Kingston's Maintenance Operatives

Meet the men on the ground at Kingston and Open Spaces managed sites.

Maintenance is more than just repairs – it’s about preventing problems, improving efficiency, and ensuring that buildings and public open spaces are in top condition.

From carrying out inspections and minor repairs to litter picking and weed spraying, our hardworking Maintenance Operatives are an essential part of Kingston’s service delivery.

They are our on-site eyes and ears, visiting properties and estates on a set frequency to carry out health and safety checks, ensure communal areas are clean and tidy, and report any issues or site defects to the Property Manager.

The team is mobilised by Repairs & Maintenance Team Leader, Emma (pictured centre), who organises their schedules and is the first point of contact for contractors.

Each of our four Maintenance Operatives bring a diverse range of skills to the team:

John	John is the newest member of the team. Although an upholsterer by trade, John developed a range of home repairs expertise as a multi-skilled technician for Bell Group and self-employed handyman.
Ian	Ian has overseen the maintenance of Kingston and Open Spaces sites across Teesside and North Yorkshire since 2023. Ian came out of retirement to resume his property career with Kingston following 40 years at Thirteen Group. Additional experience as a builder is useful for inspections and minor repairs.
Paul	Paul joined Kingston in November but may be familiar from his seasonal ground maintenance role at Bernicia. With 18 years of gardening experience for Gateshead council, Paul is an ideal Operative to oversee a large proportion of Open Spaces sites.
Lee	Lee primarily oversees the maintenance of Kingston blocks in Tyne and Wear. He has a varied skillset and is a generally reliable pair of hands to have on-site. Lee’s previous experience is in security, and he worked for Newcastle University’s Estates and Facilities team for ten years.