MD Groundworks was appointed as the principal civils contractor to deliver a complex 33kV dual-circuit cable installation and fibre pilot system as part of the development of a secure data centre facility in the South of England. The 7.5km route linked a Scottish and Southern Energy grid site with a Ministry of Defence location, demanding rigorous compliance, stakeholder coordination, and operational excellence.
Project Overview
Project Duration: 12 Months
Location: SSE Grid Site to MoD Facility, Wiltshire
Sector: Data Centre & High-Voltage Infrastructure
Client: Confidential (Defence Sector)
Delivery Partner: Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE)
Key Scope of Works
- Excavation & Reinstatement: Excavated a trench approximately 600mm wide x 1,175mm deep, installing HAUC-compliant ducting, backfill, and full surface reinstatement.
- HV & Fibre Cable Installation: Installed over 45,000 meters of 33kV high-voltage cable and 15,000 meters of dual pilot fibre cable across the route.
- Joint Bays & Fibre Splicing: Constructed 14 HV joint bays at 500m intervals and installed 6 fibre splicing pits every 1,200m for signal continuity.
- Waste Management: Safely removed and recycled 5,288m³ of inert spoil, delivered to licensed local recycling facilities.
Site Operations & Project Management
MD Groundworks delivered turnkey project management and site infrastructure, including:
- Skilled plant operators and lifting crews managing HIAB cranes, grab lorries, dumpers, and winches
- Full site setup: welfare units, office accommodation, secure compound, storage areas
- Supervision and highways liaison to coordinate with Wiltshire Council and SSE
- Dedicated HV cable laying and jointing teams, along with fibre splicing technicians
Sustainability & Community Integration
To reduce environmental impact and support the local economy:
- Project teams were housed in locally rented accommodation to reduce commute mileage and fatigue
- Locally sourced materials and services were prioritised wherever possible
- Daily operations were conducted with carbon-conscious logistics planning
Safety & Quality Assurance
- Weekly toolbox talks, including client-led safety sessions
- Regular SHEQ audits and Safety Bulletins issued across the workforce
- Midpoint formal performance review conducted with client stakeholders to review progress, compliance, and delivery timeline
Project Outcomes
- Completed on time and within budget
- Zero cable sheath damage across the entire route
- Full compliance with SSE, MoD, and HAUC standards
- Positive feedback from all stakeholders, including SSE, MoD, and Wiltshire Council
