Whitmore High School

Sector: Education
Project Type: Electrical Services
Location: Barry, South Wales
Completion: 2022
Duration: 14 months

About this Project

Evans Electrical was appointed to deliver the full electrical services package for the construction of the new Whitmore High School in Barry, a landmark development within the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s 21st Century Schools Programme. The £30 million investment replaced the outdated 1960s school buildings with a cutting-edge facility designed to accommodate over 1,100 pupils and provide the community with a hub for lifelong learning.

The project aimed to create a modern, energy-efficient, and inclusive educational environment that promotes both academic excellence and student wellbeing. The new school features a four-court sports hall, all-weather pitch, performance and drama studios, ICT suites, and specialist science, technology, and art classrooms. With sustainability at its core, the design incorporated renewable energy sources, advanced building services, and high-performance systems to reduce environmental impact and long-term running costs.

Working in close collaboration with the main contractor and design team, Evans Electrical ensured all electrical systems were seamlessly integrated, supporting a safe, resilient, and future-proofed learning environment.

Evans Activities Comprised

Main Power Infrastructure – LV switchgear, panelboards, sub-main cabling, and resilient distribution systems.
Lighting Design & Installation – Energy-efficient LED lighting, intelligent controls, and emergency lighting to BS 5266 standards.
Fire & Life Safety Systems – L2 fire alarm system, aspirating smoke detection, disabled refuge alarms, toilet alarms, and lightning protection.
Renewable Energy & Sustainability Measures – Rooftop photovoltaic panels and infrastructure for future EV charging points.
ICT & AV Installations – Structured Cat6A cabling, integrated AV systems, and full Wi-Fi coverage.
Small Power Systems – Power supplies for classrooms, laboratories, workshops, and catering kitchens.
Mechanical Services Power Supplies – Electrical connections to HVAC systems, ventilation, and BMS equipment.
Security & Access Control – CCTV coverage, access control systems, and intruder alarms.
Testing, Commissioning & Handover – Full testing, O&M manuals, as-fitted drawings, staff training, and 12-month maintenance period.

Key Outcomes

Delivered a high-specification, future-ready educational facility.
Achieved sustainability targets with renewable energy and intelligent building services.
Enhanced safety and accessibility with advanced fire, life safety, and security systems.
Created a digitally advanced environment with ICT and AV infrastructure.
Successfully completed the project on schedule, ready for the academic year.