Western Power has awarded the construction construct for its new depot that will service the Vasse region in Western Australia.
Local South West-based construction firm Perkins has been awarded the contract following a competitive tender process providing a major construction project for the region.
The new depot features a zone-based design to help minimise interactions between people and vehicles.
With nearly 13,000 square metres of hard stand, a key feature is the establishment of covered parking for its heavy vehicle fleet that protects vehicles and staff from the elements, along with a covered vehicle loading area that links the enclosed logistics warehouse, staff facilities and administration building.
The site also features Western Power’s first Live Line store that will be temperature controlled and dust-free, in line with Australian Standards. Enhanced physical security measures will protect staff, property and assets.
Dedicated areas for the management of waste, bulk refuelling and vehicle cleaning will be established along with areas for logistics, high voltage testing, fleet maintenance, operational workshops and environmental management areas.
Trailer parking, pole storage and pole assembly areas complete the yard.
Western Power CEO, Guy Chalkley, said, “The new Vasse depot allows us to use existing owned-land and move from our Margaret River depot which is in desperate need of modernisation and our Busselton location that is only leased.
“We have worked with our crews to assess and design the new depot and it will be fit-for-purpose, efficient and a lot safer.
“Our crews respond to incidents in all weathers and they will soon be able to load and prepare equipment in protected areas before heading to the field.
“By consolidating these depots, we will be able to achieve ongoing operational efficiencies and cost savings, yet give our employees a safer and modern work facility.”
The depot is expected to be complete by the end of 2018.