DBCP said a fond farewell to nearly 100 years of combined experience in building control recently when Senior Building Control Surveyor John Warman and Technical Support team member Lynne Miles, retired from DBCP.
John’s retirement from DBCP marks the end of a total of 50 years in building control broken briefly by a short spell in Italy working as a builder. Nearly half his career has been spent overseeing building regulations in and around Derby after joining Derby City Council’s building control team in 2001. The team subsequently became part of DBCP in 2017.
Originally from Southend, it was John’s return to the UK from Italy that brought him to Derby and a role within Derby City Council’s building control team, which is now part of DBCP. He explained: “I saw the job at Derby City Council advertised and applied. I received a phone call to tell me I’d got the job. I then walked around Derby and quite enjoyed it, so I decided to take the job – that was 21 years ago. I can’t believe it.”
Reflecting on his years in building control, John, who turns 70 this year, said: “I went to college at 15 years old to do a construction course. We used to joke about building inspectors, saying they could go out when it’s sunny and stay in when it’s raining, so I applied for a job. The rest is history!
“I enjoy all aspects of building control, but it’s seeing the completed building that gives me the greatest pleasure particularly when I have been involved with a project from the planning stage.”
Lynn’s retirement saw the culmination of 44 years in the industry. She said: “I’ve enjoyed working with the public as well as the lovely people in the team which has definitely helped me do my job.”
While John is unsure what retirement holds for him, Lynn already has plans. She added: “I’ve enrolled on some courses and will spend a lot of time with my dog, Bertie. I’ve even joined the Neighbourhood Dog Walking Club where I live.”
Sorry to see Lynn and John leave the team, Building Control Manager Dave Pratt presented them both with a watch on behalf of DBCP. He said: “We’re all really sad to see Lynn and John leave but they’ve definitely earned their retirement. Over the years, as well as carrying out their respective roles, they have helped develop the younger members of the to ensure that we continue to have one of the most experienced teams of building control surveyors and technical support in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.”
Congratulations to both John and Lynn on your retirement. From the whole team at DBCP, we wish you all the best.
It is an exciting time to become a part of DBCP, the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands. If you think a career in building control could be for you, there are two vacancies available for a Senior Building Control Surveyor and Customer Services Administrator. Read more about the roles and apply today here.
For expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team here or call 0333 880 2000.