Leabons Lane Zone Substation was originally built in 1964 and has reached the end of it’s effective service life. This project will result in modern amenity to ensure a safe and reliable electricity supply to Blacktown and Seven Hills.

The project involves 5 construction milestones that allows for the extensive refurbishment of the existing live substation. Decommissioning the old and installation of the new electrical equipment will be coordinated with each construction stage.

The first stage of major construction involves:

• new basement & switchroom extension
• precast concrete and structural steel installation
• installation of Alucobond cladding following the demolition of the existing brick veneer
• installation of a new higher roof prior to demolishing the existing above the live switchroom
• upgrading of all services (electrical, security, fire, hydraulic)
• installation of extensive underground conduits and building a new transformer bay
• upgrading staff amenities

Following stages include:

• replacing existing transformer bays
• installation of sound walls
• hard and soft landscaping

This completed facility will provide an aesthetic improvement to the area while meeting the future power needs of the local community.

INNOVATION

The site was particularly tight and bounded by high traffic roads. As the facility was still in operation it was critical for safety reasons to maintain access through the driveway. The original design indicated propping to the precast columns that would have obstructed the driveway. Project Coordination provided an alternative that involved clamping the columns to the existing building to avoid the props and maintain safe access.