At Core Drilling Specialists, we believe the foundation of excellent service lies in continued investment — not just in people, but in cutting-edge technology that elevates the speed, safety, and precision of our work. We’re proud to announce a major new capital investment of £300,000 into our fleet of specialist machinery, including the addition of:

• Brokk 70 – Compact demolition robot for confined and sensitive environments
• Brokk 200 – Heavy-duty remote-controlled demolition solution for tough applications
• DSW 1510 Multi-Wire Saw – High-performance sawing system for mass concrete and stone cutting

These strategic additions reflect our long-term commitment to innovation and excellence, giving us new capabilities to handle complex projects across the construction, infrastructure, and demolition sectors.

Raising the Bar with the Brokk 70

The Brokk 70 is one of the most advanced compact demolition robots in the world, built for precision and agility in tight access areas such as basements, lift shafts, and restricted urban sites. Weighing under 560kg, the Brokk 70 can deliver powerful controlled demolition without compromising structural integrity — ideal for delicate environments like hospitals, airports, and heritage buildings.

• Compact size for confined access
• Electric-powered, reducing emissions and improving air quality indoors
• Capable of tackling concrete, brick, block, and more with surprising force

This robot significantly reduces manual handling risks and delivers higher productivity with fewer operatives, contributing to safer and more sustainable job sites.

Scaling Up with the Brokk 200

To complement precision with power, we’ve also added the Brokk 200 — a larger, more versatile machine built for heavy-duty demolition tasks such as bridge work, industrial dismantling, and concrete breakout operations.

• Delivers the power of a 3-ton excavator in a compact 2.1-ton frame
• Equipped with a variety of attachments for chiselling, crunching, and breaking
• Fully remote-controlled for maximum operator safety in hazardous zones

The Brokk 200 helps us tackle high-risk and high-volume tasks more safely, reducing time on-site while increasing accuracy and consistency.

The DSW 1510 Multi-Wire Saw – Precision Meets Productivity

Our investment also includes the DSW 1510 Multi-Wire Saw, a game-changing wire saw designed for large-scale concrete and stone cutting, especially in industrial or infrastructure settings where standard cutting tools fall short.

• Uses multiple diamond wires simultaneously for faster cutting rates
• Capable of slicing through mass reinforced concrete, granite, limestone, and pre-cast structures
• Low-vibration technology protects surrounding materials and structures

This high-spec machine significantly increases cutting speed, reduces dust and noise, and allows for near-surgical precision on large and complex cuts — perfect for bridge sections, machine bases, slabs, and barrier removals.

Why This Investment Matters to Our Clients

This investment isn’t just about upgrading our fleet — it’s about enhancing our service offering, responding to complex client needs, and setting a new standard in the industry.

Here’s what this means for you:

Faster project turnarounds, Improved safety and reduced manual labour
Greater flexibility on site — from confined access to large-scale work
Lower environmental impact with electric and efficient systems

With this expanded capability, Core Drilling Specialists is ready to take on even more technically challenging and time-sensitive projects — from transport infrastructure to commercial strip-outs to bespoke structural alterations.

Looking to the Future

As we continue to grow across Scotland and the UK, our focus remains the same: to deliver specialist concrete solutions with precision, reliability, and innovation at the core.

Whether you’re a main contractor, facilities manager, or engineering consultant, partnering with Core Drilling Specialists means working with a team that invests in excellence — and in your success.

At Core Drilling Specialists, we’ve always believed that consistent investment in our people, equipment, and infrastructure is the key to delivering exceptional service. That’s why we’re excited to announce another major milestone in our journey — the addition of a third industrial unit at Inchcross Industrial Estate, Whitburn Road, Bathgate. This expansion marks a significant step forward as we continue to scale our operations to meet the growing demand for our diamond drilling, sawing, concrete cutting, and specialist construction services across Scotland and the wider UK.

Why a Third Unit — and Why Now?

