Security upgrade: Akuvox at Holliday Wharf

Holliday Wharf & Canal Wharf in Central Birmingham is a bustling apartment complex of 143 properties and home to 400 residents.

The development is located in a region that has experienced rapid growth and redevelopment, with a surge in new bars and restaurants opening, and new student accommodation also housed in the area. 

Safety of residents

The management group perceived the growth complex was facing rising security concerns

With the recent influx of nightlife, hospitality outlets, and a growing student population, the management company perceived the development complex was facing increasing security concerns.

James Clayton, Chair of Holliday Wharf Management, emphasised the legal responsibility to ensure the safety of residents. "With the influx of people into the area, it was imperative that we prioritise our residents' security," he said. "We needed a system that would not only protect them but would also enhance their living experience."

System requirements

The security challenges included incidents of unauthorised access, coupled with increasing concerns about package theft and personal safety, all of which highlighted the need for a more robust access control solution.

Wharf Management determined that a comprehensive overhaul of the access control system was imperative to protect residents and their assets.

Existing security infrastructure

In reply to crises, the firm sought the expertise of Urban Stream to set a tailored safety plan

In response to these concerns, the company sought the expertise of Urban Stream, a specialist security installer, to develop a tailored security strategy and install a new system.

Dale Taylor, of Urban Stream, explains, “The Wharf Management team identified several pain points within their existing security infrastructure. Our goal was to develop a comprehensive solution that would not only resolve these issues but also exceed their expectations.”

The solution

Working in partnership with the CIE system design team, Urban Stream implemented a full Akuvox access control and door intercom system. This state-of-the-art system replaced traditional key fobs and pin readers with advanced facial recognition technology. Residents now enjoy seamless access to the building and car park through the power of biometric access credentials.

The Akuvox system provides a robust door entry and resident intercom system that encompasses a bespoke-built database management and analytics reporting system, ensuring comprehensive control over access permissions and live reporting.

Facial recognition technology

Residents have expressed their satisfaction with the increased security and ease of use

By eliminating the vulnerabilities associated with physical keys and PIN codes, the system significantly enhances security while offering unparalleled convenience to residents.

The positive impact of the new system is evident. Residents have expressed their satisfaction with the increased security and ease of use. The advanced facial recognition technology has added a layer of sophistication to the complex, elevating its appeal and value to potential buyers and tenants.

Products

At the heart of the Holiday Wharf/Canal Wharf security upgrade is the Akuvox access control system. This comprehensive solution features a range of advanced products and ‘smart intercom’ products designed to provide maximum security and convenience.

Central to the system is the facial recognition access credentials featured within the Akuvox R29C and E16 smart door intercoms, a state-of-the-art access credential technology that accurately identifies residents and authorised personnel. By capturing and analysing facial features, the system grants or denies access with speed and precision.

Akuvox touchscreen answering panel

The system has a vital database control system ruling to efficient control over access licenses

Furthermore, each of the 140+ apartments features an Akuvox touchscreen answering panel which not only provides high-definition audio/video communication with visitors requesting access but also allows individual residents to integrate these touchscreen panels with any smart-home automation platforms they may be using within their apartment.

The system also includes a robust database management system, allowing for efficient control over access permissions. This feature enables property management to easily manage resident information, grant access privileges, and monitor system activity.

Integration of the Akuvox system

The integration of the Akuvox system with the apartment complex’s existing infrastructure ensures seamless operation. The system works in harmony with other building management systems, providing a unified approach to security and property management.

By leveraging the power of facial recognition and advanced database management, the Akuvox system delivers a superior level of security and live analytical reporting without compromising convenience for residents.

Results and benefits

Locals have embraced the new system madly, praising its comfort and efficiency

The implementation of the Akuvox access control system at Holiday/Canal Wharf development has yielded impressive results. The most significant benefit is a substantial enhancement in security. By replacing traditional, less secure methods with advanced facial recognition technology, the complex has effectively eliminated the risk of unauthorised access. 

Residents have embraced the new system enthusiastically, praising its convenience and efficiency. The ability to access the building and car park effortlessly using facial recognition has significantly improved residents' quality of life.

Effectiveness of the Akuvox system

Moreover, the increased security has had a positive impact on property values. Potential buyers and tenants are increasingly drawn to properties that offer state-of-the-art security features. The Akuvox system has positioned Holiday Wharf as a pioneer in apartment complex security, attracting attention from across the region.

The success of this project has not gone unnoticed. Holiday Wharf has received numerous inquiries from other property management companies interested in implementing similar systems. This growing interest is a testament to the effectiveness of the Akuvox system and CIE-Group's expertise in delivering cutting-edge security solutions.