Upgrading Canary Wharf Retail washrooms with Cistermiser Easyflush Direct, supplied by Richmonds of London, reducing water waste, improving efficiency, and reducing maintenance.
Introduction
Canary Wharf is one of London’s most vibrant commercial and retail destinations, attracting thousands of visitors each day. With a combination of retail outlets, restaurants, and office buildings, the washroom facilities within the retail areas experience exceptionally high levels of use. Canary Wharf Management (CWM) identified the need to modernise the washroom flushing systems within the retail facilities. The objective was to replace ageing cistern technology with a more efficient solution that would reduce maintenance requirements, minimise water waste, improve reliability, and enhance hygiene for the thousands of daily users.
The Challenge
The existing WC flushing systems had been in place since the original construction of the retail complex around two decades ago. Over time, the traditional cistern-based systems began to create several challenges:
Given the extremely high footfall in the Cabot Place Mall, with some areas seeing up to 120,000 visitors per month, it was critical that any replacement system could cope with constant use while remaining reliable and efficient.
The Solution
Working alongside distribution partner Richmonds of London and water-saving solutions manufacturer Cistermiser, the Canary Wharf Management team identified a modern flushing system capable of supporting the high demand placed on these busy washroom facilities. Paul Stewart, the Sales Manager at Richmonds of London, facilitated the introduction of Steve Gale, Business Development Manager at Cistermiser, who conducted a detailed site survey alongside Sam Morrish, Engineering Supervisor, and Steven Rose, Building Services Manager, at Canary Wharf Management.

The survey confirmed that the existing infrastructure could support the installation of Cistermiser’s Easyflush Direct (EFD) valves.
A total of 20 Cistermiser EFD units were specified to replace the ageing cistern systems.
The Easyflush Direct valves eliminate the need for a cistern by delivering mains-pressure flushing directly to the WC. This approach provides several advantages:
Products were supplied through Richmonds of London, a trusted Cistermiser distribution partner.
The Installation
Due to the extremely busy nature of the retail environment, the installation had to be carefully planned.
The project took approximately six months to complete, with work scheduled primarily during night hours to minimise disruption to visitors and retailers. The installation was managed by the Canary Wharf Management team, ensuring the project was delivered efficiently despite the logistical challenges of working in high-traffic public facilities.
The Results
The installation of Cistermiser Easyflush Direct valves has delivered several key benefits:
The upgrade has successfully modernised the washroom infrastructure in one of London’s busiest retail environments while supporting sustainability goals.
Testimonial
We asked Sam Morris, Engineering Supervisor at Canary Wharf Group plc, to tell us about his experience with this project:
“With the high footfall across the Cabot Place concourse in Canary Wharf Retail, selecting a reliable flushing solution was essential. Following a site survey with Cistermiser and Richmonds of London, Easyflush Direct was identified as the best solution to reduce maintenance issues associated with ageing cisterns while also helping to minimise water waste.”
Paul Stewart at Richmonds of London has a long-standing relationship with the Canary Wharf Management team and understands the importance of getting it right first time. After surveying the site with Cistermiser, it was clear that the Easyflush Direct would overcome the ongoing maintenance issues associated with ageing cisterns, while also helping to reduce water waste.
Across Canary Wharf, we already use Cistermiser Direct Flush systems on our urinals, and they have proven extremely reliable. That experience, combined with the water-saving benefits and ease of maintenance, made the Easyflush Direct the obvious choice.”
Conclusion
By replacing traditional cistern systems with Cistermiser Easyflush Direct, Canary Wharf Management has successfully modernised its retail washrooms, delivering a more reliable, hygienic, and water-efficient solution capable of supporting the demands of a world-class retail destination. Next, there are plans to upgrade the Canada Place and Jubilee Place concorse as well,
If you are responsible for maintaining high-traffic washroom facilities and want to reduce maintenance costs, prevent water waste, and improve user experience, Cistermiser Easyflush Direct offer a proven solution. Contact Cistermiser today to discuss how we can help modernise your washroom infrastructure.
For product support or installation advice, contact our dedicated support staff today.