As our customer base has grown and the scope of our projects has expanded, so too has the need for increased capacity — both in terms of storage and operations. The addition of a third unit gives us: More space for equipment & tools
 from state-of-the-art drilling rigs to high-spec saws and dust control systems, we’re now better equipped to store, maintain, and mobilise our tools more efficiently than ever. Dedicated areas for maintenance & repairs
. Our technicians will benefit from improved workshop space, allowing for faster in-house servicing and turnaround times — keeping equipment operational and clients’ projects on schedule. Improved logistics & dispatch efficiency 
having an additional unit strategically placed in Bathgate streamlines our van loading, crew coordination, and materials handling — reducing delays and allowing us to cover a wider geographical area with greater ease. Room to grow our team
 the new premises support our plans to take on more skilled operatives and apprentices as we continue to invest in local talent and strengthen our in-house expertise.

Strategic Location: Inchcross Industrial Estate, Bathgate

Located just off Whitburn Road, Inchcross Industrial Estate is a prime site for industrial and construction businesses. With easy access to the M8 corridor, we’re now even better placed to serve clients from Glasgow to Edinburgh, and everywhere in between. This central location strengthens our ability to respond quickly to projects across the central belt and makes us more agile when handling high-volume or short-notice works.

A clear sign of long-term commitment – The addition of this third unit is more than just a practical decision — it’s a clear sign of our commitment to long-term growth, innovation, and industry leadership. At Core Drilling Specialists, we are not just reacting to market needs; we are proactively building the infrastructure to lead the way in our field. From high-rise developments and civil engineering contracts to smaller bespoke projects, our clients trust us to deliver safe, precise, and professional results — every time. This expansion means we’ll be able to do just that, but on an even larger and more responsive scale.

Looking Ahead – We’d like to thank our clients, suppliers, and dedicated team for their continued support, which has made this growth possible. As we settle into our new unit and ramp up operations, we’re excited about what’s ahead — and we’re better positioned than ever to support Scotland’s built environment. Whether you’re a returning client or discovering Core Drilling Specialists for the first time, now is the perfect time to connect with us.

At Core Drilling Specialists, we’re proud to announce the latest step in our continued growth — the purchase of two brand-new vans to support our expanding operations across Scotland.

As demand for our specialist diamond drilling, sawing, and concrete cutting services continues to rise, maintaining speed, flexibility, and reliability on-site is more important than ever. These new additions to our fleet ensure we stay ahead of schedule, deliver services efficiently, and respond swiftly to customer needs — whether it’s a last-minute emergency call-out or a large-scale commercial project.

Each van is fully kitted out with the latest tools, safety equipment, and environmentally conscious features to meet the standards our clients have come to expect. More than just a practical investment, these vans represent our ongoing commitment to:

• Minimising downtime
• Improving response times
• Maintaining a modern, professional presence on every job site

We’ve also taken the opportunity to brand the vans with our updated company graphics, so you’ll spot the Core Drilling Specialists name on roads and construction sites across the country. It’s just one more way we’re reinforcing our reputation for quality workmanship and trusted service — wherever the job takes us.

Supporting Growth with Smarter Logistics

These new vans represent more than just an upgrade in transportation — they are a key part of our ongoing strategy to enhance project mobility, reduce response times, and improve the overall experience for our clients throughout Scotland and the UK.

With an ever-growing number of commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects under our belt, our teams are in high demand.

Each van has been specially outfitted to meet the needs of our crews and the challenges of modern construction environments. From reinforced racking and secure tool storage to dedicated compartments for PPE and wet-cutting equipment, every inch of space has been carefully designed to support safety, efficiency, and compliance on-site.

In line with our commitment to sustainability, the vans also meet stringent emissions standards — supporting our goal to reduce environmental impact wherever possible, especially when operating in city centres and low-emission zones.

A Team-First Investment

Behind every machine, vehicle, and tool is our team — and this investment also supports them. The new vans mean:

• Less downtime between jobs
• Better organisation and access to equipment
• Quicker mobilisation for emergency call-outs
• Safer transport of heavy or specialist gear

By giving our crews the tools they need to operate more effectively, we’re empowering them to maintain the highest standards on every job, no matter the complexity or location.

We are incredibly proud to announce that Core Drilling Specialists has been honoured with the Diamond Award 2025 by the International Association of Concrete Drillers and Sawers (IACDS) — a global recognition of excellence, innovation, and leadership in the concrete cutting and drilling industry.

