
Tilbury Douglas has a rich history that spans over a century. The company was founded in 1909 by Douglas and Tilbury, and it has since become a leading player in the construction industry.
Tilbury Douglas has a long history of delivering complex construction projects, with a notable example being the construction of the Royal Victoria Dock in London, completed in 1855. This massive project was a major milestone for the company and showcased its capabilities in large-scale construction.
The company's commitment to innovation is evident in its adoption of new technologies, such as the use of reinforced concrete in the early 20th century. This allowed for the construction of more durable and efficient buildings.
Tilbury Douglas has a strong presence in the UK, with a significant number of projects completed in the region.
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History
Tilbury Douglas has a rich history dating back to 1928 when it was founded as a small construction company.
The company's early years were marked by steady growth and expansion, with a focus on delivering high-quality projects to clients.
One of its first major projects was the construction of the Thameside Power Station in 1950, which showcased the company's capabilities in large-scale infrastructure development.
This project was a significant milestone for the company, demonstrating its ability to manage complex projects and meet tight deadlines.
Tilbury Douglas continued to grow and evolve over the years, expanding its services to include civil engineering, mechanical and electrical engineering, and project management.
By the 1980s, the company had established itself as a leading player in the UK construction industry.
Throughout its history, Tilbury Douglas has remained committed to delivering exceptional results for its clients, while also prioritizing the safety and well-being of its employees and the communities it serves.
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Company Milestones
Tilbury Douglas has been a leading player in the construction industry for over 50 years, with a rich history that spans several decades. The company has undergone significant transformations over the years, adapting to changing market conditions and emerging trends.
In the 1960s, Tilbury Douglas began to expand its operations, taking on larger and more complex projects. This marked a significant turning point in the company's history, as it began to establish itself as a major player in the industry.
The company's commitment to innovation and quality has been a key factor in its success, with a strong focus on delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget.
Expansion into the Middle East – 1990s
In the 1990s, Tilbury expanded into the Middle East through the acquisition of R M Douglas Holdings in 1991.
This expansion was made possible by the acquisition of RM Douglas, which brought with it a presence in the Midlands and the North of England, as well as a strong bias towards civil engineering projects.
Tilbury's acquisition of R M Douglas also brought with it a construction equipment company called Rapid Metal Developments (RMD), a formwork and falsework manufacturer incorporated in 1948.
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The acquisition of R M Douglas Holdings expanded Tilbury's geographical coverage to the Middle East, with the company establishing joint ventures in Oman (Douglas OHI) and United Arab Emirates (Khansaheb) in 1981.
Tilbury further strengthened its presence in the Middle East by establishing a joint venture in Qatar (Gulf Contracting Company), adding to its existing presence in the region.
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Splits from Interserve
Tilbury Douglas formally split from Interserve to become a standalone contractor. This move was made possible after the sales of FM and RMD Kwikform.
The contractor aims to become the most customer-focused and productive contractor in the UK. It's a bold goal, but with strong in-house mechanical & electrical (M&E) capabilities, a specialist fit-out business, and significant investments in enterprise and technology platforms, Tilbury Douglas is well-equipped to achieve it.
This separation returns Tilbury Douglas to its historic roots as a major contractor. It's a fresh start for the business, and one that its customers, suppliers, and employees are likely to benefit from.
The company was previously part of Interserve Group, which collapsed in 2019 due to a mountain of debt and problems with energy-from-waste contracts.
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Partnerships
Tilbury Douglas has a strong commitment to partnering with other businesses to achieve its goals. As a proud member of Build UK, the company is adopting the Common Assessment Scheme (CAS) to ensure quality and consistency in its supply chain.
From January 2022, all subcontractors and suppliers will be required to be verified to Constructionline Gold membership level, meeting the Constructionline CAS standard. This means they'll need to meet rigorous standards to work with Tilbury Douglas.
Tilbury Douglas has successfully engaged with over 1,000 partners at its Northern Supply Chain Roadshows, hosting impactful events across four key locations in the north of the UK.
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Partnership with Constructionline
We're proud to be a member of Build UK, and as part of that, we're adopting the Common Assessment Scheme (CAS) to ensure we're working with the best suppliers and subcontractors.
From January 1, 2022, we'll require all subcontractors and suppliers to be verified to Constructionline Gold membership level, which is the Constructionline CAS standard.
This partnership with Constructionline will help us maintain the highest standards in our industry.
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Northern Roadshows Engage 1,000+ Partners

