Every week, we will be sharing some of the fantastic work going on around site as part of Halewood’s Grand Designs Project, which is on a DIY mission to give our factory an uplifting makeover and summer spruce.
Today, we caught up with Dave Smyth and David Hughes who have been busying painting various parts of the plant, including walkways, tunnels, fire doors, cafeterias, and most recently, the downstairs corridor in the Admin Building.
Listening to this dynamic DIY duo talk, you would think the pair had been firm friends for years, but they actually only met for the first time four weeks ago, when they volunteered to be part of the Grand Designs Project.
Dave Hughes, a production worker in the North Works, in Trim & Final, said: “Believe it or not, David and I have only known each other for a month but we have had a real laugh together since we started on the project and have become good mates.
Asked why he decided to take part in the Grand Design’s interiors initiative, Dave, said: “Before I joined JLR eight years ago, I had my own painting and decorating business, so for me, it was a way of using the skills I had to make a difference at work.
“I think we can all agree that certain parts of the plant are looking tired and need a revamp, which is why this project is such a good idea and everyone can play a part in making the factory a more attractive and enjoyable place to be.
“It’s great that the company has given us the opportunity to do something a bit different to our day job. I’ve really enjoyed picking up a paint brush again and making new friends like David along the way has been an added bonus!”
David Hughes, also a production worker, in water testing, in the Customer Acceptance and Release (CAR) area, said: “Unlike Dave, I haven’t got any decorating experience, but I wanted to get involved in the Grand Designs project because it was a chance for me to do something new, after 11 years working on the line.
“I’ve learnt a lot from Dave and have picked up some clever tips and techniques along the way. The whole experience has given me the confidence to decorate my own house now- something I never thought I would do, as I like to fix cars and bikes in my spare time- I’ve never seen myself as a painter!”
When asked what advice he would give other employees keen to get involved in the Grand Designs project, he said: “Just go for it. You don’t need any skills or qualifications, just a willingness and enthusiasm to do something different- the rest of it, you can pick up as you go along.”
“I think we can all agree that certain parts of the plant are looking tired and need a revamp, which is why this project is such a good idea and everyone can play a part in making the factory a more attractive and enjoyable place to be."
