Business Details
Trusted Construction & Restoration Experts in York
William Birch is a family-owned and managed construction company with over a century of heritage in delivering high-quality building solutions. Established with a foundation in craftsmanship, we specialise in sustainable construction, new builds, refurbishments, and historic restorations across education, healthcare, industrial, and residential sectors. Our team combines traditional skills with modern methods, evidenced by projects like the Grade I Listed York Mansion House restoration and the development of eco-friendly facilities. With a dedicated workforce, including eight accredited Mental Health First Aiders, we prioritise both client satisfaction and employee wellbeing.Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our hybrid vehicle fleet and BREEAM-accredited schemes, ensuring environmental responsibility. Recognised for excellence through awards and testimonials, we maintain strong community ties, supporting initiatives like The Lighthouse Charity. Our collaborative approach with architects and local authorities ensures projects meet exacting standards while preserving historical integrity. With decades of experience, we offer tailored services from land acquisition to project completion, serving clients across Yorkshire and beyond.
Services
Sustainable Construction
New Build Projects
Refurbishment Services
Historic Restoration
Planned Maintenance
Highlights and features
- We combine 100+ years of heritage with modern construction techniques.
- Our team includes certified Mental Health First Aiders for staff wellbeing.
- We utilise hybrid vehicles to reduce environmental impact.
- Skilled craftsmen with Heritage Skills CSCS cards for historic projects.
- Proven track record in BREEAM-accredited sustainable developments.
Associations and certifications
- BREEAM
- MHFA England
What people say
Quality service
Fantastic team
Successful project
Excellent liaison
High workmanship
Services
Sustainable Construction
Our sustainable construction services integrate energy-efficient designs and eco-friendly materials to reduce environmental impact. We deliver BREEAM-accredited projects that balance modern functionality with long-term sustainability. Clients benefit from lower operational costs and compliance with evolving environmental regulations through innovative solutions like solar installations and thermal efficiency upgrades.
Historic Restoration
Specialising in historic restoration, we preserve architectural integrity while implementing modern upgrades. Our craftsmen hold Heritage Skills CSCS cards, ensuring authentic repairs to listed buildings like York Mansion House. Projects combine traditional techniques with contemporary structural enhancements to extend the lifespan of culturally significant sites.
New Build Projects
We design and construct bespoke new buildings tailored to client requirements, from residential apartments to commercial facilities. Utilising modern methods of construction, we deliver efficient, cost-effective developments on time. Recent projects include Luna apartments in York and community sports facilities with specialist accessibility features.
Refurbishment Services
Our refurbishment services modernise existing structures while maintaining operational continuity. We manage complex upgrades to hospitals, schools, and historic hotels, ensuring minimal disruption. Projects incorporate improved accessibility, energy efficiency, and compliance with current building standards across sectors.
Planned Maintenance
We provide comprehensive planned maintenance programmes to preserve property value and functionality. Services include routine inspections, repairs, and upgrades to educational institutions and commercial properties. Our proactive approach extends asset lifespan and prevents costly emergency interventions through scheduled upkeep.
People
Gemma Shahjahan
Director
Gemma Shahjahan leads William Birch's corporate responsibility initiatives, including mental health training and charity partnerships. With extensive construction industry experience, she champions sustainability and community engagement across the company's projects.
Hannah Bellerby
Senior Architect
Hannah Bellerby oversees heritage projects as senior architect at Buttress. She directed the York Mansion House restoration, balancing historical preservation with modern accessibility requirements. Her expertise ensures compliance with conservation standards in all restoration work.
Questions
What construction sectors does William Birch specialise in?
We work across education, healthcare, industrial, leisure, faith, and residential sectors, delivering both new builds and restoration projects.
How does William Birch support sustainability?
We implement BREEAM standards, use hybrid vehicles, and incorporate energy-efficient designs in all projects to reduce environmental impact.
Can William Birch handle listed building renovations?
Yes, our team holds Heritage Skills CSCS cards and has extensive experience restoring Grade I and II listed structures.
Is William Birch involved in community initiatives?
We support The Lighthouse Charity and invest in local projects like Goole Market Hall's revitalisation to benefit communities.
What accreditations does the company hold?
We have MHFA England mental health training accreditation and deliver BREEAM-certified sustainable construction projects.