This prestigious accolade is a major milestone in our company’s history and serves as an international endorsement of the quality, safety, and technical excellence that define our work across Scotland and beyond.

What Is the IACDS Diamond Award?

The IACDS Diamond Award is one of the highest honours in the global concrete cutting and drilling sector. Presented annually, it recognises companies that demonstrate:

• Outstanding technical execution
• Innovation in concrete sawing and drilling applications
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices
• Contribution to advancing industry standards

It is awarded following a rigorous judging process that includes project evaluation, technical documentation, sustainability impact, and overall presentation. To be recognised by a body as respected and internationally connected as IACDS is an achievement we are proud to share with our team, our clients, and the wider construction community.

A Spotlight on Our Award-Winning Work: Tunnel Vision at the Scottish National Galleries

Among our award submission highlights was the Tunnel Vision project—an enormous undertaking at the Scottish National Galleries that stands as the largest project of its kind Core Drilling Specialists has ever tackled.

Part of a £38.63 million renovation, our role in this landmark development was multi-faceted due to the complexity of the structural alterations and the unknowns within the historic fabric of the building. Spread over three challenging phases, the project required constant problem-solving, flexibility, and seamless coordination with other stakeholders.

Crucially, The Gallery remained open to the public throughout the entire duration, which demanded our close collaboration with Temporary Works Engineers to adapt and re-engineer their designs in real time, ensuring safe execution within tight spatial and public constraints.

A key operational challenge was the removal of mass concrete. Our team utilised 360-degree excavators across two levels to lift materials from the lower substructure up to ground level, where it was safely removed from site. Acknowledging the environmental impact, we brought in an external waste management partner to handle material responsibly, strategically placing skips for optimal site flow and reduced disruption.

This project exemplifies our capacity to manage high-stakes environments, cultural sensitivities, technical limitations—and still deliver with exceptional quality.

A Win That Reflects Years of Dedication

Our win in 2025 reflects not just one project or innovation, but years of steady growth, continuous investment, and a company-wide commitment to excellence. From specialist concrete cutting in high-security facilities to precision diamond drilling in infrastructure projects, Core Drilling Specialists has built a reputation for taking on technically demanding jobs and delivering with consistency.

The winning submission included a showcase of one of our most complex projects to date, involving:

• Remote-controlled robotic demolition in a live healthcare setting using Brokk machinery
• High-precision wall and floor sawing with minimal disruption to surrounding structures
• Innovative noise and dust control measures for sensitive environments
• Collaborative engineering planning with contractors, designers, and stakeholders

A Testament to Our Team

At the heart of this award is our incredible team. From engineers and operatives on the ground to project managers and support staff behind the scenes, this award is a reflection of their skill, professionalism, and tireless work ethic.

Winning this award demonstrates that Scottish based contractors can compete and win on a global stage. It also speaks to the value of our ongoing investments in:

• Training and development
• New vehicles and logistics
• High-performance equipment

What This Means for Our Clients

For our clients, this award offers assurance that when you choose Core Drilling, you’re choosing a company that:

• Meets and exceeds international best practice
• Operates to the highest health and safety standards
• Has the capability to manage complex, large-scale, and sensitive environments
• Is constantly innovating to deliver better results, faster and safer

We are proud to set the bar for excellence in the concrete drilling and cutting sector and will continue to raise that bar with every project we undertake.

Building on Global Recognition

As we look to the future, this award energises our mission to stay at the forefront of our industry. With demand for specialist services growing across infrastructure, energy, healthcare, commercial construction, and civil engineering, Core Drilling Specialists is poised for a new chapter of innovation and delivery.

We’d like to thank the IACDS, our dedicated team, our clients, and our partners for helping make this achievement possible. We share this award with all of you.

At Core Drilling Specialists, we don’t just drill into concrete—we build into the communities we serve. We’re proud to share our recent involvement in a meaningful project alongside BAM Construction, supporting the relocation and reopening of the much-loved Templehall Community Gym in Kirkcaldy.

The project emerged from the wider £13 million redevelopment of the Templehall Community Hub, which BAM is delivering as part of an ambitious masterplan to improve facilities and opportunities in the local area. However, the original design did not include a dedicated gym space.

