O'Brien Contractors 2026 Spotlight

From pioneering electric vehicle infrastructure and creating sustainable new communities to restoring historic waterways, O’Brien Contractors are helping to shape a greener future across the East Midlands.

As the construction industry responds to the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss and the transition to net zero, infrastructure projects are increasingly expected to deliver more than physical assets. Today, success is measured not only by what is built, but by the lasting environmental, social and economic value it creates.

O’Brien Contractors continues to demonstrate how responsible construction can help meet these ambitions. Through value engineering, carbon-conscious delivery and meaningful community engagement, the company is creating infrastructure that supports sustainable growth while leaving a positive legacy for future generations.

O’Brien Contractors are currently delivering one of the UK's most significant electric freight infrastructure projects at Magna Park, Leicestershire, the largest logistics and distribution park in the UK and Europe.

The development will create one of the country's first dedicated electric HGV charging hubs, providing essential infrastructure for the next generation of low-carbon freight transport. Once operational, the facility will be capable of charging 32 electric heavy goods vehicles simultaneously, with capacity to expand by a further 35 charging bays as demand grows.

As the logistics sector accelerates its journey towards decarbonisation, the project represents a major milestone in supporting fleet electrification, reducing transport emissions and enabling businesses to achieve their net-zero commitments.

Sustainability is not only about reducing carbon emissions; it is also about creating places where people can live, work and thrive.

At Fairham, Nottinghamshire, O’Brien Contractors are delivering critical infrastructure works as part of a major mixed-use development led by Clowes Developments and Homes England. When complete, the scheme will provide approximately 3,000 new homes, significant employment opportunities, more than 200 acres of green space and a wide range of community facilities.

To support this vision, O’Brien Contractors has delivered over 12,000m² of roads, more than 5,300m² of footpaths and cycleways, and 12 new bus stops to enhance public transport connectivity. Located alongside the Clifton South tram stop on the NET (Nottingham Express Transit) network, Fairham benefits from direct, sustainable public transport links, allowing residents and workers to reach Nottingham city centre in just 15 to 20 minutes by tram.

The development has been designed to encourage sustainable travel choices and reduce reliance on private vehicles, helping to create a well-connected and environmentally conscious community while supporting long-term economic growth.

Alongside major infrastructure projects, O’Brien Contractors are also helping to preserve and enhance the region's natural and historic assets.

At Chesterfield Canal, the company is restoring a 400-metre section of waterway that had previously been abandoned and infilled, transforming it into a valuable recreational and environmental asset.

The project is delivering significant sustainability benefits, including the remediation and reuse of materials, the use of solar-powered welfare facilities and extensive landscaping works designed to enhance biodiversity and create new habitats. Wherever possible, locally sourced materials have been utilised to reduce transport emissions and support regional suppliers.

Once complete, the restored canal will provide new opportunities for boating, walking and leisure activities while reconnecting the local community with an important part of the area's heritage.

For O’Brien Contractors, sustainability extends beyond environmental performance.

Throughout the Chesterfield Canal project, the company has worked closely with local organisations to create meaningful social value. In partnership with the Direct Education Business Partnership, engagement activities have helped young people and vulnerable adults develop skills, confidence and pathways into employment.

Community action projects, collaboration with the local Job Centre and the employment of local craftspeople have further strengthened ties with the surrounding area while supporting local economic growth and preserving heritage skills.

These efforts were recognised with a "Very Good" rating from the Considerate Constructors Scheme, reflecting the company's commitment to responsible construction and positive community impact.

From enabling the transition to electric freight transport and delivering sustainable new communities to restoring historic waterways and creating local opportunities, O’Brien Contractors are helping to build a more resilient and sustainable East Midlands.

By placing environmental responsibility, social value and innovation at the heart of every project, the company continues to demonstrate how modern construction can be a powerful force for positive change, creating infrastructure that benefits people, places and the planet for generations to come.