Caseware UK (AP4) 2024.0.164 2024.0.164 2024-12-312025-05-232025-05-232024-12-312025-05-23truetrueConstruction of commercial buildingsfalse472024-01-0147truefalsefalse 04250084 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 04250084 2024-12-31 04250084 2023-12-31 04250084 2023-01-01 04250084 1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 1 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 04250084 5 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 5 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 04250084 6 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 6 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 04250084 d:CompanySecretary1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director1 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director6 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director7 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director8 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director8 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director9 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Director10 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:RegisteredOffice 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:Buildings e:LongLeaseholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:Buildings e:LongLeaseholdAssets 2024-12-31 04250084 e:Buildings e:LongLeaseholdAssets 2023-12-31 04250084 e:FurnitureFittings 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:FurnitureFittings 2024-12-31 04250084 e:FurnitureFittings 2023-12-31 04250084 e:FurnitureFittings e:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:OwnedOrFreeholdAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:Goodwill 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:ComputerSoftware 2024-12-31 04250084 e:ComputerSoftware 2023-12-31 04250084 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2024-12-31 04250084 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments 2023-12-31 04250084 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments e:WithinOneYear 2024-12-31 04250084 e:CurrentFinancialInstruments e:WithinOneYear 2023-12-31 04250084 e:UKTax 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:UKTax 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 04250084 e:ShareCapital 2024-12-31 04250084 e:ShareCapital 2023-12-31 04250084 e:ShareCapital 2023-01-01 04250084 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2024-12-31 04250084 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-01-01 2023-12-31 04250084 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-12-31 04250084 e:RetainedEarningsAccumulatedLosses 2023-01-01 04250084 e:AcceleratedTaxDepreciationDeferredTax 2024-12-31 04250084 e:AcceleratedTaxDepreciationDeferredTax 2023-12-31 04250084 e:OtherDeferredTax 2024-12-31 04250084 e:OtherDeferredTax 2023-12-31 04250084 d:OrdinaryShareClass1 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:OrdinaryShareClass1 2024-12-31 04250084 d:OrdinaryShareClass1 2023-12-31 04250084 d:FRS102 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:Audited 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:FullAccounts 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 d:PrivateLimitedCompanyLtd 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:WithinOneYear 2024-12-31 04250084 e:WithinOneYear 2023-12-31 04250084 e:BetweenOneFiveYears 2024-12-31 04250084 e:BetweenOneFiveYears 2023-12-31 04250084 e:ComputerSoftware e:InternallyGeneratedIntangibleAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 e:ComputerSoftware e:OwnedIntangibleAssets 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 04250084 f:PoundSterling 2024-01-01 2024-12-31 iso4217:GBP xbrli:shares xbrli:pure

Company Registration Number 04250084























MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED





FINANCIAL STATEMENTS





 31 DECEMBER 2024
























img6719.png

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

COMPANY INFORMATION


Directors
Mr R J D Lowery (appointed 6 January 2025)
Mr D M Meldrum 
Mr J S Mellis 
Mr S P Bissell (resigned 20 December 2024)
Mr A Booth 
Mr J Johnson 




Company secretary
Mr R J D Lowery



Registered number
04250084



Registered office
Pantheon Building
Lancaster Road

Dunston

Gateshead

Tyne and Wear

NE11 9JW




Independent auditors
Armstrong Watson Audit Limited
Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditors

One Strawberry Lane

Newcastle upon Tyne

NE1 4BX





 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

CONTENTS



Page
Strategic Report
 
1 - 4
Directors' Report
 
5 - 6
Independent Auditors' Report
 
7 - 10
Statement of Comprehensive Income
 
11
Statement of Financial Position
 
12
Statement of Changes in Equity
 
13
Notes to the Financial Statements
 
14 - 26


 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Introduction
 
The Directors present their strategic report and financial results for the period ended 31 December 2024.
Principal Activity
The principal activity of the company is that of a construction contractor. 

