Michael Rewcastle is the Meldrum Facilities project manager who will lead the long-awaited refurbishment of NPC Felton.

We caught up with him so he could introduce himself to the residents of Felton and share insights into his career and how he intends to manage the refurbishment project.

Michael, who was born in County Durham and grew up on the outskirts of Gateshead, has always had a strong connection to the North East and the local communities he has lived and worked in.

He has worked in construction for over three decades: “I’ve worked in construction all my working life – which is around 35 years, and I have gained experience across a wide range of projects and working in different roles.

“I am proud that I have followed in my father’s footsteps in terms of career path. I’ve always enjoyed being hands-on, solving problems and seeing projects develop from the initial conceptual design through to the completion of the full project.

“Despite every project presenting different challenges, construction gives you that real sense of achievement.

“I’ve been with Meldrum Facilities for coming up nearly 2 years, and I am very pleased to be part of a company where I feel valued, supported and part of a strong team. No two days are the same. I enjoy the challenges, working with different people and, most importantly, seeing a project come together successfully. There’s a great sense of pride in handing over a high-quality building that will enhance the local community or area.”

The NPC Felton project has now begun, and Michael is looking forward to managing it: “I’m really pleased to be involved in the NPC Felton project. It’s a very interesting one, and I am looking forward to delivering such an important facility for the local community. This makes it particularly rewarding.”

The village of Felton is a tight-knit community, so it is important that residents, patients and stakeholders know the person behind the project manager title. Michael prides himself on the ability to build good relationships wherever he works, and he knows the importance of Meldrum Facilities being a good neighbour while they are in the village.

“I think it is important that our team connects with the village of Felton and that people know me as a person as well as a project manager. So, a bit about me. I live on the outskirts of Gateshead. I enjoy going to the gym through the week and like going for a long walk on weekends with my family. I love watching my son play rugby for the Newcastle Red Bulls. Doing all of this is how I unwind from work.”

North Northumberland is such a beautiful and special part of the region and Meldrum Facilities are very aware of the implications of carrying out a construction project within a rural village, and what impacts this may have on residents.

“I want to assure residents, patients and all stakeholders that we will do everything we can to minimise disruption to the village. Good communication will be very important too, and we’ll work closely with the NPC Felton team, the local community and all others involved to keep people informed throughout the project. Safety, consideration for residents and maintaining a clean and respectful site are always key priorities.

“I’m looking forward to delivering a GP practice that everyone can be proud of, and that will be at the heart of the community for many years to come.”

It is hoped that the surgery refurbishment will be completed within eight months.

Meldrum Group is an employee-owned trust, meaning all their staff have a vested interest in the business. By ensuring that their people are at the heart of the business, results in fostering a rewarding, solutions, and innovative-driven collaborative environment to deliver the best results for clients and communities.

Through their group of companies, they offer a fully integrated service; from planning and designing to the civil engineering and construction of projects.

Michael was involved in the recent refurbishment and reconfiguration of the M&S at Kington Park and the refurbishment of Guisborough Visitor Centre.

Keep updated on the NPC Felton refurbishment by visiting the practice website and also by downloading the NHS app.