44 | CONTRACTING Asphalt and Construction Collaboration the key for Nelson firm Hugh de Lacy Collaboration is the key approach that Richmond-based firm Asphalt and Construction brings to the buoyant demand for its services in the Nelson and Tasman regions. The Nelson-based company was established in 2016. In 2017 it was acquired by Jarrod du Plessis in response to unmet demand for asphalt and associated services across the top of the South Island, and is owned by three families. It is thriving in the present expansive market, and its staff has lately grown from 12 to 18. “The firm is well-placed for when the market subsides as it has a strong track record in delivery of all manner of projects for both the public and the private sector,” Jarrod says. “Asphalt and Construction can complete most aspects of any project, with the exception of major earthworks and kerbing, however we have trusted contractors we work with on these tasks.” Jarrod has a Diploma and Civil Engineering underwriting the company’s professional approach to its projects, and he’s supported in the management of the firm by the other owners, Jason Routledge and Johnny Green. Between them they have more than 60 years’ experience in the industry, and Jarrod says the firm is “built on completing all jobs to a high standard, and owning our service.” Both Jarrod and Jason started at the bottom of the industry pile, Jarrod on a wheelbarrow fresh out of school, and Jason in the trenches on the end of a pipe laser. Johnny has spent most of his time in the United Kingdom on larger surfacing projects. The company works from a yard at Richmond and has a versatile inventory of equipment including a range of asphalt pavers, excavators of various sizes, PE welding gear and a one-metre profiler. A wide variety of services is offered to local government, builders and developers, and the private market. Current projects include the Freilich sub-divisions of Mapua, Totara View and Montebello - along with various projects for the Nelson City and Tasman District Councils. “The private sub-division market is buoyant, however clients are still looking for value for money and a pro-active contractor,” Jarrod says. “There is a perception that a client may save money employing individual contractors, but often this is not the case due to individual scheduling conflicts, weather issues, other delays and the impact those have on each party. “Asphalt and Construction can manage the process, and produce savings for the client by taking the hassle out of managing multiple parties. “A collaborative approach is something we really try to get across: from management to staff on the ground we like to think we work with clients to deliver value and quality.” Inevitably the Covid pandemic has meant that Asphalt and Construction has had to modify its approach to some tasks. “We have no choice but to adapt, and that’s what we have done,” Jarrod says. He says staffing hasn’t been too much of a problem but the company is always on the lookout for new people. “If they have a good attitude we can give them the skills.” 81 Selwyn Place, Nelson 248 Montreal St, Christchurch Phone 0800 807 818 www.staigsmith.co.nz SURVEYORS ∙ PLANNERS ∙ ENGINEERS ∙ RESOURCE MANAGERS Proudly supporting Asphalt & Construction
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