Business review
 
The Meldrum group of companies performed strongly again during 2024, representing the year of consolidation and preparation for the next phase of growth that we had planned.
Reported turnover was broadly flat at £54,324k (2023 - £54,937k), whereas profitability improved substantially at both gross and net profit levels.
Inflation, which had presented significant challenges in the previous year, eased significantly during 2024 and the cost increases that had been experienced previously were factored into the pricing of new contracts delivered during the year.  This, together with a keen focus on driving efficiencies within all Group Operating Companies and across overhead activities, helped to deliver a much improved gross margin of 15.1% (2023 - 12.1%). 
Thanks to the stronger margins on contracts, the profit for the year before taxation also improved and finished at £2,467k, equal to 4.54% of turnover (2023 - £1,921k, 3.50%).  This was also achieved after a significant 22% increase in overhead spend to £5,806k (2023 - £4,755k) as the group invested in key hires and promotions at board and other levels such as business development and pre-contract/tender support targeted at growing future turnover.
Huge focus was also given within the period to succession planning, starting with the transformation in ownership from an individual Director to an Employee Owned Trust (EOT). This transition has been well received by clients, suppliers and staff; and given the  success of this process whilst increasing both Group profitability and cash; the board believes the Group has achieved an excellent result in 2024.
At the same time as maintaining a keen focus on the profit and loss account, the underlying financial health of the business has been managed carefully.
The current ratio (a key performance indicator closely monitored by the board) remained healthy throughout the year, ending 2024 at 1.16.  This was a slight reduction on the position at the end of 2023 (1.19), mainly caused by the group moving back into a payment position with respect to corporation tax; without this the ratio would have increased slightly.  
Cash flow held steady throughout the year to produce a closing balance of £9.8m (2023 - £9.0m) despite significant outflows in relation to the set-up of the Employee Ownership Trust (see below).  This reflected the conversion of the increased profits generated during the year into working capital and cash.
Detailed business plans and a continued recruitment strategy allowed us to prepare through the period for an anticipated increase in volume through the latter half of 2025 and well into 2026. This anticipated increase has already been seen to be turning into a reality with the Group securing several contracts and signing up to a number of large value PCSA’s guaranteeing the predicted growth through to the end of 2026. At the same time, Business Development initiatives continue to provide positive results with the growth in our pipeline of opportunities to £500m, and circa £120m in value for projects which are down to final stage negotiations alone.
2024 had challenges across the whole construction industry, skilled labour shortages continued across several disciplines which continued to place inflationary demands on wages as companies competed for a smaller pool of available candidates. The group continued working on initiatives to focus further on staff training & development, flexibility, and welfare as well as enhanced remuneration packages to aid with both retention and recruitment. Continued success in this area has been proven, with staff numbers being maintained above the 220 number, and for 2025 we look forward to a year with a stable and motivated workforce.

The demand for construction activities in 2024 stabilised along with the inflationary pressures witnessed in the
Page 1

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

previous two years. However, new economic pressures with the change of Government in the year have become evident which has led to a noticeable ‘slow down’ in decision making due to uncertainty on policy going forward and the tightening of spend across any projects requiring Local or National Authority support. That said, our pipeline as detailed above appears to be strong and eclectic enough to withstand these pressures.
The board believes, that despite all the significant economic challenges over the last few years, the Group has demonstrated its remarkable resilience and delivered another improved financial result for 2024. This has allowed further support for our Foundation which continues to grow with greater staff participation than ever before, and aid to further worthy causes amongst local ‘organic’ charities.
During 2024 the group invested further and appointed additional members to the board, further strengthening the skills and knowledge, to equip and underpin the wants and needs of the various Operating delivery Companies. We have also invested to allow for a greater geographical reach and allow for a far improved customer service outside of the North East region, with new bases established in Cambridgeshire and Yorkshire. As the financial results continue to show, we have seen really pleasing development within all the individual operating companies, Construction, Civils, Facilities, Building Services and the newly formed Fire Engineering business.
The Board monitors the challenges outlined above and those that still exist for the year/years ahead and will no doubt continue. However, given the results recorded over the last three financial years, the growth in both cash at bank and profitability forecasted for this current year and the relationships forged with many clients looking to place repeat business with ourselves; we believe we are well placed and equipped to look to the future with great confidence.

Page 2

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Principal risks and uncertainties
 
The board has undertaken an assessment of the principal risks facing the company that are described below
with an explanation of how they are mitigated. The board continues to keep the company’s system of risk
management and internal control under review to ensure the principal risks remain identified and are
appropriately managed.
Health and Safety
A serious accident in the workplace could cause significant harm to employees, suppliers, customers, members of the public or indeed the company’s reputation and ability to win work. There are weekly and monthly health and safety performance reporting at both operational and board levels. Health and Safety audits are carried out by both company officers and external independent consultants to ensure adherence to both company policies and procedures & HSE legislation. We have refreshed and invented new company wide programmes in order to drive behavioural safety across all staff and departments. This has obviously been extended to include for all latest advice and protocols with regards to safe operating procedures regarding social distancing.
Liquidity risk 
The company managed this by monitoring cash flow to ensure that it is able to meet its foreseeable debts as
they fall due and to invest in any surplus cash assets efficiently and securely. Medium and short-term debt
facilities, currently unutilised, are in place to ensure the company has sufficient funds available for both day to
day operations and any opportunities.
Credit risk 
The company’s principal assets are debtors and work in progress for clients. The credit risk from trade debtors is continuously monitored on a project-by-project basis during the tender process and consistent with the total trade debt portfolio. Work in progress is converted to billable debtors on a monthly basis and due debts are rigorously collected to contractual terms.
General economic conditions 
Market limitation on availability of new opportunities could put pressure on the business to secure contracts with inadequate margin/risk profiles or within difficult client/contractual arrangement that could adversely impact the company’s performance. The company’s multi-disciplinary experience and early engagement initiatives result in enhanced pre-tender certainty. Tender review meetings and project progress meetings from both technical and cost perspectives provide additional analysis to guide the process of generating attractive new business.
 
