The JT Group was founded in 1961 by John Pontin and has developed a national profile, particularly for mixed-use urban renewal and green issues in construction.
The JT Group worked with the Arnolfini in the 1970s to develop a pioneering mixed-use scheme to give new life to what was then a derelict dockside building, Bush House. In 1982 it also worked with Bristol City Council to conserve E and W Sheds on Bristol's Harbourside, which now house the Watershed Arts Trust. The Pontin Charitable Trust sponsored the fundraising programme for the Trust.
In 1992 the JT Group rescued Leigh Court, a Grade II* listed building on the edge of Bristol, from the hands of a receiver. Under the guidance of English Heritage it reroofed the building and developed a second floor of offices inside the existing structure. Leigh Court is now completely restored and is owned by Business West, the former Bristol Chamber of Commerce.
The JT Group has also been involved in many other Bristol projects, including the innovative High Kingsdown housing area of the late 1960s.