The sudden collapse of ISG has sent ripples through the UK construction industry, leaving numerous projects in jeopardy and sparking concern across the sector. In response, Glenigan has released an in-depth report shedding light on the extent of the impact and the potential opportunities for companies able to adapt to the situation.
The Numbers Behind the Crisis
According to Glenigan’s analysis, ISG had a substantial presence in the UK construction market. A third of its project pipeline was dedicated to public sector work, while industrial, commercial, and private housing projects accounted for over £2.8 billion of its active contracts.Several high-profile developments have been thrown into uncertainty, including:
Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies Facility in Billingham, valued at £200 million
Slough Data Centre Campus Phase 2 in Berkshire, worth another £200 million
Institute of Neurology for UCL in London, at £158 million
Overall, ISG had more than £2.5 billion worth of projects already on site, with an additional £1.7 billion in the pipeline. This includes 33 contracts awarded, 57 projects actively progressing, and three nearing completion—now all left in limbo. Moreover, ISG’s involvement in 19 construction frameworks, valued at a staggering £104 billion, has further amplified the disruption.
Regional Fallout
The collapse has had a particularly strong impact on London, where 24 projects, collectively valued at £1.863 billion, have been halted. This includes two data centre developments, each worth over £150 million, which are now stalled. The effects are not limited to the capital, with businesses across the country facing uncertainty and financial strain.Glenigan’s regional analysis highlights the significant disruption but also points to the commercial opportunities for agile suppliers to step in.“This situation presents a major problem for both contractors and subcontractors, many of which will be left seriously out of pocket, putting a large number of jobs on the line,”Glenigan reports.
Opportunities Amid the Uncertainty
Despite the immediate challenges, Glenigan’s data suggests there could be openings for companies able to quickly pivot. “There is a commercial opportunity for agile suppliers to step into the breach, ensuring many of these projects do not fall behind and involved subcontractors are supported,” Glenigan stated.While the full extent of ISG’s collapse is still unfolding, it’s clear that the construction industry faces significant challenges in the months ahead. However, for those companies prepared to respond rapidly, there may be room to navigate through the disruption and take on new projects, potentially offsetting some of the broader industry impacts.
The Wates Group has announced the acquisition of Liberty, the property services division of ForHousing, a prominent social housing provider based in the northwest.
This significant move will see Liberty, along with its 1,100 employees, joining Wates Property Services.
Liberty, which handles around 1,500 customer calls daily, provides a wide range of services, including domestic property repairs, maintenance, and heating compliance. Last year, the company reported a turnover of £120 million and completed over 114,000 property repairs. Despite the acquisition, Liberty will continue to operate under its own name.
David Morgan, Managing Director of Wates Property Services, expressed his enthusiasm for the deal: “We’ve been actively seeking a specialist property support business to expand and strengthen our existing expertise in the social housing sector. In Liberty, we’ve found the strategic fit we were looking for, so I’m delighted to be able to make this announcement.”
For Liberty, this acquisition marks a significant chapter in its growth. Ray Jones, Managing Director of Liberty, highlighted the benefits of joining forces with Wates: “Our combined service provision brings a stronger offer to both existing and potential clients, especially in property and renewable energy decarbonisation. This new step forward will ensure continued high-quality services for Liberty’s current clients and their tenants, as well as an exciting future for Liberty and Wates and our people.”
The acquisition enhances Wates’ capabilities, particularly in heating, compliance, and renewable energy services, strengthening its position in the social housing sector. Both companies view the partnership as an opportunity to build on their reputations for delivering high-quality services to clients across the UK.
Apollo Cradles has issued a strong warning to the scaffolding industry after discovering that a fellow supplier was manufacturing and selling unauthorised copies of its protected X-Beams. The company in question, a non-audited member of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC), is now facing legal action.Apollo, which holds the UK design rights for the X-Beams, has sent a cease-and-desist letter to the offending firm, demanding an immediate halt to the production and sale of the unauthorised beams. The letter outlines several key demands, including the removal of any unauthorised beams in circulation and compensation for any units already sold. If these demands aren’t met, Apollo says it will pursue legal proceedings.Mark Holmes, Manager at Apollo Scaffold Services, expressed concern about the safety of the unauthorised products in a LinkedIn post. “We’ve already obtained two of these X-Beams and sent them for independent testing,” he said. The results were worrying.”Tests carried out by Solus Testing Limited found that the beams did not meet industry safety standards. The units had several serious welding defects, including gas pores, lack of fusion, and cracks. These faults mean the beams failed to meet the requirements of BS EN ISO 5817 Level B: 2023 and BS EN ISO 23277 2x:2015, key industry safety benchmarks.Holmes also noted that all legitimate Apollo X-Beams are easily identifiable by their serial numbers and other specific manufacturing details, which can be traced back to Apollo’s records.“If the issue isn’t resolved, and we’re forced to take this to court, we will publicly name the company involved so that the rest of the industry can be aware of the risks,” Holmes warned.Apollo is urging any companies who believe they may have purchased unauthorised beams, or who have been quoted for them, to get in touch immediately.
Skill Scaffolding has partnered with Layher UK to deliver a pedestrian access bridge in Lostwithiel, Cornwall.
Together, they’ve supplied a temporary pedestrian bridge using the world-renowned Layher Allround System, a cutting-edge scaffolding technology known for its versatility, safety, and ease of assembly.
The project, known as Skill Bridge, was built in a sensitive environment, designed by Layher UK and completed by Skill Scaffolding. Impressively, the entire project was delivered within an eight-week window, showcasing the efficiency and expertise of the team involved.
The team at Skill Scaffolding has introduced what they’ve dubbed the ‘Skill Bridge,, a fully transportable pedestrian bridge built offsite and moved into place at the Lostwithiel rail project. The innovative bridge was quickly installed and facilitated minimal disruption to both the site and the public.
The installation of a temporary pedestrian bridge can often cause delays or closures, particularly in a busy rail setting. However, Skill Scaffolding’s approach with the Layher Allround Bridging System (ABS) ensured that disruption was kept to a minimum.
By building the Layher ‘Skill Bridge’, as Skill Scaffolding refer to it, at their headquarters and transporting it to the site ready for installation, the team was able to reduce the need for prolonged closures and limit inconvenience for pedestrians and rail staff alike.
This method also offers a more time-effective and cost-efficient solution, something clients in infrastructure projects value highly. In a statement, Skill Scaffolding noted: “Our aim is to offer innovative, safe, and efficient solutions to our clients. With the Skill Bridge, we can reduce the impact on the public and keep projects running smoothly.”
The Layher Allround System: A Key Player
At the heart of this success is the Layher Allround System. Known for its flexibility and safety, the system allows for complex scaffolding structures to be erected with ease, ensuring that the temporary pedestrian bridge is both strong and reliable.
This modular scaffolding system is ideal for projects like this, where safety and speed are paramount, and disruptions must be kept to an absolute minimum.
Skill Scaffolding has also benefited from Layher UK’s turnkey after-sales technical and practical site support and expertise by benefitting from Layher’s strategic partnership promise of Service, Support, Solutions and Supply playing a vital role in making this project successful; ‘Skill Bridge’ was built to the highest standards, meeting the rail site’s technical and safety requirements.
Looking to the Future
The success of the Layher ‘Skill Bridge’ in Lostwithiel signals a new way forward for Skill Scaffolding. With ongoing investment in advanced scaffolding technologies and continuous in-house training, the company is raising the bar for temporary structures in the UK. Whether it’s for rail, construction, or public infrastructure, their innovative solutions are proving invaluable.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
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