Power Logistics' project manager, Tony Harpur managed the installation of the power equipment, loading in 10 days prior to the event. The unique location offered many challenges; most notably because the Mall was open to the public during the build, and also because of the high-level security. This meant everyone had to work to a strict load-in and set-up schedule, with working times based on the Mall's allocated road closure times to ensure minimum disruption to the area's traffic system.
Power Logistics installed a 455kVA and a 250kVA twin-pack to provide power for the event's lighting requirements, and a 250kVA twin-pack for the sound and video supply, which also included the event's outside broadcast needs. A series of 10 remote generators were deployed for the screens and delay towers set up along the Mall, with either a dedicated generator to each tower or cabling running between two towers on catenary wire. In some cases, towers could be more than 60m apart. Another five generators were used for the production facilities and seven tower lights put into the work areas to aid the build through the night.
This was the first event to be held on the Mall since the Golden Jubilee in 2002 and Power Logistics' experiences, as part of the team of contractors who worked on the Golden Jubilee event, was invaluable in preparing and managing the logistics. The unusual site dimensions of 350m long by 20m wide meant the Power Logistics team had to manage the installation and cabling in very tight conditions and teamwork between all the suppliers was vital to the build's success. Following the concert, the load-out was carried out immediately and the roads were reopened first thing Monday morning.
Production manager Robbie Williams (of Robbie Williams Productions) commented: "The Power Logistics team provided an exemplary service as always and we had no problems whatsoever."
(Lee Baldock)
