Midlands contractor lands big job at National Trust property
Reorientation works are set to begin at Shugborough Estate in Staffordshire, a National Trust property formerly owned by the Anson family and the Earls of Lichfield.
Midlands-based O’Brien Contractors has been awarded the contract for the 57-week project, which is expected to be completed in December 2025.
It will be part of a major development programme to enhance the site’s natural landscape and showcase its unique history.
The reorientation works will include the construction of a new entrance and access road from the A513 past the Lichfield Lodges, as well as improvements to visitor access.
Tony Mitchell, director at O’Brien Contractors said: “Having the opportunity to enhance access to an important part of Staffordshire’s heritage makes this an exceptionally rewarding project for O’Brien. We’re excited to collaborate with the National Trust and their team to create a space that will serve a wide range of needs for visitors, the local community, and the natural landscape for years to come.”
The project will also create an additional car park, a bridge, woodland paths, a new visitor centre and a new exit road with a bridge over the existing Sher Brook.
Visitors will then be able to access the historic walled garden and the wider estate through woodland areas.
The construction will prioritise eco-friendly practices, including the use of straw bales, UK-felled timber, lime, clay, and other sustainable materials.
The new visitor centre will be designed around an ancient oak tree, paying homage to Shugborough’s rich history, which includes being home to the first pineapple grown in the UK.
Helen Royall, project manager at National Trust said: “We’re thrilled to be working with O’Brien Contractors on this significant project which will support access for visitors and preserve our valued parkland and historic past.
“The team’s experience and calibre of infrastructure work in the Midlands and focus on sustainable construction meant they were the perfect partner for this project. They are already making a positive impact, and we can’t wait to see the development progress this year.”
