Drainage pumping stations provide vital protection to the surrounding infrastructure by maintaining water levels so as to avoid flooding. Many of these facilities, which were originally commissioned decades ago, are equipped with both electric and diesel-powered pumps to ensure the local water levels are properly maintained, even in the event of a power cut. Local drainage boards and government agencies are under increasing pressure to prevent property damage by flooding whilst also operating more efficiently, so many facilities are required to operate as unmanned sites. As the original equipment reaches the end of its serviceable life, so there is an opportunity to introduce more energy efficient equipment as well as modern control and automation technology. Refurbishment projects must be well planned and efficiently executed to deliver a cost effective solution that will provide a reliable service for years to come. This article looks at the improvements that are available, using a recent project to illustrate the benefits.