The National Grid has appointed Mott MacDonald to provide project management services for the replacement of underground electricity cables in London as part of a multi-billion pound programme to rewire the United Kingdom. Within London, a network of 275kV cables was installed in the 1960s which are now approaching the end of their technical life. Due to increased electricity demand the cables are to be upgraded and replaced with 400kV cables. Mott MacDonald’s role will involve the supervision of civil, mechanical and electrical works; programme controls, risk management, construction design and management advice, safety, health and environmental management, environmental advice, change control, planning, and design checks. Donaldson Associates will be assisting on the project, regarding services relating to the Hackney to Willesden route under a sub-contract. This project is designed to make good use of brownfield sites and underground space which will have a low impact on the environment. The main construction works contract commenced at the beginning of October 2010 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2018.
