Applebridge NEWS - April 2021

EXTERNAL NEWSLETTER // APRIL 2021 // ISSUE 1

WELCOME TO THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY > INVESTMENT IN GEOTECHNICAL SERVICES > NATIONWIDE CONTRACT SECURED WITH BARRATTS > WINNERS OF OUTSTANDING CHARITY OF THE YEAR 2020

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A WARM WELCOME FROM OUR CEO With this being the first time we have sent an external newsletter out, I wanted to take the opportunity to give an insight into Applebridge in the wider sense.

Firstly, why Applebridge? The name comes from where I live and where I have brought up my family and it was with that view that the Applebridge Family of companies was evolved from.

We want to be able to offer our clients a complete construction package from the geotechnical reports required for land procurement to the final surfacing needed prior to completion.

In the beginning when we started setting up the individual niche companies, they felt a bit disjointed and not everyone could see that they were all part of a wider group.

In 2019 we set about trying to incorporate all the companies together, while maintaining their individuality. We feel we achieved this with our rebranding process carried out last year.

INVESTMENT IN YOUTH IS KEY As a group of companies, we have a combined turnover of circa £60 million with plans to extend further. We have one Head Office in Teesside and three satellite offices in Wakefield, Swalwell and Hartlepool.

We have invested several millions of pounds over the last few years in plant and up to date engineering equipment, with more planned over the next twelve months.

We want to have both the expertise and equipment to help value engineer projects for our clients and in return receive repeat business.

GEOTECHNICAL REPORTS FOR LAND VIABILITY This year we have started producing our own precast foundations, from our precast factory in Hartlepool, alongside the retaining products we already produce.

We have also produced our first geotechnical reports for land viability, which has enabled us to produce cost saving strategies with our clients to make sites work.

We are excited for the future and are very grateful for the opportunities given to us by our clients and it is our hope that our structure of companies can help you with your vision of how you would like construction to be.

We have almost 400 people working for us, of which 22 are on the Applebridge training programme. Investment in youth is a key driver for us and we are often amazed how quickly the new recruits adapt and bring a fresh outlook to what we do.

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“We have almost 400 people working for us, of which 22 are on the Applebridge training programme.

Investment in youth is a key driver for us and we are often amazed how quickly the new recruits adapt and bring a fresh outlook to what we do.”

DONNY HUGHES Applebridge Family, Chief Executive Officer

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MEET THE BUSINESSES THAT MAKE UP THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

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THE CAPABILITIES AND CAPACITIES OF THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY The Applebridge Family boasts an enviable scope of capabilities and capacities that allows the businesses to deliver a comprehensive end-to-end sequence of works to clients, across an array of industries.

EARTHWORKS Geotechnical Services Ground Stabilisation Earthworks and Land Surveys Demolition Remediation Waste disposal

T: 01924 917 700

Plant

T: 01642 233 400

W: www.ztlcontracting.com

Tools

W: www.applebridge.com

E: info@ztlcontracting.com

Equipment

E: info@applebridge.com

Attachments Welfare & Accommodation

HEAD OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

HEAD OFFICE | HUGHES HOUSE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

HUGHES HOUSE | CARGO FLEET LANE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

YORKSHIRE OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

CIVIL ENGINEERING

MULTI-UTILITIES

Groundworks Roads & Sewers Foundations Plot works Section 278 & 38 Packages Drainage

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PLANT HIRE & SALES SERVICE

T: 01642 233 400

Gas (GIRS) Approved

T: 01642 233 400

W: www.applebridge.com

Water (WIRS) Approved

W: www.applebridge.com

E: info@applebridge.com

Electricity (NERS) Approved

E: info@applebridge.com

Telecoms HEAD OFFICE | HUGHES HOUSE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

HEAD OFFICE | HUGHES HOUSE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

UTILTITIES DEPOT | WHICKHAM BANK | SWALWELL | NEWCASTLE | NE16 3BP

YORKSHIRE OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

YORKSHIRE OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

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BUILDING SERVICES Insulated Concrete Formwork Installer (ICF) Refurbishments Education and Industrial Frameworks Bespoke Joinery

MANUFACTURING RETAINING WALL SOLUTIONS Commercial & Residential Constructionn

GEOWALL: Timber effect concrete cladding panels

T: 01642 233 400

GEOROC: Textured and smooth rock face retaining wall panels

W: www.applebridge.com E: info@applebridge.com

Sole providers to Retaining UK T: 01642 233 400 W: www.retaininguk.com E: info@retaininguk.com

PRODUCTION SITE | UNIT 1 A&B | REDWORTH STREET | HARTLEPOOL | TS24 7LG

HEAD OFFICE | HUGHES HOUSE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

HEAD OFFICE | HUGHES HOUSE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

YORKSHIRE OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

YORKSHIRE OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

RETAINING WALL SOLUTIONS Supply and installation of GEOWALL: Decorative walls up to a 1 metre of retained height Precast installation specialists of flooring systems and ground beams

