Royston and Woking NEWS

Featuring....
Awards 2016
Showcasing teamwork
Newbies
Farrans 75th
The
Royston
& Woking
News 2016

1,000,000
65,000,000
2,315
hours with no
lost time
work procured by
front end team
school
places
ALAN PRIME
In 2016 we overcame significant challenges to complete:
• 2315 school places
• 62 hotel bedrooms
• 5 retail units and 1 cinema.
The fact this was achieved by working in excess of 1 million hours without a single lost
time accident is a credit to you all.
None of this could have been realised without your dedication and commitment;
working throughout the nights and weekends, to meet incredibly time timescales.
Your excellent contributions are very much appreciated.
75
years of
75 business
62
“
hotel
bedrooms
5
retail units
1
cinema
“
The Front end bid team did us proud again, securing a whopping £65 million
of work for delivery in both the East and South of England. Hopefully, we will be
adding to that “pot” as the new year progresses.
In this bumper crop of news, it is excellent to see the many commendations, all of
which are testament to you and the service that we provide to all our customers.
Reaping the Awards - well done to all the teams who helped reap a number of
Awards for our projects this year - keep them coming!
Celebrating 75 Years
Back in the balmy days of Autumn, we celebrated the 75th anniversary of Farrans at
the historic Brocket Hall, I shan’t be listing the number of bottles, but I hope you all
enjoyed the evening.
2017 exciting times
Early in the new year, our “Shaping your future” initiative will be introduced,
to empower our people to take control of their personal development, to enhance
our performance.
Look ahead
We continue to develop opportunities in new market sectors, including residential
development, which should provide dividends for the future.
Finally, thank you for making 2016 another successful year.
Alan Prime
All the
Regional
best for
Director
2017.
Alan.

Nathan Lund
Assistant Buyer
Royston offi ce
a warm
Aaron Griffiths
Subcontract Buyer
Royston offi ce
Welcome
Jamie Coyle
Quantity Surveyor
Royston offi ce
to the
new staff
who
Barry Brockhurst
Project Manager
Woking offi ce
joined
Farrans
in 2016
Mark Beacom
Bid Manager
Royston offi ce

A bout Myself
I am 25 years old. I was
born in Cambridge and
have lived in and around
Cambridge all my life.
I trained as a Vehicle
technician and had great
success travelling and
working in the motorsport
industry.
After an illness 4 years ago I now am a
wheelchair user. However, I don’t let this
get in my way. I like to think of myself as
approachable and always willing to help out.
What I do at Farrans
I am an assistant buyer working in the
Litlington offi ce. I am learning the industry as
I go and so far I am enjoying every day. I am
looking to do my CIOB in the new year and I
hope to continue to widen my construction
knowledge. I think one of the best things about
construction is being able to watch a space
completely transform, and I really enjoy being
a part of it.
About Myself
Born, partially raised and still living in Enfi eld, North
London with my soon to be wife! I started my
procurement journey roughly 8 years ago working
for an industrial insulation contractor travelling
around the world meeting clients and suppliers,
then moving onto working in London within the
Rail Industry for a few years before landing at the
doorstep of Farrans. I am currently in my 2nd year
studying CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement
and Supply). If all goes to plan (touch wood!) I
should be registered MCIPS by early 2018.
What I do at Farrans
My role within Farrans at present is Subcontract
Buyer. I am currently assisting John Cavanagh with
the procurement on the North West Cambridge
Development Lot 7 project, which has been a
great introduction to me here at Farrans. Along
with the rest of the procurement team at Royston
we have been meeting new suppliers and
promoting the Farrans name at the “Meet the
buyer” events. I look forward to starting on my
My interests
Some of my interests include football,
wheelchair basketball and of course
motorsport. As a Spurs fan I am used to
disappointment, however my love of comedy
keeps me smiling. I have played wheelchair
basketball on and off for the last few years and
a highlight was playing at the Copper Box on
the Olympic Park.
Music
Music is a very important to me, it has not only
helped me in my recovery, but no matter what
mood I fi nd myself in, there’s always a song to
suit. If I had to pick some names it would be
The Streets, Akala and Chase and Status to
name a few. (I get very excited when visiting
ELAM).
My Inspiration
My Fiancée we have been through everything
together, shes the reason I get up in the
morning.
own project within the coming
months and being able to
contribute to the delivery of
another successful project.
My interests
I enjoy watching and playing
football on the odd occasion
and I’m unfortunately lumbered
with the family gene of supporting Leeds United!
Regularly hack the ground at Essendon golf course
on the weekends, just like at the last Farrans golf
event! Massively into the Walking Dead tv series at
the moment. Like a Peroni on the weekend with
friends and Sunday roast with the family. I like a
holiday and have seen some great places already,
trying to see and experience as many countries
whilst I have the time!
Music
Anything except death metal
About Myself
Ive been in the industry for about 20 years. I started out as a YTS trainee where I helped
out on (what was then) the new Rowley Mile Racecourse in Newmarket. I then spent
a period subcontracting for a roofi ng contractor as an estimator/surveyor. I realised
I enjoyed taking off drawings (the old fashioned way) and thought a career as a QS
was for me, so I did my degree at APU in Chelmsford and started work for a main
contractor. Little did I know that taking off drawings was only a minor part of what
a QS does! I have worked on a number of the Cambridge Colleges over the years,
mostly student accommodation, labs, and a lot of refurbs.
What I do at Farrans
At Farrans, I am working on the regeneration of Woking town centre, which being civils work is a bit of
a departure, but is a good way to get into the swing of an NEC contract. If I wasn’t in construction, I’d
probably be in forestry or countryside management.
My interests
I am married to Liz and have a 9 year old son - Max. They are everything to me. Most weekends are spent
taking him to football and mini rugby, so we dont get much time for a great deal else. When not driving
all over the countryside for various fi xtures, Im really into Rugby Union and even though my dad is Irish, Im
an England supporter! I spend time pursuing country sports and Max and I go fl y/coarse fi shing. Holidays
are important, we love skiing and go as often as possible. I am also into training my puppy - Brodie. He is a
Labrador Retriever and a lot of hard work, but it is very rewarding when he gets it right. I love getting out in
the peace and quiet of the countryside and watching wildlife.
Music
I cannot stand Boy/Girl bands. My preference is loud guitars and Indie music. The Stones/Green Day/Oasis.
My radio is usually tuned to Absolute or 5 Live or 4 Extra as I love spoken word radio.
It keeps me awake when driving!
My Inspiration
To retire to France. My Grandfather - he was an Architect in Newmarket and you can see his work all
over the town. He taught me a lot growing up and instilled in me a respect for others, and a love of the
countryside and wildlife.

