CMB Engineering’s latest project handover is Therapia Lane Depot – the redesign and full refurbishment of an underutilised vehicle maintenance site, transforming it into a state-of-the-art operational base for Sutton’s waste and street cleaning fleet.

 

CMB were awarded the Mechanical contract for this project by Principal Contractor, Willmott Dixon, and commenced works on site back in June 2024, handing the project over only 10 months later.

 

The project was designed with efficiency and sustainability in mind, focusing the base in a location where wasted mileage, time and overheads would be significantly reduced. The facility comprises of accommodation for the London Borough of Sutton Council’s growing fleet of electric waste collection vehicles, incorporating heat pumps and 11 EV charging points to help achieve BREEAM Very Good status. The project forms part of the wider plan for London Borough of Sutton as the council actively pursues a net-zero drive with a goal to achieve borough-wide net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.

 

With the project centred around sustainability and electric vehicle compatibility, CMB’s involvement was critical to the build and has played a key role in the strive for BREEAM Very Good, reflecting the facilities exemplary environmental performance. Just some of our Mechanical works included:

 

• Installation of a new VFR system that utilises both heating and cooling across the office areas of the project

• Comms room DX slit unit for cooling of the room

• New Ventilation system that uses a highly efficient AHU with heat recovery thermal wheel

• A cat 5 booster set that supply’s the warehouse workshop with water

• Point of use electric water heaters to aid with energy efficiency

• New BMS system for energy monitoring and control of the building ventilation and VRF systems

• Working on the new façade and roof installation, improving performance and aesthetics

• Carrying out the upgraded MEP system installation, optimising energy use and minimising maintenance requirements.

 

Councillor Christopher Woolmer, Chair of Sutton’s Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee, noted:

 

“This totally rebuilt depot at Therapia Lane ensures that the Council can continue to reduce waste, switch to a circular economy and work towards a net zero carbon future for Sutton. This is a big step forward in making Sutton cleaner and greener.”

 

Richard Poulter, Willmott Dixon’s Managing Director in the South, added:

 

“This project reflects our commitment to sustainability and innovation. By targeting a BREEAM 'Very Good' standard, integrating energy-efficient systems, and supporting electric vehicle infrastructure, we're setting a new benchmark for environmentally responsible facilities. We're proud to contribute to Sutton's greener future with a modernised depot that meets the needs of today while planning for tomorrow.”

 

A special mentioned goes to our CMB Bristol division who carried out this project – it marks yet another successful handover for their team.