Going Concern
The company has an excellent ‘quality’ pipeline of opportunities, a strong cash balance, no external debt (other than asset finance). The directors have considered several scenarios and sensitivities in relation to working capital, gross margin reduction and a reduction in the pipeline of opportunities which indicate sufficient headroom within the currently available cash and agreed available funding facilities. 
Taking into account the healthy pipeline, current resources along with the positive forecasted future activity of the company and its banking facilities, the directors have no reason to believe that the company will continue in operation for the foreseeable future.
 
Page 3

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

STRATEGIC REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024


Supply chain risk 
The company’s continued success is reliant on maintaining strong working relationships with all its suppliers.
Significant effort is placed on working with suppliers to ensure minimal disruption to the supply chain with this
being a real area of focus, the company will continue to work proactively with suppliers to maintain ongoing product supply.

Financial key performance indicators
 
The management team monitor and report to the board a broad range of financial and non-financial performance indicators. The key metrics to assess the business’ performance are as follows:


2024
2023
2022
Gross profit margin

15.1%

9.5%

7.3%
 
 
Current ratio

1.16

1.21

1.15
 
 

The reduction in the current ratio in 2024 is the result of the group moving into a payment position with respect
to corporation tax and the balance due being recorded within current liabilities. 
The Group remains cash positive and expects the current ratio to remain above a minimum target figure of 1.15
in the 2025 financial year.


This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf.



................................................
Mr D M Meldrum
Director

Date: 23 May 2025

Page 4

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
DIRECTORS' REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

The directors present their report and the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2024.

Directors' responsibilities statement

The directors are responsible for preparing the Strategic Report, the Directors' Report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
 
Company law requires the directors to prepare financial statements for each financial year. Under that law the directors have elected to prepare the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice), including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland'. Under company law the directors must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the profit or loss of the Company for that period.

 In preparing these financial statements, the directors are required to:


select suitable accounting policies for the Company's financial statements and then apply them consistently;

make judgments and accounting estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the Company will continue in business.

The directors are responsible for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the Company's transactions and disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

Results and dividends

The profit for the year, after taxation, amounted to £878,778 (2023 - £914,598).

Particulars of dividends paid during the year can be found in note 9. The directors do not propose the payment of a final dividend. 

Directors

The directors who served during the year were:

Mr D M Meldrum 
Mr J S Mellis 
Mr S P Bissell (resigned 20 December 2024)
Mr A Booth 
Mr J Johnson 

Page 5

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
DIRECTORS' REPORT (CONTINUED)
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

Disclosure of information to auditors

Each of the persons who are directors at the time when this Directors' Report is approved has confirmed that: 
• so far as the director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company's auditors are   unaware, and
• the director has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a director in order to be aware of any   relevant audit information and to establish that the Company's auditors are aware of that information.

Each of the persons who are directors at the time when this Directors' Report is approved has confirmed that:
 
so far as the director is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Company's auditors are unaware, and

the director has taken all the steps that ought to have been taken as a director in order to be aware of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Company's auditors are aware of that information.

Post Balance Sheet Events
There have been no significant events affecting the company since year end. 

Auditors

Under section 487(2) of the Companies Act 2006Armstrong Watson Audit Limited will be deemed to have been reappointed as auditors 28 days after these financial statements were sent to members or 28 days after the latest date prescribed for filing the accounts with the registrar, whichever is earlier.

This report was approved by the board and signed on its behalf.
 





................................................
Mr D M Meldrum
Director

Date: 23 May 2025
Page 6

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

Opinion


We have audited the financial statements of Meldrum Construction Services Limited (the 'Company') for the year ended 31 December 2024, which comprise the Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Statement of Financial Position, the Statement of Changes in Equity and the related notes, including a summary of significant accounting policiesThe financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards, including Financial Reporting Standard 102 ‘The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland' (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice).


