The Door Industry Journal

Saturday, 2 May 2026

Take the GfA challenge: How to make sense of complex applications

For most installations, a standard control panel is sufficient. But what happens when it's not: When a control system needs to manage a fire door in a baggage handling system at a major international airport, manage traffic flow at a recycling plant, or secure priceless artefacts at a museum?

Tim Drysch, head of electrical at GfA, is trained in handling the unusual, the complex, and the unexpected. The key, according to Tim, is understanding the environment, the challenge and finding simple, integrated solutions.

Here are three challenges that show how bespoke electrical design can turn a problem into a solution.

Challenge 1: The Baggage Conveyor Fire Door

The Situation: At a major international airport, fire shutters are required over baggage conveyor belts to prevent the spread of fire within airside terminals.

The Considerations: This presents a unique conflict of interest. The primary function of the door is to close to stop a fire. However, if the door closes while a suitcase is passing underneath, it will rest on the object, failing to create a smoke-tight seal and compromising the fire rating. Furthermore, the system needs to be reliable; if the mains power fails, the door must remain able to close in power loss.

The Solution: GfA utilise a PLC to create a "handshake" between the door and the conveyor system.

● Intelligent Obstacle Detection: The system uses photo beams. If a fire alarm triggers whilst the door is open and a bag is blocking the beam, the control panel allows the conveyor system to move the belt in forward or reverse until the obstruction is cleared. Only when the beam is clear does the conveyor system send a signal to our panel to close. Once the door has left the open position the conveyor is inhibited.

● Battery Intelligence: The design includes several monitoring systems, for example the battery backup. It constantly checks the voltage and acts depending on the battery status feedback.

Challenge 2: High-Security Logic

The Situation: For high-security applications, such as museums housing cultural treasures or cash-handling centres, standard locking is insufficient. These sites often require heavy-duty physical locking mechanisms or bollards that engage when the door is closed.

The Considerations: The challenge isn't just locking the door but also preventing the door from destroying itself. If a user tries to open the door while heavy mechanical locks are engaged, the motor could cause catastrophic damage to the door curtain. Conversely, the system must ensure the door is actually locked before giving a "secure" signal.

The Solution: The design service implements a strict logic sequence using a PLC and limit switches.

● Verification: The system incorporates strict interlocking protocols to ensure reliable communication between the door, locking mechanisms and other security functions. The system cannot be operated until all the conditions of the interlock are met to safeguard access to the building.

● Fault Detection: If the door hits the floor but the locks fail to engage (perhaps due to misalignment), the system recognises this "fault condition" and locks out the operation, preventing misuse until the security breach is resolved. It also monitors lock switches when the door is open, via volt-free signals to indicate to control rooms the lock status alongside any errors.

Challenge 3: The Universal Retrofit for Retail Logistics

The Situation: A major retailer and distribution customer needed to upgrade loading bays across a vast network of sites.

The Considerations: The customer required a "universal" solution that could handle varying equipment levels at different depots. They needed a single control panel that could integrate dock levellers, traffic lights, inflatable shelters, and door controls. Crucially, they wanted to minimise the time installers spent on-site wiring complex connections.

The Solution: GfA designed a modular, combined control panel.

● Integration: The panel combines two interlocks ensuring that neither the dock or the door could impact each other, achieved through door position monitoring and proximity sensing.

● Fitter-Friendly Design: To address the installation challenge, the panels were pre-wired and pre-tested prior to dispatch. In the field, clear connection diagrams make for easy connection to the DIN rail meaning installers don't need to decipher complex schematics on-site; they simply connect specific wires to specific terminals, significantly reducing site time and wiring errors.

Whatever your challenge, GfA’s electrical design team and technical team provides the logic that sits between the door and the site's specific needs. Call GfA today on 01926 452452 and start work on your project requirements.

www.gfa-elektromaten.com

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Friday, 1 May 2026

Hörmann Truedor Roadshows - Putting Installers First

Hörmann Truedor is inviting entrance door installers to discover a new business growth opportunity featuring their range of composite doors, backed by significant consumer marketing investment and a comprehensive package of dealer support.

