construction Staff Golf Day champion.
In July, a team from Mackenzie Construction attended the CECA Midlands Annual Golf Day. Jamie Hislop, Jay Stewart & Richie Helens played the round of golf with Mark Brown caddying. Mackenzie was also delighted to bring along a team from Severn Trent Water. While no trophies were taken home, the team enjoyed a great day with industry peers alike.
CRA Award Successes
/ ACHIEVEMENTS
CRA Award Successes
CRA Award Win 1 – Project Of The Year (Under 1m)
Case Study: Souters Wood Treated Water Storage Point (TWSP) Refurbishment
Project Overview
Mackenzie Construction successfully completed the refurbishment of the Souters Wood Treated Water Storage Point (TWSP) located in Selkirk, Scottish Borders, for Scottish Water. The project, valued at £704,433, took 20 weeks, finishing ahead of the 24week schedule. Souters Wood is a 2023m³ capacity storage tank that serves the local community with treated water, requiring structural repairs to extend its lifespan by 20 years. Mackenzie Construction led all stages of the project, from scoping and design to execution, collaborating with partners such as Coatbridge Engineering and Fosroc.
Innovation and Techniques
A key innovative solution was the use of Fosroc’s Proofex 3000, a high-performance waterproofing membrane that enhanced climate resistance. The project also incorporated sustainable techniques, such as recycling existing gravel on-site instead of importing new materials, reducing both carbon emissions and costs. This process involved a Trommel Bucket, which cleaned the gravel, readying it for reuse while minimizing waste.
Sustainability Focus
Aligned with Scottish Water’s Net Zero goals, Mackenzie Construction employed several carbon reduction strategies. These included the use of reusable aluminium trackways, electric conveyor belts, 100% HVO fuel for machinery, and the recycling of overburden materials. Overall, the project achieved an 80% carbon reduction, with an additional 10% offset, resulting in a total net saving of 90%.
Challenges & Solutions
The project’s hillside location and limited access posed logistical challenges, as the site could only be accessed by 4x4 vehicles. To overcome these difficulties, Mackenzie Construction utilized specialized equipment, including a 13T excavator for embankment re-profiling. The team also had to contend with harsh winter weather, which complicated external work. By prioritizing internal confined space work during the colder months and employing temporary solutions like dehumidifiers and covers, they maintained project momentum.
Health & Safety
Given the medium-risk confined space conditions of the TWSP, Mackenzie Construction implemented bespoke ventilation systems and strict noise and dust control measures. The team also meticulously mapped underground services using advanced cable detection technology to avoid damaging telemetry and security cables critical to the wider water network.
Conclusion
The Souters Wood TWSP refurbishment is a showcase of Mackenzie Construction’s expertise in structural refurbishment, innovation, and commitment to sustainability. Completing the project ahead of schedule, under budget, and with significant carbon savings, Mackenzie Construction has demonstrated its leadership in the water infrastructure sector and its ability to deliver high-quality, sustainable projects.
CRA Award Win 2 – Emerging Talent Award (Jay Stewart)
Jay Stewart's Contributions to Mackenzie Construction
Introduction
Jay Stewart, a young and talented engineer at Mackenzie Construction, has been nominated for the 2024 CRA Emerging Talent Award. His rapid professional growth, exceptional contributions to major projects, and commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration exemplify his outstanding impact within the concrete repair industry. Jay’s journey, from his start as a Trainee in 2022 to becoming an integral part of Mackenzie Construction’s team, highlights his impressive development in only two years.
Career Growth and Leadership
Jay joined Mackenzie Construction with an apprenticeship background in welding and fabrication, having completed his HNC in 2020. Transitioning into the role of a Trainee Engineer, he quickly demonstrated key transferable skills such as attention to detail, problem-solving, and an ability to manage complex projects. Within a year, Jay was entrusted with leading multiple projects in the Severn Trent Concrete Repair Framework, showing a high level of maturity and dedication uncommon for someone at his stage of career. His contributions have been instrumental to the company’s growth, particularly in helping increase the Severn Trent division's turnover from £3 million in 2022 to an estimated £5 million in 2024.