Tilbury Douglas has successfully concluded its Northern Supply Chain Roadshows, delivering impactful events across four key locations in the north of the UK.
The company engaged more than 1,000 partners at these events, showing a strong commitment to collaboration and communication.
This level of engagement is a testament to the value that Tilbury Douglas places on building strong relationships with its partners and stakeholders.
The Northern Supply Chain Roadshows were a key initiative in achieving this goal, providing a platform for partners to come together and discuss important industry issues.
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Company Information
Tilbury Douglas Engineering operates from 5 regional offices across the UK with over 250 employees.
The company has a strong regional presence and provides intelligent MEP solutions across a wide range of sectors.
They have delivered over £450m+ of healthcare schemes and have ongoing NHS Trust/Health Board relationships spanning over 10 years.
Tilbury Douglas Construction Limited has over 130 years of experience in the construction and engineering sector.
They are a trusted partner of central and local government and are used to working closely with their customers and supply chain to achieve outstanding results.
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About Construction Limited

Tilbury Douglas Construction Limited has over 130 years of experience in the construction and engineering sector, making them a trusted partner of central and local government.
The company has a strong dedication to Supply Chain safety and compliance. They deliver vital projects across various sectors, including health, education, and highways.
Tilbury Douglas provides specialist design and build capabilities and is experienced at project management, integrating all aspects of a project.
Their regional presence across the UK is supported by 5 regional offices with over 250 employees.
Tilbury Douglas has a strong track record of delivering outstanding projects, often working closely with customers and their supply chain to achieve excellent results.
The company has grown its revenue to £541.6 million in 2024, an increase of 7% on 2023, and delivered £11.5m operating profit, up from £3.8m.
Tilbury Douglas has been involved in several high-profile projects, including a ground-breaking Proton Beam Therapy Centre and operating theatre upgrades.
Their extensive experience in healthcare includes delivering over £450m+ (MEP value) of healthcare schemes, with ongoing NHS Trust/ Health Board relationships spanning over 10 years.
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Company Information
Tilbury Douglas Construction Limited has over 130 years of experience in the construction and engineering sector.
They are a market leading Tier 1 UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit out contractor.
The company delivers vital projects across various sectors, including health, education, highways, justice, defence, aviation, water, and environment.
Tilbury Douglas is a trusted partner of central and local government, and they're used to working closely with their customers and supply chain to achieve outstanding results.
They provide specialist design and build capabilities and are experienced at project management and integrating all aspects of a project.
The company is dedicated to Supply Chain safety and compliance, and they support the Common Assessment Standard (CAS) to ensure legislative compliance.
Tilbury Douglas is actively working with their supply chain to achieve Gold membership verified status through CAS.
Their new Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Strategy sets out clear targets and ambitions for the short and longer term.
Recent Projects
Tilbury Douglas has a long history of delivering successful projects, and one of their recent accomplishments is the refurbishment of Claver House in Dundee for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This project involved a thorough fit-out of the building, ensuring it met the DWP's needs.
Tilbury Douglas's expertise in fit-out work is evident in their ability to complete complex projects like this one.
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Promotional Documents
Tilbury Douglas Engineering offers a range of work experience, t-level, and apprenticeship opportunities.
Their apprenticeship scheme is an industry-recognised level 3 programme for various roles, including Installation Electrician, Building Services Engineering Craftsperson, Heating and Ventilating (H&V) Craftsman, and Plumber.
Oliver Hollick is the person associated with providing information about these opportunities.
Secures Five-Year Framework for Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Tilbury Douglas has secured a new five-year framework with The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to continue delivering the stadium for this internationally acclaimed event.
This is a significant development, especially considering the prestige of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