At a series of dedicated roadshows to be held across the UK, Hörmann Truedor will outline how its latest initiative is designed not only to expand installers’ product portfolios, but to actively generate homeowner enquiries and pass qualified leads directly to approved dealers.

Installers are invited to join the Hörmann Truedor team for an informal early morning get-together over coffee and bacon sandwiches, where the focus will be firmly on new business opportunities. The events will introduce the opportunity to add the Hörmann Truedor range of composite doors to existing product ranges.

Manufactured in the UK and backed by Hörmann’s engineering expertise, brand reputation and nationwide infrastructure, Hörmann Truedor provides a high-quality composite door solution with strong consumer appeal and credible brand support.

At the heart of the initiative is Hörmann’s investment in a targeted consumer campaign designed to drive traffic to its website and generate genuine homeowner enquiries. These enquiries will then be passed directly to approved dealers via an online Installer Finder, delivering a clear commercial advantage for those looking to grow sales.

The company has also put in place a range of practical sales tools and support to help installers convert enquiries into confirmed orders, including an advanced online Door Designer, Installer Finder visibility, product training and ongoing marketing and technical assistance – ensuring installers are fully equipped to maximise every lead generated.

Alongside the longer-term growth opportunity, installers attending will be able to take advantage of a package of launch incentives. These include a £1,500 door voucher package, a sign-up bonus of 750 points for the Hörmann Rewards programme and free use of the Door Designer for the first year. Dealers will also benefit from access to the new locking cylinder and hardware options to further enhance their entrance door offering.

The roadshows will take place between 8.00 and 10.00 am at the following venues:

· Tuesday 19th May, Leicester – The Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium, home of Leicester Tigers

· Tuesday 2nd June, Edinburgh - The Norton House Hotel, Ingliston

· Thursday 4th June, Leigh – Leigh Sports Village, home of Man United Women and Under 21’s

· Tuesday 9th June, Twickenham – The Twickenham Stoop, home to Harlequins RFC

· Thursday 11th June, Bristol - Ashton Gate Stadium, home of Bristol City FC and Bristol Bears

The events are aimed at providing installers with a quick and easy insight into how partnering with Hörmann can help drive demand, win new customers and increase profitability in the composite door sector.

To visit the roadshow in your area simply visit www.hormannevents.co.uk to book your place.

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Thursday, 30 April 2026

DHF publishes new guidance to help members prepare for major 2026 construction regulation reforms

The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has launched a new guidance document designed to help members understand and prepare for the significant construction regulation reforms expected in 2026.

Created in response to UK Government proposed legislative changes following the Grenfell Inquiry, the guidance explains what the new regulatory landscape may look like and how businesses across the door, hardware, and wider construction sector can take practical steps to prepare. The document aims to simplify complicated regulatory developments and provide members with a clear direction on how to strengthen compliance, improve product safety processes, and meet rising expectations around competence and accountability.

The guidance, entitled ‘Preparing for Forthcoming Changes to Regulating Construction’, outlines the key reforms that are expected to reshape the industry. These include the move towards a single construction regulator, major changes to construction product rules, and the introduction of a new General Safety Requirement that will apply to all construction products not already covered by the Construction Products Regulations. These developments signal a shift towards stronger enforcement, clearer responsibilities across the supply chain, and a greater focus on evidence-based compliance.

Rather than simply outlining the changes, DHF has focused on helping members understand what actions they should take now. The document encourages businesses to review their competence and training arrangements, strengthen technical documentation and traceability, ensure that product claims are supported by clear evidence, and align with robust certification and testing processes. It also highlights the importance of preparing for increased scrutiny across the supply chain as the regulatory environment becomes more structured and accountable.

“Construction regulation is changing at pace, and it is essential that businesses across our sector are ready for what is coming,” explains DHF’s General Manager, Michael Skelding. “This guidance has been developed to give members a clear and practical understanding of the proposed reforms so they can take action early and continue to meet the highest standards of safety and compliance. DHF members already place strong emphasis on quality and professionalism, and this document helps ensure they remain well prepared as the regulatory framework continues to evolve.”