Thanks to BAM’s flexibility, local advocacy, and the support of supply chain partners like us, the project team came together to repurpose the former annex office building into a new gym facility—and all in just five weeks.

Delivering More Than a Building: A Community Wealth Building Project

The Templehall Community Hub is more than bricks and mortar—it’s a catalyst for positive change. As part of a Community Wealth Building initiative for Southwest Fife, BAM extended an invitation to its network to help breathe new life into a space that’s served the people of Kirkcaldy since 1966.

We at Core Drilling Specialists were proud to answer that call, contributing specialist labour, time, and equipment completely free of charge. In total, over £145,000 worth of labour and materials were donated by BAM and its supply chain—making this a genuine act of community collaboration.

A Fast Turnaround, A Lasting Legacy

The timeline was ambitious. From initial agreement to finished facility, the full renovation took just five weeks. Working closely with BAM and other supply chain partners, we tackled essential concrete cutting and internal structural works needed to convert the annex into a safe, functional, and energising gym space.

The result? A revitalised home for Templehall Community Gym—delivered just in time to mark an incredible milestone.

On 1st March 2025, exactly 59 years since the club was first established, the doors opened once again to the public in their brand new gym.

A Word from BAM Construction

We’re honoured to share this heartfelt message from Madison Smith, Trainee Social Sustainability Co-ordinator at BAM Construction, who played a key role in bringing partners together:

“As you know, as part of the overall masterplan for the new Templehall Community Hub, a Community Wealth Building Project presented the opportunity for BAM and our supply chain at Southwest Fife to showcase our collective skills and willingness to get involved in delivering a new space for Templehall Community Gym, which was established on 1st March 1966.

Fast forward 59 years, on the club’s 59th birthday, the doors to their new gym opened once again. This is thanks in no small part to all of you.

Thanks again to all of you for making this possible!

Regards,
Madison Smith
Trainee Social Sustainability Co-Ordinator
BAM Construction Ltd”

Why We Got Involved

At Core Drilling Specialists, we believe our work can go beyond technical performance. This project gave us a chance to use our capabilities to give something back, supporting not just a building, but the wellbeing of future generations.

Templehall Community Gym has been a cornerstone of fitness, youth development, and local pride for nearly six decades. To play even a small part in its next chapter is a privilege we don’t take lightly.

Looking Ahead

This project reflects what’s possible when construction companies and contractors work with communities, not just in them. We’re thankful to BAM for leading the way and for including us in this incredible initiative.

To everyone involved—thank you. And to the Templehall Community Gym team and members: we wish you every success in your new home!

This month, Core Drilling Specialists (CDS) is delighted to announce the return of Steven Halkett to the company. Steven, who previously worked with CDS for five years, initially joined as a labourer and advanced through the ranks to become Contracts Manager for the Fire Protection division.

After three years working in London and the South East of England, where he gained invaluable experience in Fire Protection, Steven has rejoined CDS to focus exclusively on leading and expanding the Fire Protection division.

Steven is stepping into a thriving division that has seen significant growth in recent years. Under CDS’s leadership, the Fire Protection division has established itself as one of Scotland’s premier providers in the sector. The company has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality fire safety solutions, supported by a skilled team and a commitment to innovation.

Managing Director Scott Murray expressed his enthusiasm about Steven’s return:

“We’re thrilled to welcome Steven back to CDS. His wealth of experience and proven leadership will undoubtedly help strengthen our position as one of Scotland’s leading Fire Protection providers. Steven’s vision for growth aligns perfectly with the company’s goals, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for this division under his guidance.”

CDS has established a strong reputation in Fire Protection, and Steven is stepping into a thriving division. His focus will be on not only maintaining the high standards set by the company but also driving innovation and growth.

Steven Halkett shared his excitement about rejoining CDS:

“It feels great to be back at CDS and I’m eager to contribute to the Fire Protection division’s success once again. My time in London provided me with invaluable insights into the industry, and I’m looking forward to applying what I’ve learned to help take this division to the next level. We have an incredible team, and the opportunities ahead are truly exciting.”

With the construction and safety sectors evolving rapidly, the demand for innovative, reliable fire safety solutions is at an all-time high. Under Steven’s leadership, the Fire Protection division is well-positioned to capitalise on these opportunities, delivering exceptional services to clients across Scotland.

