Case Study: Strategic Partnership with a Leading Scottish Civil Engineering Firm on the Portobello Rail Depot Project

Client: Westlin Group Ltd

Account Manager: Marion Houston

Contract Duration: February - May 2024

Services Provided: Concrete, Aggregates, Tippers, Sweepers, Skips

Project Overview

NWH Group partnered with Westlin Group Ltd to support the construction of a TSE (Trackside Electrical Substation Equipment) building and the installation of two kilometers of SPEN ducting at the Portobello Rail Depot, Edinburgh. This project, a crucial element in bolstering the rail depot’s power infrastructure, required meticulous waste management, supply of specialised materials, and responsive logistical solutions. Throughout the project, 100% of the site waste was taken to the NWH Aggregate Recycling Facility (inert washplant) to be transformed into recycled aggregates and sand products, reinforcing both NWH Group’s and the client’s commitment to sustainability.

Project Scope & Challenges

The scale of the Portobello Rail Depot Project presented unique demands in terms of logistics, environmental compliance, and schedule adherence:

    Timely Material Delivery: Concrete, aggregate, and specialised materials were supplied on schedule to maintain the pace of construction.

    Specialised Material Requirements: Mid-project adjustments required sourcing certified railway ballast from specific sites, adding complexity to the supply chain.

Key Innovations and Cost Savings

To optimise efficiency and minimise costs, NWH Group implemented:

    Efficient Waste Management: A dedicated on-site system for regular "Wait & Load" exchanges, minimising storage needs and enhancing material availability.

    On-Call Sweepers: A responsive service for site cleanliness, enhancing worker safety and project flow.

    Sustainability Impact

NWH Group processed the project’s waste at it’s Aggregates Recycling Facility. This commitment to sustainable waste management significantly reduced the volume of landfill-bound materials and reinforced the project’s environmental benefits. The materials were transformed into recycled aggregates and sand products which displace primary quarried alternatives, minimising environmental impact and supporting circular economy initiatives.

Project Achievements

    Reliable, On-Demand Services: NWH’s flexible support for both scheduled and short-notice requirements ensured the timely delivery of materials and efficient waste handling.

    Compliance and Safety: Compliance with environmental and safety regulations was strictly maintained, especially given the presence of complex waste streams.

    Enhanced Community Infrastructure: The project’s improvements to local rail infrastructure contribute positively to the regional economy and transport network, supporting sustainable growth.

    100% of the construction and demolition soil and stone removed from the site was recycled (c1kt of waste).  More than 1kt of recycled aggregates were delivered to the project by NWH demonstrating the circular nature of construction waste recycling.  

Client Testimonial

"The Portobello Rail Depot project was a critical part of our infrastructure work, and NWH Group’s contributions ensured smooth project execution. Their responsive services and focus on environmental compliance played a vital role in meeting our objectives. We look forward to future projects with NWH Group."

— David Horner, Project Lead

Summary

This case study illustrates the impact of NWH Group’s services on large-scale infrastructure projects. Through innovative waste management, compliance adherence, and commitment to recycling, NWH Group not only helped ensure project efficiency but also strengthened the client’s ability to meet sustainability targets. The collaboration exemplifies NWH Group’s capacity to support complex construction needs while contributing to long-term environmental goals.