We are deeply saddened to share the news of the recent passing of two esteemed former colleagues, David Sherwood and Peter Shiells, both of whom made a lasting impact on Bachy Soletanche and the wider construction industry.
David Sherwood
David Sherwood, our former Managing Director, colleague, mentor and friend, passed away on 9th April 2025 at the age of 81.
David was a true pioneer in the field of geotechnical engineering. After graduating from City University in 1968, he spent over a decade between Soil Mechanics and Stent Foundations before joining the Bachy Group in 1985. He was instrumental in establishing Bachy’s permanent UK presence, buying Piggot Foundations and part of Foundation Engineering (UK) in 1986. He guided the business through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. Following the merger of Bachy and Soletanche in 1997 David became Managing Director of Bachy Soletanche in the UK, and then Deputy Managing Director of the global Soletanche Bachy Group.
Under his leadership, the company evolved from a specialist subcontractor into an organisation capable of acting as a principal contractor on major joint ventures, contributing to landmark projects such as the Jubilee Line Extension, the Channel Tunnel Rail Link and the Copenhagen Metro. David’s strategic foresight, technical acumen and commercial awareness shaped not only the future of Bachy Soletanche, but the broader ground engineering sector.
He served as Chair of the Federation of Piling Specialists (FPS) in 1990 and President of the European Federation of Foundation Contractors (EFFC) from 2001 to 2003. Recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the FPS in 2023, David worked tirelessly to raise the profile of the industry, championing fairer contract conditions, improved site standards and advances in plant and equipment.
Respected across the industry for his energy, charisma and leadership, David inspired a generation of engineers and helped pave the way for the modern geotechnical landscape we work in today. He leaves behind a lasting legacy and will be remembered with exceptional fondness and admiration.
Our thoughts are with David’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of working with him.
Peter Shiells
Peter Shiells, a respected colleague, mentor and friend, who held the role of Executive Divisional Director, passed away on 9th May 2025 at the age of 90.
During his 14 years with Bachy Soletanche his leadership played a crucial role in establishing our presence on major infrastructure schemes, helping the company to branch out into large-scale tunnelling and civil engineering projects. He joined the then Bachy Group in 1987 following the acquisition of Foundation Engineering.
Peter’s first role with Bachy was Joint Venture Project Manager for the Limehouse Link Tunnel in London. This marked 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 CTRL. He brought a wealth of experience and, authoritative presence that inspired those around him.
Beyond his contributions to Bachy Soletanche, Peter was a prominent voice in the wider construction industry. In 1999 Peter received an OBE in recognition of his service to the construction Industry and held several prestigious roles, including Chairman of the Federation of Piling Specialists, 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).
Peter will be remembered not only for his technical expertise and his 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.
We offer our sincere condolences to Peter’s family and friends at this difficult time.