ROAD SURFACING CONTRACTOR

Supply and installation of GEOROC: Decorative concrete rock face, mechanically stabilised earth, retaining walls to any height

Road Surfacing Playground construction MUGA’s Section 278 works Traffic Management

T: 01642 233 400 W: www.retaininguk.com E: info@retaininguk.com

White Lining T: 01642 233 400 W: www.applebridge.com E: info@applebridge.com

HEAD OFFICE | HUGHES HOUSE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

HEAD OFFICE | HUGHES HOUSE | MIDDLESBROUGH | TS3 6AG

YORKSHIRE OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

YORKSHIRE OFFICE | 23 TADMAN STREET | WAKEFIELD | WF1 5RG

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THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY TIMELINE The Applebridge Family has united to bring seven individual construction companies together under the same umbrella to suit the everchanging demands of the construction industry, whilst delivering a synonymous high-level service to our valued clients.

November 2013

July 2007

April 2015

October 2013

August 2016

October 2015

THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

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February 2020

August 2018

OUR TRANSFORMATION The Applebridge Family Head Office resides in Teesside, but we also occupy offices in Wakefield, Swalwell and Hartlepool. Our geographical coverage spans from the Scottish Borders down to Derbyshire, and from the East Coast across to the Pennines.

In July 2020, our Head Office premises underwent an internal and external makeover. The changes included the installation of cladding and bespoke customised logo signs (see left). The transformation reflects the Applebridge Family’s collaborative ethos; working together seamlessly, under one umbrella.

Each logo has been designed using bold colours and shapes whilst maintaining the identifiable company name. Our new look reflects our united family ethos, from which we can build a strong brand awareness, for a positive future.

A NEW LOOK FOR OUR PLANT AND EMPLOYEES

Our fleet of vehicles, plant and machinery have been transformed with the individual company branding, making them easily identifiable and in keeping in with the Applebridge Family style.

All our employees are provided with the required uniform and PPE to allow them to work safely and comfortably. These have been designed with the Applebridge Family and individual company logos, to represent our new, identifiable look.

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CASE STUDY

MANOR WOODS, KIRKBYMOORSIDE COUNTRYSIDE PROPERTIES THEIR CHALLENGE: To complete a 225 plot highspecification development within an ambitious 30-month programme in the picturesque town of Kirkbymoorside.

OUR SOLUTION: Early engagement was key to achieving our client’s challenging delivery programme. The Applebridge Family were involved from the feasibility/ planning stage of the project which ensued that inherent risks were fully understood, allocated and mitigated where possible. This process removed potential delays and increases in cost and time which were both undesirable and unacceptable given the demanding nature of the works.

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This fully coordinated approach also reduced the overall carbon footprint of the project via a reduction in the number of contractors on site.

SCOPE OF WORK: The Applebridge Family were appointed to complete multiple packages of works which included the following: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Earthworks and remediation Section 278 works & Section 106 works Roads and sewers Pre-cast attenuation tank installation FW pumping station and associated services Groundworks Retaining structures Multi-utilities including substation construction Surfacing and external finishes Rock/aggregate processing Topsoil screening Site fencing

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THE RESULTS: Whilst the project is still in the construction phase, significant benefits have been generated as a result of early engagement and the coordinated approach to the works packages.

The project is being delivered on programme which is directly attributable to the risk management process adopted in the feasibility stage of the scheme.

Regular and clear communication with our client continues to be a crucial element in achieving key milestones.

CASE STUDY

DISTRIBUTION HUB, CRODA EUROPE GMI CONSTRUCTION THEIR CHALLENGE:

SCOPE OF WORK:

To transform the former agricultural land which encompassed foundation challenges, into a distribution hub for International speciality chemicals company Croda.

We undertook multiple earthwork services to overcome the challenging foundations encompassing the site.

OUR SOLUTION: We provided the client with a sustainable strategy to minimise the volume of contaminated material being removed from site. The sandy soil and mud foundations were transformed into a new structural layer, compacted, and trimmed up to a 3mm level, to allow for vehicles up to 40-tonne weight to travel safely around site.

Our team carefully removed and placed the topsoil into stockpile heaps to the side of the site, for re-use on new foundation layers.

We modified the material, using a chemical stabilisation method (cement and lime) to attain the required CBR level, whilst achieving the ability to bring the ground up by 1.2 metres.

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THE RESULTS:

Through the efficient delivery of our high-quality recycling resource to transform the site foundations, we were able to accelerate works, maximise productivity and protect the surrounding environment, whilst providing a significant financial saving to the client.

