It is with great sadness that we mark the recent passing of two former Chairs of the Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS), David Sherwood and Peter Shiells.

David Sherwood

David Sherwood, who served as FPS Chair in 1990 and later as EFFC President from 2001 to 2003, has left an indelible mark on the geotechnical and deep foundations sectors. In recognition of his immense contributions, David was honoured with the ‘FPS Lifetime Achievement Award’ in 2023 at the Grosvenor Hotel. His leadership, vision, and dedication have inspired many across the industry.

As colleagues and peers have reflected:

• – “David is passionate about geotechnics and combined this with his excellent appreciation of the financial and commercial aspects of the industry. David was instrumental in developing Bachy Soletanche into a company that could act not only as a specialist subcontractor but as a joint venture partner at main contract level, through such projects as the CTRL, the Jubilee Line Extension and Copenhagen Metro. David used his skills and this closer working relationship with clients to help raise the profile of the industry during his tenure as FPS chair and then as EFFC Chair.” – Philip Hines, Past UK Group Managing Director, Bachy Soletanche and FPS Chair

• – “In my opinion David has achieved more than anyone else in the UK foundation industry. He has been an inspiration to a generation and thoroughly deserves to receive the FPS Lifetime Achievement award.” – Martin Pratt, Past Managing Director, Bachy Soletanche and FPS Chair

• – “Through his endless energy, enthusiasm, unselfishness, charisma and respect, he has set the foundation stones to the geotechnical industry we work in today, here in the UK and across Europe. His leadership, knowledge, and understanding, as well as an uncanny knack of seeing an issue before anyone else, he has been instrumental in improving the life of the Specialist Sub-Contractor, but particularly our Geotechnical sector. By challenging and working with the Main Contractors and Clients, David, on behalf of our sector, fought for fairness and consistency in the terms and conditions being used. Raising the bar in site conditions, Health & Safety and working with the manufacturers to driving improvements in the equipment we use. David’s legacy and his shadow is still present today, albeit some will not know who cast it.” – Chris Merridew, Major Projects Director, Bachy Soletanche

Peter Shiells

Peter Shiells also served as FPS Chair and was known for his unwavering dedication and expertise in piling and deep foundations. Peter was a highly respected figure in the construction industry. During his 14-year tenure with Bachy Soletanche, he served as Executive Divisional Director, playing a pivotal role in the company’s expansion into major infrastructure projects, including large-scale tunnelling and civil engineering works.

Peter joined the Bachy Group in 1987 following the acquisition of Foundation Engineering. His first role was as Joint Venture Project Manager for the Limehouse Link Tunnel in London, marking the beginning of his influential work on numerous high-profile schemes. He later held board-level responsibilities across several major joint ventures, including the Jubilee Line Extension and the Channel Tunnel Rail Link (CTRL). His authoritative presence and wealth of experience inspired those around him.

Beyond his contributions to Bachy Soletanche, Peter was a prominent voice in the wider construction industry especially through his tenure Chair of the FPS, the Constructors Liaison Group, and the Association of Independent Construction Adjudicators. He also chaired a European Committee for Standardisation working group and served as President of the National Specialist Contractors’ Council (NSCC). Additionally, he contributed to key bodies such as the Construction Industry Board and the Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT).

In recognition of his service to the construction industry, Peter was awarded an OBE in 1999.

Peter will be remembered not only for his technical expertise and calm professionalism but also for his eagerness to mentor and support those around him. He was a man of great integrity and kindness and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working with him.