In our opinion the financial statements:


give a true and fair view of the state of the Company's affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of its profit for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.


Basis for opinion


We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the United Kingdom, including the Financial Reporting Council's Ethical Standard and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.


Conclusions relating to going concern


In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate.


Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on the Company's ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are authorised for issue.


Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.


Other information


The other information comprises the information included in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our Auditors' Report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information contained within the Annual ReportOur opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the course of the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misstatements, we are required to determine whether this gives rise to a material misstatement in the financial statements themselves. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.


We have nothing to report in this regard.


Page 7

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED (CONTINUED)


Opinion on other matters prescribed by the Companies Act 2006
 

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit:


the information given in the Strategic Report and the Directors' Report for the financial year for which the financial statements are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and
the Strategic Report and the Directors' Report have been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.


Matters on which we are required to report by exception
 

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Company and its environment obtained in the course of the audit, we have not identified material misstatements in the Strategic Report or the Directors' Report.


We have nothing to report in respect of the following matters in relation to which the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you if, in our opinion:


adequate accounting records have not been kept, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or
certain disclosures of directors' remuneration specified by law are not made; or
we have not received all the information and explanations we require for our audit.


Responsibilities of directors
 

As explained more fully in the Directors' Responsibilities Statement set out on page 5, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.


In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the Company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.


Page 8

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED (CONTINUED)


Auditors' responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
 

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an Auditors' Report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.


Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detailed below:

Our approach to identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement in respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with laws and regulations, was as follows:
• the engagement partner ensured that the engagement team collectively had the appropriate     competence, capabilities and skills to identify or recognise non-compliance with applicable laws and    regulations, such as the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, and Companies Act 2006;
• we identified the laws and regulations applicable to the company through discussions with directors and
 other management;
• we assessed the extent of compliance with the laws and regulations identified above through making
 enquiries of management; and
• identified laws and regulations were communicated within the audit team regularly and the team     remained alert to instances of non-compliance throughout the audit.
We assessed the susceptibility of the Company’s financial statements to material misstatement, including
obtaining an understanding of how fraud might occur, by:
• making enquiries of management as to where they considered there was susceptibility to fraud, their
 knowledge of actual, suspected and alleged fraud; and
• considering the internal controls in place to mitigate risks of fraud and non-compliance with laws and
 regulations.
To address the risk of fraud through management bias and override of controls, we:
• performed analytical procedures as a risk assessment tool to identify any unusual or unexpected
 relationships; 
• tested journal entries to identify unusual transactions; and
• reviewed the application of accounting policies.
In response to the risk of irregularities and non-compliance with laws and regulations, we designed procedures
which included, but were not limited to:
• agreeing financial statement disclosures to underlying supporting documentation; and
• enquiring of management as to actual and potential litigation and claims.
 
Page 9

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED (CONTINUED)




Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, there is a risk that we will not detect all irregularities, including those leading to a material misstatement in the financial statements or non-compliance with regulation. This risk increases the more that compliance with a law or regulation is removed from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, as we will be less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance. The risk is also greater regarding irregularities occurring due to fraud rather than error, as fraud involves intentional concealment, forgery, collusion, omission or misrepresentation.


A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the Financial Reporting Council's website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our Auditors' Report.


Use of our report
 

This report is made solely to the Company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company's members those matters we are required to state to them in an Auditors' Report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company's members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.





Michael Morris (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of
Armstrong Watson Audit Limited
Chartered Accountants & Statutory Auditors
Newcastle upon Tyne

23 May 2025
Page 10

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£
£

  

Turnover
  
40,471,896
39,449,847

Cost of sales
  
(36,416,835)
(35,708,088)

Gross profit
  
4,055,061
3,741,759

Administrative expenses
  
(2,925,062)
(2,740,770)

Operating profit
  
1,129,999
1,000,989

Tax on profit
 8 
(251,221)
(86,391)

Profit for the financial year
  
878,778
914,598

There were no recognised gains and losses for 2024 or 2023 other than those included in the statement of comprehensive income.

There was no other comprehensive income for 2024 (2023:£NIL).

