Distribution centre, Lelystad

Crosscube connects. Dutch home-base with European ambitions.

The realisation of a mega distribution centre for Zara, Pull & Bear and Bershka stores. The first of its kind in Europe outside of their Spanish headquarters.

It was essential that the cables and pipes laid for lighting, communication and security around the new distribution centre were future-ready and well-protected. By placing many access chambers, the cables can easily be replaced or re-tightened in the future as necessary. The original plan was to build the infrastructure according to Spanish construction standards, which means using large, concrete access chambers. However, Crosscube was presented with the challenge of finding and implementing an alternative to this plan, since Lelystad is situated on ‘polder land’. This soft soil means that there are stricter requirements related to stabilising the subsoil for the installation of concrete wells. In addition, we had to assure our customer that we would be able to guarantee a very tight turnaround time on the project, because delays could lead to heavy fines.

Access chamber solution

First, every installation was drawn up and was given a specific type of access chamber designation. After that, all chambers were uniquely numbered to avoid confusion between the diverse duct connections.

Crosscube created specific solutions to fulfil the project requirements. Based on the inventory, discussions were held and plans were sketched out. Following this, the first chamber charts were made, specifying the cover type and positions of the cable connection points. Finally, the final drawings were worked out in detail and approved. This ensured a good foundation upon which the definitive plans could be made.

Result

This project required the pooling of a great deal of knowledge and expertise, including knowledge of the challenging Dutch polder soil and sub-ground, to arrive at a solution that was most effective and efficient, both for now and for the future. We succeeded.