UK Power Networks restores 19th Century Wimbledon substation to former glory

UK Power Networks has completed restoration work on a 19th Century substation in Wimbledon, although it will serve as a museum piece rather than a working substation. 

The 19th century electricity substation, now redundant, now looks good as new following work with contractors and the local council. The restoration project preserved a Grade two listed substation that forms an important part of the UK’s engineering history as it was one of the first substations to be installed to distribute power to people in Wimbledon.

Asif Malik, Trustee at the Wimbledon Society, noted, “The Society highlighted the plight of the landmark and campaigned for its conservation over the years.

“It is particularly commendable that the restoration work commissioned by UK Power Networks has been carried out to a very high standard, restoring the unit to its original condition, including the paint colour that was carefully selected after paint analysis. The substation now makes a very positive contribution to Wimbledon's streetscape, and UK Power Networks deserves congratulations for enabling this.”

Alan Heard, Property and Consents Connections Manager at UK Power Networks, added, “This was a nice way to support and protect the community where we work. Through research, consultation, site surveys and training, we are continually looking for ways to maintain and protect the local areas and environments which surround our equipment.”