DID YOU KNOW? During each stage of the process, sampls of existing materials were taken and tested at an offsite laboratory to ensure the materials we were using met the desired requirements.

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CASE STUDY

AGENDA, MERCHANT GATE STRATA HOMES THEIR CHALLENGE:

SCOPE OF WORK:

To deliver a high specification, city centre development to an ambitious construction programme with the aim of maximising sales in a high-profile location.

The construction of 116 homes inclusive of all substructure, floor slabs, drainage and external finishes.

OUR SOLUTION: A well-managed site coupled with a strict housekeeping regime ensured a modern ‘street scene’ was established early in project thus providing the maximum opportunity for high volume sales.

Applebridge are one of Strata Homes’ selected groundworks partners, having worked with the housebuilder since 2013.

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We also completed the associated infrastructure package which included remediation, earthworks, sewer and road construction, surfacing and block paving.

A significant Section 278 package and feature Public Open Space was also carried out as part of the contract.

THE RESULTS: Working collaboratively with Strata Homes, Yorkshire Water and the Local Authority Highways Department, we were able to deliver a high quality and

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high specification project that surpassed the client’s brief. The organisation, maintenance and presentation on site, overcame the challenges that were faced.

TESTIMONIAL: “Applebridge offer bespoke solutions to each of our housing development projects; past and present and I would not hesitate to recommend them as a contractor that can add value to any project.”

Vernon Cunningham Strata Homes, Chief Operating Officer

CASE STUDY

ICF SOCIAL HOUSING SCHEME KARBON HOMES / GUS ROBINSON THEIR CHALLENGE: To provide an efficient and modern solution to the increasing demands of the government drive, to provide a sustainable housing sector and fill the shortfall of new homes.

OUR SOLUTION: We instigated an energy-efficient building solution (ICF) whilst maintaining modern method of construction finishes, meeting the exacting requirements for sustainable family homes, set by the local planning authority.

Social housing properties built using modern methods of construction (MMC)

SCOPE OF WORK: The construction of 36 affordable homes built using ICF external walls and fit by ICF trained specialists.

We clad each property with modern method of construction finishes, including timber floors and roof coverings, dormer windows, external doors, render, and brick slip facades, to reflect a traditional look and feel.

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THE RESULTS: A combination of housing styles ranging from bungalows to 4-bedroom detached houses. The properties will benefit from low running costs and energy consumption whilst remaining inkeeping and fitting with their traditional village setting.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUILDING WITH ICF?: ICF provides greater thermal performance, reduced heating costs and a quicker speed of construction with all the existing benefits of traditional construction.

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CASE STUDY

MOUNT OSWALD, STUDENT VILLAGE INTERSERVE CONSTRUCTION THEIR CHALLENGE: To deliver a prestigious 14-building student village on behalf of Durham University to an ambitious deadline of the start of the educational calendar.

OUR SOLUTION: We worked proficiently on multiple work faces during the construction of the student village. Several methods of construction were used for the substructure of both the college and student accommodation, including traditional pad, strip foundations and raft slabs.

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We ensured 60-directly employed operatives and 20-specialist subcontractors were on site at any one time, and worked concurrently with other trades, to maximise workload and efficiency.

SCOPE OF WORK: The construction of 14nr. student accommodation and amenity buildings in a confined site.

Applebridge’s scope of works included providing a range of substructure solutions for the various construction types; over 3,000-metres of on-site drainage and laying over 16,000-metres of ductwork for underground services.

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In addition, Applebridge completed the contiguous piled retaining walls and Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SuDS).

THE RESULTS: We were able to accelerate the programme by six weeks, by working in close partnership with Interserve’s Project Manager, Design Manager and Planner.

Programme management, workload efficiency and time management, allowed the programme to progress exceptionally well, surpassing the educational calendar deadline.

CASE STUDY

SOUTHCLIFFE CARAVAN PARK INTERSERVE CONSTRUCTION THEIR CHALLENGE:

SCOPE OF WORK:

To construct a caravan park spanning over 150-acres, whilst overcoming a complex tidal surface water drainage system and outfall, which was located 1.8km from the site. All works were required to be completed within an ambitious, seasonal holiday deadline.

Tarcon were appointed to complete the following package of works: • Surfacing including Dense Bitumen Macadam and Stone Mastic Asphalt • Road construction • White lining • Traffic Management

OUR SOLUTION: Working in partnership with Applebridge, Tarcon constructed the complex road network along with pitches for static and touring caravans and tents. The wider package of works included a large foul- water pump station with 1.8km of directional drilling to foul water outfall, alongside all the surrounding landscaping, mains services and sewers.

• Iron work adjustment

KEY FACT Over 6,000 tonnes of tarmac were used to complete this project.

