Story Bridge Depot

CLIENT

Brisbane City Council

PROJECT VALUE

$600,000

LOCATION

Brisbane QLD 4169

TIMELINE

March 2025

PROJECT INFORMATION

Brisbane City Council engaged Platinum Electricians to upgrade the power infrastructure at the Story Bridge Depot, ensuring it could meet increasing electrical load demands. The existing power supply was insufficient, necessitating the installation of a new substation kiosk, underground mains cabling, and a new main switchboard (MSB) to support the depot’s growing operational needs.

The project involved extensive electrical and civil works, including:

Installation of a new pad-mount transformer in coordination with Energex
Major excavation and construction for new underground mains cabling
Supply and installation of a new Main Switchboard (MSB)
NBN infrastructure relocation to accommodate electrical upgrades
Environmental and heritage protection measures to ensure compliance

Given the depot’s location and operational significance, the project required careful planning and stakeholder coordination to minimize disruptions while delivering a high-capacity, future-proof power supply.

OBJECTIVES & PRIORITIES

Compliance

Safety
First

Technical
Expertise

Minimal
Disruption

Electrical Infrastructure Upgrade

Installation of a new external main switchboard (MSB) and CT metering cubical.
Supply and installation of 8 x 300mm² outgoing cables from the MSB and 8 x 300mm² incoming cables to the Main Distribution Board (MDB).
Construction of a 1600mm x 600mm concrete plinth with subfloor and checker-plate access.
Installation of 120mm² earth cable between the MSB and MDB.

Civil Works & Excavation

Conducted a full survey of existing underground services before excavation.
Excavated and installed an 8m Type 3 Electrical Pit, formed and poured in situ.
Installed a 2000mm x 1700mm precast concrete plinth and uniculvert foundation for the substation.
Installed 125mm and 80mm UPVC conduits from the substation to the property boundary for Energex.
Installed retaining walls and hard cover tape above conduits for additional protection.

NBN Relocation Works

Re-routed existing copper cables due to the new Energex Pad Mounted Transformer installation.
Proved, hauled, jointed, and tested replacement copper cabling.
Managed traffic control to ensure minimal disruption during works.

Installation of Internal Cable Tray

Designed and installed horizontal cable trays within the depot.
Secured trays to existing struts and supports, ensuring compliance with Heritage approvals.

Tree Protection Measures

Implemented non-destructive digging within the Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) using vacuum excavation.
Installed mulching and barricades around protected trees to prevent accidental damage.
Placed ground mats at entry/exit points to minimize soil compaction over the 12-week project period.

Asbestos Contaminated Soil Management

Identified 40 tonnes of asbestos-contaminated soil during excavation.
Engaged licensed asbestos removal contractors to safely excavate and dispose of the contaminated spoil.
Conducted environmental assessments to confirm site safety before backfilling with clean topsoil.

CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

Managing Environmental Risks: The discovery of asbestos-contaminated soil required a rapid response. Working with environmental hygienists and licensed removal contractors, we ensured safe handling and disposal, allowing works to continue with minimal disruption.
Coordinating with Multiple Stakeholders: The project required seamless collaboration with Energex, NBN, and Brisbane City Council. Effective scheduling and communication ensured smooth execution of power, fibre, and civil works.
Minimising Operational Impact: With the depot remaining operational during the upgrade, traffic control and staged construction planning allowed essential services to continue