Consultancy plans to build on success

From left, Glyn Thomas Tata Steel subsidiary UKSE, David John of Nidum Consulting and Sian Wyndham Neath Port Talbot Council. Picture by Nick Treharne.

A construction consultancy in Neath is looking at expansion as work comes in from all around the UK.

Nidum Consulting offers contractors a tendering service supporting them in competing for projects of all types including schools, residential, student, commercial and industrial contracts and at the same time helping to minimise risk and possible disputes.

David John of Nidum says his service is unusual in that he is operating as a freelance in a sector where most work is done in-house. “We offer design, procurement, costings, planning and preparation for all sorts of mechanical and electrical projects.

“I feel that being independent, rather than a traditional ‘in-house’ estimator often enables us to offer an objective view and this can be very useful indeed.”

Launched in 2019, Nidum received a grant of £500 from the Business Support Scheme administered jointly by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council and Tata Steel subsidiary UKSE. Initially the business was affected by the Covid Lockdowns, but now the economy has opened up once more the company is taking on an increasing amount of work in a range of sectors, and is looking at growth.

“I am planning to take on an estimator in the near future and other staff in the next few years,” said Mr John.

Work is coming in from around the UK, and Nidum Consulting already has some 55 customers and has worked on contracts worth over £5 million since the business launched.

“There is enormous potential for the service we are offering,” he added. “The fact that material costs are rising so quickly, for various reasons, makes it even more vital to have accurate estimates to ensure projects are completed within budget, and on-time.

“Contractors taking on projects need to be clear on cost projections and availability of materials or they can find themselves in difficulties very quickly. I have over 12 years’ experience in the business and have worked across a great range of projects,” he said.

Glyn Thomas UKSE Regional Manager said :”We are very pleased to have worked with Neath Port Talbot Council to have helped Nidum Consulting get off the ground. The company is providing a skilled service to contractors around the UK and is aiming to create quality jobs for local people in due course.

“This is exactly the sort of business we are looking to support with the business start-up grants through our Community Support programme.”

Sian Wyndham, New Business Support & Development Mentor at Neath Port Talbot Council added, “It was a pleasure to be able to support Nidum Consulting in partnership with UKSE through their Community Support Programme. With the cost of living rising, Nidum Consulting offer a vital service to people who are looking to complete a construction project within budget and on time and we wish David all the very best with the future success of his business.

The Council’s Economic Development team can offer a whole host of support across a wide range of sectors to new and existing businesses and urges other businesses who are looking to develop and grow to get in touch.”