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THE RESULTS: We were able to deliver an extremely unique and complex scheme working in partnership with Applebridge. Significant issues with groundwater on site meant a co-ordinated approach was essential in mitigating the associated affects on the programme and budget, which also ensured the park was ‘live’ for the holiday season.

Due to the significant volume of material required to complete the works, closely liaising with material suppliers, along with developing a robust delivery schedule, was paramount to the success of the scheme.

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CASE STUDY

GEOROC

QUEENS PARK, TEESSIDE BARRATT HOMES THEIR CHALLENGE: To provide low-level retaining walls, within various locations across the full scope of the site, whilst achieving a time-efficient installation solution and avoiding the use of bricklayers on-site.

OUR SOLUTION: As the retained height requested was under 1,000mm and smaller plant used for construction on site, GeoWall satisfied all Barratt’s requirements for the project.

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We manoeuvred efficiently around the requested locations on site, with little disruption to the local area and environment, whilst delivering a high-quality, structurally capable and aesthetically pleasing product to the client, with a 60-year manufacturing guarantee.

SCOPE OF WORK:

WHO ARE THEY SUITABLE FOR? GeoWall and GeoRoc retaining walls are suitable for housing projects between plots, to replace traditional brick and block retaining walls and other less robust systems including timber log retainers.

700 linear metres of GeoWall in 3 heights to be utilised throughout site in various locations GeoRoc and GeoWall offer a warranted 60-year design life in accordance with BS EN 1992-1-1 and BS EN1997.

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GEOROC - MECHANICALLY STABILISED WALLS GeoRoc is a system designed for walls up to and exceeding 1 metre in height, and allows for a more competitive, lightweight, user friendly installation with accelerated construction times.

BENEFITS OF USING GEOROC RETAINING WALLS: • GeoRoc panels are designed at 300mm high x 665mm wide, offering benefit to other trades by matching to brick coursing.

• Site won material can be utilised in the construction of GeoRoc walls to offer sustainability, environmental value, and cost saving solutions.

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CASESTUDY STUDY CASE

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

PROPOSED FINISH

ELWICK, HARTLEPOOL BARRATT HOMES THEIR CHALLENGE:

SCOPE OF WORK:

To provide a structurally capable and visually acceptable site boundary retaining wall to retain the rear gardens of the properties on the site boundary.

2 sections of GeoRoc wall in Slate Grey

OUR SOLUTION: As the retained height requested was significantly over 1,000 mm and suitable access was available for the GeoRoc wall construction, this product satisfied all Barratt’s requirements.

Due to a quick turnaround required, the product was produced locally by sister company GeoCast once the wall designed had been finalised, and in good time to satisfy site demands.

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8 smaller GeoWalls in Oakwood

NEW GEOCAST FACTORY OPENS Due to increased demand, sister company GeoCast have re-located from a small facility in Northumberland to a large bespoke factory in Hartlepool, producing both GeoWall and GeoRoc products for Retaining UK.

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NATIONWIDE DEAL WITH BARRATTS Retaining UK will supply both GeoRoc and GeoWall retaining walls to Barratt Homes, as part of a 3-year deal.

The unique retaining wall solutions, manufactured to a high-standard, in-house at the GeoCast factory, will be supplied and delivered to all Barratts’ sites across the UK. The scope of works include the supply of external and internal site boundary walls, with an optional fixing service available to the client, to sites within the Northern region.

GEOWALL - TIMBER EFFECT CONCRETE CLADDING GeoWall is a precast unit designed for walls up to 1 metre of retained height, offering the longevity of concrete with the aesthetic of timber.

BENEFITS OF USING GEOWALL RETAINING WALLS: • Best suited as an alternative to traditional construction on walls up to 1m of retained height.

• Offers both programme and cost benefits through its speed and simplicity of construction.

• GeoWall is quoted as Supply Only, however, can be reviewed for Supply & Install upon receipt of programme of works.

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WINNERS OF THE OUTSTANDING CHARITY SUPPORT APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

WINNERS OF THE HEALTH & SAFETY AWARD

BY TAYLOR WIMPEY ZTL

NEW PURPOSE-BUILT FUEL BOWSERS WITH ATLANTIS TANKS AD PLANT HIRE

HIGHLY COMMENDED AWARD IN THE SME CATEGORY CONSTRUCTING EXCELLENCE AWARDS APPLEBRIDGE

ACHIEVED APPROVED INSTALLER STATUS FOR INSULATED CONCRETE FORMWORK (ICF) ABS

NEW 1.5 ACRE, 20,000 SQ BESPOKE FACTORY, OPENED IN HARTLEPOOL GEOCAST

NATIONWIDE CONTRACT SECURED WITH BARRATTS RETAINING UK

SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED 3 JOBS IN 3 MONTHS FOR AMAZON, DURHAM TARCON

LAUNCHED THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY BRAND IN MAY 2020 APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