About Myself
I have worked in the construction industry for over 30 years working my way
up from a trades back ground. For the last 15 years, I have worked as a
Construction Manager with other major contractors.
I am married to Tina and we have 3 children, 2 sons and a daughter - Stuart,
Brandon and Nikki. We also have 2 grandchildren Francesca and Oliver, 1
dog Alice, and 2 cats Bubbles and Bam.
What I do at Farrans
I started working for Farran’s out of the Woking offi ce as a Project Manager in
September 2016.
Currently I am working on pre-construction for the New Chichester Free school
Contract. I am looking forward to the challenges that the site will bring, with
the contract hopefully starting on site, at the beginning of the New Year.
My interests
In my free time I enjoy going to watch my football team. We also spend time in
the summer on the beach as we live close to the sea.
About Myself
I started with Farrans on 4th July
but I previously worked here
for nine years between 2004
and 2013. I have over 25 years
experience working in the
construction industry carrying
out commercial roles both pre
and post contract.
I have recently moved to Essex with my wife,
Jessica, and fi ve year old daughter, Amelie.
What I do at Farrans
I am employed in the work winning side of the
business as a Bid Manager. This requires me to
work with people who carry out a wide range of
functions within the company which is something I
really like.
My interests
We have really enjoyed getting to know our
new surroundings and have been made to feel
welcome by so many people. We have joined both
English Heritage and the National Trust to explore
some of the wonderful local history.
When I am not tramping around Heritage
properties I try to spend time keeping fi t. This
relatively new past time of mine involves uncoordinated
swimming and trying not to be the
slowest cyclist on the road.
Inspiration
I am inspired by people who are positive.
I fi nd this motivating both in my personal and
professional life.
Chichester Free School - Artists impression

Who was Secret Santa?
Here's the origins of the office ritual known as Secret Santa.
It's believed that the birth of the Secret Santa stems from an American
chap called Larry Stewart, who through his Christmas related philanthropy,
mainly handing cash out anonymously to those less fortunate during the
festive period, received the nickname 'Kansas City's Secret Santa'.
Later in life Larry was repaid for his kindness by a cousin who helped him find
a good job in Kansas City. He went on to make millions in the cable TV and long
distance phone service industry.
Larry went on perform random acts of kindness not only during the Christmas
season, but year round. In 26 years he gave away a total of 1.6 millions dollars.
He did this a hundred dollars at a time, and always anonymously.
This legacy of anonymous gift giving is what continues in the Secret Santa
tradition, a Christmas tradition that is practised by many in the western world
(and Royston).......

“Any help you can give in providing
photographs , snippets of good
practice you are doing will be
greatly appreciated.
We This also “Bid” marks a Farewell the fi nal chapter to Uncle in the Tony,
lifecycle of the Royston “Bid Brigade”
as we say farewell to Uncle Tony, as
he sinks slowly into the sunset of early
as he sinks slowly into the sunset of
early retirement in the new year.
retirement.
JASON DENLY
It is already stated the front end department has been
busy with tenders and bids.
The bids are becoming more involved with more evidence required to satisfy
the criteria. Any help you can give in providing photographs , snippets of good
practice you are doing will be greatly appreciated. Updating subcontractor
performance reviews within FOCAL is a great assistance and we encourage you to
continue completing.
We are looking at getting more involved with private clients than in previous years
albeit the local authority work remains as the focus of spend in the coming year.
The focus for the East Region is to highlight opportunities in the East now that
that South has a good starter for ten with live projects. There will always be a close
liaison between the regions as we share resources both in pre-construction and
construction phases of the project.
With Tony hanging up his boots shortly there will be an opportunity should anybody
feel the urge to take up the mantle. Your ability to travel and eat bacon sandwiches
is a must. Please let me know.
Well with Mickey Mouse's big hand pointing upwards and Goofy's tail
pointing downwards, I realise my Rolex is a fake……………….
Another good year from the Royston Pre-Qual team with
35 submissions being completed in the year.
This has created numerous opportunities for the region and continues to do so.
Major successes have been converting
a number of framework Pre-Quals into
tendering opportunities such as Barnet,
Barking & Dagenham and
Peterborough Framework.
We have just been awarded
a place on the Barking &
Dagenham Framework as I write.
We were very pleased to be appointed
to construct the new Pineham Barns
primary school in the Upton Valley,
Northamptonshire. We have also been
trying to push the envelope to obtain
opportunities in the far fl ung corners of
the region, and outside, such as Milton
Keynes, Gloucester and Wolverhampton.
The most technically challenging and
interesting projects included the bid
for the Refurbishment of the
Grafton Centre in Cambridge
and major alterations works to the
Wolverhampton Civic Theatre.
Both of these bids incorporated
complex sequencing and temporary
works schemes. Although we were
ultimately unsuccessful on both we
were commended on our approach
and methodology – best of luck to the
successful contractors as they will certainly
need it!
Tony Atkinson, Bid Manager