The guidance makes clear that many DHF members are already in a strong position due to their commitment to industry standards and responsible business practices. However, it also stresses that early preparation will be important as the sector moves towards tighter regulation and greater accountability. DHF will continue to work closely with Government and industry partners to monitor developments and provide ongoing support through technical guidance, training, and updates, ensuring members remain informed and confident as the new regulations take shape.

The document is now available to download from the members’ area of the DHF website (login required): https://bit.ly/4svAdkc

www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Wednesday, 29 April 2026

Abloy UK relaunches London showroom to showcase the next generation of security solutions

Abloy UK has relaunched its showroom at The Building Centre in London, unveiling a newly renovated demonstration space designed specifically for architects, specifiers and security consultants seeking high end solutions for their designs and developments.

The showroom brings together Abloy’s extensive portfolio of access control systems, digital locking solutions, and integrations with intruder detection in a fully operational environment.

The space has been designed as a resource for the industry, offering a space where professionals can experience security technology first-hand and better understand how solutions can be specified, integrated and applied across different building types in different applications and environments.

By providing a practical space where professionals can evaluate both technical performance and product aesthetics, the showroom helps to support projects at the earliest stages of design, allowing Abloy to work closely with customers in tailoring solutions that align with their needs.

To mark the relaunch, Abloy invited architects to an event at the showroom, giving attendees the opportunity to explore the newly refurbished space and see the latest security solutions in action. The event provided an opportunity for industry professionals to gain insight into how advanced access control and locking technologies can be implemented into contemporary building design.

On display are IP-based intercom systems including DoorBird, alongside wireless access control platforms such as Aperio and SMARTair. Visitors are also able to explore wired locking solutions with electric locks and the Escape Door System (EDS), as well as Abloy’s digital key solutions including, CLIQ, PULSE and CUMULUS.

The showroom also features a working demonstration door that shows how access control integrates with Abloy’s Escape Door System (EDS). The door highlights security as well as compliance with the latest building regulations, providing visitors with real-life examples of how the systems operate, showcasing functional implementation.

Pip Courcoux, Technical and Product Director at Abloy UK, said: “Our aim is to support the industry in making informed choices when it comes to security the built environment.”

www.assaabloy.com

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Tuesday, 28 April 2026

DHF to showcase expertise, exclusive offers, and new training at The Security Event 2026

The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has announced its presence at The Security Event 2026, taking place on 28–30 April at the NEC Birmingham. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet industry experts, explore new training opportunities, and access an exclusive membership offer.

DHF will showcase a preview of its new Building Hardware Training programme at the event. The programme has been designed to support product managers, customer service teams, trade counter operatives, and professionals working within the building hardware sector in developing key skills and maintaining compliance with industry standards. Visitors will be able to learn more about the programme, explore how it can benefit their organisation and register their interest ahead of the launch.

Visitors to Stand 5/A102 will also be able to take advantage of a special £100 discount on their first-year’s subscription fee, when applying at the DHF stand. This offer gives companies and professionals a valuable opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading trade bodies and access ongoing technical support, training, and guidance.

DHF’s technical team will be available throughout the event to provide expert guidance and answer technical questions whether that’s about best practice, compliance requirements, or current industry developments. The Membership and Training team will also be present to discuss the full range of member benefits. Visitors will be able to collect the 2026-2027 training and membership brochures at the stand.

A number of DHF members will be exhibiting at the event, including Allegion UK, ASSA ABLOY, CAME UK, CLD Fencing Systems, Commtel, dormakaba, Easygates, Element Materials Technology, FAAC UK, Frontier Pitts, GEZE, Hikvision, Inova Gates, Latham's Steel Doors, LORIENT, Metador, Pendle Doors, Rutland UK, SQUIRE SECURITY, Strongdor, The Keysafe Company, UAP Ltd, and UL Solutions.

“The Security Event 2026 provides a valuable opportunity to meet our members, speak with industry professionals, and share the latest developments in training and technical support,” explains DHF’s Deputy CEO, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “We look forward to welcoming visitors and discussing how DHF can support businesses across the sector.”