SECURED NEW CONTRACTS WITH TAYLOR WIMPEY BOROUGHBRIDGE & LANGTHORPE ZTL

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OUR FAMILY YEAR IN REVIEW 2020

INVESTED £3MILLION ON PLANT AND MACHINERY INCLUDING TRACKED EXCAVATORS, ARTICULATED DUMP TRUCKS AND TWIN DRUM ROLLERS APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

TWO WINNERS AT THE NORTH EAST CIVIL ENGINEERING CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION (CECA) AWARDS APPLEBRIDGE

SECURED A PLACE ON NUMEROUS PROCUREMENT FRAMEWORKS ABS

1ST CONTRACT SECURED IN THE NORTH WEST M IGOE LTD RETAINING UK

DEVELOPED AND DELIVERED IN-HOUSE TRAINING CARDS AND QUALIFICATIONS APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

CONNECTED THOUSANDS OF HOMES TO HIGH-SPEED FIBRE INFRASTRUCTURE TELECOMS AT APPLEBRIDGE UTILITIES

THE NORTH-EAST’S LARGEST ICF HOUSING DEVELOPMENT GREATHAM, HARTLEPOOL ABS

DELIVERED 30,000 MEALS TO OVER 2,500 FAMILIES IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MFC FOUNDATION APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

CONTRACTS SECURED WITH NEW CLIENTS INCLUDING TAYLOR WIMPEY, THIRTEEN, TSL AND COUNTRYSIDE APPLEBRIDGE

APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY ENROLLED 18 EMPLOYEES ONTO FURTHER EDUCATION COURSES APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY

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OUR 2021 VISION

In 2021, the Applebridge Family aims to build upon our family vision of ‘engineering the foundations of tomorrow, today. We have outlined how we aim to achieve this vision, below.

THE APPLEBRIDGE APP

THE APPLEBRIDGE ACADEMY

PRE-CAST FOUNDATION SOLUTIONS

Applebridge are excited to introduce their brand new, bespoke built task management app, that will be rolled out on all sites during 2021.

The Applebridge Academy will launch in summer 2021, with the goal of recruiting, educating and supporting the development of new and existing staff members.

Following the success of our pre-cast retaining wall products, manufactured at our facility in Hartlepool, we were approached by one of our key clients to produce a pre-cast sub-structure solution to their modular housing rollout programme.

The Applebridge App utilises modern technology to optimise efficiency and improve quality on sites, ultimately revolutionising the way in which Quality Assurance, Health & Safety and site controls are implemented and used.

Features include the ability to upload, store and view documents with the click of a button, view drawings on the go, set timekeeping reminders for individual sites/tasks and provide the functionality to carry out QA checks and permits at the work face.

INVESTMENT IN NEW PLANT AND MACHINERY 2021 will see the Applebridge Family significantly invest in new plant and machinery, to keep up-to-date with technological advancements and sustain project demand.

In January, we invested in a state-ofthe-art Eclipse fault diagnostic machine for our AD Plant workshop. Our plant technicians can now diagnose issues instantly whilst enhancing the productivity and efficiency of our fleet.

This year will also see the investment in 20 brand-new Volvo excavators ranging from 3 to 30 tonnes in capacity, a new Volvo tractor unit with a Nooteboom trailer and additional ground stabilisation machinery and equipment, to deal with future stabilisation project demands.

Our aim is to provide a facility and support structure to recruit the next generation of Applebridge, whilst offering reskilling and employment opportunities to candidates from outside of the industry, as well as upskilling programmes to our existing staff.

The Academy will build upon the success of our previous Apprenticeship and Management Training programmes and work towards bridging the industry’s skills gap by offering alternative career paths.

After some adaptions to our manufacturing process, which included the purchase of additional equipment and bespoke moulds, we are now able to deliver a pre-cast, reinforced, ‘T’ beam for use in both the residential and commercial sectors.

In terms of volumes our current facility can manufacture 60-units per week or cater for 600-plots a year!

GROUND STABILISATION EQUIPMENT

GEOTECHNICAL SERVICES

Following unexpected demand for our ground improvement solutions, the Applebridge Family have made the decision to invest heavily in further stabilisation units and associated equipment.

Due to pressure from our clients to fulfil the requirement within our services package, the Applebridge Family are now offering geotechnical services. These include:

This investment will; • Ensure we can meet our clients demands with regards to ground improvement • Provide innovative solutions to poor ground conditions • Introduce cost savings to schemes as an alternative to increasing construction thicknesses • Mitigate unsuitable material being taken to landfill • Reduces carbon foot-print via reduced vehicle movement

Site investigation services including desk studies, site modelling and ground investigation reports.

Land contamination services including; risk assessments, managing pollution, due diligence and environmental base line assessments.

