At JSM, we’re celebrating a hat-trick of football-focused community grants, with our latest initiative supporting grassroots players at Bromley Green FC U11s. Led by Ashley Collins, Senior Estimator at JSM, who manages two grassroots football teams and successfully applied for funding to support his Bromley Green FC U11 squad. 

Thanks to Ashley’s dedication and JSM’s support, the team now has lightweight rain jackets to keep them warm and dry during training and matches. The jackets arrived just in time for the weekend’s game, and Ashley captured a few great photos of the team proudly wearing them. 

Ashley Collins says: 

Bromley Green FC would like to thank JSM for providing the team jackets. They look fantastic and the kids couldn’t be happier! It’s a really nice gesture that means a lot to the players and parents, and the team are wearing them proudly every week.

We’re thrilled to see how this support has helped the team thrive both on and off the pitch. A big thank you to Ashley for his commitment to grassroots football, and best of luck to Bromley Green FC U11s – keep playing with pride! 

October 2025 marked a major change for the UK’s utility and street works sector. The new Street Works UK (SWUK) Material Classification Protocol came into effect, replacing the previous regulatory position statements and creating a single, risk-based process for classifying excavated waste. This article explains what has changed, how JSM Group prepared for the new rules, and what we have learned from our first month working within the updated framework.

What Has Changed?

The SWUK Material Classification Protocol provides a clearer and more consistent approach to handling waste from street works. Since earlier guidance had been withdrawn, the industry needed a modern, reliable method. The new protocol now fills that gap. Key changes include:

A risk-based approach

Every excavation that falls within the scope of the protocol must now be assessed using a standardised risk-based method. This takes into account historical land use, nearby contamination risks and environmental factors.

Applies to all qualifying works

Emergency, minor and major works must all follow the same waste classification process, regardless of size or urgency.

Stronger environmental protection

The structured process reduces the chances of misclassifying waste, helping protect land, water and air quality.

How JSM Prepared for the New Rules

In the months leading up to implementation, JSM delivered a thorough preparation programme to ensure that all teams were confident and ready.

1. Training and internal guidance

We developed clear, practical training for office staff, supervisors and site operatives. This included:
  • The purpose and requirements of the SWUK Protocol 
  • A step-by-step overview of the classification process 
  • Roles and responsibilities at each stage 
  • Correct documentation and recording procedures 
  • How to segregate excavated material effectively on site 

2. Updated processes and digital tools

We reviewed and modernised our procedures and digital systems to align with the protocol. These updates included:
  • Introducing a desktop risk assessment during the planning stage 
  • New segregation guidelines for stockpiling excavated material 
  • A digital tool used by site teams to assess contamination indicators 
  • Improved waste-transfer documentation to strengthen traceability 

Our First Month Under the New System

After one month of operating under the new rules, the impact is clear across planning, excavation and waste-handling activities.

Desktop risk assessments

Each qualifying permit now undergoes a desktop assessment before any excavation begins. This assessment includes checks such as:
  • Historical land use 
  • Known or potential contamination 
  • Proximity to locations such as former landfill sites or petrol stations 
  • Any previous knowledge from earlier works in the area 
These findings are passed to site teams in advance so they know what to expect and how to prepare.

Segregation and classification on site

Material handling on site is now carried out in a more controlled manner. Teams now:
  • Separate excavated material into distinct stockpiles such as asphalt, sub-base or natural soil 
  • Assess each stockpile using standard contamination indicators through our digital tool 
  • Prioritise the reuse or recycling of clean material 
  • Handle and dispose of any potentially contaminated material in line with the new requirements 

Better documentation, sampling and reporting

We have strengthened our documentation processes so that every load of waste can be traced back to its excavation location and classification decision. We also support clients with required sampling. At least 1 per cent of excavations must be laboratory tested, as specified by the protocol. JSM is also fully prepared to provide the data required for quarterly reporting.

Benefits of the New Rules

The new protocol offers several advantages for clients, communities and the environment, including:
  • Improved environmental protection through more accurate waste classification 
  • Greater transparency and accountability thanks to better documentation 
  • More consistent standards across all types of street works 
  • Reduced waste volumes by allowing clean material to be reused or recycled 
Clear decisions supported by evidence from risk assessments and sampling
Waste segregation in action

Looking Ahead

The introduction of the SWUK Material Classification Protocol is more than a regulatory update. It represents a move towards a more sustainable, transparent and consistent approach to street works across the UK. At JSM, our focus now is on embedding these improvements into everyday operations, continuing to refine our approach and supporting clients as the wider industry adapts.
Horizontal Directional Drilling, often referred to as HDD, is continuing to change how underground utilities are installed across the United Kingdom. It allows pipes, ducts and cables to be installed beneath rivers, roads and environmentally sensitive areas without the need for disruptive open-cut excavation. This article outlines JSM Group’s recent feasibility study for a proposed HDD installation beneath the River Ouse. The study helped to clarify whether the installation was viable, safe and efficient, and provided the technical foundation for the next stage of the project.