The notes on pages 14 to 26 form part of these financial statements.
Page 11

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
REGISTERED NUMBER: 04250084

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2024

2024
2023
Note
£
£

Fixed assets
  

Intangible assets
 10 
107,266
-

Tangible assets
 11 
669,260
757,721

  
776,526
757,721

Current assets
  

Stocks
 12 
19,221
19,221

Debtors: amounts falling due within one year
 13 
13,523,084
8,910,514

Cash at bank and in hand
 14 
6,937,455
6,364,766

  
20,479,760
15,294,501

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year
 15 
(18,071,489)
(12,592,461)

Net current assets
  
 
 
2,408,271
 
 
2,702,040

Total assets less current liabilities
  
3,184,797
3,459,761

Provisions for liabilities
  

Deferred tax
 16 
(48,307)
(52,050)

  
 
 
(48,307)
 
 
(52,050)

Net assets
  
3,136,490
3,407,711


Capital and reserves
  

Called up share capital 
 17 
700
700

Profit and loss account
  
3,135,790
3,407,011

  
3,136,490
3,407,711


The financial statements were approved and authorised for issue by the board and were signed on its behalf by: 




................................................
Mr D M Meldrum
Director

Date: 23 May 2025

The notes on pages 14 to 26 form part of these financial statements.
Page 12

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024


Called up share capital
Profit and loss account
Total equity

£
£
£


At 1 January 2023
700
2,642,413
2,643,113



Profit for the year
-
914,598
914,598

Dividends: Equity capital
-
(150,000)
(150,000)



At 1 January 2024
700
3,407,011
3,407,711



Profit for the year
-
878,778
878,778

Dividends: Equity capital
-
(1,149,999)
(1,149,999)


At 31 December 2024
700
3,135,790
3,136,490


The notes on pages 14 to 26 form part of these financial statements.

Page 13

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

1.


General information

Meldrum Construction Services Limited ("the company") is a private company limited by shares, incorporated and domiciled in England. The address of the registered office is given in the company information page of these financial statements. The nature of the company's operations and principal activities are set out within the strategic report. 

2.Accounting policies

 
2.1

Basis of preparation of financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention unless otherwise specified within these accounting policies and in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 102, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and the Republic of Ireland and the Companies Act 2006.

The preparation of financial statements in compliance with FRS 102 requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise judgment in applying the Company's accounting policies (see note 3).

 
2.2

Financial Reporting Standard 102 - reduced disclosure exemptions

The Company has taken advantage of the following disclosure exemptions in preparing these financial statements, as permitted by the FRS 102 "The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland":
the requirements of Section 7 Statement of Cash Flows;
the requirements of Section 3 Financial Statement Presentation paragraph 3.17(d);
the requirements of Section 33 Related Party Disclosures paragraph 33.7.

This information is included in the consolidated financial statements of Meldrum Construction Services Group as at 31 December 2024 and these financial statements may be obtained from Companies House, Crown Way, Cardiff, CF14 3UZ.

 
2.3

Going concern

The company is part of a UK group headed by Meldrum Construction Services Group Limited ("the parent") and has support of the parent to meet its liabilities as they fall due. Consequently, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the company will have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and, accordingly they continue to prepare the company's financial statements on a going concern basis.

Page 14

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.4

Turnover

Turnover is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Company and the turnover can be reliably measured. Turnover is measured as the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, excluding discounts, rebates, value added tax and other sales taxes. The following criteria must also be met before turnover is recognised:

In respect of long term contracts and contracts for on-going services, turnover represents the value of work done in the year, including estimates of amounts not invoiced. Turnover in respect of long term contracts and contracts for on-going services are recognised by reference to stage of completion, as determined by the input model.
Where the outcome cannot be measured reliably, contract costs are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred and contract turnover is recognised to the extent of costs incurred that it is probable will be recovered.
When it is probable that the contract cost will exceed the total contract turnover, the expected loss is recognised as an expense immediately.

 
2.5

Pensions

Defined contribution pension plan

The Company operates a defined contribution plan for its employees. A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the Company pays fixed contributions into a separate entity. Once the contributions have been paid the Company has no further payment obligations.

The contributions are recognised as an expense in profit or loss when they fall due. Amounts not paid are shown in accruals as a liability in the Statement of Financial Position. The assets of the plan are held separately from the Company in independently administered funds.

 
2.6

Current and deferred taxation

The tax expense for the year comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in profit or loss except that a charge attributable to an item of income and expense recognised as other comprehensive income or to an item recognised directly in equity is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity respectively.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date in the countries where the Company operates and generates income.

Deferred tax balances are recognised in respect of all timing differences that have originated but not reversed by the reporting date, except that:
The recognition of deferred tax assets is limited to the extent that it is probable that they will be recovered against the reversal of deferred tax liabilities or other future taxable profits; and
Any deferred tax balances are reversed if and when all conditions for retaining associated tax allowances have been met.