Land remediation services including remediation strategies, earthwork designs, MMP’s and remediation verification.

Site monitoring including hazardous gasses, groundwater and settlement.

• Be environmentally friendly!

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WINNERS OF OUTSTANDING CHARITY SUPPORT 2020 The Applebridge Family, were delighted to receive the award for Outstanding Charity Support by Small to Medium Sized Companies at the 2020 North East Charity Awards, for an outstanding commitment to helping families in need.

The awards took place on the evening of Thursday 3rd December and saw Applebridge Family named as victors, topping off a great year of charity work.

In Summer 2020, the Applebridge Family partnered with Middlesbrough FC Foundation and ‘stepped up to the plate’ to distribute 30,000 meals over 30 days to 2,500 families, in Teesside.

OUR 2020 CHARITY YEAR IN REVIEW From a squeamish leg wax in the Buying department to walking 155 miles in aid of Dementia UK, CLIC Sargent and Just4Children, 2020 was a busy year of fundraising for Applebridge staff.

Buyer, Craig Smith, endured a dignified but unforgettable leg wax, HR Manager Judith Rooney walked/ran a collective 72 miles whilst Luke Haworth completed a 60 mile walk around Barnsley Boundary.

Along with the leg wax, staff hosted virtual baking and craft competitions with the charity and organised for repairs to be completed on the homes of the children’s families, living with the rare generic condition, Lissencephaly.

The Applebridge Family have a local, annual charity incentive to raise awareness and to fundraise donations to families in need. Our charity for 2020 was Remembering Rebecca but due to the restrictions of Covid-19 our staff had to become creative with their fundraising ideas.

Take a glance at some more of the fantastic work Applebridge staff completed in 2020 in aid of charity. Well done everyone!

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A big thank you must go to all our amazing staff and their families, the hub workers and everyone at Middlesbrough Foundation who worked tirelessly over the summer to help families in need.

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k nd drin Food a els to parc rough sb Middle Bank Food

30,000 MEALS

2 WAXED LEGS

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GIFTS FOR CASH4KIDS

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Miles for Dementia UK

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They were inspired by the End Child Food Poverty pledge from Marcus Rashford MBE.

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Miles for Clic Sargent

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Miles for Just4Children

‘HIGHLY COMMENDED’ FOR OUR COMMITMENT TO CONSTRUCTION Applebridge Construction are delighted to announce that we were awarded Highly Commended in the SME Category by Constructing Excellence North East (CENE), in October 2020.

CENE; a North East non-for-profit organisation ‘driving the change agenda in construction’ celebrated their 16th year of the awards with an online virtual event, viewed by thousands.

The SME of the Year category was sponsored by legal professionals Knights Plc, who described SME’s as ‘a critical part of the construction industry in the North East.’

They had these kind words to say about Applebridge:

“An organisation that is committed to driving its business forward by investing in new techniques and plant, innovative construction products and techniques and its people through training and improved facilities.”

SARAH WILSON Knights Plc

TWO TRAINEES ‘ENGINEER’ AWARD SUCCESS Applebridge secured two awards at the virtual, Civil Engineering Contactors Association (CECA) awards, in December 2020.

Matthew Garland acquired ‘Trainee Quantity Surveyor’ for outstanding commitment to his role and the wider business. He joined the business in 2017 as a Trainee Buyer before successfully acquiring the role of Trainee Estimator, six months later.

Alongside his main role, tendering and securing work for Applebridge, Matthew is responsible for the development and management of an in-house database for commercial and plot projects and is currently in Year 2 of his HNC course.

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Reece Hibbitts successfully obtained ‘Trainee Civil Engineer’ for his ‘continued commitment to overcoming complex issues effectively and efficiently.’ He joined the business in 2016 and holds working on the Mount Oswald Golf Course project, his proudest achievement. 2020 was a successful year for Reece, who was also awarded his Higher National Certificate in Civil Engineering.

Well done to you both from everyone at the Applebridge Family.

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THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY FLEET The Applebridge Family invests heavily in first-rate plant for their fleet; maximising productivity and efficiency and minimising health and safety risks, whilst keeping up with the latest advancements in technology.

With the addition of an in-house plant team, the Applebridge Family prides itself on bestowing a distinguished level of reassurance to clients that their projects will be ran on time and within budget.

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In 2020, we welcomed a substantial collection of new plant to the Applebridge Family. Our new additions included tracked excavators in a variety of capacities, three-axle articulated 730 dump trucks, D6 dozers with GPS and satellite data, ride on twin drum rollers and a in-house fuel station complete with bespoke bowsers.

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APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY QUALITY STATEMENT Over the course of 2020 we implemented new changes both reactive and proactive to set a structure that both effects change and provides tangibility. Driven by our Board of Directors and embraced by our management team, they form the foundation of our processes, ensuring we maintain our goals of being market leaders in the Civil Engineering sector.

