Our construction industry is evolving at pace. As the demands of modern infrastructure grow more complex, particularly in defence and critical national sectors, embracing innovation is no longer optional, it’s essential, says Richard Martin, Managing Director, Churngold Construction. Today, success in construction hinges on precision, agility, and the ability to deliver smarter, safer, and more sustainable outcomes.
Richard Martin, Managing Director, Churngold Construction
At Churngold Construction, as we celebrate our 40th year in business, we’re making it a priority to stay ahead of this curve. From machine control and drone surveys to real-time plant tracking, we are embedding advanced technologies across our operations to enhance accuracy, increase efficiency, and minimise environmental impact. These tools are not just transforming how we deliver projects, they’re redefining what’s possible across the built environment.
One of the most impactful changes we’ve made in recent years is the widespread adoption of GPS machine control technology across our fleet. By integrating 3D modelling software with intelligent excavators, dozers, and graders, our site teams can now work with centimetre-level accuracy, without the need for traditional ground setting-out.
The advantages are clear. Projects run faster and more efficiently, with fewer errors and rework. Safety is improved too, with operatives working from within safe cabins and relying less on manual intervention. For complex defence sector projects, where tight tolerances and sensitive environments are often the norm, this level of control offers measurable benefits in both cost and programme delivery.
We’ve also invested heavily in drone technology, which is transforming how we approach pre-construction planning and ongoing site management. High-resolution aerial surveys can now be carried out in a fraction of the time previously needed for traditional methods, providing accurate, up-to-date topographical data and photogrammetry.
This aerial insight allows us to create 3D terrain models, monitor progress against design in real time, and identify issues before they escalate. The data gathered by drones feeds directly into our digital design platforms, enabling a more collaborative, data-led approach between our project teams, clients, and consultants.
Drone technology has become a vital asset on many of our defence-related schemes, particularly on large, secure or remote sites, where traditional access can be limited or disruptive.
Efficiency and accountability are central to our approach, and we continue to enhance both through plant telematics and tracking. Our systems provide real-time data on plant location, usage, fuel consumption, and idle time. This not only improves logistical coordination and reduces downtime, but also helps to monitor and lower our environmental impact.
Reducing emissions, managing noise levels, and complying with environmental controls is a growing priority on many defence and public sector sites. By understanding our plant’s real-time behaviour, we can optimise operations to align with stringent site requirements and broader sustainability goals.
Of course, technology is only as effective as the people using it. That’s why we invest continually in training and upskilling our workforce. From site operatives to project managers, our teams are supported to embrace digital tools and use them with confidence. We believe that creating a culture of innovation is just as important as the tools themselves.
At Churngold Construction, our reputation has always been built on quality, safety, and delivery. Now, it’s also about forward-thinking. As we enter our fifth decade in business, our commitment to modern methods of construction and technological advancement remains central to how we evolve.
The future of construction is smarter, faster, and more precise. For defence infrastructure and beyond, embracing technology is not optional, it’s foundational. At Churngold, we’re ready to build it.
Article submitted by Richard Martin, Managing Director, Churngold Construction
Post written by: Vicky Maggiani
Vicky has worked in media for over 25 years and has a wealth of experience in editing and creating copy for a variety of sectors.
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