This article, “A year of constructing excellence”, appeared in the press, including The Eastern Daily Press, The East Anglian Daily Times and Grapevine Magazine (a publication by Essex Chambers of Commerce).
Horizon Construction enjoyed a year of remarkable development despite the pandemic.
Following COVID-19 restrictions and faced with much adversity, the construction group embraced opportunities to learn, develop and improve. As we emerge from the pandemic, the results have positioned the business as one of the leading construction firms in the region. Here’s why:
Enhanced operating procedures
With a reputation for high-quality operating standards, Horizon Construction undertook a full review of its operations following the early onset of COVID-19 restrictions. It was an opportunity, once again, to think differently about how best to support its staff and deliver the best possible services to its clients.
Following a brief suspension of construction activity, it allowed time to implement new technology and guidance across the business, with the aim to operate with minimal disruption and delays for their clients. Whilst, at the same time, keeping the workforce’s safety and wellbeing as the primary concern.
The flexibility to implement new technologies alongside enhance safety procedures ensured their construction sites and offices were kept not only safe and operational but sophisticated and in-tune with future requirements.
Focused on health and safety
In recognition of upholding high standards, Horizon Construction was delighted to achieve an internationally recognised and prestigious RoSPA Award for health and safety. Only recently, the team has secured the Award for the second consecutive year. This achievement is a huge accolade for its team and demonstrates confidence in its approach to safeguarding people.
Achieving ISO certification
The drive for efficiencies and innovation through the use of technology has its customers’ interests at the centre of development. A digital strategy targeted new technologies to position the business at the leading edge of construction management systems and processes.
Following the alignment with ISO frameworks by a dedicated team – utilising the spare time and skills of a Site Manager, James Wilby, and Trainee Office Manager, Courtenay Austin – their hard work was rewarded by ISO certification (9001, 14001 and 45001).
Building upon construction success
Even after the challenges of COVID-19, the business remained remarkably robust. Construction inevitably contained delays due to the range of factors associated with the pandemic. Although, through the commitment of its team and strength in procedures, construction projects continued with a focus on minimising delays. The team was also able to secure new contracts by evidencing much-needed confidence and expertise.
Completed projects included:
- £7.2m new automotive sales and aftersales facility.
- £6.6m new care home – A modern, high-quality 5-storey, 77-bed new facility.
- £2.2m award-winning residential scheme – 14 apartments and 3 retail outlets.
- £1.7m care home extension – Creating an additional 17-bed facility.
- £1.5m residential scheme – 10 apartments.
- £1.5m new commercial visitor centre for a regional wildlife charity.
The level of new enquiries in 2021 has reached record levels. The directors and founders, Phil Holding and Steve Tilley, strongly believe this is the result of an exceptional team and being further recognised for its high standards, service and quality in construction. The construction group is now actively recruiting to support its growth.
Delivering important industry research
As a forward-thinking and learning organisation, Horizon Construction undertook its first annual construction survey, asking architects, project managers and developers across the region to take part. The results of the survey aimed to assist firms involved in construction by identifying key trends over the next 12 months.
Considering the evolving nature of the challenges in the pandemic, the research uncovered encouraging optimism and a positive outlook for the region’s construction industry. The results also showed the areas of operation and construction that firms will be focussing on. The research represented a significant project achievement and initiative with local firms.
Continued participation in charity work
The team at Horizon Construction has always played an active role in supporting local charities. The lockdowns stopped many planned fundraising events in 2020, but that didn’t stop their team to think differently about how to continue providing support in much-needed times. Activities included direct sponsorship of vital charity work, a cycling challenge and their own football event. Members of the team are also keeping their fingers crossed for participation in this year’s London Marathon.
It’s been a challenging year for us all. Horizon Construction took the opportunity to develop its team and services and has been rewarded with success.