Why Choose HDD?

HDD is a trenchless method, which means the surface remains largely untouched. This makes it ideal for crossing rivers, waterways, major roads and protected environments. Because there is no need to dig long trenches, the approach reduces disruption for communities and significantly lowers environmental impact.

What the Feasibility Study Included

Before drilling can take place, a detailed feasibility assessment is essential. JSM carried out a number of investigations to understand the conditions beneath the River Ouse and to plan an appropriate drill route. These investigations included:

Borehole investigations

These provided information about the geology and soil layers beneath the river. Understanding the type of ground, such as clay, sand or gravel, is vital for selecting the correct drilling method and equipment.

Topographical surveys

These mapped the ground surface above the planned drill route, helping the team to identify any constraints, level changes or access challenges.

Bathymetric surveys

These measured the depth and shape of the riverbed. This information allowed the design team to understand underwater conditions and to plan a drill path that remained safely below the river channel. Alongside the technical surveys, JSM engaged early with all required stakeholders. These included landowners, clients and third parties. Early engagement helps to secure access, align expectations and ensure that everyone understands the project requirements before any work begins. Riaz Cadersaib, Head of Pre-Construction at JSM says: 
Feasibility studies like this are more than a formality, they’re a strategic investment. They help identify risks, shape technical decisions, and streamline approvals. With thorough groundwork, HDD teams can anticipate challenges, refine their approach, and deliver successful installations even in the most demanding environments.

Why Feasibility Is Important

A feasibility study provides clarity long before a drill rig arrives on site. It helps to:
  • Identify geological or environmental risks 
  • Select the correct drilling technique 
  • Reduce project delays 
  • Support regulatory approvals 
  • Increase the likelihood of a successful and safe installation 
By gathering accurate data at an early stage, the drilling team can avoid unexpected issues during construction and maintain a smooth project timeline.

What JSM’s Approach Shows

JSM’s work beneath the River Ouse highlights the importance of combining civil engineering expertise with careful planning. Their structured approach demonstrates how HDD can be used safely and effectively even in demanding environments. With in-house design, surveys, planning and installation capability, JSM can manage every stage of an HDD project. This ensures compliance, quality, environmental responsibility and a high standard of delivery for clients. The River Ouse feasibility study is a strong example of how modern trenchless technology can support essential infrastructure delivery while protecting sensitive environments. With precise surveys, early stakeholder engagement and a clear understanding of ground conditions, HDD provides a safe and efficient method for installing utilities beneath rivers and other challenging obstacles.  

In the spirit of Volunteer Week, a dedicated group of JSM volunteers spent the day at Fair Havens Hospice in Southend, contributing their time and energy to help maintain the hospice grounds.

The team focused on weeding and pruning key areas around the facility, starting with the ambulance bay and later moving on to clear the walkways and car park. Their efforts aimed to create a more welcoming and pleasant environment for both residents and visitors.

Each year in the UK, Volunteers’ Week is celebrated from the first Monday of June. It’s a dedicated time to recognise the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the country. This national celebration not only honours the time and effort given by volunteers but also raises awareness of the vital role volunteering plays in strengthening communities and supporting essential services.

Fair Havens Hospice, part of Havens Hospices, provides compassionate care and support to adults living with complex or incurable conditions in Southend. Their services are completely free of charge and tailored to meet the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs of patients and their families. Whether delivered at the hospice or in the comfort of a patient’s home, their care helps people make the most of every day, from diagnosis through to end-of-life support.
Corporate Volunteering is an excellent way for businesses to get involved with the community they operate in and help make everyday count for the families we care for. A family’s first visit to Little Havens or Fair Havens is often a huge step, so first impressions are important. We’re so grateful to the businesses who support our team of garden volunteers, by spending a day tending to our gardens, so they offer a welcoming and relaxing environment for patients, families, visitors, staff and volunteers.
said Amy Bell, Corporate Volunteering lead. By the end of the day, the transformation was clear. The walkways were completely weed-free, and the hospice grounds looked refreshed and cared for. It was a long day of physical work, but one filled with purpose and camaraderie. For many of the volunteers, it was a deeply rewarding experience, one to remember. The team looks forward to returning in the future to continue supporting the hospice and the wider community. At JSM, we take great pride in the social and environmental impact of our volunteer initiatives. Every employee is encouraged to give back, with two paid volunteering days per year to support a cause of their choice. So far in 2025, our team has contributed 128 hours of volunteering, and we’re committed to growing that number as we continue to support meaningful causes across the UK.

