The Sandwell Aquatics Centre was initially constructed to host one of the most significant international sporting events of 2022, The Commonwealth Games. However, the vision behind the project extended beyond a temporary venue for the games. The objective was to create a lasting legacy for the local community and turn the Aquatics Centre into a vibrant and inclusive facility.
The Sandwell Aquatics Centre aimed to be more than just a leisure facility; it aimed to be inclusive and foster excellence in sports. For the first time, aspiring swimmers and divers in the area found a dedicated centre of excellence where they could train for future competitions without compromising their living arrangements or travelling long distances. This created a nurturing environment for budding athletes, instilling a sense of pride within the community and inspiring future generations.
Wates appointed SES to deliver a £13M M&E package to include the installation of:
- 5km of sub mains cabling
- 5km of primary containment
- 2000 luminaires*
- 2MW of heating to support the 5,000m3 of pool water heating and general building heating
- 2330m2 of underfloor heating
The project team worked closely with local organisations like Think Sandwell, Sandwell College, and local schools, providing work placements, mentoring and encouraging careers in construction and M&E engineering.
Other Case Studies

Nightingale Hospital North East
Leading national engineering specialist, SES Engineering Services (SES) has supported the fight against the coronavirus recently supporting with the installation of mechanical and electrical (M&E) services at the new 460-bed NHS Nightingale Hospital North East in Sunderland.

University of Leeds – School of Chemical and Process Engineering
The University of Leeds embarked on an ambitious £520m five year programme of works to transform its entire campus to support its vision for increasing knowledge and opportunity with a focus on world-leading research, collaborative industry partnerships and further enhancing the student experience for 1,000+ students who come from 70+ countries to study in the building.

Tinbergen Plantroom & CTL Building
SES Engineering Services (SES) completes enabling works to deliver £201.8m Life and Mind Building at University of Oxford