Mark Kendle - Andrew Purdy - Jason Starling - Paul Shoebridge
Highly
Commended
The Farrans Waste Transfer Station Team, Mark Kendle, Andrew Purdy, Paul Shoebridge and
Jason Starling were Highly Commended under the site Manager of the Year award category
The Farrans team faced many hurdles in delivering a controversial set of 5 waste transfer
stations across the county for Essex County Council. However their positivity and ‘can do’
attitudes resulted in all schemes being successfully delivered.
The SPACES awards in Manchester
4th November 2016.
From left to right - Ray Gambell, Christina Halls (Essex
County Council Project Sponsor), Jason Starling (Farrans
site manager for the A120 and Chelmsford stations) and
Gary Buick (Project Director for Pick Everard).
Christina Halls put four Farrans Site
Managers forward for the SPACES 2016 Site
Manager of the Year award based on their
performance on the Essex County Council
Waste Transfer Stations scheme. As a
result they all received the award of Highly
Commended.
The certificate states ‘the award is for exemplary
performance on a project within the public estate’
“
From a client perspective they were all a
pleasure to work with. They kept in constant
contact, responded to requests and questions
promptly. For the 16 years I have been doing
this job, these are the best site agents I have
worked with and I truly thank them for making
my job so much easier.
An extract from the SPACES 2016 yearbook
(against the Waste Transfer Stations)

Jason Starling and Ray Gambell attended the SPACES awards evening in
Manchester on 4/11/16 on behalf of Farrans.
These are the only awards in the industry that are solely dedicated to rewarding
excellence and innovation in construction projects delivered within the Public Sector.
This year the awards were widened to reflect and recognise the multi-disciplinary nature
of both SPACES as a society, but also the collaborative nature in which public sector
projects are being delivered to their communities.
The submissions received begin to show the breadth of schemes that are delivered each
year with the aid of public funding and SPACES plan to build on this recognition in the
coming years.
The awards are not purely about design. They recognise the importance of team play in
delivering a project that aims to achieve the ‘golden triangle’ in terms of meeting the brief,
delivering on time and to the set budget.
Farrans are now members of SPACES.
Should you be interested in attending any of the technical meetings or the
study day next year please contact Ray in the first instance.
Feel free to find out more about SPACES at
SPACES Objectives
http://thespaces.org.uk
SPACES objectives are:
• To promote buildings in local authorities
together with high standards of practice
• To facilitate the sharing of the
knowledge and experience of members
• To develop the skills and expertise of
members
• To represent the interests of members to
other organisations

RAY’S NEW RECRUITS
Aaron Griffiths
Aaron joined us in May as a
Sub Contract Buyer. With
a background in rail including
the retail side, gas and the
petrochemical industries Aaron
decided to move to a main
contractor to extend his role in
procurement.
Since joining us he has worked
closely with all members of
the procurement team here and
continues to be involved with the
Lot 7 project on the North West
Cambridge Development.
Aaron recently wrote and delivered a presentation on Farrans and the process in joining
our supply chain at the Nottingham meet the buyer event which was well received by
delegates. He is currently working through the modules for the CIPS (Chartered Institute of
Procurement and Supply) qualifications.
Nathan Lund
Nathan joined the team in May as an Assistant buyer in April. Following formative years with
Toyota, Nathan seized the opportunity to work in motorsport where he spent time travelling
around the world as a mechanic for Aston Martin.
Nathan’s practical background has served him well as he has taken to the role in material and
plant purchasing very quickly. Although Nathan has been involved in purchasing for all of the
live sites since he joined Farrans his biggest challenge was the Harris Free school in East Dulwich
which completed on time despite having an extremely tight programme.
The site management team were really impressed how Nathan was able to meet their needs
given the limited amount of time he has spent in the role. More recently he has delivered
presentations to a number of sites on reinforcing the procedures and good practice of material
and plant requisitions to enable efficiency in delivery.
We welcome Nathan to the team, and look forward to seeing him progress
his future career at Farrans.
We are delighted to have Aaron as part of the team and wish him all the
very best for his future here at Farrans.

Meet the
Aaron Griffiths
Subcontract Buyer
Another busy year for the procurement team
here at the Royston office!
The team,Ray Gambell, Adrian Fuller, Nathan Lund and Aaron Griffiths, have
attended several Meet the Buyer events and seminars during 2016,
to continue the success and development of our supply chain.
We utilise these events to ensure the Farrans name remains branded within
the construction industry, and ensures a presence alongside our competitors.
Events attended 2016
18 October
SHOWCASE EVENT
Twickenham Rugby Club
Twickenham, West London
The largest Constructionline event
of the year with around 1000
suppliers, subcontractors and
consultants walking through the door.
01 November
Goosedale Conference Centre
Papplewick, Nottingham
Another Constructionline event with 400
attendees on the day.
07- 08 November
Construction & Design
Platforms Events UK at The
Grosvenor Hotel, London.
This two day event is set up in the form
of “speed dating” and selective private
interviews are held for 20minutes per
company. We met 24 companies over
the two day event.

This year the procurement team decided to invite along
James Michael and Meera Patel from the estimating
department to the two Constructionline events. It was a
nice break from discussions about planes, trains and automobiles
which some of the more ‘life experienced’ members of the
procurement team are fascinated by!!!
We are keen to work collaboratively alongside the estimating department to assist their
exposure to new supply chains, which can add value to Farrans with successful tendering
of new projects. This improves our competitiveness in new regions we branch into.
Farrans were requested at short notice to fill a gap with a company supply chain
presentation at the Nottingham Constructionline event, which we were happy to oblige.
Up stepped the newest recruit to the procurement team Aaron Griffiths, and in the words
of Meera Patel, she described the presentation as “The best public speech I have heard since
Martin Luther King Jr’s ‘I have a dream’ speech”....
The Meet the Buyer events continue to be a success story and since reviewing the
companies we have met during 2016, we believe to have identified a further 70 new
companies which could be of considerable benefit in the future in assisting Farrans to
deliver excellence on new and existing projects.
………………….onto 2017 and further development of our supply chain!!
“The best public speech I have
heard since Martin Luther King Jr’s
‘I have a dream’ speech”

RICHARD WEIR
THREE AMIGOS STEP UP TO
THE OCHE
With a first full year with the new
Estimating Team, the “Three
Amigos”, the year started
with a variety of traditional tenders for the
London Borough of Hounslow. This followed
on to carehomes in Kent and Harlow, an
Industrial building in Brentwood, Schools
in Northampton and a Civic Centre in
Wolverhampton. We also worked assisting
the delivery teams with cost on 2 stage bids
such as HATO Phase 2, and Parliament Hill
school.
Success came very quickly and to everyone’s
surprise, with the award of Pinehams
Barns in April, which is a £6.2m school 2FE
Primary School for Northampton County
Council – the award was from a new client
and the first procured through the new LGSS
Northampton Framework.
In May, further awards were to follow when
Farrans were awarded not one but TWO
£23m Special Educational Needs
(SEN) Schools for Hounslow Borough
Council.
This certainly has given Jerome and his team
in Woking a flying start to setting up the new
Woking Office, and we wish them continued
success.
James has now started his new Journey to
become a member of the CIOB.
ESTIMATING TEAM
Richard Weir
James Michael
Meera Patel
As I sit here and type, Farrans are waiting to hear back on the
Wolverhampton Civic Centre project which is a complicated
refurbishment project involving inserting new columns through an
existing roof , and also a break in construction for a
PDC darts tournament.
Congratulations Richard on attaining FCIOB membership and
“Inst. of leadership and Management” in April.

