Flood Defence Framework

Protecting the electricity network infrastructure

We have a long history of undertaking flood defence construction projects at live operational substation sites. For over 20 years we have successfully delivered a range of flood defence measures to protect key network infrastructure for major clients including National Grid Electricity Transmission, Northern Powergrid and National Grid Electricity Distribution.

In 2013 we were awarded a 3 year framework project from Northern Powergrid for the flood protection works at their at risk substation sites throughout Yorkshire and the North East. We were one of only two contractors appointed to the framework and completed over 80% of the contract works.

Following the successful completion of the original framework we were awarded the phase 2 framework. Commencing in 2017 this framework for was an initial 3 year period and was subsequently extended to the end of 2022 to accommodate the volume of project works required by the client. As one of three contractors appointed to the framework, we were again considered the preferred delivery partner, completing over 85% of the project works.

Over the course of the frameworks, we successfully delivered over £30 million value of projects. The projects were designed to provide flood protection measures to the existing operational substation sites, taking into consideration predicted flood levels, flood risk, the existing site constraints, and the local environment. A range of flood defence installations were implemented throughout the framework.

Project Delivery

The sites were located within the confines of the existing live high voltage Northern Powergrid substations which remained fully operational throughout the project.

The works were carried out in accordance with the Northern Powergrid Safety Rules under a Permit to Work System and were supervised by our experienced Northern Powergrid authorised Site Managers who worked in close liaison with the Northern Powergrid SAP’s. All staff employed on site attained the Northern Powergrid Safety Passport.

To minimise any potential disruption to the operation of the substation, the works were often carried out in separate phases, with each phase carefully co-ordinated with the client.

Due to the operational substation environment and the location of the new flood walls, we were often required to work around networks of live underground cables. In conjunction with Northern Powergrid we developed a successful safe excavation procedure process which has been adopted across the framework.

Many of the projects involved a piled foundation solution, often in restricted areas and working around live underground cables. Through early contractor involvement and contractor led design, we implemented a safe working process with zero incidents throughout the duration of the framework.

Due to the delivery of this framework, we have gained an excellent understanding and knowledge of a wide range of flood defence techniques and applications. Our staff are highly experienced in delivering flood protection projects and we have developed a trusted network of supply chain partners to support our works.