A group of workers from Balfour Beatty volunteered their services at Watchtree Nature Reserve in memory of a colleague who died aged 22 in 2022.
It was the fourth year the firm, and partner organisations, got together for the event in memory of Grant Taylor.
Grant was instrumental in developing plans for Balfour Beatty’s charitable support of Watchtree, and each year his colleagues, friends, and family return to the reserve to carry forward his vision.
The event has become a lasting tribute to his legacy, bringing together teams from across the region to make a difference to the site.
This year’s focus was on improving accessibility across some of Watchtree’s most beautiful and wildlife-rich areas.
Volunteers worked on resurfacing paths in Pow Wood, Pond Wood, and the Wetlands Hide, ensuring smoother, more durable routes for visitors using wheelchairs, mobility aids, and pushchairs. The upgraded paths will make it easier for everyone to enjoy the reserve’s landscapes and wildlife all year round, whatever the weather.
In honour of Grant, volunteers wore high-visibility PPE bearing the GT22 logo – his initials and age.
Ryan Dobson, manager of Watchtree Nature Reserve, said: “Accessibility is at the heart of what we do here at Watchtree, and thanks to the Balfour Beatty team and their partners, we’ve been able to improve some key routes that will make a real difference to visitors with mobility needs.
“This work would have taken us far longer without their expertise, machinery, and manpower. It’s a fantastic way to continue Grant’s vision.”
This year’s work was made possible thanks to support from Heidelberg Materials UK, which donated 20 tonnes of fines for the footpaths, and GAP Group, which provided the hire of the plant free. Other businesses involved on the day included:
- WSP
- Connect Roads
- National Highways
- Kier
- Electricity North West
Alan Gilmour, Balfour Beatty contracts manager, said: “It’s been a privilege for all on the CNDR project team to work alongside other Balfour Beatty colleagues, our Supply Chain partners and the Taylor Family – to continue Grant’s vision of improving Watchtree Nature Reserve, so wonderfully maintained by volunteers.
“We’re proud to carry on this support in his memory.”