T
he resurrection of the
prestigious Farrans
G
It started with a “cash in the attic” style
rummaging around in a number of boxes
hidden away in the Farrans Royston office.
Upon opening one box, a glimmer of silver
shone in the eyes of the searcher and laying in
front of him a shield and a number of photos
that had not seen the light of day for 13 years,
way back in 2003!! The Farrans golf shield had
been resurrected!
The excitement had begun and discussions
were already underway about how best
to continue this prestigious sporting event.
Word had started to spread and names
such as; Rory Mcllroy, Danny Willet and
Sergio Garcia were being mentioned as
contenders to get their names on the
Farrans shield but apparently it would have
clashed with something called The Ryder
Cup?? so they had to turn it down.
Organisation had commenced and within
a couple of weeks the location had been
picked and the time and date set. The “5
Star” championship course that is Heydon
Grange Golf & Country Club had been
selected as the course to hold the 2016
competition.
Great interest began to flood in and
numbers started to rise.
OLF DAY
A little bit of history repeating itself..
The Farrans golf day started way back
in 1997 with the fi rst named winner being
Jeff Weaver. Unfortunately Jeff could
not make the 2016 golf day event due
to enjoying the luxury of retirement but
one time winners Ray Gambell (2002) and
Richard Weir (2001) were on hand to keep
the old guard competing….even though
their handicaps were a bit dubious to
begin with! We were also graced with the
presence of TWO time winner Adrian Fuller
(1999&2003) who was keen to secure a
third win under his belt.
The day was open to all Farrans employees
and there were no restrictions on the levels
and abilities of players. There were regular
golfers, pitch and putters, driving range
goers and employees that had never hit a
golf ball before.
“
So up to the 1st hole to commence
the 2016 competition, the weather
was perfect, everyone was set, clubs
in hand, golf balls & tees at the ready,
voices ready to shout FOUUURRR…..
and no one wanted to tee off fi rst!
So up steps Simba to get us underway.
You can tell this man is a QS as he
managed to spin a deal to purchase
a set of clubs for £5 the week before!
After a few mishits and air shots Simba
was off to a monstrous 50 yard start.
After a while everyone had tee’d off
and the Farrans 2016 Golf Competition
was in full swing. I believe we set the
Guinness world record for number
of times “four” was shouted in one
afternoon of golf and apparently there
is now more balls than water in the
lake by one of the Par 3’s and……word
has it, that Peter Jess is still looking for
his orange ball! Everyone somewhat
successfully made their way around the
18holes and back into the club house
for a well-deserved beer and some
curry and chips.
After everyone had refuelled, we
began the awards ceremony. There
were some great prizes on offer such
as; Sweets, Umbrellas, Golf Balls, Golf
Towels, a GPS Golf Watch and a round
of golf for 4 at the Championship golf
course, The Belfry. Appreciation must
be shown to Adrian Fuller for organising
You can tell this man is a QS as he managed to spin a deal
to purchase a set of clubs for £5 the week before!
these prizes along with the help from
some of Farrans material and plant
suppliers.
The list of winners are:
Longest Drive – Aaron Griffiths
Sponsor: GAP PLANT HIRE & TRAVIS PERKINS
Closest to the Pin – Ray Gambell
Sponsor: GAP PLANT HIRE & TRAVIS PERKINS
Closest to the Pin in 2 – Adrian Fuller
Sponsor: GAP PLANT HIRE & TRAVIS PERKINS
Lowest Score over all Par 3’s – John
Cavanagh
Sponsor: CITY HIRE
The Yellow Ball Challenge – Ray
Gambell, Shane Mcafee, Liam
McKane and Simba Hananda
Sponsor: HIRE STATION
Runner up – Ray Gambell and Niall
Moore
Sponsor: GAP PLANT HIRE & TRAVIS PERKINS
It was a very successful day and everyone really
enjoyed the event. A special thanks must also go to
Ray Gambell and Niall Moore for organising the event
internally and working their magic to finalise a good
deal with the golf club. A sum of money was raised
on the day and was donated to support the Northern
Ireland Children's Hospice in Memory of Oran
Campbell. We hope to continue this event throughout
the years to come, to continue the support for such
great causes.
So, do you feel you have what it takes to claim your
spot in the Farrans history books? Well preparation
has already begun, so keep your eyes and ears peeled
for more information on the 2017 Farrans Golf Event.

for the perfect
SAUSAGE!
That’s an odd Title!
What’s that got to do with Construction, maybe a hearty Builder’s Breakfast ?
This is soon to be the next voyage of the Starship Eastern region when Captain
Tony Atkinson hangs up his pen, hands in his Farrans phone (resistance is futile
Tony), orders his last Mrs Miggins bacon roll, and begins his new journey - off grid!
Croissants and the Telegraph, boxed sets of Dad’s Army and Ain’t Half Hot Mum, and
unwrapping his new Boys Toy, the ride on Mower!
OVERALL
WINNER
Mike Wood
Sponsor: GAP PLANT HIRE
So thus, the Quest for the Perfect Breakfast Sausage begins. Tony has long been in search of the
Holy Grail of Snorkers, “not too much herb, not too fatty, and a good proportion of quality sausage”.
PQQs will soon be a distant bad dream, as will getting up on a cold
winter’s morning and driving to Litlington. No more tales for the young
folk on the Good Old Days, the price of a decent pint of Ale, fish and
chips were wrapped in the Daily Express, and how you didn’t even have
to wear a seatbelt in those days! How times have changed.
So we wish “Uncle Tony” the very best for his (official) retirement and on the following pages are a
small selection of things from the “Good Old Days”..
Beam him up Scotty !

