Preserving Character: Modern Safety Systems for Wiltshire Council’s Landmark Building
20th August 2025
In the centre of Wiltshire, one of the council’s most prominent heritage buildings has recently undergone a major transformation. After a full refurbishment, the site now benefits from brand new electrical, plumbing and life safety systems. All designed to meet the highest modern standards while respecting the building’s historic character.
For Wiltshire Council, it was crucial that the fire, intruder, access control and disabled refuge systems not only offered outstanding performance but also blended seamlessly with the building’s fabric. This was no ordinary installation. Every decision had to balance cutting-edge safety with architectural sensitivity.
Having worked with the council for nine years, our team was the natural choice to deliver the project, working in partnership with Neptune M&E and main contractor Beard Construction.
The Challenge: Integrating Modern Safety into a Heritage Setting
The refurbishment brought with it a complex set of requirements. The council needed:
- A fire alarm system using the latest technology, including a wireless solution for the clock tower to avoid awkward and intrusive cabling routes.
- VESDA aspirating systems in the Great Hall and main stairwell to provide discreet yet highly effective detection in high-ceilinged areas.
- A door access system that matched existing door furniture and maintained the building’s aesthetics.
- An intruder alarm capable of being sectioned to allow different building users to access specific areas.
- Monitoring of fire and intruder alarms for rapid response, even outside working hours.
- A refuge system enabling disabled users to easily communicate with the main entrance lobby or fire panel.
On top of these requirements, all systems had to comply with the latest regulations and be designed for ease of future servicing, without compromising the building’s listed features.
The Solution: A Fully Integrated, Futureproof Safety Package
Although Neptune M&E led the initial design, our team played a major role in developing the compliance strategy and refining the specifications to ensure every system worked seamlessly together.
Fire Alarm and Detection
We installed a state-of-the-art fire alarm system featuring a wireless device at the top of the clock tower, avoiding the need for disruptive cabling. VESDA aspirating systems were placed in the Great Hall and stairwell, offering reliable detection without the need for frequent access to high or delicate areas. A bespoke cause-and-effect programme was created to deliver maximum protection while minimising nuisance alarms.
Door Access Control
Wireless handlesets were carefully selected to match existing fittings, maintaining a consistent look throughout the building. All access points are controlled and monitored via a central PC for ease of management.
Intruder Alarm and Monitoring
The intruder alarm can be divided into sections, allowing selective access for multiple building users. Both fire and intruder systems are monitored through our central station, ensuring immediate response from police and fire services when required.
Disabled Refuge System
Strategically placed refuge points allow disabled users to request assistance directly from key control points in the building.
The Benefits: Safety, Sensitivity, and Longevity
The installation has delivered clear advantages for Wiltshire Council and the building’s long-term operation:
- Enhanced safety: Advanced detection systems with tailored cause-and-effect programming reduce false alarms and provide rapid incident response.
- Architectural preservation: Wireless technology and discreet hardware minimise visual impact on the building’s historic features.
- Futureproof design: Systems were chosen and installed with ease of servicing and maintenance in mind.
- Operational flexibility: Zoned intruder alarm and centralised access control give the council flexibility to adapt building use over time.
A Model for Collaboration
This project highlights the value of strong partnerships between client, contractor, and specialist supplier. By working closely with Neptune M&E and Beard Construction, we ensured that every system met the council’s expectations for safety, compliance and aesthetics.
Our commitment remains the same: to install reliable systems that extend the life and usability of buildings, protect heritage features, and meet modern compliance standards, all while working collaboratively to achieve the best outcome for the client
