It is with great sadness that we have to inform our readers that the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has confirmed the death of its President and Chair, Wayne Connolly.
In an internal statement approved by the Connolly family, the NASC said it was “deeply saddened” to announce Mr Connolly’s sudden passing. His death has come as a shock to the scaffolding and access industry, particularly at what is traditionally a festive period.
Mr Connolly was a highly respected figure across the sector in the UK and internationally. His involvement with the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation began as a Regional Chair, before he went on to serve as Chair of the Membership Standards Committee.
He joined the NASC Board in 2022 and, in 2024, was appointed President and Chair of both NASC and the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS).
Alongside his UK roles, Mr Connolly also served as Chair of the International Access & Scaffolding Association (IASA), where he worked to promote collaboration, best practice and higher standards across international markets. He was widely regarded as a global leader in scaffolding and access, respected for his integrity, diplomacy and commitment to improving standards worldwide.
A leading businessman in the North West, Mr Connolly built a successful chain of automotive repair businesses before founding Connolly Scaffolding. Under his leadership, the company grew into a progressive and well-regarded contractor, most recently marked by the opening of a new office and a period of expansion in partnership with several key industry partners.
Within NASC, Mr Connolly was closely involved in the organisation’s recent transformation. He was passionate about raising standards, strengthening governance and ensuring the Confederation remained a credible, forward-looking voice for the industry. Colleagues described his leadership as calm, clear and principled.
Clive Dickin, Group Chief Executive of NASC, paid tribute to Mr Connolly’s impact on both a professional and personal level.
“Wayne was not only an outstanding President and Chairman, but a true friend. His belief in NASC, his commitment to doing the right thing, and his determination to improve our industry will leave a lasting legacy.”
The organisation said it is coordinating with Mr Connolly’s fiancé, Nicola, and that details of the funeral service and information on donations will be published on the NASC website in the coming days.
Scaffmag extends its sincere condolences to Wayne Connolly’s family and friends, to colleagues at Connolly Scaffolding, and to everyone at the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation following this sudden and deeply felt loss.
