Therapia Lane Depot, Sutton

Overview

The Therapia Lane Depot saw the redesign and full refurbishment of an underutilised vehicle maintenance site, transforming it into a state-of-the-art operational base for Sutton’s waste and street cleaning fleet.

Delivered via direct award through the Procurement Hub 2 Framework, it reflects Sutton’s strategic commitment to sustainability, local service delivery, and operational efficiency. It includes accommodation for the council’s growing fleet of electric waste collection vehicles, incorporating solar PV panels, heat pumps, and EV charging points to help achieve BREEAM Very Good status.

This project also adds to our expanding regeneration portfolio in Sutton, that include recent work to modernise the high street offering and two award-winning Passivhaus schools.

It also supports Sutton's drive to achieve borough-wide net-zero carbon emissions by 2045. This includes measures like purchasing fully renewable electricity for the council's estate since 2021, supporting energy efficiency measures for residents, and partnering with businesses to help them reach net-zero.

Project delivery & challenges overcome

The £8.4 million scheme was delivered under a JCT 2016 Design & Build contract, with construction starting in June 2024 and completion expected in March 2025—a total 36-week build programme.

Key project milestones and strategies included:

• Stripping the building to its existing steel frame, enabling a cost-effective reconfiguration while maintaining structural integrity.
• New façade and roof installation, improving performance and aesthetics.
• Internal fit-out of 25% of the depot footprint as modern office space, accommodating management and operational staff.
• New access created off Coomber Way, improving site circulation and logistics.
• High-level stakeholder engagement, aligning depot operations with the council’s net zero and circular economy ambitions.

Despite working on a constrained, previously disused site, the team delivered a robust refurbishment solution ready for immediate occupation and operational use.

Key benefits

Depot Functionality & Enhancements:

• 25% internal office fit-out, including open-plan workspace and welfare facilities.
• Modern vehicle bays and external hard landscaping, improving access and vehicle flow.
• Installation of 11 EV charging stations, supporting Sutton’s growing fleet of electric street cleaning vehicles.
• Roof-mounted solar PV panels and heat pump system, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
• Durable materials and upgraded MEP systems, optimising energy use and minimising maintenance requirements.

This reconfiguration ensures the Council now benefits from a fit-for-purpose base of operations within the borough, enhancing long-term sustainability and responsiveness.

Sustainability & environmental commitment

The project prioritised sustainable outcomes through a combination of fabric-first upgrades and renewable-ready systems.

Sustainability Highlights:

• Targeting BREEAM Very Good, ensuring exemplary environmental performance.
• Air source heat pumps and solar PV, reducing operational carbon emissions.
• EV charging infrastructure for Sutton’s electric waste and cleaning fleet.
• On-site energy efficiency, via thermal improvements and LED lighting systems.

With a design tailored to both current and future needs, the depot contributes meaningfully to Sutton’s net zero aspirations.

Community & Service Impact

Before the refurbishment, Sutton’s waste services operated from neighbouring boroughs—incurring extra fuel use, longer travel times, and increased emissions.

The new depot provides:

• A centralised base within Sutton, cutting emissions and improving local service efficiency.
• Support for future population growth, with capacity to expand services as new homes are delivered across the borough.
• Reduction in carbon footprint, aligned with the borough’s cleaner and greener strategy.

Councillor Christopher Woolmer, Chair of Sutton’s Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee, noted:

“This totally-rebuilt depot at Therapia Lane ensures that the Council can continue to reduce waste, switch to a circular economy and work towards a net zero carbon future for Sutton… This is a big step forward in making Sutton cleaner and greener.”

Client & Stakeholder Feedback

“This project reflects our commitment to sustainability and innovation. By targeting a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ standard, integrating energy-efficient systems, and supporting EV infrastructure, we’re proud to contribute to Sutton’s greener future with a modernised depot that meets the needs of today while planning for tomorrow.”

Richard Poulter, Managing Director, Willmott Dixon in the South