Project Overview
This project will provide Aston Martin with a new, state-of-the-art wind tunnel vehicle testing facility.
SDC’s involvement began with close collaboration alongside the client’s two specialist suppliers and installers on a complex, multi-million-pound automotive installation.
As the main contractor responsible for the design and build of the overall facility, the specialist design criteria were received through a series of specific workshops and the use of a coordinated building model.
SDC collaborated with the design team to produce a coordinated design that captured all facets of the facility and met the clients’ requirements. Further detailed planning discussions were also held with the specialists to work through the installation sequence. The specific needs were understood and conveyed to the workforce through additional 3D modelling of the construction sequence
A strong understanding of the specialists’ particular installation methods allowed the design to be developed to suit the project from its early stages.
The floor slabs have been designed to accommodate specific construction traffic loadings, and the routing and containment of services have been tailored to meet the specialist requirements.
The installation of a rolling road structure and model motion strut will be completed by SDC under the guidance and supervision of the client specialist.
This will also include the MEP provisions such as heating and cooling, compressed air, power, data, lighting, controls and earthing systems. In addition to the wind tunnel facility, SDC has liaised closely with the client team throughout, managing the model build workshop. This includes carrying out detailed surveys of all existing equipment to ensure this can be transferred over seamlessly and minimise downtime.
Core Team
Jonathan Richardson
Board Director
After completing his A-Levels in Nottingham, Jonathan pursued an engineering apprenticeship at Leeds College of Building. This block-release programme integrated theoretical study with hands-on experience, enhancing his technical skills and problem-solving abilities. During his apprenticeship, he worked with a national MEP contractor, which gave him valuable industry exposure but ultimately highlighted his preference for a more collaborative and people-focused work environment.
A significant shift in Jonathan’s career occurred when his mentor invited him to join a regional family-owned MEP contractor in Nottingham. The role suited his collaborative working style, but the company later faced financial challenges during a recession, prompting him to explore new opportunities.
Having already collaborated with SDC as a subcontractor, Jonathan’s skills drew the attention of the company’s M&E Director. After his former employer’s closure, he joined SDC and was soon entrusted with leading its newly created M&E self-delivery department. Over 18 months, he assembled a team of professionals with subcontractor expertise, building a department now comprising 20 members, including trainees and project managers. This team operates with a focus on technical excellence and practical problem-solving.
In 2016, SDC supported Jonathan during a challenging period in his personal life. Faced with extensive travel demands and an expanding family, he raised his concerns with the company, which facilitated his relocation closer to its base. This adjustment improved his work-life balance and reinforced his commitment to the company.
Jonathan became a Director in January 2024. In this role, he is responsible for project delivery, tendering, preconstruction, and sustainability efforts, alongside overseeing the MEP department. His contributions have been integral to the successful delivery of complex projects in sectors such as Formula One, including work with clients like Aston Martin and Red Bull. He values the variety and problem-solving aspects of his role and is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within SDC.
Phil Doherty
Contracts Manager
Paul Cooper
Commercial Manager
Matt Stevens
Design Manager
Matt has been a part of SDC since 2007 and is an experienced and adaptable Senior Project Design Manager, well-versed in SDC’s collaborative and solution-driven approach. He actively engages in the pre-construction phase and stays involved throughout the project’s completion. With his broad industry experience, Matt excels at uniting the design development process, collaborating closely with both the client’s team and SDC’s internal design team to ensure the original design vision is preserved.
Andy Roberts
Design Manager
James Franklin
M&E Manager
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
