For a business to thrive, it needs the right environment, and that’s why this week we’re celebrating Sandwell Council’s own award-winning Urban Design and Building Services. The team of specialist professionals has been designing and creating buildings and outside spaces for businesses in the borough for over 35 years.

The one-stop service works collaboratively with clients and contractors, finding tailored solutions that match the design, feasibility and budgetary requirements of each project. The service has a string of award-winning education, leisure, historical and housing projects under its belt, including Lightwoods Park and House in Bearwood, Charlemont Farm Estate in West Bromwich and The Crofts in Smethwick. Other projects include schools, swimming pools, high rise housing, libraries and playgrounds.

As well as designing bespoke spaces, the service can also manage contracts, oversee construction, provide day-to-day repairs and runs a 24-hour call-out service for emergencies. The team also puts sustainability at the heart of their work, incorporating renewable sources of energy, acoustic quality, natural ventilation and sustainable drainage systems into their designs.

David Harris puts the service’s success down to its multidisciplinary approach. “Our team includes specialists from a wide variety of sectors,” he said, “and our emphasis is on collaboration and teamwork throughout each project.”

While the service works across the whole of the UK, its Sandwell roots are what makes it especially unique. “While we’ve built a national reputation for excellence, we have a particularly strong knowledge of the Black Country, with its challenging legacy of industrial buildings and brownfield sites,” said David. “It’s a heritage we’re very proud of.”

To find out more about Urban Design and Building Services, visit Think Sandwell’s newly updated planning support pages, which details the many ways we can help you find the perfect space for your business.

#madeinsandwell Monday is a celebration of the talent and diversity within our borough. If you’re interested in being considered for a #madeinsandwell Monday profile and having information about your organisation shared on Think Sandwell and through our social media networks, read this.