This comprehensive electrical rewire project at a 1950s school building follows a complete heating upgrade completed in 2017. Due to the occupied nature of the site and presence of asbestos, we developed a carefully phased approach spanning 2 years of construction beginning in Summer 2024. By utilising available space within the under-capacity school, we enabled classroom relocation while works progressed, scheduling critical classroom renovations during holiday periods. Our team delivered a full electrical design, conducted regular onsite inspections, and fulfilled Clerk of Works duties, working alongside Roland Hill as main contractor and Wykes Group for electrical installations.
CLIENT: Cumberland Council
VALUE: £2.5m
LOCATION: Millom, Cumbria
SERVICES: Electrical Design and Onsite Inspections
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
The school required a complete electrical rewire following its heating system upgrade completed in 2017. The 1950s building presented significant challenges, particularly the widespread presence of asbestos, which required careful planning and management. The client needed to maintain educational operations throughout the project duration, requiring a solution that would allow teaching to continue with minimal disruption. With the school operating below capacity, there was some flexibility to relocate classrooms, though core teaching spaces could only be renovated during holiday periods. The client sought a partner who could provide both comprehensive electrical design and ongoing project oversight to ensure quality and safety standards were met, while coordinating effectively with the main contractor and electrical specialist.
OUR SOLUTION
We developed a meticulously phased electrical renewal programme that worked around the school’s operational requirements. Our approach began with a thorough assessment of the existing infrastructure and asbestos survey to identify high-risk areas requiring special attention. The electrical design incorporated:
- Modern, energy-efficient DALI lighting controls with daylight compensation
- Upgraded power distribution throughout the building
- Enhanced data infrastructure supporting digital learning
- Improved fire alarm
- Emergency lighting systems with central testing and reporting software
- Integration with the previously upgraded heating controls
We established a rolling programme of works that maximised use of holiday periods for the most disruptive activities, while carefully scheduling term-time works in areas that could be temporarily vacated. Our team provided regular onsite inspections throughout the 2-3 year construction period, fulfilling Clerk of Works duties to maintain quality standards and ensure compliance with all safety regulations, particularly regarding asbestos management.
THE OUTCOME
The school now benefits from a fully modernised electrical system that complements the previous heating upgrade. Despite the challenges of working in an occupied educational environment with significant asbestos presence, the project was delivered successfully without educational disruption. The phased approach allowed the school to maintain operations throughout, with classrooms systematically renovated and returned to service. The new electrical infrastructure provides improved safety, reliability and energy efficiency, creating a better learning environment for pupils and staff.