A STATELY 75TH
AT BROCKET HALL
September the 25th marked the special anniversary of Farrans seventy five years of trading.
Over 100 staff and partners gathered for a special evening at Brocket Hall stepping through the doors of
one of England’s finest private Stately Homes, through which Kings, Queens, Prime Ministers and Poets have
also entered. Designed and built for entertaining, the Hall has witnessed some of the greatest moments and
characters in English history. On the 25th September it witnessed a great moment in the history of Farrans.

Bright Lights
Big City
Stephen Beattie MCIOB
Site Manager
“I know that Farrans are dedicated to ensuring
that this will be an incredible space for our
students to learn in. “
Andrew Purdy, Kelly Coughlin, Mark Kitson, Ronan O'Neill, Stephen Beattie
Myself and some of the other team
members from Harris Academy Project
Tottenham attended an interesting CIOB
Event recently, in London which was an
Architectural skyscraper walking tour
around London city.
The walk was given by Ike Ijeh a leading architect
in a London Architectural Practice.
This architectural walking tour gave us a very informative and
interesting aspect into how skyscrapers in London are built and
how they have evolved in design and construction from post First
World War right up to present day.
We walked through the city, stopping at various famous city
landmarks such as the Gherkin, Walkie Talkie, and the Shard.
The evening ended with a networking event, with the opportunity
to sample some of the finest fayre the city has to offer.
A commercial skyscraper in the City
of London, the actual name of the
building is 20 Fenchurch Street.
The distinctive shape of the
building, which is larger at the top
than at the bottom, have led to the
nickname ‘Walkie Talkie.
The concave design of 20
Fenchurch Street is thought to have
caused sun to shine directly onto
street below.
The 525ft tall building has been
fitted with a permanent solution -
the ‘brise soleil’ sunshade to deflect
sunshine. Several motorists had
reported problems after parking cars
near the building, hence nicknamed
Walkie Scorchie!
Farrans Construction are
constructing a new 3000m²
teaching block alongside the
current school. giving a new
lease of life to existing office
accommodation to provide
more teaching area.
With the completion of Phase 1 at
Harris Academy, we will be building
on the good working relationship
previously established with the staff at
Harris Academy.
“
Harris Academy Tottenham continues to evolve and we are really proud of what
has been achieved so far. Working alongside Farrans to deliver excellent provision
for our young people is central to what we do and I am very pleased to be working
alongside such a committed team.
We look forward to the next phase of works which will deliver our specialist block
for Music and Performing Arts (including a Theatre) – I know that Farrans are
dedicated to ensuring that this will be an incredible space for our students to learn
in. It has been a challenging project but Farrans have worked in partnership to
deliver these facilities whilst minimising disruption to learning.
We are all really excited to see the building works progress!
Lisa Kattenhorn, Principal, Harris Academy Tottenham.
The completion of the project will
provide modern teaching facilities for
school children aged 4 – 19 years,
in the Tottenham Hale area of the
London Borough of Haringey.
The construction works will be multiphased,
as parts of the building are
already occupied by Harris intakes in
2014, 2015 and 2016 - Reception to
Year 2 in the primary section and Years
7 to 9 plus Year 12 in the secondary
section. The school will remain live
during the construction works.
“

On
Schedule
Pictured here are the Tottenham site team engaging in a CPD
event held on site in November, which was organised by Farrans
Project Manager, Mel McMahon, and our groundworks contractor
Conneely Construction.
The CPD topic was
“reading and understanding rebar drawings
and schedules”
H ATO
Ph 2
The Team are
planning on holding
a CPD event every
couple of months
on site.
Teamwork:
cooperative or coordinated effort on the part of a group of persons acting
together as a team or in the interests of a common cause.

On the 6th October 2016 Harris Primary Academy
Mayflower held a special opening ceremony in its new
building. Lord Harris, the Chief Executive of the Harris
Federation, Sir Dan Moynihan and local MP Jackie Doyle-
Price were guests of honour.
Guests at the ceremony included staff and pupils of the
academy, Lord and Lady Harris, Chris Randall (Harris
Federation) and representatives from the Education Funding
Agency (EFA), Thurrock Council, GSSArchitecture, Farrans
Construction and Mace.
The children sang for the guests and then showed off their
Djembe drumming. Principals from other academies,
staff from Thurrock council and the Harris Federation all
attended and were equally impressed.
The former container storage site has been transformed into a brand new fi veform
entry primary academy, which accommodates over 1,000 pupils, making it the
largest primary academy in the UK. The scheme was delivered under the EFA’s free
schools procurement framework, and also received partial funding from Thurrock
Council and the Harris Federation.
GSSArchitecture, Architects and Lead Consultants for this development, from
inception to completion, working closely with the EFA’s technical advisors, Harris
Academy and Farrans Construction in order to deliver this project on time and in
budget, ready for its first intake of pupils in September of this year.
“
Harris Mayflower Primary was a particularly special project.
The gelling of the teams including Harris, EFA, Mace, GSS, Farrans and
the infectious positivity of Katie Hanley the School principal, set the
project on the right path from the start. Seeing the school come to
life with the vitality of the pupils and staff is the true testimony to the
success of the project.
FELIM BLANEY, CONTRACTS MANAGER.

