Project Overview
Located at the Harwell Campus in Didcot, Oxfordshire, one of the UK’s leading science and innovation campuses, this latest facility provides a mix of new science and technology workspaces, enabling Harwell to continue its dedication to innovation, technology, and research.
The brief for Project Zeta was to create a flexible-use timber frame building which enhanced Harwell Campus’ esteemed international reputation.
The placement, size, and orientation of the openings were carefully considered to ensure the space benefits from natural light, provides views, and controls solar gain, thereby contributing positively to the character of the campus. Additionally, a central focus of the project was delivering Harwell’s vision of sustainability, with a design feature of a biodiverse green roof ensuring the building blends harmoniously with the surrounding environment of young and mature trees.
Zeta was therefore designed to meet Net Zero Carbon Building standards, with an emphasis on maximising the energy efficiency of the building fabric while minimizing its embodied carbon.
With 1,974 m² of available space, it was important that the floor layout accommodate varying occupier requirements.
Core Team
Andy Shiner
Board Director
Andy embarked on a career in construction at 18, starting with a carpentry apprenticeship. During three years with local carpentry firms, he gained experience erecting timber frames and honed first and second fix carpentry skills, developing a strong foundation in building finishes and trade collaboration.
In 2008, Andy transitioned to site management, joining SDC Builders Ltd as an Assistant Site Manager while pursuing a part-time Foundation Degree in Construction Management. Working on complex projects valued at up to £20m, he developed skills in logistics, programming, and health and safety. He was promoted to Site Manager in 2010, managing notable projects for clients such as Babraham Bioscience Technologies and the University of Cambridge.
By 2015, Andy had advanced to the roles of Construction Manager and then Contracts Manager, overseeing multiple projects with a combined value of up to £50m. His role expanded to include pre-construction planning, financial oversight, and post-occupancy responsibilities. In 2018, he became a Project Director, contributing to company-wide decision-making before joining SDC’s Board of Directors in 2020.
As a Board Director, Andy oversees the delivery of three or four projects simultaneously, guiding teams through tender preparation, construction, and completion. His extensive experience working on-site enables him to effectively support site staff and gain a comprehensive understanding of their needs. Andy also leads strategic initiatives, mentors staff and manages the key Plant Hire department. Building and maintaining client relationships is a central focus, supporting the company’s high rate of repeat business, which accounts for 80% of turnover.
Raymond Renkel
Construction Manager
Richard Smith
Commercial Manager
Adam Cripps
Design Manager
Adam has been with SDC since 2017 and is a skilled Design Manager who is involved in projects from the tender stage through to completion. Throughout the construction phase, he integrates seamlessly with the project delivery team, driving design information and implementing practical solutions. His expertise has been consistently proven on numerous complex projects, where his attention to detail and ability to collaborate with clients have ensured their expectations are not only met but often surpassed.
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
