Two Scottish Building Federation (SBF) members were recognised at the annual Construction Awards of Excellence held in Birmingham last year – and both are based in Orkney.

Alfred Flett Ltd was named the Best Building Contractor of the Year, and Casey Construction Ltd’s Paul Hewison lifted the Outstanding Tradesperson Award.

Recognition
The two construction projects that won Alfred Flett Ltd the Best Building Contractor (under £30 million turnover) category were the renovation of the Old Library in Kirkwall and the Mash House at Highland Park.

A spokesperson for Alfred Flett said: “This recognition means a lot and reflects the effort, skill and craftsmanship that go into every project.
“We’re delighted to be bringing it home to Orkney!”

Meanwhile, Liam McArthur, MSP for Orkney Island, raised a motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating both Alfred Flett Ltd and Paul Hewison, mentioning Paul for “demonstrating outstanding skill within his respective trade and consistently making a positive impact through his work”.

The Construction Awards of Excellence are a celebration of the skill, dedication and pride shown by individuals and organisations throughout the sector.

The Federation’s Operations Director Paul Mitchell was at the event to present the Excellence in Sustainable Construction award, which was sponsored by the Scottish Building Federation and given to Rochester-based Oscar Acoustics.

Mr Mitchell said: “We are incredibly proud to see Scottish Building Federation members shine at the Construction Awards of Excellence 2025 in Birmingham.
“The awards celebrate the exceptional skill, dedication and professionalism that underpin our industry, and both Alfred Flett’s success in the Best Building Contractor category and Paul Hewison’s

Outstanding Tradesperson Award demonstrate a real commitment to quality, craftsmanship and leadership.
“It is fantastic to see Orkney-based firms representing the high standards of the Scottish construction sector on a national stage. Their achievements reflect the tremendous impact our members have, whether advancing sustainability, championing heritage and conservation, or driving forward excellence in safety and wellbeing.”

Best Contractor Award
Alfred Flett Ltd was established in 1932 and has been family run since its beginnings.

Highland Park Mash House is a grade B listed building and focal point in Orkney for locals and tourists alike.

A company spokesperson said: “This project was a complete refurbishment along with a new heat recovery system being installed at the same time.

“The whole project was 12 months long, we certainly did raise a dram at the end.”

Grant Dixon, Engineering Manager for client Edrington (owners of Highland Park), said: “With their commitment to working safely, their astute professionalism and attention to detail, it is clear to see why I am delighted with the outcome of their works.

“I am most grateful for their level of service and commitment to delivering to an exceptional high standard and hope that Alfred Flett take pride in what they have delivered.”

Meanwhile, the Old Library is one of Orkney’s most recognised buildings and the most northerly Carnegie Library in Europe. It started life as a free library, then public library, then shop and gallery to its current use as a co-working space, and offices for local businesses.

This is one you see most days when in Kirkwall and reminds you of being lucky enough to deliver the project.

Calvin Cooper of client CRC said: “We wanted to strike the right balance of being sensitive to the old building, and its existing – locally loved – features, whilst ensuring it was brought into the modern age. This renovation was aimed at creating a long-term future for this space – and we’re happy to say it has hit the mark.

“The public reception since opening the space has been incredible. Many people and businesses have commented on the quality of craftsmanship throughout the space. For Orkney-based locals, it makes us proud of what firms on our island can produce.”

Outstanding Tradesperson Award
Stonemason Paul Hewison was nominated for the award of Outstanding Tradesperson by his employer Casey Construction Orkney.

Casey put him forward for his work on Orkney Islands Council’s restoration of the external facade of historic buildings, including carving intricate new stone features.
Gwyn Evans, Strategic Projects Manager at the council, said: “Paul’s work clearly displays a deep respect for the heritage of stone masonry, while also showcasing innovation and precision that meet the highest modern standards.

“[His] attitude and skillset has enabled him to approach every aspect with meticulous attention to detail, professionalism and pride.

“Paul is not only a master of his craft but also both a working supervisor to other experienced tradespeople and mentor to younger masons … ensuring that this ancient trade continues to thrive for generations to come.”