A leading housebuilder in the South West has been celebrating Women in Construction week and the “inspiring leadership” a site manager at a development plot taking place near Midsomer Norton.

David Wilson Homes South West has marked the occasion - which was held from Monday, March 2, until Saturday, March 8 - by shining a spotlight on Syd Atifeh, who is managing its soon-to-launch Somer Meadows development, which is located between Midsomer Norton and Shepton Mallet.

As one of the few women in the industry to take on this pivotal role, Syd is paving the way for greater diversity in construction, proving that housebuilding is a career for everyone.

As of the third quarter of 2024, women represent approximately just 15 per cent of the UK's construction workforce, with around 303,000 women employed in the sector.

Barratt David Wilson Homes South West is committed to increasing diversity in the industry and Syd’s journey exemplifies the opportunities available for women looking to build a successful career in housebuilding.

At just 28, Syd has already gained five years of on-site experience after joining Barratt Developments’ ASPIRE Graduate Scheme and she has played a key role in many of the housebuilder’s flagship sites across the South West. Today, she’s leading the construction of new three and four bedroom homes at Somer Meadows, which will be released for sale this spring.

Reflecting on her role, Syd said: “I’d love to see more women on-site as a more diverse workforce helps us better understand the different perspectives of trades, subcontractors, and customers and I don’t think it’ll be long until we get there.

“I’m proud to break down barriers and prove that housebuilding is a career for everyone.”

Mark Hughes, construction director at Barratt David Wilson Homes South West, added: “Syd is a fantastic example of the opportunities available for women in construction and we hope her story inspires more females to consider the many varied roles in this industry.”

The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has been marking Women in Construction Week since 1998 by promoting their role in the construction industry, with the event expanding each year since.

Besides celebrating Women in Construction Week, March 8 also marked International Women’s Day (IWD), which is a global occasion celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.

IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people.

Somer Meadows at White Cross is surrounded by open space, around a five minute drive from Midsomer Norton where there’s a range of cafes, shops restaurants and pubs. It’s close to Cheddar Gorge and a short walk to schools.

For commuters, Bath is less than 30 minutes away and the development is within an hour of Bristol. To receive updates on the housing development, visit this website: https://www.dwh.co.uk/new-homes/dev002677-somer-meadows/.