About Us
Walter Thompson, based in Northallerton, North Yorkshire was formed in 1920 and was incorporated in 1946.
Today we are one of the largest privately owned construction companies in the North East, undertaking contracts up to a value of £15 million across a variety of sectors
WHO ARE WE?
WHO WE ARE?
Walter Thompson, based in Northallerton, North Yorkshire was formed in 1920 and was incorporated in 1946.
Today we are one of the largest privately owned construction companies in the North East, undertaking contracts up to a value of £15 million across a variety of sectors including:
Education, Health Care, Leisure, MOD / DE, Office, Public Service, Restoration, Retail
As part of the award-winning F.T. Construction Group we have a uniquely collaborative & flexible approach to contracting. We’re dedicated to delivering innovative build solutions and forming honest relationships with our clients and supply chain partners.
Each contract we take on is managed by a talented team who take the time to understand the project objectives, before delivering them in a responsible way that considers the local community and environment.
FT Construction Group History
FT Construction Group History
Walter Thompson although originally formed in 1920 began trading in earnest after the 2nd World War, building new housing estates, hospitals, schools and office accommodation. Predominantly working in Northallerton and the surrounding area, Walter Thompson soon gained a reputation as a quality family builder and became one of Northallerton’s major employers.
During this same period a House Builder and General Contractor called George Fordy & Son of Teesside were also making their mark and gaining an enviable reputation not only as a house builder but working for local councils and Health Authorities alike. The company was established in 1908 and both companies often found themselves bidding for the same work.
Through strong family ties and following many successful years trading for both companies it became apparent that a merger would be both beneficial and cost effective, so in 1987 the FT Construction Group was formed using Construction House, Northallerton as its base of operations.
Walter Thompson continued trading as a General Contractor while George Fordy focused on House Building, Private Development and Property Investment.
Looking to expand into the Reactive and Planned Maintenance market the FT Group acquired Tom Willoughby Ltd in 1994. This local maintenance company also came with a long history of its own, working in and around Northallerton from as far back as 1896. It moved into its new premises on Standard Way, Northallerton back in the mid 1980’s and now has regional offices in Scarborough and Harrogate.
Langtons (Northallerton) Ltd was a local steel fabrication company working for mainly the farming community specialising in agricultural installations. This business was acquired by Walter Thompson in 1961 and following the move to its new premises on Finkills Way, Northallerton in 1975, the company then started to develop the steel fabrication side of the business to sit alongside its thriving products market. Following on from its 45 year stay at Finkills Way, Langtons have now moved into a fully equipped modern workshop based on Thurston Road, Northallerton. Langtons can trace its origins back to 1830 when it operated a forge and ironworks business on Friarage Street, Northallerton.
FT Construction Group Timeline
Langtons Ltd Established
1830
Tom Willoughby Established
1896
George Fordy & Son Established
1908
Walter Thompson Established
1920
Walter Thompson Acquires Langtons
1961
FT Construction Group Formed
1987
FT Group Acquires Tom Willoughby
1994
Langtons Ltd Established
1830
Tom Willoughby Established
1896
George Fordy & Son Established
1908
Walter Thompson Established
1920
Walter Thompson Acquires Langtons
1961
FT Construction Group Formed
1987
FT Group Acquires Tom Willoughby
1994
Supply Chain
We understand that how we manage our supply chain has a significant impact on our projects—not only on build quality, but also on how smoothly each project runs. We don’t select subcontractors based on price alone; we carefully consider the specific skills required to match the complexity and location of every project, ensuring the right expertise is in place on site.
We work closely with a trusted network of suppliers, subcontractors, and specialist partners who share our commitment to quality, safety, sustainability, and reliability. By building long-term relationships, we ensure every project benefits from the best materials, expertise, and innovation available.
Considerate Constructors Scheme
We are extremely aware of the impact our construction activities have on our local communities. By actively raising our operating standards, reducing disruption and minimising environmental damage, we are ensuring this impact is a positive one.
Partner Member of the Considerate Constructors Scheme
We became Partner Members of the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) in 2008. As Partner Members we wholeheartedly embrace the scheme’s principles which now form an integral part of our on-site operations.
Under the scheme, and in conjunction with our Health and Safety Policy, we regularly visit local schools and colleges to raise awareness of the dangers of construction sites and involve the school children in interactive presentations, quizzes and poster competitions as well as enthusiastically received visits from our very own mascots, Willow & Tommy!
Safe, Clean, Responsible Sites
Each of our sites are regularly inspected by Independent Scheme Monitors ensuring we comply with CCS criteria. Ensuring our sites are safe, clean and responsible.
Aftercare
We pride ourselves on our high levels of service delivery at all stages of the Construction Process and Client feedback has highlighted the importance of continuing these high levels even after Practical Completion.
Our procedures have been developed to ensure that the building user has a smooth transition from the Construction Phase through to full building occupation. Responsibility for this role passes to our Post Contract Services Manager, James Pilmoor. James and his dedicated team, not only provide a single point of contact to deal with minor issues that may be encountered during the initial occupation, but also provides knowledge and experience of the building systems to ensure a smooth occupation.
As a member of the FT Construction Group we also undertake, through our sister company Tom Willoughby Limited, a number of Measured Term Maintenance Contracts in the area and are, therefore able to offer a full 24 hour, 365 day locally based Emergency Call out service should this be required.
We Are Proud That We Are Currently Certified To The Following
We Are Proud That We Are Currently Certified To The Following
