North East construction firms, John N Dunn Group and White Knight Maintenance, have joined a growing regional network of contractors and industry leaders working together to raise standards, support future skills and strengthen the construction sector across the region.
The membership-based organisation behind the network, Northern Counties Builders Federation (NCBF), represents more than 30 small to medium-sized construction companies collaborating on shared industry challenges and promoting the sector as a rewarding and accessible career choice.
Founded in 1893, John N Dunn Group has developed into a well-established building services company with a strong specialism in plumbing & heating, electrical and low carbon building solutions. The company employs 300 people and operates on up to 100 live projects at any given time, with offices and teams located across the North East, Yorkshire and Scotland. As a long-standing advocate for training and skills development, it welcomed its 500th apprentice last year.
Stephen Bilclough, chairman of John N Dunn Group, said: “Joining the NCBF is about being part of something bigger than your own business. There is real value in working together with like-minded organisations to address shared industry challenges, particularly around skills, training and attracting new talent into construction. We’re proud to be part of a network that is actively shaping the future of the sector in our region.”
Established in 2011, White Knight Maintenance delivers a comprehensive range of services including reactive facilities maintenance, minor works and refurbishment, insurance restoration services and facilities and in-house management. The company supports a wide range of clients across both public and private sectors, with a strong presence in the North East.
Lee Bishop, managing director at White Knight Maintenance, said: “White Knight Maintenance is proud to announce that we are now official members of Northern Counties Builders Federation (NCBF). This membership marks a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to excellence within the building maintenance and facilities management industry.
“Joining the NCBF reflects our dedication to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and quality across all of our services. We believe that aligning with a trusted industry body such as the NCBF not only enhances our credibility but also ensures that we remain at the forefront of best practices and innovation in our field.”
Angela Carney, president of Northern Counties Builders Federation, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome John N Dunn Group and White Knight Maintenance to the NCBF. Both are well-respected companies that share our commitment to collaboration, continuous improvement and investing in people. It’s vital that companies within construction work together to encourage the next generation to enter the industry if we want it to continue thriving. Our members play a crucial role in helping to create a positive, visible and inclusive sector across the region.”
As part of its mission to support the next generation of construction professionals, the NCBF works closely with regional colleges to promote career pathways, facilitate employer engagement and to open doors for students to explore opportunities within the industry.
The NCBF also partners with organisations such as Constructing Excellence in the North East (CENE) and Construction Alliance Northeast (CAN) to advance key industry initiatives and advocate for long-term growth in the built environment.