BCE Northern Ltd, a family-owned civil engineering company based in Gateshead, is poised for a 50% increase in turnover this year, driven by a series of new contract wins and strengthened client relationships. The Low Fell-based firm, founded 15 years ago by managing director Adrian Barton, reported turnover of £8m last year and now targets £12m by the end of 2026.
Key Contracts and Framework Agreements
The company has secured multiple high-value projects, including a £1.2m redevelopment of Seaburn Play Park for Sunderland City Council, expansion of Leeds Bradford Airport’s £2.5m meet and greet parking facilities, a £2.5m public realm transformation of Bedford Street with Capita on behalf of North Tyneside Council, and a £3.8m active travel route investment at Hartlepool Headland and Marina for Hartlepool Borough Council.
BCE Northern has also been appointed as Northumbrian Water Group’s AMP8 water infrastructure partner, further solidifying its position in the sector. The company’s client base includes local authorities such as Newcastle City Council, Hartlepool Borough Council, and Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.
Leadership and Family Involvement
Adrian Barton runs the business alongside directors Chris Byrne (operations) and Neil Rooney (preconstruction delivery). His children are also involved: son Joe serves as health and safety manager, and daughter Emily works as social value and bid manager. The company employs over 40 staff.
Barton commented: “The last two years have been pivotal for us, not only in terms of the new client workload and building upon existing client relationships, but also the creation of our new board of directors which has supported me and our growth and profitability as a business. The loyalty and professionalism of our staff and workforce of over 40 employees have given us a solid foundation on which to build.”
Growth Trajectory and Investment
BCE Northern has already secured £10m in contracts during the first trading quarter of 2026, putting it on track for the projected 50% growth. Barton added: “These factors have led to a significant increase in a very strong forward workload, having secured £10m in our first trading quarter of this year, which should hopefully see our turnover grow by around £4m and hit £12m by the end of 2026, to achieve our target of 50% growth.”
The company’s accelerated growth has enabled investment in staff, including two new graduate apprentices, new machinery and equipment, and advanced technologies to enhance project delivery efficiency.
Barton concluded: “Our accelerated growth over the last couple of years has enabled us to invest in our staff, including two new graduate apprentices, new machinery and equipment, and new technologies which are enhancing the quality and efficiency of our project delivery and supporting our business growth. It’s an exciting time for the business but I want to stress, the growth which we’re experiencing currently really is down to the fantastic people within BCE and our trusted supply chain. Without them we don’t have a business, so I want to thank them for their continued loyalty, hard work and support.”
