Kennet & Avon Canal Trust – Commercial Rewire & Electrical Upgrade

Case Study Contents

Nulectrics Ltd completed a full electrical rewire and system upgrade for the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust in Devizes. The project included new consumer units, distribution boards, LED lighting, emergency systems, and data points to ensure the building met modern compliance standards and user needs.

Client and Project Overview

  • Client Profile: Small organisation

  • Location: Devizes, UK

  • Project Date: 2021

  • Service Type: Commercial Electrical Rewire & Upgrade

  • Project: Kennet & Avon Canal Trust headquarters and museum building

  • Size: 408 m²

  • Main Products & Materials Used:

    • Distribution boards and consumer units

    • LED lighting and emergency LED lights

    • Fire alarm break glass units

    • Data rack with internet switch and data points

    • Electrical supply for pumping station

  • Duration/Time to Complete: 9 months

Challenges and Technical Adaptations

The building had failed its Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), requiring a full rewire. The main challenge was rewiring from the mains at one end of the building to the far end, with multiple rooms branching off the route.

The project also had to be completed while parts of the museum remained operational, requiring careful planning and minimal disruption.

Solutions:

  • Ran new wiring by cutting into plasterboard along the front edge of the building, following joist lines, instead of lifting flooring.

  • Installed all cabling above the plaster ceiling and fire barrier for compliance and a tidier finish.

  • Integrated fire alarm system cabling above ceiling for safety.

  • Replaced oversized recessed lights with new LED panels, adapting the ceiling with custom bevelled wooden inserts painted to match.

Project Summary

Nulectrics carried out a full rewire to bring the building up to modern electrical standards. Key upgrades included:

  • New consumer units and distribution boards

  • Installation of LED and emergency lighting with fire-compliant fixings

  • Fire alarm system upgrade

  • Data rack and network cabling with multiple data points

  • New supply for the site’s pumping station

By concealing all cabling above the fire barrier, the installation is both compliant and visually cleaner. The electrical upgrade provides staff, visitors, and event organisers with a safe, reliable, and modern system.

Conclusion

This long-term commercial rewire improved the safety, compliance, and usability of the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust building. The result is a reliable electrical system designed for durability, supporting both day-to-day operations and public events.