Deferred tax balances are not recognised in respect of permanent differences except in respect of business combinations, when deferred tax is recognised on the differences between the fair values of assets acquired and the future tax deductions available for them and the differences between the fair values of liabilities acquired and the amount that will be assessed for tax. Deferred tax is determined using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.


Page 15

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)

 
2.7

Intangible assets

Intangible assets are initially recognised at cost. After recognition, under the cost model, intangible assets are measured at cost less any accumulated amortisation and any accumulated impairment losses.

All intangible assets are considered to have a finite useful life. If a reliable estimate of the useful life cannot be made, the useful life shall not exceed ten years.

 The estimated useful lives range as follows:

Goodwill
-
5
years 

 
2.8

Tangible fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets under the cost model are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management.

Depreciation is charged so as to allocate the cost of assets less their residual value over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method.

Depreciation is provided on the following basis:

Long-term leasehold property
-
Shorter of 5% to 10% straight line or lease term
Fixtures and fittings
-
25% Straight line

The assets' residual values, useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed, and adjusted prospectively if appropriate, or if there is an indication of a significant change since the last reporting date.

Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised in profit or loss.

 
2.9

Stocks

Stocks are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value, being the estimated selling price less costs to complete and sell. Cost is based on the cost of purchase on a first in, first out basis. Work in progress and finished goods include labour and attributable overheads.

At each reporting date, stocks are assessed for impairment. If stock is impaired, the carrying amount is reduced to its selling price less costs to complete and sell. The impairment loss is recognised immediately in profit or loss.

 
2.10

Financial instruments

The Company has elected to apply the provisions of Section 11 “Basic Financial Instruments” of FRS 102 to all of its financial instruments.

The Company has elected to apply the recognition and measurement provisions of IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (as adopted by the UK Endorsement Board) with the disclosure requirements of Sections 11 and 12 and the other presentation requirements of FRS 102.

Financial instruments are recognised in the Company's Statement of Financial Position when the Company becomes party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Page 16

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.10
Financial instruments (continued)


Financial assets and liabilities are offset, with the net amounts presented in the financial statements, when there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Basic financial assets

Basic financial assets, which include trade and other debtors, cash and bank balances, are initially measured at their transaction price (adjusted for transaction costs except in the initial measurement of financial assets that are subsequently measured at fair value through profit and loss) and are subsequently carried at their amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any provision for impairment, unless the arrangement constitutes a financing transaction, where the transaction is measured at the present value of the future receipts discounted at a market rate of interest.

Discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial. The Company's cash and cash equivalents, trade and most other debtors due with the operating cycle fall into this category of financial instruments.

Other financial assets

Other financial assets, which includes investments in equity instruments which are not classified as subsidiaries, associates or joint ventures, are initially measured at fair value, which is normally the recognised transaction price. Such assets are subsequently measured at fair value with the changes in fair value being recognised in the profit or loss. Where other financial assets are not publicly traded, hence their fair value cannot be measured reliably, they are measured at cost less impairment.

Impairment of financial assets

At the end of each reporting period financial assets measured at amortised cost are assessed for objective evidence of impairment. If an asset is impaired the impairment loss is the difference between the carrying amount and the present value of the estimated cash flows discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. The impairment loss is recognised in profit or loss. 

Financial assets are impaired when events, subsequent to their initial recognition, indicate the estimated future cash flows derived from the financial asset(s) have been adversely impacted. The impairment loss will be the difference between the current carrying amount and the present value of the future cash flows at the asset(s) original effective interest rate.

If there is a favourable change in relation to the events surrounding the impairment loss then the impairment can be reviewed for possible reversal. The reversal will not cause the current carrying amount to exceed the original carrying amount had the impairment not been recognised. The impairment reversal is recognised in the profit or loss.

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities and equity instruments are classified according to the substance of the contractual arrangements entered into. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of the Company after the deduction of all its liabilities.

Basic financial liabilities, which include trade and other creditors, bank loans and other loans are initially measured at their transaction price (adjusting for transaction costs except in the initial measurement of financial liabilities that are subsequently measured at fair value through profit and loss). When this constitutes a financing transaction, whereby the debt instrument is measured at the present value of the future payments discounted at a market rate of interest, discounting is omitted
Page 17

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

2.Accounting policies (continued)


2.10
Financial instruments (continued)

where the effect of discounting is immaterial.

Debt instruments are subsequently carried at their amortised cost using the effective interest rate method.

Trade creditors are obligations to pay for goods and services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Trade creditors are classified as current liabilities if the payment is due within one year. If not, they represent non-current liabilities. Trade creditors are initially recognised at their transaction price and subsequently are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Discounting is omitted where the effect of discounting is immaterial.

