Retail MEP Refurbishment / St Austell

Upgrading ageing electrical and mechanical infrastructure to support modern retail operations, compliance and energy efficiency.

  • RK were engaged to assess and develop a full MEP upgrade strategy for a National retailer and warehouse facility in St Austell. The project required modernisation of ageing infrastructure while maintaining operational continuity.

    The initial survey identified significant opportunities to improve compliance, safety and performance across electrical, mechanical and life safety systems.

    • Full electrical infrastructure review and upgrade strategy

    • Replacement of main switchgear and distribution boards

    • Installation of surge protection and improved circuit provision

    • Fire alarm system rationalisation into a single integrated system

    • New LED lighting and external lighting upgrades

    • Installation of ventilation systems to retail and welfare areas

    • Introduction of heat pump heating and cooling systems

    • CCTV and security system upgrades

  • The site presented a number of operational and compliance challenges:

    • Ageing electrical infrastructure with limited spare capacity

    • No surge protection and inconsistent installation standards

    • Multiple fire alarm panels with unclear integration

    • Lack of ventilation in retail, welfare and WC areas

    • Unheated warehouse and retail environments

    • Poor emergency lighting provision on escape routes

  • RK developed a phased upgrade strategy designed to:

    • Improve compliance with current regulations

    • Enhance safety across fire, lighting and electrical systems

    • Futureproof the site for new loads including EV and heat pumps

    • Minimise disruption to day-to-day operations

    A key element was the transition to modern, energy-efficient systems, including heat pumps and LED lighting, alongside improved ventilation aligned to Building Regulations Part F.

  • The project positioned the site for long-term operational efficiency, safety and scalability while significantly improving the working environment for staff and customers.

    Potential measurable impact: 30–50% reduction in lighting energy consumption, improved compliance across all life safety systems, and increased electrical capacity to support future expansion.

“RK quickly understood the challenges of working with ageing infrastructure and provided a clear, practical upgrade strategy. Their approach balanced compliance, cost and long-term performance, giving us confidence in both the solution and its delivery.”
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