Visitors can register for a free ticket to attend by visiting: https://bit.ly/41ihQ6k and are encouraged to attend Stand 5/A102 to learn more about DHF and its support for the door and hardware sector.

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Monday, 27 April 2026

FIRE DOOR HARDWARE TRAINING, DEMOS AND COMPETITIONS

Allegion helps keep people safe where they live, learn, work and connect and is bringing together its family of trusted door hardware brands at The Fire Safety Event 2026, taking place between the 28th and 30th April at the NEC, Birmingham.

Allegion’s team of fire door safety experts will span two exhibition stands at this year’s Fire Safety Event, 4/E90 and 4/F20. At stand 4/E90, visitors can explore a comprehensive portfolio of precision-engineered solutions, with a series of working door displays and live demonstrations highlighting how Allegion’s security, hardware and door control products operate as part of a complete and compliant fire door assembly.

Throughout the three day event, Allegion’s experts will provide practical, on-the-spot guidance and advice for its range of tested and certified hardware solutions, suitable for timber, steel and composite fire doors.

Amongst the featured products on stand 4/E90 will be the new Boss electromagnetic hold-open cam-action door closer. Designed to integrate into the alarm system of modern buildings, it provides effortless accessibility, free movement and life safety compliance.

Other stand highlights include the fire-rated FinProtect Plus finger protection guards, used to safeguard fingers on the hanging side of doors, and the Zero International Drop Seal, an automatic drop seal mechanism that automatically lowers and raises the seal when the door is operated. In addition, Allegion will demonstrate its widely used Briton and Von Duprin panic and emergency exit hardware ranges.

Allegion is also inviting visitors to stand 4/F20, where a dedicated team will provide support on fire door safety best practice and compliance, and introduce accredited practical fire door training courses from Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) for professionals looking to upskill and develop key areas of their knowledge.

Alongside product demonstrations, Allegion is also running a competition, offering visitors the chance to win a free one-day accredited training course at its state-of-the-art FDM training centre. To enter, participants must correctly identify the faults found on an on-stand fire door display. One winner will be drawn each day of the event and may attend their chosen course on a date of their choice.

Speaking on their presence at this year’s event, Pete Hancox, country manager at Allegion UK, commented: “The Fire Safety Event is a celebrated occasion in the industry calendar, and we are delighted to be making a return with our growing family of brands. More than ever, we remain committed to advancing fire door safety and raising awareness on the correct specification, installation and maintenance of door hardware.

“Our team of experts possess decades of experience and combined with a complete portfolio of high quality products from industry leading brands such as Briton, Boss, Fullex, Zero International and UAP, we are well positioned to reach, educate and support visitors at this year’s event. Over the three days, we will have a valuable platform that allows us to engage with professionals through live hardware demonstrations, compliance guidance and practical training sessions designed to improve fire door safety standards.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors to both our stands for what will be our largest presence at the event to date, as we showcase our fire door hardware solutions for both residential and commercial sectors.”

To find out more on Allegion UK and its fire door hardware solutions, visit stand 4/E90 or head to www.allegion.co.uk. For information on Allegion’s FDM training centre and accredited courses, visit stand 4/F20 or: www.fdmltd.co.uk

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Sunday, 26 April 2026

PRESENTING PROJECT NIGHTINGALE: A COACHBUILD COLLECTION

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars presents Project Nightingale, a Coachbuild Collection. Named after Le Rossignol, French for ‘the nightingale’, and the name of the designers’ and engineers’ house near Henry Royce’s winter home on the Côte d’Azur, this extraordinary production concept is an open two-seat motor car that introduces a dramatic new expression of Rolls-Royce design.

Defined by grand proportions and underpinned with a fully electric drivetrain that delivers a uniquely silent open-top experience, Project Nightingale draws on the glamour and confidence of the 1920s and 1930s while remaining entirely of its time. Its creative vision is fully resolved – the small number of design details that remain demand entirely new manufacturing techniques that are currently under development. Only 100 examples will be created for sale, each coachbuilt by hand at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood.