Other financial instruments

Derivatives, including forward exchange contracts, futures contracts and interest rate swaps, are not classified as basic financial instruments. These are initially recognised at fair value on the date the derivative contract is entered into, with costs being charged to the profit or loss. They are subsequently measured at fair value with changes in the profit or loss.

Debt instruments that do not meet the conditions as set out in FRS 102 paragraph 11.9 are subsequently measured at fair value through the profit or loss. This recognition and measurement would also apply to financial instruments where the performance is evaluated on a fair value basis as with a documented risk management or investment strategy.

Derecognition of financial instruments

Derecognition of financial assets

Financial assets are derecognised when their contractual right to future cash flow expire, or are settled, or when the Company transfers the asset and substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership to another party. If significant risks and rewards of ownership are retained after the transfer to another party, then the Company will continue to recognise the value of the portion of the risks and rewards retained.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the Company's contractual obligations expire or are discharged or cancelled.

Page 18

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

3.


Judgments in applying accounting policies and key sources of estimation uncertainty

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. 
 
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
Revenue recognition – construction contract accounting 
The judgements and estimates which have the most significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements relate to the application of construction contract accounting. 
The amount of revenue and profit recognised in relation to contract which are part complete at the balance sheet date is dependent on estimates of further costs that will be required to complete the contract and hence the overall profitability of the contract. Estimates of further costs (and potential revenue variations) are continually evaluated and updated, based on management’s detailed knowledge of project status and contractual requirements. 
Judgement is then required to assess the reliability of the estimates which is affected by the various factors, including the specific requirements of the contract (i.e. whether  ‘routine’ or more specialised in nature)  and the stage of completion of the project. The amount of revenue and profit recognised reflects the management’s judgement of these factors.
Useful lives of tangible fixed assets 
The annual depreciation charge for tangible fixed assets is sensitive to changes in the estimated useful lives and residual value of the assets which are re-assessed annually and amended when necessary to reflect current estimates. There have been no changes in the estimation bases during the current reporting period. 
Impairment of debtors 
The company makes an estimate of the recoverable value of trade and other debtors, management considers factors including the current credit rating of the debtor, the ageing profile and historical experience. 


4.


Turnover

The whole of the turnover is attributable to the principal activity of the business which is disclosed in the strategic report and all arose in the United Kingdom.







5.


Auditors' remuneration

2024
2023
£
£

Fees payable to the Company's auditors for the audit of the Company's financial statements
16,500
15,000

The Company has taken advantage of the exemption not to disclose amounts paid for non-audit services as these are disclosed in the consolidated accounts of the parent Company.

Page 19

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

6.


Employees

Staff costs, including directors' remuneration, were as follows:


2024
2023
£
£

Wages and salaries
1,502,493
1,680,849

Social security costs
786,859
687,324

Cost of defined contribution scheme
249,972
177,433

2,539,324
2,545,606


The average monthly number of employees, including the directors, during the year was as follows:


        2024
        2023
            No.
            No.







Office and management
47
47


7.


Directors' remuneration

2024
2023
£
£

Directors' emoluments
184,801
86,992

Company contributions to defined contribution pension schemes
15,036
22,031

199,837
109,023


During the year retirement benefits were accruing to 2 directors (2023 - 2) in respect of defined contribution pension schemes.

Page 20

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

8.


Taxation


2024
2023
£
£

Corporation tax


Current tax on profits for the year
225,464
-

Adjustments in respect of previous periods
29,500
-


254,964
-


Group taxation relief
-
(82,800)


Total current tax
254,964
(82,800)

Deferred tax


Origination and reversal of timing differences
(3,743)
169,191

Total deferred tax
(3,743)
169,191


Taxation on profit on ordinary activities
251,221
86,391

Factors affecting tax charge for the year

The tax assessed for the year is lower than (2023 - lower than) the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2023 - 23.52%). The differences are explained below:

2024
2023
£
£


Profit on ordinary activities before tax
1,129,999
1,000,989


Profit on ordinary activities multiplied by standard rate of corporation tax in the UK of 25% (2023 - 23.52%)
282,500
235,433

Effects of:


Expenses not deductible for tax purposes, other than goodwill amortisation and impairment
238
-

Capital allowances for year in excess of depreciation
9,502
16,210

Adjustments to tax charge in respect of prior periods - deferred tax
(70,519)
(185,444)

Other timing differences leading to an increase (decrease) in taxation
-
(911)

Effects of changes in tax rates
-
20,987

Other differences leading to an increase (decrease) in the tax charge
29,500
-

Group relief surrendered/(claimed)
-
82,916

Payment/(receipt) for group relief
-
(82,800)

Total tax charge for the year
251,221
86,391

Page 21

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024
 
8.Taxation (continued)


Factors that may affect future tax charges

There were no factors that may affect future tax charges.