Officially
Open!
It now seems like a long
time ago that there was
a shortage of school
places in Chafford.
I am pleased to formally
open this fantastic new
building. All praise goes
to Harris and the teaching
staff for making a success
of the school to date.
I am very proud that I
have brought Harris to the
Borough and that they are
now a firm feature of the
educational establishment
here in Thurrock.
Jackie Doyle-Price MP

MISSION
IMPOSSIBLE?
Harris Primary Academy
was the programme they
said could not be delivered.
With a three storey heavily reinforced
Police Station to be demolished and
a new 2FE school to be delivered in 9
months – the task was not for the faint
hearted!
With Chris Maguire at the helm, a fresh
approach was taken to coordinate the
works using “Visual Programming”.
Using 3d
models
created by
John Monahan,
each trade,
area and
sequence was
dated and
marked on the
model. This
highlighted
visually
the critical
interface
between
activities, and
provided clear presentation of progress
on site.
Chris found this approach particularly
effective for committing trades to
deadlines and has resulted in no
programme slippage to date.
We wish Chris and the team all
the success in driving this approach
forward.

Lord Harris of Peckham officially
opened Harris Primary Academy East
Dulwich on Thursday, 17th November
2016. Guests at the ceremony included
governors, staff and pupils of the
academy, and representatives from the
Harris Federation, Education Funding
Agency (EFA), Farrans Construction and
GSSArchitecture.
MISSION
ACCOMPLISHED
Harris Primary Academy East Dulwich is situated on
the prominent site of the Old Police Station on the
junction of Lordship Lane and Whateley Road. The
development has transformed the former redundant
building into a high quality two-form entry primary
academy, accommodating 420 pupils, aged 4-11
years. The scheme was delivered under the EFA’s Free
Schools procurement framework, and also received
partial funding from the Harris Federation.
Acting as Architects and Lead Consultants,
GSSArchitecture worked closely with Harris Academy
and Farrans Construction to deliver this project, which
was handed over three weeks ahead of schedule.
The innovative design has created a bright and
modern school with a range of facilities for learning
and play, including specialist practical classrooms, on a
challenging inner city site.
Jo Conduit, Principal of Harris Primary Academy East
Dulwich said, “Our parents, children and staff are
very happy with the new building. In particular, the
best use has been made of the available space and
parents have commented that the playground feels
bigger than they expected. It has been a pleasure
to work with the teams involved in making the new
build happen and it will certainly support us to offer
a brilliant education for our pupils.”
“
Our extensive experience within the education
sector and working with the Harris Federation
and Farrans on other primary schools, allowed us
to deliver a successful project that dealt with the
challenges in a collaborative manner.
Michael Magri, Partner at GSSArchitecture
Harris Primary Academy East Dulwich was affectionately known as “Mission Impossible”
due to the challenges of demolishing the existing four-storey police station, the tight
logistics of the site and the punishing programme for phase 1. With the whole team
pulling together, including Harris, Mace, EFA, GSS, MLM, Dowds and Farrans, the school
was delivered to the highest standard 3 weeks early.
Jo Conduit (Principal) was particularly understanding in phase 2, as the construction team
were building on the 2nd and 3rd floors as her team were teaching on the floors below.
The highest recognition was from local residents, who were initially sceptical of the plans,
but are now delighted at how well their newest neighbour nestles into the streetscape of
Lordship Lane. Felim Blaney,Contracts Manager.
“

Thank
you...
I wanted to take this
opportunity to thank everyone
involved with this project,
in helping get this project
completed on time.
A big special word of thanks goes to my
site team of Morris Gilmore, Ronan O’Neill
and Divit Kandel without their dedication,
hard work and commitment, this project
wouldn’t have been completed to the
standard that has been achieved, to great
client satisfaction.
I also want to thank my contracts team of
Felim Blaney, Paul Barry, Alan Kilpatrick,
Gerard Gilroy ,John Monahan, Stephen
Allen & Alastair Scott for their help and
guidance, with what was a frantic year!!
Finally, a big thank you to all staff in
Royston/Waterbeach and Dunmurry ,who
were there to assist and sort all our needs
for this project.
Stephen Beattie
TEAM SHORTLANDS!

Down by
the riverside....
The official build completion that marks the end
of the construction phase has taken place at
Thetford Riverside on Bridge Street in Thetford
town centre. David Winch, The Land Group Director who
is a joint venture partner with Breckland Council for the
development commented:
“This is a huge step forward for Thetford and the surrounding region. The 62
bedroom Travelodge is in the process of opening and The Light Cinema will open
its doors during the middle of November and will announce shortly some epic new
movies which will be a treat for film fans.”
“The waterfront landscaping is now looking beautiful and car parking is fully
functional. We are really pleased with how the whole leisure complex is looking and
are sure that Thetford Riverside will become a very popular destination.
We are still in close negotiations with well known national retailers for the restaurant
/ café units ranging in size from 1300 to 3750 square feet, boasting outside terraces
overlooking the newly landscaped frontage onto the Little Ouse River.
Mr Winch concluded: “On behalf of Breckland Bridge, our joint venture
partnership, we would like to thank Farrans Construction
and the associated development team for delivering the
project on time and firmly on budget.”
The opening of the new Travelodge in Thetford's Riverside development.
Mayor Terry Jermy cuts the ribbon with Gary Steele, Travelodge regional
director, and Matthew Merryweather, Thetford Travelodge manager.
NEW
GRAND
TENANT!
Its first restaurant tenant, American bar
and grill Grand Central, announced its
tenancy earlier this month, and fit-out
for The Light Cinema is underway with an
opening date expected in December.
“Mum might like it,
Uncle Arthur!”
The platoon from the Dad's
Army Museum attended
the opening of the new
Travelodge in Thetford's
Riverside development.

M
aking
a positive impact in the
communities we work in
Andrea Kokonas
The Keystone Development Trust’s vision is:
‘To improve the quality of life and opportunities for people who live, study and work in
the Keystone area through sustainable, community led regeneration. Working closely with
partner organisations and communities, Keystone aims to ensure that the area is safe,
healthy, inclusive, socially and economically vibrant.’
Recovery through Art
Our work with the Keystone
Development Trust involved
supporting the group to create four
8’ x 4’ boards to make a historical
mural.
We worked with the ‘Recovery through Art’
group, that works closely with local people
needing support on various issues. This, and
other projects, help them get back on track
after life struggles, including issues surrounding
addictions or mental health issues.
The final art work was displayed on our
hoarding facing Thetford’s tourist attraction
“The Captain Mainwaring “ statue.
Project Coordinator, Holly Sandiford says
“The project started with a field visit around
the historic sites of Thetford and The Ancient
House Museum. The group decided to
photograph their favourite historic places
in Thetford and used these to create the
murals.
“
It was excellent working
together. It was brilliant.I
couldnt really believe how
well it came out. I loved it.
“
“I thought it was really good
working as a team and also
working to do something
good for the community. I t
gave us all a big confidence
boost that we could do it
“
They are challenging the public to work out
where the photos were originally taken. The
group have been brilliant and been involved
in every element from design to creation. It
was a great opportunity to put into practice
all the skills they have learnt during their
time with us.
There is some real raw talent in the group
and I am very proud of them. A big thank
you to Andrea for making the process
enjoyable, she was understanding and a
pleasure to work with”.