“Some of the most discerning Rolls-Royce clients in the world asked us for our most ambitious work," says Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Project Nightingale has been conceived for the uniquely design-literate clients at the heart of the Coachbuild Collection programme: people for whom a perfectly resolved surface is as compelling as the glamour of driving an open-top Rolls-Royce. The motor car’s aesthetic is inspired by the principles of Streamline Moderne design from the late Art Deco era, wherein precise lines and uninterrupted forms are more powerful than ornament. In that spirit, when conceiving Project Nightingale, Rolls-Royce creatives embraced sheer, monolithic volumes.

Another point of inspiration for Project Nightingale is Rolls-Royce’s experimental motor cars of the 1920s. Known as ‘EX’ models and fitted with red badges – which Project Nightingale is also equipped with – these are some of the rarest and most desirable motor cars in the marque’s history. Two of these prototypes were a particular focus: 16EX and 17EX.

These motor cars were created in 1928, at the height of the Jazz Age, just three years after the Art Deco movement was given its name. Henry Royce and his engineers cloaked two powerful Phantom chassis in lightweight aluminium bodies to achieve a new top speed for Rolls-Royce. 16EX and 17EX were designed to reach in excess of 90 miles per hour, and their torpedo-shaped form perfectly captured the audacity of Royce’s ambition: an imposing overall scale; a long bonnet; a shallow windscreen; and a snug, enveloping cabin with driver and companion set deep inside.

FRONT ELEVATION

At 5.76 metres in length, Project Nightingale is almost exactly the same length as the marque’s flagship saloon, Phantom, yet devoted entirely to a two-seat convertible form.

The grille itself is a bold interpretation of one of the most recognisable icons in luxury. Its generous surround – almost a metre in width – appears to be carved from a solid block of stainless steel, with 24 vanes set deeply within it.

Beneath the grille, a structured section widens at 45 degrees from each lower corner before dropping down vertically, from which a carbon fibre apron projects forward, traced by an elegant chrome belt.

TORPEDO ‘CENTRAL FUSELAGE’ IN PROFILE

In profile, the full impact of Project Nightingale’s driver-oriented, torpedo-shaped design is revealed. An expansive bonnet gives way to the dramatically raked windscreen, framed on each side by a stainless-steel form housing a delicate quarterlight window, inspired by the Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé. Behind it is a compact cabin for two, set deep within the body, before the rear deck falls and tapers towards a dramatically low trailing edge. This is a motor car that is almost entirely bonnet and tail, its two-seat cabin an intimate counterpoint to the grandeur of the volumes surrounding it.

Significant development has been focused on the surfacing, ensuring that Project Nightingale appears to have been carved from a single, solid billet. To minimise visual noise, engineers developed a handle for the coach doors that incorporates a hidden lock mechanism and a discreetly integrated indicator lamp. The Rolls-Royce ‘Badge of Honour’ is also distilled into an elegant stainless-steel ‘Double R’ monogram, placed sparingly on each front wing and in the centre of the luggage compartment.

Against this serenity, 24-inch wheels – the largest fitted to a Rolls-Royce – strike a considered contrast. Their directional design is inspired by the propellers of a yacht viewed from beneath the waterline: forms that appear to be in continuous motion even when the motor car is stationary. The surface also includes subtle, machined stripes, creating the impression of wire wheel spokes moving at speed, while aluminium flakes within the black finish introduce a delicate sparkle as the wheel turns.

A TAIL OF CONSEQUENCE

Towards the rear, the surfacing swells around the rear wheel arches, creating an impression of planted, muscular strength that balances the overall design’s grace. The deck above is purposefully horizontal, broken by two rear lamps of exceptional precision: these slim clusters fall from the upper surface to the lower at an almost perfect right angle. This striking treatment is further dramatised by the Piano Boot, which opens sideways on a cantilever, both recalling the ceremony of a grand piano and transforming a functional moment into a considered act of arrival.

A single longitudinal brake lamp is placed directly at the centreline on the rear of Project Nightingale, recalling the speed stripes of great Streamline Moderne design. Directly below, a recessed chrome number plate surround is set into the lower rear face with the precision of a watch bezel: a small detail that rewards the closest attention.

