iC2 CCTV Security Specialists, the Kent-based installers of electronic security solutions, have been awarded the contract to maintain, install and upgrade the integrated security system at Manchester Arndale.
Begun in 1972, by its completion in 1979, the Manchester Arndale was the largest covered town shopping centre in Europe, covering some 30 acres in the old city centre, with 650,000 shoppers visiting it each week. With over 240 stores, major department stores, restaurants and fast food outlets it has become a busy and active shopping arcade.
Extensive redevelopment has been taking place at Manchester Arndale since September 2003. Prudential, who now own the centre, (having purchased it from P&O in 1998), together with Manchester City Council have produced a £150 million plan for redevelopment which includes covering up 80% of the ill-fated and much derided yellow tiled surface of the building, and re-cladding the exterior in a more attractive architectural style.
The maintenance contract with iC2 began in January 2008 and is ongoing. They maintain a mixture of 350 Panasonic PTZ and static cameras and digital recorders. iC2 has also upgraded a number of cameras and installed WINICS software to run the system. Four quarterly preventative maintenance call outs ensure that the 'Panasonic Super System' functions smoothly and efficiently at all times.
Manchester Arndale's Security Manager – Nigel Locket said: "Manchester Arndale is one of the highest profile retail sites in Europe. As such, we demand the highest levels of expertise and professionalism from our service providers. iC2 certainly delivers."