Jones Bros on road to completion for project that leads to major distribution centre

A civil engineering firm is halfway through key works on a major East Midlands distribution centre. 

Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK had been contracted to carryout works involving the construction of a new roundabout, carriageway re-alignment and inner access road at Summit Park, Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire on behalf of main contractor Bowmer + Kirkland. 

The site, located off the Mansfield and Ashfield Regeneration Route (MARR) has stood empty for close to 10 years, is expected to bring up to 1,800 new jobs to the area. 

Plans for the distribution centre also include a bus route and onsite bus station that will ensure jobs are accessible to all. 

Engineers have carried out drainage excavation, earthworks fill and surfacing works at Summit Park, with the contractors set to finish work on site in September. 

Gareth Jones, project manager at Ruthin-based Jones Bros, said: “It’s our first project with Bowmer + Kirkland and activity has been progressing well. 

“The team of 25 have worked hard so far and we have minimised disruption as much as possible by diverting commuters to keep the traffic flowing.  

“We also exposed existing services which required diverting by vacuum excavating along existing highway and around numerous tree roots which remained after felling activity before bird nesting season. 

“Surfacing has finished and our work will now involve improving the footpaths and extending the cycle lanes to three metres. This will benefit those who wish to bike to work. 

“Throughout the project, we have adhered to government social distancing measures and set up accommodation on site for the operatives as well as ensured regular training is provided for everyone on site.” 

Jones Bros was recommended by mutual development contractors after it completed a similar scheme at Cheshire Green Industrial Estate. 

Ben Howard, project manager at Bowmer + Kirkland, said: “Jones Bros’ commitment to helping us deliver this section of the works went above and beyond the working norm.  

“It has broken the mould in surpassing an already challenging programme and producing a high-quality end product in a much-shortened period of time. This has not only lessened disruption to the local road users and nearby residents, but provided added certainty for delivering the overall project. 

“Significant service diversions were anticipated within the new carriageway alignment and Jones Bros showed a very proactive approach in assisting with extensive trial holes to mitigate where possible any unnecessary work.” 

Established in the 1950s, Jones Bros’ leadership team consists of members of the second and third generations of the founding family. It employs more than 400 people.