1988 - Company Founded
Southdale began as an informal partnership between business entrepreneur Chris Harris and construction specialist John O’Hara.
The name Southdale originates from the plaque which was situated at the entrance of Chris Harris’ home back in 1988 and more than 20 years later, the name is synonymous with high quality, cost effective construction delivered by skilled, experienced and approachable teams across the North and the Midlands.
1991 - First office and new build housing scheme
Southdale completed their first new build development at Prospect Mill, Skircoat Green in Halifax and following a string of other successful schemes, the company established their first offices in 1991 at Hayley Hill in Boothstown.
1991 - Beverley Robinson appointed
One of the earliest members of staff who joined back then was Beverley Robinson who is now Southdale’s HR Director responsible for the company’s strategic recruitment, selection, training and development.
1994 - Paul Moore appointed
As the company grew over the next few years the decision was taken to recruit their first Construction Buyer. This new employee was called Paul Moore who after a number of years spent gaining experience across the business later became Southdale’s Managing Director who leads the direction of the business to this day.
1996 - Move to larger premises
The expansion of Southdale in those first five years led to their move into larger premises at Clare Road in Halifax which they occupied for a further four years.
1997 - Declan McHugh appointed
Declan joined the business as Development Manager and was responsible for expanding their position in the social housing market. Declan later became Development Director and now leads a team of regional Business Development Managers.
2000 - Move to Westholme Road Head Office
As the company grew even further, they purchased a former engineering building at Westholme Road in Halifax where the company’s Head Office is still situated today.
October 2003 - First regeneration scheme called the Deighton and Brackenhall Initiative.
This £72m regeneration project involved the demolition of over 600 council owned properties and the new build development of 520 new homes for private sale, 100 homes for affordable rent and additional community facilities. This 10 year scheme was delivered in partnership with the following Registered Providers: Chevin Housign Group, Housing 21, Kirklees Council, Places for People and Sadeh Lok Housing Group. The project has won numerous industry accolades including Considerate Constructor Awards, What House Gold Award and Build Homes Quality Awards .
March 2006 - North East Regional Office opened in Darlington
June 2009 - North West office opened in Birchwood
October 2009 - Generational Change
Chris Harris became Chairman and John O'Hara retired from the business. This was followed by a management buy-in as the remaining Board members became company shareholders.
2010 - Midlands regional office opened in Castle Donington
January 2011 - North West team move to larger offices in Birchwood
