Construction & Civil Engineering Issue 225 - January 2026 | Page 58

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
construction of a new prison building at HMP Channings Wood in Devon, which will house an additional 500 inmates,” Richard says.“ We’ ve recently completed two large contracts on behalf of the council to upgrade roads, footpaths, and cycle lanes in Bristol city centre, and we’ re also working on a Ministry of Defence( MoD) contract to upgrade their workshop and vehicle storage facilities. Across the border in Wales, we’ re working on Cardiff Arena, as well as carrying out earthworks for Port Talbot Steelworks.”
Investing in technology
In recent years, Churngold has invested significantly in digital technologies to ensure the company operates as efficiently as possible.“ The construction industry often lags in terms of change and innovation, but a few years ago, I embarked on a mission to accelerate and update Churngold,” Richard reflects.“ Every machine in our fleet now has GPS capability, whereas previously we had to have two people( an engineer and a ground worker) working with each machine. Instead, each machine has a screen where the operator can see the exact location and dimensions of the area needing to be excavated. This has not only enhanced our efficiency but also helps with the health and safety aspect of our operations. Aside from GPS capabilities, we’ ve invested in avoidance software to help operators detect objects such as buildings or cables in the ground. We’ ve also invested in two drone surveyors and drones, which are flown over each project site on a weekly basis to assist in producing volume calculations, CAD drawings, and models, whilst also creating a perfect record of the works as they progress.”
However, Richard is quick to highlight that while technology is advancing Churngold’ s 58