Alpha Construction Ltd

01283 733688

info@alphaconstruction.co.uk

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Padiham

Design & construction of a new GIS Substation.

Client : Hitachi Energy

End User : National Grid

Location : Lancashire

Contract Value : £3.4m

Project complexities, simplified by Alpha:

  1. Unstable and highly waterlogged ground conditions, driven by a high water table and the discovery of an uncapped historic borehole connected to an artesian water source. This required rapid investigation and mitigation to stabilise the site and allow construction to proceed safely.
  2. Design development without confirmed cable installation details, with building layout and foundations dependent on future cable routes. Drawing on our previous substation projects and detailed knowledge of grid design standards, we progressed a compliant and buildable design solution to maintain programme certainty despite incomplete third-party information.
  3. Managing and containing Himalayan Balsam using best practice management including early identification, eco-sensitive removal and sustainable disposal methods to prevent further spread and ensure long term compliance.

Scope of Works:

  • Design and construction of a new specialist facility, including piled foundations and reinforced concrete substructure, providing a robust and durable base suited to complex operational requirements.
  • Structural steel frame with integrated fire protection and composite cladding, delivering a safe, compliant building envelope with long-term resilience and low maintenance needs.
  • High-security access systems, including roller shutter and personnel doors with fire-protected service penetrations, ensuring secure and controlled movement of people, vehicles and equipment.
  • Composite metal deck floor slab with integrated earthing system and overhead gantry crane provision, supporting safe electrical operation and efficient handling and maintenance of heavy equipment.
  • Specialist internal finishes, including anti-slip and acid-resistant epoxy and vinyl flooring, creating a safe, durable environment suitable for demanding industrial use.
  • External infrastructure works, including new cable ducting, drawpits, drainage and upgraded site lighting, improving site functionality, service reliability and safe access during day-to-day operations.

Client Testimonial:

Site Manager, Hitachi Energy
“Extremely impressed with the site and the conduct of all the people working on it. I would like to thank you all for your hard work in making the site a safe well-managed environment in which we, and all our staff, work.”

Ready to Build with Confidence?

Let’s shape a smarter, safer, more efficient solution, together.

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Alpha Construction Ltd

Why Alpha Construction Ltd?

We support clients from the earliest stages of a project to help shape practical, buildable solutions before work starts on site.

Adding Value Early

Adding Value Early

Early Contractor Involvement allows us to contribute our delivery experience during the design and planning stages, helping test options against real site conditions and reduce the risk of later change

Trusted Delivery Teams

Trusted Delivery Teams

Our directly employed teams provide continuity, accountability and practical site experience throughout delivery, supporting consistent standards of safety, quality and programme management.

Proven in High-Risk Environments

We regularly deliver projects in live, complex and highly regulated environments where safety, planning and coordination are critical. This experience allows us to manage risk effectively and maintain control of programme and quality, even when conditions are challenging.

Framework & Public Sector Ready

Our processes and reporting are aligned with framework and public sector requirements, supporting strong governance, transparency and compliant delivery throughout the life of a project.

Transparent, Competitive Pricing

Transparent, Competitive Pricing

We provide clear, considered pricing supported by open communication around scope, risk and delivery requirements. This helps clients make informed decisions and maintain greater visibility over costs throughout the project.

Relationship-Driven Delivery

Relationship-Driven Delivery

We work collaboratively with clients, designers and stakeholders to build long-term working relationships based on trust, communication and consistent delivery. This results in smoother projects, quicker resolution of issues, and stronger outcomes over time.

Ready to Build with Confidence?

Let’s shape a smarter, safer, more efficient solution, together.