Case study

Comprehensive enabling works for First Bus' Lawrence Hill depot

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Overview

First Bus appointed Unitary Engineering Services to deliver a programme of enabling works at its Lawrence Hill depot in Bristol, supporting the site's ongoing electrification and future operational requirements. 

The project focused on adapting existing spaces within the depot to create dedicated areas for bus parking, IT infrastructure, welfare facilities and storage, while upgrading servicing areas to better support day-to-day operations. All works were delivered within a live operational depot, requiring careful planning to minimise disruption. 

As First Bus continues its transition towards a lower-carbon fleet, the Lawrence Hill depot required significant alterations to its existing facilities to accommodate changing operational needs. 

The Flix area needed to be transformed from a multi-use storage space into dedicated bus parking, while the existing CRU building required reconfiguration to provide new welfare facilities, IT accommodation and storage following the demolition of Enterprise House. Existing servicing areas also needed updating to support the depot's evolving requirements. With buses operating throughout the day, all works had to be carefully coordinated to ensure the depot remained fully functional and safe for staff throughout the programme. 

The solution

UES delivered a comprehensive programme of mechanical, electrical and building adaptations to prepare the depot for its next phase of development. 

The project included alterations to the CRU building, creating dedicated spaces for IT infrastructure, storage facilities and welfare provisions, alongside improvements to the existing servicing areas. Within the Flix area, the team reconfigured the layout, converting a former storage and multi-use space into dedicated bus parking to improve site operations. 

Working within a live depot environment, the programme was carefully phased to minimise disruption while maintaining safe access and ensuring day-to-day operations could continue throughout the works. 

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The result

The enabling works have created a depot layout that is better aligned with First Bus's operational requirements and future electrification plans. 

By adapting existing buildings and making more effective use of available space, the project has improved operational efficiency while providing modern welfare facilities, dedicated IT accommodation and enhanced servicing areas. The reconfigured depot is now better equipped to support future investment, helping First Bus continue its transition towards a more sustainable transport network. 

Through careful planning and coordinated delivery, UES successfully completed the works while maintaining business continuity, demonstrating the value of delivering complex building adaptations within a live operational environment. 

Lawrence Hill enabling works
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