9.


Dividends

2024
2023
£
£


Dividends paid on equity capital
1,149,999
150,000


10.


Intangible assets




Computer software

£



Cost


Additions - internal
116,006



At 31 December 2024

116,006



Amortisation


Charge for the year on owned assets
8,740



At 31 December 2024

8,740



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
107,266



At 31 December 2023
-



Page 22

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

11.


Tangible fixed assets





Long-term leasehold improvements
Fixtures and fittings
Total

£
£
£



Cost or valuation


At 1 January 2024
1,031,009
552,409
1,583,418


Additions
19,335
26,063
45,398


Disposals
-
(233,496)
(233,496)



At 31 December 2024

1,050,344
344,976
1,395,320



Depreciation


At 1 January 2024
421,831
403,866
825,697


Charge for the year on owned assets
74,969
58,890
133,859


Disposals
-
(233,496)
(233,496)



At 31 December 2024

496,800
229,260
726,060



Net book value



At 31 December 2024
553,544
115,716
669,260



At 31 December 2023
609,178
148,543
757,721


12.


Stocks

2024
2023
£
£

Finished goods and goods for resale
19,221
19,221


Page 23

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

13.


Debtors

2024
2023
£
£


Trade debtors
5,792,275
4,193,057

Amounts owed by group undertakings
5,049,341
1,770,886

Other debtors
621,367
463,853

Prepayments and accrued income
311
165,077

Amounts recoverable on long term contracts
2,059,790
2,317,641

13,523,084
8,910,514



14.


Cash and cash equivalents

2024
2023
£
£

Cash at bank and in hand
6,937,455
6,364,766



15.


Creditors: Amounts falling due within one year

2024
2023
£
£

Payments received on account
1,636,915
529,949

Trade creditors
4,411,118
3,568,014

Amounts owed to group undertakings
476,446
1,121,120

Corporation tax
254,964
-

Other taxation and social security
2,580,444
2,317,453

Other creditors
144,932
206,547

Accruals and deferred income
8,566,670
4,849,378

18,071,489
12,592,461


Page 24

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

16.


Deferred taxation




2024
2023


£

£






At beginning of year
(52,050)
117,141


Charged to profit or loss
3,743
(169,191)



At end of year
(48,307)
(52,050)

The provision for deferred taxation is made up as follows:

2024
2023
£
£


Accelerated capital allowances
73,943
60,586

Short term timing differences
(25,636)
(8,536)

48,307
52,050


17.


Share capital

2024
2023
£
£
Allotted, called up and fully paid



700 (2023 - 700) Ordinary shares of £1.00 each
700
700



18.


Contingent liabilities

The company has provided its bank with an unlimited multilateral guarantee, including a fixed charge over all assets of the company.


19.


Commitments under operating leases

At 31 December 2024 the Company had future minimum lease payments due under non-cancellable operating leases for each of the following periods:

2024
2023
£
£


Not later than 1 year
129,500
129,500

Later than 1 year and not later than 5 years
400,167
529,667

529,667
659,167

Page 25

 
MELDRUM CONSTRUCTION SERVICES LIMITED
 

 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2024

20.


Related party transactions

Mr D M Meldrum and Mr J Meldrum each own a 50% share of Pantheon House, which continues to be leased to the company. During the year the company paid rent of £108,000 (2023 - £108,000).
At the year end, the following balances were due from following companies, in which Mr D M Meldrum is a director:
BHL Woodland Limited - £Nil (2023 - £NIL).
Rapid Water Courses Limited - £Nil (2023 - £151,676).
Meldrum Developments Limited - £Nil (2023 - £434,482).
Meldrum Homes Ltd Limited - £Nil (2023 - £1,671).
At the year end, £7,227 was due to (2023 - £16,490 due from) Meldrum Foundation, a charity in which Mr D M Meldrum is a Director.


21.


Controlling party

The directors regard Meldrum Construction Services Group Limited, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom and registered in England and Wales, as being the company's immediate and ultimate parent. The registered office is the same as the company's. Copies of Meldrum Construction Services Group Limited consolidated financial statements can be obtained from Companies House, Crown Way, Cardiff, CF14 3UZ, where this company is included.
The company and its group was controlled by Mr D M Meldrum up to 30th September 2024. From 1st October 2024, the company and its group was controlled by Meldrum Construction Services Group EOT Limited.

Page 26