It is stuff like this that makes this Canadian feel not so polite.

What you need is to return your wheels to the shop and tell them they used the wrong size and type of rim and that you would like your money and your hubs back and then find someone who actually specializes in this kind of thing and will build you some wheels with the proper CR18 rims in the 590 / EA3 size. The CR18 is the best replacement rim for a vintage Raleigh unless you happen to have a small stash of uber rare 590 Mavics in your shop (that are not for sale). The CR18 has a beautiful polish to them and they look wonderful on vintage bicycles and their build quality is also excellent.

I know because I have built a lot of wheels with CR18 rims as well as other similar Sun rims and they offer the best replacement in a 590 size.

Sounds like you live in Vancouver or Victoria and you should not have a problem finding a competent wheel builder there... I am on the other side of those big rocks and do actually specialize in this kind of work which stems from my love my English three speeds and internally geared hubs.

Building a good wheel is not rocket science... seems like finding a shop that actually listens is.