Innovative Project Contributions
Jay played a critical role in several major projects, including the refurbishment of the Bushbury 3 DSR and Mustow Green 1 & 2 DSR reservoirs. At Bushbury, he identified structural issues that allowed Mackenzie Construction to redesign elements, improving the tank's ability to withstand thermal and structural movement. This proactive approach mitigated potential damage, all under significant client pressure due to network demand concerns. Similarly, at Mustow Green, Jay introduced a more collaborative and streamlined scoping process, which led to the early completion of a 28-week project within just 20 weeks, beating the critical DWI deadline.
Commitment to Sustainability
Jay’s efforts extend beyond engineering solutions to include sustainable practices. He has been an active member of Mackenzie Construction’s Net Zero Working Group, where he has helped introduce electric plant equipment, sustainable fuels, and more efficient recycling methods on-site. His work at the Souters Wood DSR site helped achieve a remarkable 90% carbon reduction, a milestone in Mackenzie Construction’s sustainability journey.
Health & Safety and Wellbeing
In addition to technical achievements, Jay has demonstrated a strong commitment to health and safety. He has introduced innovations such as conveyor belts to reduce manual handling risks and supported trials of new HAVS monitoring equipment. Jay’s leadership also extends to team wellbeing, where he has gone above and beyond to support colleagues through work-related challenges, further establishing himself as a compassionate and reliable leader.
Conclusion
Jay Stewart’s contributions to Mackenzie Construction are vast and varied. His technical acumen, leadership, and innovative mindset have positioned him as a rising star within the concrete repair industry. His nomination for the CRA Emerging Talent Award is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the positive impact he has had on his company and the projects he manages.
Winning the Innovation Award at CECA Scotland’s Scottish Civil Engineering Awards
We are thrilled to have won the Innovation Award at the CECA Scotland Scottish Civil Engineering Awards as a result of the revolutionary work on Crinan Canal’s Lock Gate 15 installation.
The Crinan Lock Gate 15 project, executed by Mackenzie Construction in partnership with Scottish Canals, is part of a £2.5 million winter works program on the Crinan Canal. It focuses on replacing lifeexpired lock gates while employing innovative methods to enhance efficiency, minimise community disruption, and reduce environmental impact.
Innovative Practices:
Transporting Lock Gates via the Canal:
Utilising the Crinan Canal for industrial transport of large lock gates avoided road closures and disruptions in local villages.
Over Lock Crane Platform:
• To address the logistical challenges posed by narrow village roads and limited access, a temporary crane platform was designed and constructed.
• The platform, weighing 132 tonnes, was custombuilt for the sea lock's replacement, ensuring minimal disruption and environmental impact.
• It featured modular adaptability for future canal projects, maximising its long-term value.
Engineering Design and Execution:
• The platform was lightweight, efficient to construct (built in 5 days, dismantled in 4), and designed collaboratively with a focus on safety and operational effectiveness.
• Detailed monitoring systems ensured stability and adherence to safety tolerances throughout operations.
Community and Environmental Impact
• Community Engagement:
• A community fund supported local organisations and initiatives, demonstrating Mackenzie Construction's commitment to community benefit.
• Improvement works and monetary donations were delivered to 18 local groups.
Minimising Disruption:
• Innovative solutions avoided road closures, preserving access for residents, businesses, and tourists.
• The canal was re-established as a transport route, reducing road traffic and associated emissions.
Significance:
The Lock 15 project exemplifies innovation in civil engineering by combining historical infrastructure with modern techniques. It showcases a collaborative, community-focused approach, addressing complex challenges while setting a precedent for future canal works.
This project was proud to win the Scottish Civil Engineering Innovation Award as a pioneering solution that integrates sustainable practices, advanced engineering, and community-oriented strategies.
Investors in People Platinum Success
We are thrilled to announce that Mackenzie Construction has once again retained its Investors in People (IiP) Platinum Award for 2024.
For over 30 years, Investors in People has been globally recognised as a benchmark for excellence in people management and development. At Mackenzie Construction, our people are central to our success, and we are proud to have upheld the Platinum accreditation.
The Investors in People Platinum Award reflects our commitment to leading, supporting, and developing our workforce. It provides valuable insights and expert guidance that help us continuously evolve and improve how we empower our teams to achieve business success.
“At Mackenzie Construction, we firmly believe that investing in our people is fundamental to our continued success. Retaining our IiP Platinum status is a testament to the hard work, commitment, and talent of our incredible team. We remain committed to attracting, developing, and retaining the very best people within our industry.”
Andy Dalrymple, Managing Director.