Proud supporters of
Cambridge Children’s Charity Week
Y our’e
Hired
Working with Shaw Trust, Andrea has developed a new
recruitment initiative to help support disabled and nondisabled
job seekers.
"I am proud to be involved
in the development
of this new initiative.
It’s refreshing to see
fundraising dedicated to
raising core costs and for
all the money to go straight
into supporting children’s
charities in Cambridge.”
Andrea Kokonas.
Team FARRANS played in the inter-lot-five-a-side
charity match in Cambridge to raise money for charity.
Cambridge Children’s Charity Week is a new initiative for 2016. It
aims specifically to raise money to fund core costs for local children’s
charities in Cambridge.
Talking about the event Dr Carrie Herbert, one of the founders of
Cambridge Children’s Charity Week, explains why it is needed:
“It is notoriously difficult for charities to raise money for core
costs. When it comes to charitable giving, donors often prefer
to contribute towards a specific project, and we are of course
extremely grateful for that support. But charities have to find
money for the phone bill, the rent, insurance and people who
write policies - back office stuff which is less ‘sexy’. If they don’t
raise core costs charities can’t survive.”
By working with a charity such as Shaw Trust, we have
been able to work together to offer administrative roles, of
which are sought after because they are ideal for someone
looking to return to work. Andrea is looking to develop the
relationship in the New Year, to work experience and more
roles in the future.
Watch this space.
#footstepstothefuture
www.camccweek.org
Renata Robinson
ELAM
Chidi Madu
TOTTENHAM

Dear Andrea,
“ ....allowing learners on
site provides them with a
fantastic opportunity...
I am just writing to thank you for hosting some of our learners
at your site (Lot 7 Cambridge). The feedback I have had has
been fabulous.
I believe that it is extremely important for our learners to
experience how real sites operate within the construction
industry. Having companies such as Farrans allowing learners on
site provides them with a fantastic opportunity to experience
construction first hand.
It is only by the willingness and openness of Farrans in
collaboration with CRC can this happen.
I hope that this is the beginning of a relationship between
our two organisations that will allow the next generation of
building service workers access to see their professions in
action.
A big thank you to all concerned, the safety booklets were a
total winner with the learners.
Best Regards
Chris
C L JACKSON MBE
Head of Programme
Building Services and the Built Environment
Cambridge Regional College
Cambridge CB4 2QT
Kings Hedges Road

Winner of Best
Public Service
Building Award
C3 Church Cambridge
Cambridge Community Church,Cambridge
has won the Building Excellence Award for
Best Public Service Building in East Anglia .
The Building Excellence Awards are highly regarded
across the construction industry and seek to celebrate
excellence in all types of building projects.
The Local Authority Building Control (LABC), which
presents the annual awards, described how this year’s
judges sought “vital elements in the creation of excellent
buildings - outstanding craftsmanship, technical
innovation, sustainability and high performance”.
The new £6.5m church and community building has made
a big impact on the local area of east Cambridge.
“We're still pinching ourselves, in many
ways – we've finally got a home,"
Angie Campbell – church leader,
“We are delighted to have been recognised by the
LABC for the ‘Best Public Service Building in East Anglia’ in
achieving this sought after Award. This refl ects highly on
the level of detailing and quality of our site teams across
the region. We are looking forward to the National Awards
at the end of the year where Farrans have several Finalists
taking part from across the Country.”
Jason Denly

250 people attended the
10th LABC East Anglia
'Black Tie' awards event
held at Kings College,
Cambridge on Friday
24th June.
Amanda Goodman presenter for
BBC Look East hosted the event
which was also attended by LABC
President Jayne Hall and LABC Chief
Executive Paul Everall. Certificates
were presented to all finalists
and each category awards winner
collected their trophies East
Anglia region LABC Warranty 'Site
Manager of the Year' award was
also presented by Julian Roper of
LABC Warranty.
LABC is the principal provider of
building control services in England
and Wales.
The LABC East Anglia Building
Excellence Awards are a celebration
of the best projects in the region
for quality and compliance with
building regulations.

Grand Finals
28 November 2016
Rabbsfarm, Best Educational Building (London Area).
L-R Cathal O’Kane, Felim Blaney, Paul Maguire, Kieran Poland (Hillingdon Council), Steven Foster,
Darrell McGuckian, Michael Naughton, Anthony Oloyede, Kevin Gatercole.
Congratulations went to C3 Church and the team,
for Best Public Services Building, Finalist and
category Award winner.
C3 Church, Best Public service Building
L-R Darrell McGuckian, Paul Maguire, Paul Darrington, Kerry Ings, Philip Browne, Andrew Butcher.
STEM Building Isle of Wight College, Best Educational
Building South East Region
L-R Morris Gilmore, Mel McMahon, Justin Biggs, Peter Conway, Kevin Barke, Rod Burton, Warren Wright, Derek Kingsland

“
the Farrans ethos of professionalism, cooperation, respect
and courtesy in carrying out the work has provided an
inspirational place to learn.
Rabbsfarm Primary School
Barbara Neville, Head Teacher.

