Five generations of building excellence in Lanarkshire
John Young Builders has been a family business for over a century, built on a foundation of quality craftsmanship and honest, reliable service.
The company was founded in 1908 by John Young, a skilled thatcher working in the Bellshill area. John had seven daughters, one of whom—Annie Young—married William Campbell, a local publican. They had two sons: John Young Campbell and William Campbell.
John Young Campbell learned the trade as an apprentice slater under his grandfather before eventually taking over the family business. John Campbell continued to grow the company, and in turn his son James Campbell—who had qualified as a quantity surveyor—took the reins in 1974. The company became a Limited Company in 1975. Sadly, John Campbell passed away just one year later in 1976, but the business he had built endured.
Throughout the 1980s and 90s, we became one of just four partners working directly with Glasgow City Council on their DARS, RE-Hab, Social Works and Direct Labour departments—a significant achievement that demonstrated our reliability and quality standards.
Over the last twenty years, we've successfully shifted our focus to private new builds in the Lanarkshire area, alongside continued work with housing associations and development companies across central Scotland.
The company is now run by Martyn Young Campbell, James's son, who graduated as a quantity surveyor with over 20 years of experience in the construction industry. Martyn represents the fifth generation of this family business—a rare achievement in any industry.
As a family business, there are always family members available to help resolve any issues. Combined, our team brings over 70 years of experience to every project, supported by project managers, surveyors and administrators working on sites daily.
We understand the importance of working closely with our clients and ensuring their requirements are met. We take the hassle out of building works, managing projects from start to finish with clear communication throughout.
Whether it's a new family home, an extension to create more space, or a careful renovation of an existing property, we bring the same commitment to quality and attention to detail that has defined this company for over 115 years.
Founded by John Young, a skilled thatcher working in the Bellshill area. The foundations of a family business are laid.
John Young Campbell, grandson of the founder, learns the trade as an apprentice slater and takes over the family business.
Housing estate sub-contracting works across Lanarkshire. The business grows with post-war construction boom.
Securing maintenance contracts for Lanark County Council, establishing reputation for reliable, quality work.
James Campbell, a qualified quantity surveyor, takes over leadership. Major sub-contracting projects undertaken.
Partnership with Glasgow City Council Direct Works division, alongside our own self-build development projects.
Martyn Young Campbell, also a quantity surveyor, joins his father James and gradually takes on greater responsibility.
Martyn leads the company, focusing on bespoke new builds, extensions, conversions and renovations for private, commercial, and public sector clients across Lanarkshire and central Scotland.
Get in touch to discuss your requirements. We're always happy to talk through your ideas.