Quality is important to our business. We value our customers, and we strive to provide them with services and products which meet and surpass their expectations.

We are committed to continuous improvement and have undertaken a thorough review of our Quality Assurance procedures which gives a platform to monitor quality and benchmark our performance.

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SPECIALISMS

RECRUITMENT

We have reviewed our teams and sub-contractors to establish ‘specialists’ who regularly undertake the same works and develop better skills, efficiencies and understanding of their works. Our management structure has recently established smaller teams, allowing senior managers to gain a closer involvement in their projects.

Our recruitment strategy aims to provide greater focus on taking past references on potential employees and undertaking a more thorough vetting process. We have introduced an early-stage appraisal process in the form of a ‘New Starter Feedback’ form, which requires managers and supervisors to approve continuation of employment for any new starters.

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APPLEBRIDGE ACADEMY

QUALITY ASSURANCE We have overhauled our previous system and introduced a safety net of new checks, that ensure all our works are physically and verbally checked for compliance against design and standards, before being offered to our clients. Our investment in the creation of our own bespoke app and web portal, moves our QA inspections from paper to a tabletbased system, providing greater visibility between both the site and wider team.

The Applebridge Academy will launch in Summer 2021, with the goal of delivering training to both new and existing employees. Our aim is to provide a facility that will cater for new employees undertaking training to meet our requirements and standards and existing employees undertaking new skill courses and refresher training. Applebridge Academy will provide a platform and structure for our training and apprenticeship programmes whilst also offering opportunities to retrain and recruit from different sectors.

AUDITING

HANDBOOK

We have introduced a system of compliance auditing, to allow Senior Managers and Directors to feedback on the management of our own systems and processes. This ensures checks and balances are carried out frequently and any arising issues dealt with quickly and efficiently. It also provides the ability to monitor and analyse trends in response to training demands, supply input or sequencing and design development.

Our company aim is to provide consistency and compliance across all our projects and to ensure all our processes are fully understood and implemented.

Alongside our QA Handbook which provides worked examples of our documentation, we currently have a Site Management Manual under development, which will be issued to all staff in Quarter 2. It features our company methodology, detailing how to undertake and present each element, alongside associated imagery, videos and text.

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> INVESTMENT

OUR TRAINEES ARE ENGINEERING THE FOUNDATIONS OF TOMORROW, TODAY Applebridge is committed to creating opportunities for youth and embraces our responsibility to educate the next generation.

The ageing workforce and skills gap within construction is an ongoing concern and the responsibility to overcome this lies within the industry.

Applebridge is proud to work in partnership with local colleges and universities throughout the North East and Yorkshire regions, to develop bespoke programmes for trainees, joining the business.

Each trainee undertakes both site and office/based experience, gaining a thorough understanding of the business overall, building strong relationships with clients and colleagues and where suitable, enrolling onto further education courses.

“We are delighted to welcome our latest cohort of trainees and apprentices into the business and look forward to seeing them develop over the coming months and years. Our latest management training programme builds on the success of previous years’ schemes where we have been proud to see our apprentices and graduates rise to the challenge and become essential members of the team.”

ANDY RAY Construction Director

On completion of their course, each trainee is placed in their favoured sector of the business, to further build upon their knowledge and skillset and to proudly follow the company culture, ethos and work ethic.

APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY EDUCATION The Applebridge Family are blessed with a disproportionate number of employees, who enrol on further education courses every year, covering a wide range of disciplines within the construction sector.

We are very proud of every employee who undertakes further education learning, showing outstanding commitment to their role, their course and the Applebridge Family brand.

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6 @ HARTLEPOOL COLLEGE

4 @ NEW COLLEGE DURHAM

2 @ NORTHUMBRIA UNIVERSITY

3 @ LEEDS BECKETT UNIVERSITY

Jacob Crannage Alex Davison Michael Gray Flynn Goldsmith Luke Hinde Noah Newcombe

Matthew Garland Ross Walton Danny Boyle Ethan Watson

Tom Barwick Chris Binks

Donny Mason Hughes Ryan Fort Antony Sheil

1 @ CAPLAN FINANCIAL NEWCASTLE

1 @ SHEFFIELD COLLEGE

1 @ NVQ/ ON SITE TRAINING

5 TRADE APPRENTICES

Jack Fearn

Oliver Dutton

Cameron Burton Josh Smith Ben Jackson Logan Corner Jack Hall

Bradley Saiger

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SPOTLIGHT ON :

RYAN MANN PLANNER

Since joining Applebridge in 2015 as a Management Trainee, Ryan has established himself as an integral part of the company.