THE INTERIOR SUITE: A WORLD FOR TWO

During an early prototype drive, Rolls-Royce designers were able to hear birdsong with unusual clarity. Intrigued by this experience – and in tribute to the motor car’s name – they began studying recordings of nightingales and analysing the distinctive sound-wave patterns created by their song. From these studies emerged an idea: to translate the rhythm of birdsong into a visual form that could envelop those within the motor car.

The result is the Starlight Breeze suite – a flowing constellation of ambient illumination comprising 10,500 individual ‘stars’ in three subtly varied sizes. Extending from the front of each door around the driver and companion’s seat, the illumination wraps those within in their own celestial field, transforming melody into light.

The Starlight Breeze illumination is carried within a sculptural interior form called the ‘Horseshoe’, which rises behind the seats and frames the occupants in a protective architectural gesture.

The leather of the door card is overlaid as a raised section recalling a finely crafted saddle. This motif continues through the centre console in a leather-covered saddle armrest – split into two delicate pieces – which aligns precisely with the Coachline that runs the length of the bonnet, through the cabin to the rear central brake light.

ENGINEERED ELEGANCE

Project Nightingale is powered by the marque’s fully electric drivetrain. For a Coachbuild Collection conceived for the most discerning and design-literate clients in the world, the qualities of electric power are deeply considered. The silent and effortless delivery of power amplifies every characteristic that has defined the Rolls-Royce experience for more than a century, and the nature of this powertrain unlocks completely new design possibilities. Further engineering details will be shared as the motor car progresses through its global testing and development programme.

Entry to the Coachbuild Collection programme is by invitation only and client deliveries will commence from 2028.

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Saturday, 25 April 2026

Kenrick appoints Suzanne Nicholl as Sales and Marketing Director

Longstanding hardware manufacturer Kenrick has appointed Suzanne Nicholl as Sales and Marketing Director, further strengthening its leadership team as the business continues its next phase of growth and innovation.

Suzanne has spent her career working within both the hardware and composite door markets. She brings a strong track record in commercial leadership, sales strategy and brand development and will play a key role in driving Kenrick’s continued expansion across both traditional hardware and smart security solutions.

Martin Smith, General Manager at Kenrick, said: “As Kenrick continues to expand its product portfolio, particularly with new innovations in both traditional hardware and smart security solutions, Suzanne’s leadership will be invaluable. Her strategic insight and industry knowledge make her a perfect fit for the next stage of our development.”

Suzanne has built her career within the fenestration sector, beginning in the hardware market before moving into the composite door industry, where she held senior commercial roles leading sales, marketing and customer service functions, and has been responsible for driving significant revenue growth.

www.kenricks.co.uk

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Friday, 24 April 2026

Celebrating 40 years of supporting the UK industrial door trade

In December 1986, Indupart opened its doors for the first time. From a small trade counter in Watford to a nationwide operation today, the company’s journey has always been rooted in one purpose — to support the UK industrial door trade with the right products, shared knowledge, and dependable service.

Four decades later, that same focus remains unchanged. Indupart’s story is one of steady growth alongside the industry it serves — built through collaboration, adaptation, and a commitment to helping others do their work well.

A trade built on people and purpose

Across every part of the company — from warehouses and transport to sales and technical support — Indupart’s progress has come from a simple principle: work hard, share what you know, and support the people around you.

“Forty years is a milestone we’re incredibly proud of — but it wouldn’t have been possible without the people behind it. Every role matters, every effort counts, and that’s what’s kept Indupart moving forward for four decades,” says Patrick Taylor-Jones, Managing Director.

That team-focused approach has shaped how Indupart operates and how it connects with others across the sector — from engineers and installers to manufacturers and suppliers. It’s a shared ecosystem where experience, consistency, and cooperation matter most.

Supporting the trade through change

Since the late 1980s, the industrial door market has evolved dramatically — from manual shutters and early automation to the advanced systems seen today. Through it all, Indupart has remained close to the trade, adapting to new standards, technologies, and customer needs.

Expanding its depots and product range over the years has allowed the company to provide broader support across the UK. The introduction of technical training, in-house sectional door production, and practical guidance has further helped engineers and installers stay equipped and informed as the industry moves forward.