Specialist Nicola Dillon praised Mackenzie Constructions’ achievement, “On behalf of IIP CIC I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate Mackenzie Construction on retaining the prestigious Investors in People Platinum accreditation. The IIP Platinum accreditation is the highest accolade that can be achieved against the Investors in People Standard and is currently held by only 3% of IIP-accredited organisations. Mackenzie Construction has a strong culture of leadership and trust where people are consistently empowered to make decisions at every level. Their culture of recognition and reward, holding each other accountable to living their values and investing in developing their people to reach their potential, is what drives their outstanding business success.”
As we move into 2025, Mackenzie Construction remains dedicated to fostering a culture of excellence where all our people can progress, develop, and thrive. We look forward to capturing opportunities for continuous improvement in the coming year.
Strutherhill DSR
Client: Scottish Water
Value: £450k
Location: Strutherhill DSR, Larkhall
Introduction
We recently carried out refurbishment works for Scottish Water at Strutherhill DSR in Lanarkshire. This project involved the removal of the old waterproof coating from the tank roof to allow us to inspect the concrete roof itself, carry out any repairs and re-apply a new waterproof system.
Previous methods of removal of waterproofing involved the use of handheld scabblers which was labour intensive, high trigger time exposure, high in carbon and having a substantial impact on the environment.
2 / CASE STUDIES
We learned from carrying out traditional removal methods on cell 1 of the tank and explored more efficient methods on cell 2.
Challenge
The site team explored the art of the possible to:
• Increase Productivity reduce time on site
• Reduce trigger time and exposure to vibration. Lower Carbon Emissions and reduce environmental impact.
Solution
This led to the introduction of the NFE 5700 ride-on floor scraper and the SPE 20ES blast machine with dust extraction system for the second cell.
Image 1: NFE 5700 Ride-On Floor Scraper:
Due to the makeup and stubborn nature of the existing waterproofing, this equipment was used to remove the first layer prior to the captive blasting.
Image 2: SPE 20ES Blast Machine:
Following the removal over the top coating of the waterproofing by the Floor Scraper the captive blaster was used to removal the primer layer and leave the required surface finish for new waterproofing system.
1
Benefits
Increase Productivity , Reduce Time on Site
• The traditional method required over six weeks to complete the first cell and necessitated the involvement of 6 operatives. The Solution reduced the programme by 3 weeks and required only 2 alternating operators for the removal activity.
Reduce trigger time and exposure to vibration
• Trigger time was reduced from 1440 hours to 120 Hours, thus reducing exposure to vibration and reducing risk of HAV’s to operatives. Reduction of 92% of trigger time.
Lower Carbon Emissions and reduced environmental impact
• The integrated dust extraction system of the SPE 20ES ensures a dust-free environment, improving air quality and worker safety
• The SPE 20ES blast machine’s ability to reuse blast material reduces waste and the environmental impact associated with producing and transporting new blasting media
• CCAT calculations for activity demonstrated over 40% reduction in Carbon compared to that on cell 1.
Video links
SPE 20ES Blast Machine
NFE 5700 Ride on Floor Scraper
Client: Scottish Water Horizons
Value: £219,910.02
Clufflat Brae
Location: Clufflat Brae, South Queensferry
We were engaged by Scottish Water Horizons to design and build additional storage at Clufflat Braes, South Queensferry to allow additional residential homes to be connected to the sewer network.
After modelling, with the additional homes included, the network was shown to discharge at nodes within Clufflat Braes and the network would require additional offline storage utilising a 825mm dia. sewer pipe.
To prove the concept design and to allow the design to move to construction drawings, services and house connections lines and levels are required to prove the route and design. Trial hole locations were agreed and the method for excavating was decided as Vacuum Excavation.
Using a vacuum excavator removes the risk of excavation with machine or hand digging when it is known that there are numerous services that require to be accurately detailed so that route can be proved and design can be finalised reducing design and service strike risk.
PROS Opportunities
Reduced risk of utility strikes with power, Virgin Media, Water and other utilities successfully avoided
Storage of excavated material within the vacuum excavator for re-use as backfill if suitable
Less risk of surplus excavated material contaminating the surrounding area so is suited to trial holes
CONS Risks
Reduced working area with no requirement for excavator + lorry
Care needed when vacuum excavating around old clay pipes
Low productivity when excavating heavy clays