Project Overview
Catify supported UK Power Networks on enabling works for a new incoming substation as part of the Coppermill Water Supply Resilience Programme. The site was technically complex, with survey areas spanning an operational Thames Water compound, a public recreation ground and water-based locations requiring specialist access.
Scope of Services
- Underground Utility Detection
- Topographical Survey
- Ultra-Wideband Ground Penetrating Radar (UWB-GPR)
- Drone Survey
- Sonar Survey
Project Approach
The project was split into separate working areas to reflect the different access, safety and delivery requirements across the site. Within the Thames Water compound, works were delivered under strict access controls, including water hygiene cards, TW passporting and eTWOSA permit requirements. In the public recreation ground, the survey methodology was adapted to protect reinstated surfaces while still collecting the data needed for design development.
Key Challenges
- Restricted access and permit requirements within an operational utility environment
- Public-facing works in a recreation ground with stakeholder sensitivity following previous damage from earlier works
- Specialist access requirements with the environmental agency for the final sonar survey element
Solutions and Delivery
unit was used instead of a 4×4 UWB-GPR system. Survey works were completed under enhanced security controls when operating in public areas. For the final water-based survey element, coordination continued with the Environment Agency and UK Power Networks to secure access to the required slipway and complete the remaining scope.
Outcomes
The project delivered a coordinated, multi-disciplinary survey package to support the substation scheme across a constrained and varied site. The completed outputs provided the client with the information required to progress design and enabling works, while demonstrating Catify’s ability to adapt survey methodologies to technically and logistically challenging environments.