That ongoing support — not just in products, but in knowledge and accessibility — continues to be central to Indupart’s role within the trade.

Looking ahead

Marking 40 years isn’t just about reflecting on the past — it’s about recognising the strength of the wider industry that’s grown alongside it. Indupart’s partnerships with suppliers, customers, and trade bodies have all played a part in that collective progress.

As the business looks to the future, the aim is to continue contributing to the industry’s development — supporting innovation, promoting best practice, and keeping the focus firmly on the people and businesses that make the trade what it is.

Because while the products and technology will keep evolving, the purpose remains the same: to support the UK industrial door trade — together.

www.indupart.co.uk

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Thursday, 23 April 2026

Grange Farm Development receives SBD Gold

One of South Harrow’s most notorious housing estates is undergoing a major regeneration. Phase one of the Grange Farm Estate redevelopment has already received a number of Secured by Design Gold Developers Awards for the project, and has also been commended for at the annual SBD ATLAS awards, recognising the work of Designing out Crime Officer (DOCO) Danny McPhail, the local authority and the developers.

Originally built in the 1960s as a temporary housing solution to meet rising demand, Grange Farm Estate was one of the last prefab estates still standing in London. Two hundred and eighty two homes were constructed quickly in three-storey blocks using a now-outdated building material called Resiform - a type of glass fibre reinforced polyester panelling.

Sixty years later and the flats had begun to seriously deteriorate. Roofs and panels were damaged, homes were inefficient to heat and the whole estate had become increasingly difficult to repair and maintain.

Along with the physical decline, Grange Farm Estate had also developed a reputation as a hotspot for crime and disorder. Gang activity and drugs were rife, and violent crime was not uncommon including serious incidents of acid attacks, stabbings and at least one shooting.

In 2019 the London Borough of Harrow approved a huge four-phase regeneration programme in partnership with developers Higgins Partnerships and Hawkins Brown Architects. The plan involves demolishing the old blocks to deliver approximately 500 homes, 40% of which will be social housing. The new Grange Farm development will also include a new community centre, shared public open spaces and new walking routes to transport links and local areas. DOCO McPhail from the Metropolitan Police has been a key adviser from the outset.

Phase One has already delivered 68 much needed new council homes, and 21 shared ownership properties for locals along with a new network of public streets and squares for communal use. However, recognising that the original pre-approved lighting plan fell very short of SBD crime prevention standards, the Met DOCO created an improved scheme involving extra lighting around the block and communal gardens.

On completion the three blocks of flats received SBD Gold awards, but the two town houses initially were awarded Silver. Harrow Council Housing wanted to aim higher and after further measurements suggested by Officer McPhail including the installation of extra lighting, CCTV and intruder alarms, Phase One of the development went on to achieve five SBD gold standard awards. Tenants have already moved in.

DOCO Danny McPhail commented, “It was a well-designed phase and Higgins understood the Secured by Design requirements. They kept in regular contact and ensured that any concerns were fully discussed and actioned upon. The only issue related to external lighting, which had been agreed without any prior discussion. However once it was identified Higgins addressed all the concerns in a timely manner and rightly obtained five Gold Secured by Design awards for the development.”

As a result of the regeneration up-to-date crime statistics show only one reported theft of a motor vehicle occurred in the two years since completion, no reports of anti-social behaviour by non-residents and no burglary or criminal damage reports.

Harrow Council has now launched Phase Two of the project which aims to deliver two new apartment blocks with secure bike storage and parking spaces, landscaped communal areas, pedestrian friendly streets and a children’s play park.

Yaseen Parkar, Pre-Construction Director (Technical) at Higgins Partnerships, commented: “We are privileged to receive the ‘Highly Commended’ Secured by Design award for our Grange Farm Phase One development.

“Not only did the scheme achieve Secured by Design Gold certification, but we were also informed that crime in that part of the estate has been almost non-existent since we handed the project over more than a year ago. That’s a clear testament to the effectiveness of these design measures in creating safer, more resilient communities.”

www.securedbydesign.com

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