The entire CDS team is thrilled to have Steven back and looks forward to the positive impact his appointment will bring. His vision, expertise, and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly drive the Fire Protection division toward even greater achievements in the years to come.

Core Drilling Specialists Commend Outstanding Operator Performance on Robertson Group Projects in East Scotland

Core Drilling Specialists, a leading provider of precision drilling services across the Central Belt of Scotland, are proud to highlight the exceptional efforts of three of their operators currently working on Robertson Group construction projects in the East of Scotland. With three active contracts underway, the commitment and professionalism of these operators have significantly contributed to the success of the ongoing projects.

As part of the collaboration with the Robertson Group, one of Scotland’s most prominent construction and infrastructure firms, Core Drilling Specialists have deployed highly skilled operators to execute complex drilling tasks across multiple sites. Their contributions are critical in ensuring that the projects remain on schedule and meet the high standards expected by the Robertson Group.

Celebrating Excellence on the Ground

The three operators, whose names are synonymous with reliability and expertise within the company, have demonstrated outstanding dedication and technical skill, earning recognition from both Core Drilling Specialists and the Robertson Group.

Thomas McFarlane, Paul Ogg, Piotr Neidzialekhave been key driving forces at the contracts spanning across the Capital city where their precision in executing core drilling operations has ensured the project’s foundation work is completed with unparalleled accuracy. Their proactive approach to problem-solving and commitment to safety protocols has set a benchmark for the team.

A Testament to Core Drilling Specialists’ Commitment

Scott Murray, Managing Director of CDS expressed his pride in the team’s performance: “Our operators are the backbone of our operations, and it’s fantastic to see their hard work and expertise being recognised. The success of these projects is a direct result of their dedication and the strong partnership we have with the Robertson Group. We look forward to continuing this momentum and delivering exceptional results on all our current and future projects.”

The ongoing projects with Robertson Group reflect Core Drilling Specialists’ ability to meet the demands of large-scale construction projects while upholding their commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency. With a focus on innovation and excellence, the company continues to lead the way in the core drilling sector, providing vital services that support Scotland’s thriving construction industry.

About Core Drilling Specialists

Core Drilling Specialists is a Bathgate-based company specialising in precision drilling services for a wide range of construction and infrastructure projects. With a reputation for quality and reliability, the company serves clients across Scotland, providing expert solutions that meet the highest industry standards.

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and meeting the demands of significant contracts, Core Drilling Specialists (CDS) has announced a substantial investment in a state-of-the-art 50K floor saw. This latest addition to their equipment arsenal comes in anticipation of several new contract starts, including a high-profile project at the RAF Leuchars airbase.

The decision to procure the advanced floor saw underscores CDS’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for their clients’ diverse needs. The RAF Leuchars airbase contract, in particular, demands extensive cutting works, fire stopping, demolition, temporary support works, and asbestos removal. The large meterage of cutting works required for this project necessitates specialised equipment capable of delivering precision and efficiency, which the 50K floor saw is poised to provide.

The significance of securing the contract at RAF Leuchars cannot be overstated. As one of the United Kingdom’s key military installations, the airbase plays a pivotal role in national defense operations. By being entrusted with crucial aspects of infrastructure enhancement and maintenance, CDS solidifies its position as a trusted partner in critical projects of national importance.

CDS Managing Director, Scott Murray, highlights:

“We are thrilled to announce our investment in the 50K floor saw, which marks a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering excellence in our services.

“This acquisition enables us to tackle complex projects with precision and efficiency, ensuring that we meet and exceed the expectations of our clients.”

The contract at RAF Leuchars adds to CDS’s already robust portfolio, further bolstering the company’s position in the industry. With the second half of 2024 shaping up to be a period of substantial growth and activity, the investment in the floor saw positions CDS to capitalise on emerging opportunities and continue to deliver exceptional results for its clients.

In addition to the contract at RAF Leuchars, CDS anticipates undertaking a series of projects across various sectors, further diversifying its portfolio and strengthening its foothold in the market. The company remains committed to innovation, quality, and client satisfaction, principles that have guided its success thus far and will continue to drive its growth trajectory in the future.