Ryan worked on site for over two years supporting the site managers, whilst also gaining valuable experience in Engineering and Health & Safety. Before long, he was managing his own projects. When the opportunity arose for him to move into the office and learn programming and planning, this carved a perfect career fit for Ryan. Fast forward to 2021 and Ryan is now a full-time planner, has established his own department and is mentoring others.

What does your current role entail?

•

Splitting time between pre-construction and site teams

•

Completing tender programmes and logistics plans for pre-construction

•

•

Managing programmes, programme updates, attending progress meetings on site, producing short term programmes and external programmes for clients Liaising with local authorities and adopting bodies to carry out works in the public domains

Tell us something we don’t know about you?

During lockdown last year, I had my friends build a bar in our back garden, we called it The Three Manns’ Bar.

What do you like most about working for Applebridge?

Commitment to charity. It’s very humbling to get involved with and to share all the fantastic causes Applebridge commits to, The recent partnership with MFC Foundation was an outstanding achievement.

What have been your top 3 favourite projects?

Mount Oswald, Bridlington and University Hospital of North Tees.

All three projects were NEC form of contracts, which came with their own demands and technical challenges, yet we still managed to create a quality result, on time, with client satisfaction.

Mount Oswald is my standout project. In terms of project delivery, the demands were paramount throughout. However, by working with others including, Lewis Cox, Stuart Sharpe, Neil Fowler, Josh Sayer and Ashleigh Allman, we were able to utilise the risk throughout and create a fantastic result.

The People. I am very lucky that in my job I get to work with so many different people. Everyone has the same drive to do well, which makes Applebridge a fantastic place to work.

What do you like to do outside of work?

The Opportunities. Having witnessed the recent growth of the Applebridge Family, it is reassuring to know there are plenty of exciting opportunities for the future.

I love to spend time with my family and daughter and socialise with friends. I really enjoy going on holiday and attending football matches (hopefully we can enjoy these again soon!).

APPLEBRIDGE.COM

What are your biggest work achievements?

Winning Applebridge Trainee of the Year in 2018, followed by the ‘Progression in the Company’ Award in 2019.

I am incredibly grateful to Applebridge for helping me to develop from management trainee to full-time Planner in six years. Everyday is different and I get to work on some fantastic projects.

What advice would you give to our current trainees?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions Everyone at Applebridge is so approachable and will go out of their way to help to you.

Speak to people in a different department to you Get to know them and their role and how it fits into your role. Learn from their experiences/listen to their advice.

Put yourself forward If there is a project/event/task that you would like to be involved in, speak up. Build on your skillset and get yourself noticed.

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JOIN THE APPLEBRIDGE FAMILY Due to a controlled expansion The Applebridge Family is inviting applications for the following vacancies.

COMMS/ MULTI-UTILITIES

TRAINEES

SITE ENGINEERS

NORTH EAST/YORKSHIRE

NORTH EAST/YORKSHIRE

NORTH EAST

• • • • • • • •

• Confident in new road and sewers infrastructure • Plot work and surveying experience (Desirable) • Qualified or studying towards HNC in Construction or Civil Engineering • Minimum of 5 years site experience

• • • • • • •

Contracts Manager Street works Planner & Assistant Planner Assistant/ Trainee Quantity Surveyor Site Agent (Civils) Site Agent (Cabling) Cable pulling teams Digging teams

Groundworks Plant Technicians Joiners Bricklayers Engineers Management Trainees / Graduates Quantity Surveyor Estimators

QUANTITY SURVEYOR

EARTHWORKS

NORTH EAST/YORKSHIRE

• • • • • •

• • • •

Civil Engineering Experience (Essential) Relevant experience to manage a Trainee Suitably qualified for Quantity Surveyor duties Full driving license & willingness to travel

GROUNDWORKS TEAMS

NORTH EAST/YORKSHIRE Earthworks Project Manager (SMSTS) Earthworks Supervisor (SSSTS Min) Dozer Operator (CPCS/NPORS) Excavator Operator (CPCS/NPORS) ADT Operators (CPCS/NPORS) Roller Operators (CPCS/NPORS)

NORTH EAST/YORKSHIRE • SSSTS, NRASWA & Confined Space qualifications (Desirable) • Experience in adoptable drainage, raising of ironworks, Section 278 works, kerb replacements and block paving

We regularly update our individual social media accounts and websites with the latest vacancies. Alternatively, please send a CV across to our Group HR Manager Judith Rooney: judith.rooney@applebridge.com

GET IN TOUCH

CONNECT WITH US

We hope you have enjoyed reading the 1st edition of the Applebridge Family external newsletter.

Keep up to date with all our latest Applebridge Family news by interacting with our individual company social media accounts;

If you have any queries about anything discussed in the newsletter or would like more information on our services, please do not hesitate to get in touch by calling our Head Office on 01642 233 400.

Please see pages 4 & 5 for individual company contact details.

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