Challenge
As utilities consultants, our role was to address significant challenges related to the scale and complexity of the utility requirements. We needed to coordinate installations across multiple development phases and ensure the infrastructure met the needs of 144 apartments, including high-demand features like a 1000kva substation and a substantial water supply for a 16,000-litre tank. Ensuring utility connections for each unit, managing independent metering, and maintaining compliance with Yorkshire Water requirements were crucial for the project’s success.

Our Solution
Temporary Power and Supply Coordination: To facilitate the refurbishment of Card House, we arranged a temporary electric supply to power cabins, tools, and lighting. A temporary power supply is a short-term electricity connection to a construction site that provides power for tools, lights, and other facilities.
Substation Installation and EV Charging Infrastructure: Collaborating with our delivery partners and an appointed Independent Distribution Network Owner (IDNO), we managed the installation of a 1000kva substation and GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) housing, providing essential power to Card House. We also integrated multiple ultrafast electric vehicle charging points, supporting the development’s sustainability
goals.
Water Supply Assessment and Upgrades: The client initially requested a new large diameter water supply from the mains water supply located under the nearby highway which would then travel through the site to the plant room. Our initial site consultation identified that this would be an extremely costly approach and, based on our experience, we found evidence that there had once been a water supply to the site. We communicated and persisted with Yorkshire Water, who eventually agreed in principle, that the site’s old water main could be repurposed to supply the new development. By arranging for flushing, chlorination, and quality testing, we confirmed the supply’s suitability and, with Yorkshire Water’s approval, upsized the supply from a 90mm to a 125mm pipe. This proactive approach saved the client over £50,000.
Independent Metering Installation: We procured meters and meter carriers and worked with Yorkshire Water to install individual water meters for each apartment, ensuring efficient and independent water metering throughout.

Future-Proofing:
Utility Setup for The Printworks and Greetings House: For the second phase, The Printworks, and future phase, Greetings House, we facilitated the installation of a second 1000kva substation with GRP housing to accommodate the high utility demands. Our team handled all required liaising with Northern Powergrid,
Eclipse Power, and legal parties to streamline the setup, securing energy supply contracts and coordinating meter installations.

Results:
Efficient Resource Management and Cost Savings: By repurposing the existing water main, we helped them client avoid significant excavation expenses, demonstrating our commitment to resource efficiency and cost effective solutions.
Sustainable and Future-Ready Utilities: The infrastructure we implemented, including substations, water systems, and EV charging points, positioned the development for long term success and sustainability.
Outstanding Project Management: This project is much loved by the Utility Source team, it’s big, it’s complex and we enjoy the challenge of commercial to residential conversions. Our approach and project
management ensured that each utility installation was completed on time and within budget, supporting timely project completion and quality outcomes for each phase.