A&B Delivers M&E Services for Manchester’s New Green Depot
A&B Engineering proudly supported Morgan Sindall in the transformation of the 107,000 sq ft former Beyer Peacock locomotive shed in Gorton into Hammerstone Depot—a state-of-the-art, low-carbon facility for Manchester City Council.
Our team was responsible for delivering all electrical and mechanical systems, including main power distribution, switchgear, cabling, electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, and a smart Building Energy Management System (BEMS) network. A rooftop 920 kWp solar array, paired with battery storage, now enables on-site renewable generation and peak-demand management.
On the mechanical side, we installed energy-efficient HVAC systems across the workshops and offices, as well as a smart rainwater harvesting system with weather-based controls for the wash bay—significantly reducing potable water consumption.
Working within a live operational environment, our team carefully phased delivery to ensure minimal disruption. We also implemented a cathodic protection system to preserve the historic Grade II-listed steel structure—honouring the site’s industrial legacy while embracing future-focused engineering.
As part of our commitment to workforce development, we welcomed 14 PlanBEE Manchester apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week 2023. Guided by A&B staff, the students explored the site's sustainable M&E systems, gaining hands-on insights into low-carbon construction and smart building technologies.
The completed Hammerstone Depot now stands as a fully operational, sustainable hub—featuring EV charging, on-site renewables, real-time energy monitoring, and water-saving infrastructure—sensitively integrated into a heritage setting and built to support Manchester’s greener future.
Greg Harding Photography
