Civil works enabling low-carbon heating upgrades in schools across Northern England

Over the past few months, RWB Building Solutions has secured multiple civil works packages supporting the rollout of air source heat pump (ASHP) systems in school environments. These projects are a reminder that successful low-carbon upgrades aren’t just about the plant and mechanical installation — they rely on solid enabling works: safe excavations, robust concrete bases, clear service routes, and secure external areas that stand up to daily use.

Below are two recent school contracts in the North of England where our civil works are helping set the foundations (literally) for the next stage of decarbonisation:

Project 1: Enabling works for ASHP installation in North Yorkshire

For a school in North Yorkshire, we were appointed to complete a package of external civil works to enable the onward installation of air source heat pumps. The scope focused on creating compliant routes and durable bases for new equipment and associated infrastructure.

Key works included:

• Approx. 140 linear metres of trenching to establish service routes and support future connections
• Concrete pads formed to specification for external plant and associated equipment
• Fencing works to provide segregation, protection, and appropriate access control around plant areas

Working in a live school environment requires careful planning. Our team coordinated sequencing to minimise disruption, maintain safe pedestrian routes, and keep the site tidy and secure at the end of each day. This approach helps the follow-on trades mobilise quickly and keeps the overall programme moving.

Project 2: Trenching and substation base works in Northumberland

At a school in Northumberland, the enabling works were centred on preparing infrastructure for incoming electrical upgrades associated with the heating project.

Key works included:

• Trench works to create service corridors for new connections
• Construction of a client substation base, built to provide a stable and compliant foundation for future installation

Substation foundations need precision: levels, dimensions, reinforcement, and finishes all matter because they directly impact installation quality and long-term maintainability. We focus on getting the detail right so downstream commissioning and handover are as smooth as possible.

Why enabling civils matter on school decarbonisation projects

Civil works are often the critical path at the start of an ASHP programme. Done well, they reduce risk and avoid delays later.

What good enabling works achieve:

• Clear, safe routes for services and future access
• Plant bases that minimise vibration, settlement, and water ingress issues
• Secure external zones that support safeguarding and day-to-day school operations
• A reliable handover point for M&E teams to install and commission efficiently