Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Groundworks Contractors in Bristol
Established in 1973, Brandwells Construction has grown from a small Bristol-based operation to one of the South West's foremost groundworks contractors. Our foundation was built on decades of industry experience, with our founders having previously worked together at Avonmouth Plant & Construction Co. Ltd and Durnfords Construction Ltd. Over 50 years, we have successfully navigated economic challenges while maintaining preferred contractor status with major housing developers including Barratt Homes, Lovell, and Taylor Wimpey. Our expertise spans large-scale infrastructure projects such as Baltic Wharf redevelopment and Buchanans Wharf, demonstrating technical proficiency in reinforced concrete construction.With a dedicated team of 300+ operatives and regional offices in Bristol and Exeter, we combine traditional values with modern construction methodologies. Our 2022 turnover exceeding 62 million reflects sustained growth despite global challenges, while maintaining long-term client relationships with Vistry, Redrow, and Bovis. We prioritise operational excellence through dedicated health & safety management and continuous staff development programs led by our training coordinator. Our executive leadership team, including Managing Director Chris Dowden and Technical Director Matt Browne, brings cumulative centuries of construction expertise to every project.
Services
Groundworks
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- 50 years' experience in South West construction sector
- Preferred contractor for major housing developers
- 62 million turnover demonstrating financial strength
- Dedicated regional offices in Bristol and Exeter
- 300+ skilled operatives with specialist expertise
Services
Groundworks
Our groundworks division handles complete site preparation for residential and commercial developments. This includes earthworks, drainage installation, and foundation preparation using modern excavation techniques. We manage projects from small housing plots to large-scale urban redevelopments.
People
Andy Dowden
Executive Chairman
Founder of Brandwells Construction with 50 years' industry experience. Previously worked at Avonmouth Plant & Construction and Durnfords Construction. Led company through multiple economic cycles and expansion phases.
Chris Dowden
Managing Director
Responsible for strategic direction and operational management. Brings extensive construction sector expertise from managing major housing developments across the South West region.
Matt Browne
Technical Director
Leads technical operations with specialist knowledge in complex groundwork solutions. Ensures engineering excellence across all construction projects undertaken by the company.
Rob Schofield
Finance Director
Manages financial operations with responsibility for budgeting, forecasting, and maintaining the company's strong financial position during periods of growth and economic uncertainty.
Adam Bateman
Surveying Director
Oversees surveying operations with expertise in land measurement and project cost estimation. Ensures accurate planning and execution of groundwork specifications across all developments.
Questions
What areas do you cover for construction projects?
We operate throughout the South West region with offices in Bristol and Exeter, serving clients from Gloucester to Cornwall.
What types of construction projects do you specialise in?
We specialise in groundworks for residential developments, commercial projects, and infrastructure works including concrete structures.
How long has Brandwells Construction been in business?
We have been operating since 1973, making us one of the most established contractors in the region.
Which major developers do you work with?
We maintain preferred contractor status with Barratt Homes, Lovell, Taylor Wimpey, and Vistry among others.
What was your turnover in 2022?
Our 2022 turnover reached a record £62 million, demonstrating sustained business growth.
Do you have specialist construction capabilities?
Yes, we have expertise in reinforced concrete structures and complex urban redevelopment projects.