N
ORTHWOOD
SCHOOL
OFFICIAL OPENING
The Mayor and Mayoress of Hillingdon,
Hillingdon Councillors, and special guest Kate
Hopewell, Head of Projects and Partnerships
for the Shakespeare’s Schools’ Festival joined
Governors, friends, staff and students to
celebrate the opening of Northwood School’s
new building on Thursday 10th November.
Guests who were invited to tour the school were very
impressed by the facilities. One guest commented that “The school was one of the most
impressive that they had seen.”
Kate Hopewell congratulated the school on their new building and in particular on their
Performing Arts facilities which would be used by students and the local community.
As part of the celebration guests were invited to watch an excellent performance by
Northwood’s talented young actors of Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew in the new
theatre. In his speech,
Mr Anderson, Headteacher, said "It is hard to think that in April 2015, a mere 17 months ago, this
building did not exist. There were those who thought that it was not possible to build a school so quickly. But to
me this is what this new building is about: possibility. And that is the key message we take forward as we move
into this new building. That with effort, belief and vision anything is possible. "
“
Further we would like to extend thanks to Farrans Construction who successfully
managed to complete Phase 1 of the development project within 18 months giving
us a fantastic environment for the continued delivery of high quality teaching and
learning experiences for our students.
Innovations
Music and Performance Suites
Secure By Design
London Plan
Sustainable Features
Brown Roof
Rainwater Harvesting
Photovoltaics
Concept
The visual appearance of the building relates to
the 3 elements which express the performing arts
specialism, the remaining learning areas and the
sports complex. The south facing learning areas
are recessed behind brise soleil that provide
essential solar shading and a harmonizing effect
to the classroom façade. This integrates with a
supporting colonnade that links across the street
frontage of the southern elevation.
The sports hall block is linked by another
colonnade supporting a covered way.
The building arrangement also responds to the
neighbouring UTC and the wrap around cladding
reflects the lighter weight structure of the hall
and the aesthetic of the UTC.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS!
The doors to the new Farrans WOKING office were officially open back
in July. The Mayor of Woking, Cllr Anne Murray, attended to carry out
the official duties and was joined by Managing Director, John Wilson,
as well as a number of clients, councillors and local representatives.

Firmly on
the Map!
The 4,000ft2 office is split across
two floors and fitted out with
interactive meeting rooms,
cellular office space and flexible
working areas to manage everchanging
staff working habits in
a fast-paced industry.
Prior to making the move,
Farrans spent a substantial
amount of time and effort
analysing the market in the
south of England, before
selecting Woking as an excellent
hub for our business.
Farrans staff at the new Woking office are all
geared up for an exciting, albeit challenging
year ahead with four very high profile contracts
paving the way for continued success.
With these recently awarded contracts, and the
completion of Northwood school, the Farrans
profile in the area will definitely be elevated.
Along with this, comes the prospect of new
customers seeing the yellow signage pop up over
the region, and putting Farrans firmly on the map
in the south.
There will be no resting on laurels though as the
flow of PQQs and Tenders continue to come in,
and the team looking out for new opportunities
to widen the geographical bid net.
Warren Wright
Director, England South
Leading the way into 2017....
... this will provide our road
map and direction of travel to
continue to effectively bid for
and win contracts, to sustain our
operations in the Region....
The location offers excellent
business and international links
with large corporations, as
well as access to a vibrant SME
sector. The new office is also
conveniently located just 25
minutes from central London.
Grassy Meadows
Care Home
LB of Hillingdon
An 88-unit extra-care
development and dementia
resource centre will be built. An
existing day centre demolished
to make way for the three- and
four-storey building.
The doors to the new Farrans office in Woking was officially opened back
in July. The Mayor of Woking, Cllr Anne Murray, attended to carry out the
official duties and was joined by Managing Director, John Wilson, as well as
clients, councillors and local representatives.
Oaklands SEN School
LB of Hounslow
Construction is of a new
secondary school and college in
Gresham Road, which will have
space for 224 students with
special educational needs (SEN),
aged 11-25.
Marjory Kinnon
SEN Primary & Secondary
LB of Hounslow
The new Marjory Kinnon school
will be built on an existing
sports field site in Feltham
bordered one side by the Duke
of Northumberland River and
in close proximity to Heathrow
Airport.
Chichester Free School
Chichester District
Council
Refurbishment of the old
Carmelite Convent whilst also
providing two new buildings
for the 2FE Primary and 4FE
Secondary.

A
Happy New Year
from all
at the Woking office...
Woking staff raised
a total of
£326.94
from their festive
activities...

It’s the most
wonderful time
of the year...
A ‘FIRST’ CLASS
DELIVERY
Students at Oaklands have printed,
folded and delivered our Farrans
INFORM newsletters to residents local
to the build of their new school.
This exciting opportunity has
given the students a real life work
experience project.
“It was fantastic to see staff and pupils join together
as part of the project and engage with ourselves
and also the local community.
It was pleasing that we did receive feedback,
and questions from members of the public
who have received a newsletter.
Thanks Again”
Mark Collins-Wood
Construction Manager
Gresham Road SEN
FARRANS CONSTRUCTION
On behalf of the children and staff at
Marjory Kinnon School, I would like to
say a huge “thank you” to your team for
the money that you donated to us to buy
Christmas presents for our pupils, and for
your appearance as the ‘Santa Claus team’.
The pupils were very excited when they
received their presents from Father
Christmas and his elves in Santa’s grotto.
Events such as these are very important
to our pupils to support their learning
and enjoyment of school and your
participation was really appreciated.
Headteacher - Marjory Kinnon School
Mark and Andrea – a huge thank you for all your help
and support with the Santa visits – a fantastic job!!.
Both school visits, although completely different truly
were an emotional and memorable experience.
Brigid McGuigan
It was a pleasure to be involved and a wonderful and
emotional experience. Thank You.
Mark Collins-Wood
The Christmas visits are what Christmas is all
about for me, it’s such a rewarding experience
and different every time. Andrea Kokonas

"Social"
Value....
In support of the charity chosen by Farrans
Woking office, the site staff at Marjory Kinnon
organised a coffee/breakfast morning on site this
morning and raised £230.
Thanks to all who attended and supported the event.

FARRANS CONSTRUCTION
Royston Office
New Cambridge House
Bassingbourn Road
Litlington
Cambs
SG8 0SS
T: 01763 850600
Woking Office
8 Forsyth Road
Woking
Surrey
GU21
T: 01763 850600