We are reusing 11 cable drums from one of our yards, ensuring valuable materials continue their lifecycle instead of becoming waste.

At JSM, sustainability isn’t just a goal, it’s a continuous journey embedded in our operations. A recent milestone exemplifies this commitment, where we successfully collected and reused 11 cable drums. This initiative directly contributes towards our ESG target of reuse of 30% of the wood we use in 2025, reinforcing responsible wood reuse and minimising environmental impact.

Following the Waste Hierarchy, waste prevention remains the optimal approach. However, when prevention isn’t possible, reuse stands as the next best option – offering environmental and economic benefits by extending the life cycle of materials. By repurposing cable drums, we actively reduce unnecessary waste and contribute to a more sustainable, circular economy.

Stephen Evans-Howe, SHEQ Director at JSM, emphasised the significance of this effort:

At JSM, we’re constantly seeking ways to minimise waste and enhance sustainability. The reuse of these cable drums demonstrates our proactive approach to resource efficiency and environmental responsibility. Sustainability is not just a corporate target, it’s a principle that drives our decisions every day.

Sustainability is a collective effort, and every action, big or small, counts. Through initiatives like this, we ensure that valuable resources aren’t discarded but repurposed for future use. By prioritising reuse, we continue to set industry standards and drive meaningful environmental change.

A huge thank you to our teams for their dedication in making this possible. Let’s keep pushing forward toward a greener future!

At JSM Group, we pride ourselves on delivering complex infrastructure projects while prioritising environmental stewardship.

Our recent 132kV cable crossing project – connecting to a National Grid substation – tested this commitment with unique challenges that required innovative solutions.

The challenge: Balancing infrastructure needs with environmental protection

The project required an open cut crossing of the main River Colne, which is an ecologically sensitive area and a location where two rivers meet. After extensive planning, we ruled out:

  • Bridge-mounted solutions– due to structural limitations identified by local authorities
  • Horizontal directional drilling (HDD)– engineering difficulties made this approach unfavourable

This left an open-cut river crossing as the preferred option – a method with higher environmental risks that demanded meticulous planning.

Ecological and environmental controls included

Ecological surveys including Phase 1 habitat surveys, water vole surveys and ground level assessments for bat roosts in trees were undertaken.

A check for otters was made prior to the start of works, with one trail camera in place for two weeks. Immediately prior to works, a further check of the banks and the island was made to ensure otters were not present in the area.

Site lighting was avoided overnight, as light can be detrimental to foraging and commuting bats which are highly likely to use the river.

Vegetation clearance (there was minimal required) was undertaken under ecological supervision.

Prior to dewatering, approximately 70 fish, including Bullheads and Perch, were moved safely over the dam.

Good practices regarding preventing pollution were always maintained, including:

  • Fueling vehicles and equipment away from the river
  • Ensuring machinery and equipment were well-maintained to minimise the chance of leaks
  • Having biosecurity measures in place throughout the works

The bigger picture

This 21-day operation – the culmination of 2 years of design, permitting, and stakeholder coordination – underscores how infrastructure development and environmental protection can coexist.

By documenting these lessons, we’re not just improving our processes but contributing to industry-wide best practices.

Joe Scanlon, Head of Civil Operations at JSM says;

Considering the increasing engineering challenges associated with cable routes in the UK, this achievement highlights JSM Group’s capability to overcome such difficulties and ensure projects are delivered safely and efficiently.

A big thank you goes out to all teams involved.

We are happy to confirm that JSM Group Services Ltd. has achieved Constructionline Platinum, Gold, and Silver membership status. Constructionline is a register for pre-qualified contractors and consultants used in the UK construction industry. This triple accreditation underscores JSM Group’s unwavering commitment to delivering the highest levels of quality, compliance, and safety for our multi-utility engineering, electrical engineering, telecomms engineering, and gas engineering clients. What this means for our stakeholders:
  • Streamlined procurement. Our Constructionline memberships simplify pre-qualification, saving you time and effort.
  • Best-in-class standards. We consistently uphold industry-leading practices, ensuring you receive top-quality service on every project.
  • Unwavering safety focus. We prioritise health and safety across all operations, protecting our clients, workforce, and the public.
 

