Developer Whiteburn has appointed David Kilgour to project manage a £40m redevelopment of a site in Cowgate, Edinburgh, which was destroyed by a fire in 2002. The mixture of housing, leisure and shops will be called SoCo.

How did you get into construction?

My father told me not to go anywhere near the construction industry. 

So obviously, this became my first choice of career. I went to Edinburgh’s Heriot-Watt University and was sponsored by John Laing Construction.

Who have you worked for?

Laing O’Rourke, HBG, Skanska and now Whiteburn Projects.

What’s the biggest challenge you face on SoCo?

Creating a design that satisfies the demands of such a pivotal location and the high expectations of a community, a World Heritage Site and a proud city council.

Who has been the greatest influence on you professionally?

My first line manager. I have applied many of his professional and social attributes to my own development. I consistently use his career to benchmark my own.

Worst ever day at work? 

My first day back after a three-week trip around the Far East.

Favourite project you’ve worked on?

Shortly after graduating, I was involved with the construction of the Thistle Marches Shopping Centre in Stirling. Whilst the project was interesting and demanding, what made it memorable was the construction team.

What’s the best piece of advice you have received?

Record everything.

Would you recommend construction to your kids?

I would probably give them the same advice as my father gave me.

Where’s the best night out in Edinburgh?

At the moment I’d have to say, Tigerlilly on George Street. So my wife says!

Source

Construction Manager