Solihull West & Shirley MP, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, recently visited the head office of CPW on the Cranmore Estate in Solihull. There he met with senior leaders and staff to discuss the company’s long history in the region, its national work across major public sector projects, and its commitment to developing local talent.
Operating as a multinational construction consultancy, CPW employs 390 staff globally, including 210 based in Solihull. This makes it a significant local employer and contributor to the regional economy.
During the visit, Dr Shastri-Hurst heard about the company’s involvement in a wide range of construction and infrastructure projects across Solihull West & Shirley. This is in addition to its work supporting major public sector clients including the NHS, the Ministry of Defence, and the education sector.
Speaking following the visit, Neil Shastri-Hurst MP said:
“It was a pleasure to visit CPW’s headquarters and to meet the team behind what is a truly impressive Solihull-based company.
CPW is a great example of a business that has continued to grow locally to become a multinational operation, while continuing to invest in the community where it began. Their work supporting key sectors, such as the NHS, defence, and education, shows the important role businesses like this play in delivering the infrastructure our country relies upon.”
A key focus of the visit was the company’s highly regarded apprenticeship programme, which has recruited cohorts of up to 21 apprentices in a year. The programme supports apprentices through undergraduate and master’s level qualifications while gaining practical industry experience. The programme has achieved an impressive 89% retention rate, with many apprentices continuing their careers within the company.
Dr Shastri-Hurst added:
“I was particularly impressed by CPW’s apprenticeship programme. Creating real pathways into skilled careers is essential if we want young people to see the full range of opportunities available to them.
Programmes like this, which combine practical experience with higher education and lead directly to professional careers, embody the kind of life opportunities I want to see expanded across our constituency and the country.”
The company also offers work experience placements and internships, helping young people gain their first insight into careers in construction, engineering, and project consultancy.
Dr Shastri-Hurst also praised the firm’s commitment to the local community. Every employee is given two paid days each year to volunteer with local charities or participate in community projects, supporting organisations and initiatives across the Solihull area. He said:
“It is clear that CPW is not only committed to delivering high-quality projects but also to giving back to the community. Their approach to volunteering and community engagement is commendable and makes a real difference locally.”
The visit also included discussions about the company’s future growth plans. CPW has recently acquired an additional office adjacent to its current headquarters, signalling its intention to continue expanding its presence in Solihull.
Dr Shastri-Hurst concluded:
“It is fantastic to see a company in Solihull continuing to grow and invest locally. Their decision to expand their headquarters here is a strong vote of confidence in our area.
Businesses like CPW demonstrate how economic growth, skills development, and community engagement can go hand in hand.”