The framework is for a five-year period, indicating a long-term commitment from Tilbury Douglas to support the event.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is an internationally acclaimed event, which suggests it attracts a large and diverse audience.
Tilbury Douglas will continue to deliver the stadium for the event, leveraging their expertise to ensure its success.
The five-year framework provides stability and continuity for both parties, allowing for a smooth and efficient collaboration.
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£9m School and Early Learning Centre Opens in Edinburgh
Tilbury Douglas has completed a significant project in Edinburgh, handing over the new Kirkliston Primary School and Early Learning Centre.
The project was valued at £9m, a substantial investment in the local community's education infrastructure.
Tilbury Douglas is a UK-based company with expertise in building, infrastructure, engineering, and fit-out services.
This project marks a successful collaboration between Tilbury Douglas and the local authorities to deliver a modern and functional learning environment for the students of Kirkliston Primary School.
The new school and early learning centre will provide a state-of-the-art facility for the students, teachers, and staff.
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Completes DWP Claver House Refurbishment

Tilbury Douglas has completed the fit-out of Claver House in Dundee for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
This project is a notable example of the company's expertise in building, infrastructure, engineering, and fit-out work.
Appointments and Donations
Tilbury Douglas has shown its dedication to social value by volunteering a significant amount of time and donating generously to charities and hospitals.
The company's Northern division volunteered an impressive 217 hours, giving back to the community in a meaningful way.
This level of commitment to social responsibility is truly commendable, and it's wonderful to see a business prioritizing giving back to those in need.
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Appoints Sector Director for Devolved Government
Tilbury Douglas has appointed Jane O’Leary as sector director for devolved government.
Jane has spent more than 20 years in devolved and local government, including roles in the sector.
Donates 200+ Hours and £10,000
Tilbury Douglas has demonstrated its commitment to social value by volunteering an impressive 217 hours and donating nearly £10,000 in gifts to support charities and hospitals across its Northern division.
Their donation of £10,000 has made a significant impact, helping those in need in the community.
This level of dedication to giving back is truly inspiring, and it's a great example of a company putting its values into action.
Leadership and Changes
Craig Tatton is taking over as CEO of Tilbury Douglas Group, replacing Paul Gandy. Paul Gandy will remain in post until November 1, 2024, as he prepares to become the 122nd president of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Name Changes & Global Reach
The company's name changed several times between 1896 and 1908, finally settling on Tilbury Contracting and Dredging Company Limited (TCDC) for the next 56 years.
TCDC's international presence grew during this period, with the company being featured in The Engineer magazine due to its innovative dredging works.
The company's sailing barges became obsolete with the advent of steam tugs, leading TCDC to commission new tugs to be built.
In 1907, TCDC played a significant role in widening and deepening the navigation channel of the River Clyde to assist the maiden voyage of RMS Lusitania, the world's biggest ship at the time.
TCDC's dredging craft were involved in major dredging works to the River Loire around the port of Nantes, France, where a special dredger was constructed to remove 10 million cubic meters of material as part of a £1 million contract.
TCDC's global reach extended to Singapore, where they entered into a contract to form a port known as Port Argentine, involving the dredging of 16 million cubic meters to create a 9.5-mile-long approach channel.
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Craig Tatton to Take Over

Craig Tatton is set to take over as the new CEO of Tilbury Douglas Group. He will be replacing Paul Gandy, who will be stepping down.
Paul Gandy will remain in post until 1 November 2024, giving him time to prepare for his new role as the 122nd president of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Craig Tatton's appointment is a significant change for the Tilbury Douglas Group, and we can expect to see a new direction under his leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tilbury Douglas a Tier 1 contractor?
Yes, Tilbury Douglas is a Tier 1 contractor, committed to delivering high-quality projects. We specialize in designing and building sustainable facilities that meet our customers' needs.
What was Tilbury Douglas previous name?
Before becoming Tilbury Douglas, the company was known as the London and Tilbury Lighterage Company Limited. It retained this name until a merger in 1991.
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