 Founded in 1946 by the late Mr.Kenneth Slade, who ran the company until 1990. After which the current partnership was formed and is now run by Mr.Colin Slade and his wife Margaret, also Mr.Robert Slade and his wife Christina. Colin and Robert being Ken Slade's sons. The workforce grew over the years from the original one man band to it's present size of 30 employees and subcontractors. It has always been company policy to employ local labour when at all possible. Encouraging local youths to learn a trade in the Building Industry, by offering apprenticeships and college training. Many of our apprentices have received awards for skill and achievements. The work carried out through the years has largely been centred around Winsham and the surrounding areas. In the early days, as now, the smallest of jobs were undertaken. As the experience and size expanded some specialised works began to emerge. Works over the years have included the following:- Agricultural Works :- milking parlours, grain stores, water irrigation and cow comfort (Cows sleeping on mattresses). Dairy Industry :- high tech floor finishes, insulated food hygeine surface panelling. Commendations in recent years from M & S, Sainsbury's and Waitrose. Development:- small scale development - single plots, small groups and estates. The company is proud of its mark on local villages, the way our work blends with surrounding settings and countryside. The current development having started in the Millennium year in the village of Winsham is Court Farm Close. Consisting of 2,3 and 4 bedroom houses all traditionally built using reclaimed stone, slate and tiles. They also incorporate all modern forms of insulation and ventilation. Contract Work :- The company carries out varying sizes of contract works for local Clients, Architects, Surveyors, Structural Engineers and Insurance Companies. Recent contracts include Millennium extension to Tatworth Village Hall, reconstruction and alteration to form a Hotel and Restaurant. Bus Shelter for Thorncombe Parish Council. Design and Build :- contracts recently completed include extension, and refurbishment of the Windwhistle Inn. An organic milk cartoning plant for A. H.Warren Trust at Coombe Farm, Crewkerne. A four bedroom family house and offices in natural stone for Mr.T. Parfoot of Greenacres Nursery, Holditch. Both Lee and Matthew Slade are at present employed by the company - who knows if there will be another generation of K.D.J. Slade & Sons!!!! |
