Esh Construction to build new HQ for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Introduction to the Dunedin House Development Project

A development that will provide a new, modern headquarters for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is now underway following the appointment of Esh Construction as design and build contractor.

Objectives and Purpose of Dunedin House Remodelling

Dunedin House, situated in Clear Water Business Park on the Thornaby bank of the Tees, will undergo a major programme of remodelling and refurbishment to provide a collaborative and flexible working environment for its employees.

Consolidation of Administration Buildings for Efficiency

The development will enable the Council to consolidate 10 existing administration buildings that no longer provide efficient workspaces due to their age and condition, allowing better service delivery and financial efficiency.

Esh Construction’s Role and Commitment

Esh Construction began work in July after undertaking a nine-month period of design, proposals and consultations in partnership with a local design team. It is expected to be complete in Summer 2024.

Local Engagement and Investment in Tees Valley

Chris Hale, Pre-Construction Director at Esh Construction, said: “We’re delighted to be chosen as contractor to assist the Council to consolidate its offices by creating a new headquarters and to help achieve their vision of providing inspiring and accessible workspace for their employees.

“As a local contractor, we are committed to supporting the communities surrounding our projects by procuring local. Our emphasis was to maximise spending in Tees Valley when procuring the project team, as such, we selected local consultants Stokesley-based P&HS Architects and Stockton-based SINE Consulting. Throughout the project, we plan to reinvest £3m into Tees Valley.”

The Council purchased Dunedin House in September 2021 as an alternative to building a new headquarters due to its size, location, condition and proposed sale price.

Councillor Nigel Cooke, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: “The purchase of Dunedin House has provided the Council with a fantastic opportunity. It’s a chance to look at an existing building which is of a good standard and to bring it back into prime use. We’re looking forward to working with Esh on this journey.

“I am sure this project will allow staff and visitors to enjoy a fantastic new working environment and with the building being brought back into full occupancy and with its close proximity, it is certain to be a significant footfall generator in Stockton town centre.”

Project Scope and Key Contractors

The project, which was procured through the NEPO framework, will involve demolition works and the removal of partitions, along with the construction of new partitions and glazed screens to provide a new layout.

Substantial mechanical, electrical and plumbing works will be delivered by Middlesbrough-based Maval Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Co Ltd, including new lighting, toilet upgrades, new washrooms, fire alarm systems, mechanical ventilation, and cooling systems. Finishing touches will include full decoration, window repair, new flooring and doors, along with installation of desks, chairs and meeting pods.