___________________________________________________________________________________ Oliver Connell & Son Ltd
H
OIL
Rail – Birmingham University – Client Volker Fitzpatrick
Oliver Connell & Son is experiencing tremendous success after challenging market conditions
Oliver Connell & Son ( Connells ) is a specialist groundworks , civil engineering , architectural concrete , rail , and aviation subcontractor based in West London . Founded in 1974 by Oliver and Pat Connell , the business started out as a small family firm , which is now led by Pat ’ s three sons : James , Tom , and Patsy Connell . After years of experiencing consistent success , it has grown to be one of London ’ s leading subcontractors , turning over more than £ 140 million per year .
As the company has evolved , it has diversified its service offering , having expanded to include specialist rail , civil , and aviation divisions . It is one of the leading partners involved with a project at Heathrow Airport in London , for instance , and is also working on HS2 , a new high-speed rail line in the UK , which has been deemed the largest infrastructure project in Europe .
After a challenging few years characterised by the Covid-19 pandemic and soaring inflation , we catch up with James Connell , Managing Director , Tom Connell , Director , and David Sheath , Health , Safety , and Environment Director . The trio tell us all about the company ’ s latest projects , sustainable investments , and plans in place for the third generation to progress through the business . “ Although we ’ re now coming out of it and returning to normal operations , it ’ s been a difficult few years both personally and professionally ,” opens James . “ First of all , my uncle , Oliver , the founder of the business , sadly passed away in March 2020 . Then in
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