team

gcp's annual trip to Devon

When it comes to work-life balance, taking time off to bond with your colleagues can be a refreshing and rewarding experience. This is why this past July, gcp took the opportunity to go away on a weekend retreat to Devon. It was an unforgettable adventure filled with camaraderie, laughter, and a delightful exploration of this stunning coastal region.

Our adventure began on Friday afternoon, leaving the office early so that we could all enjoy a delicious meal and a couple drinks at the local pub in Welcombe, the Old Smithy Inn. When bellies were full and pint glasses empty, we made our way to our cozy seaside accommodation to settle in for the night.

Morning: Devon’s Natural Beauty

Day two began with the delicious smell of freshly baked croissants and a healthy spread of fruits and cereals for breakfast, and of course, some good coffee. We then strapped on our walking shoes to enjoy a scenic hike along the coastline to Speke's Mill Mouth Waterfall. The views of the waves, combined with the fresh Devon air, made it an ideal spot to enjoy pasties, quiche, and each other's company.

The beautiful Hartland Clifftop group walk was spectacular and Phil’s BBQ, absolutely delicious!
— Tim O

Afternoon: A Cyprus BBQ

How fortunate we were to be treated to a BBQ by Phillip Baker inspired by his life in Cyprus. Succulent lamb, spiced meatballs and Greek salads were just a few of the items on the menu. As the sun went down, seated at a long table in the garden, we ate and drank to our hearts content.  

My favourite memory was sitting chatting in the garden with everyone, with the sun shining and the smell of the BBQ going
— Esther S

Morning: Farewell, until next time.

Sundays are for rest, and that is exactly what we did to end of the weekend. With legs a little tender from our long walk the day before, we enjoyed a few boards games before sitting down to our last meal together in the garden. This time, it was Tom Mellor our host who cooked up a hearty stew. With hearts full thanks to a wonderful weekend together, we said our farewells with high hopes to do it all again next year.

2020 Favourites: Alternative Secret Santa

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This year has been certainly been different and we are trying to embrace the changes. Although many have lost their jobs this year, gcp have continued with a steady flow of work. We have decided this year to swap out our Secret Santa with creating care packages for the homeless.

Working alongside Streetlife we were recommended what items would be most beneficial including travel sized toiletries, hats, gloves, socks, snacks and either cards or a note book. For every bag a staff member created, gcp matched with an additional bag.

It’s been great to see so many getting involved in the office!

2020 Favourites: Brentry, Bristol

A very interesting project working alongside a flexible main contractor, able to adapt to LiveWest requirements as they developed.

The resultant building achieved an attractive domestic scale frontage to the residential streetscape and provided the residents with an accessible building with high levels of safety built in
— Martin Spear, gcp
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We asked everyone in the office to name their favourite project of 2020. Martin has chosen a lovely scheme in Brentry for LiveWest and Fisher & Dean. This scheme is for 8 flats for residents requiring additional support.