After three fruitful years of investment, Rutland Partners (“Rutland”) majority stake of JSM has been successfully exited, with TowerBrook becoming JSM’s new majority shareholder.

We have achieved significant growth in recent years, particularly in our Power delivery, which has accomplished organic sales growth of c.55% p.a. since acquisition by Rutland.  Successfully developing our market leading position and benefitting from trends around growing data demand and connectivity requirements (data centres), electrification (utility investment) and decarbonisation (renewables).

Over the coming months and years, we will see our pipeline build successfully, expanding internationally with operations established in both Ireland and Germany which will further accelerate our growth, alongside our partners TowerBrook.

TowerBrook is a purpose-driven, transatlantic investment firm with experience investing in businesses across the consumer, financial services, healthcare and technology, media, and service sectors. The firm has a strong history of investing in industrial companies that span a range of sectors, including aerospace, automotive, chemicals, construction, metal recycling, and transformative technologies.

JSM will continue to be led by CEO Stuart Wiltshire, with most of the senior team remaining in the business, as it expands its customer base and further develops into international markets.

Stuart Wiltshire, CEO, JSM says:

On behalf of myself, John and the JSM team I would like to thank David and Chris from the Rutland team for their enthusiasm and ability to perfectly balance their ongoing support with the need to give JSM space to deliver on its commitments. JSM is now well positioned to continue our venture to be the most trusted utility infrastructure services provider and is excited to do this alongside TowerBrook. In addition, we’d like to extend thanks to the Clearwater team, led by Paul Jones, Zack Goddard and Dom Moir, for delivering a seamless and enjoyable process, we couldn’t be more appreciative.

David Wardrop, Partner at Rutland said:
“JSM is a fantastic, high-growth business supporting the data centre market as well as the ongoing energy transition, and we are delighted with the successful exit to TowerBrook. I would very much like to thank Stuart Wiltshire, John Scanlon and the rest of the JSM team for the exceptional job they have done in growing JSM and we wish them every success for the future.”

Joseph Knoll and Sumit Dheir of TowerBrook said:
“We are excited to be working with the founders and management team at JSM. We have spent several years following the infrastructure services sector and JSM stood out as an exceptionally high-quality asset with an impressive development in the past few years. We are convinced that with our extensive industrial services experience we are the right partners to support the founders and management team in the next phase of growth, both in the UK and internationally.”

The electrical supply will run from Belvedere and terminate at the Littlebrook substation in Dartford.

This project will be one of the largest and most efficient Energy from Waster (EfW) facilities in the UK, employing 140 personnel from the area, processing 650,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste and generating enough electricity to power 176,000 homes each year. The facility will utilise well-established moving grate technology. This technology has been successfully deployed across numerous operational EfW facilities in the UK.

Over 3 million tonnes of London’s waste must either be landfilled or sent overseas, and this project will provide vital capacity to help address this. It will also help to achieve the goals set out in the London Plan which aim for 100% of London’s waste to be processed within its boundaries by 2026.

We apologies for the disruption this has caused and are working hard with key stakeholders including London Borough of Bexley to ensure minimum disruption to the public. We are working extended hours 7 days a week to ensure they are completed as soon as possible and will be providing a live website that shows the works programme and the live closures.

As the works progress, we will provide weekly updates via the website to assess suitable changes showing where the works are and changes to the traffic network.

JSM Group has been appointed to design and build a new grid connection between Mop End Lane and Haw Lane in Buckinghamshire.

The work spans over 16.4km in both the carriageway and footpath. Upon completion, the work will facilitate the connection of a new Data Centre via a new 132/11kV 120MVA substation.

This will be carried out in two phases, phase one will be the cable duct installation. Phase two will consist of pulling cable and jointing the lengths to make a continuous cable which requires three joint bays to be open at any one time for connections to be made.

Our in-house experts are working hard with key stakeholders including Buckinghamshire Council to ensure minimum disruption to the Public. This includes planning and using the least disruptive route to emergency services and local amenities, 24-hour weekend working and providing advance warning of the works. Additionally, we’ve provided all local residents with a single point of contact should they have any safety concerns while the works are ongoing.

As the works progress, we will continue to hold frequent reviews with Buckinghamshire Council Highways and provide weekly updates to assess suitable changes as the project develops.