Friday, January 2, 2026
The North-east of Scotland’s construction industry gathered in a showcase of professional excellence as the 13th annual Trades Awards took place at the historic Ardoe House. The gala event served as a prestigious platform to honour the craftsmen, site teams, and innovative firms currently redefining the built environment across Aberdeenshire and beyond. The evening’s most anticipated individual accolade, Tradesperson of the Year, was awarded to Dominic Clutterbuck, a lead joiner at Bancon Homes. The win marks a noteworthy milestone for both the individual and the company, celebrating a career defined by technical precision and professional mentorship.
Against a backdrop of evolving building regulations and a heightened industry focus on quality and safety, the 2025 awards highlighted the resilience of the local supply chain. This year’s ceremony saw over 30 businesses and individuals shortlisted across 14 distinct categories, representing the full spectrum of the trade—from promising apprentices to veteran site managers.
Dominic, a mainstay of the North-east construction community for nearly two decades, was recognised for his 17-year tenure at Bancon Homes. The judging panel specifically noted his “unwavering commitment to quality” and his role in upholding the high finishing standards required in modern residential developments.
While a prior commitment prevented Dominic from attending the gala, the trophy was accepted by Bancon Homes’ Construction Director, Jim Campbell.
“Accepting this award on behalf of Dominic is a moment of immense pride for the entire team,” Campbell stated. “In an industry where the skills gap is a constant conversation, Dominic’s 17 years of service and his reputation for excellence serve as a benchmark for what it means to be a master of one’s trade. He is truly reflective of the ‘Bancon spirit’—professional, meticulous, and deeply respected by his peers.”
The Trades Awards arrive at a critical juncture for the Scottish building industry. With the Scottish Government’s move toward stricter Passivhaus-equivalent standards for new builds and an increasing demand for sustainable housing, the role of skilled tradespeople has never been more vital.
The 14 award categories this year were designed to reflect these shifting priorities, including:
The diversity of the shortlist—which included over 30 local entities—demonstrates that the North-east remains a powerhouse for construction innovation. Events like the Trades Awards do more than just distribute trophies; they foster a sense of “industry confidence” that is essential for attracting investment and new talent to the region.
Dominic Clutterbuck’s win as Tradesperson of the Year underscores a broader trend in the 2026 construction landscape: the return to “Master Craftsmanship.” As the industry integrates more Engineered Timber and off-site manufacturing techniques, the onsite joiner’s role has evolved from simple assembly to sophisticated technical installation.
For Bancon Homes, having a team member recognised at this level reinforces their market position as a premium homebuilder. It validates their internal training programmes and highlights the importance of staff retention in maintaining a consistent delivery of high-specification housing.
As the 13th year of the awards concludes, the focus shifts to the challenges of the coming year. The North-east construction community is currently navigating a period of significant transition, balancing the need for rapid housing delivery with the stringent requirements of the New Build Heat Standard.
Industry leaders at the event noted that the success of professionals like Dominic Clutterbuck provides the “evidence base” needed to inspire the workforce. By celebrating these triumphs, the Trades Awards ensure that the North-east remains at the forefront of the UK’s construction revolution.
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Tags: Aberdeen construction news, Bancon Homes, North-east construction awards, Trades Awards 2025, Tradesperson of the Year Scotland
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