Comelit-PAC adds fire safety regime at £26 million Marina Centre

The £26 million Marina Centre leisure complex on Great Yarmouth’s Marina Parade was designed to replace the existing centre, which was constructed back in the 1980s. Work on the new building began in January 2021, with the location opening its doors to the public for the first time last August.

Operated by Freedom Leisure, the all-new facility boasts a six-lane swimming pool, a learner pool, an aqua play area complete with flumes, a 120-station gym, a four-court sports hall, a ten-metre indoor climbing zone, three studios and and array of community spaces.

Commenting on the project, Freedom Leisure’s area manager Martin Marsh stated: “The opening of the new Marina Centre is a very exciting chapter for Great Yarmouth, not to mention a significant investment. The core objective is to offer the latest and greatest facilities, but it’s imperative those facilities can be enjoyed in a fire-safe and secure environment.”

Marsh continued: “We worked in partnership with the main contractor right from the early stages of the design. The specification of a fire safety solution was a key priority.  The team could offer advice, recommendations and practical support on how and where to install protection measures that would blend in with their surroundings and not impact the experience for our staff and guests.”

Significant challenge

Fire safety is one of the most significant challenges presented to the management teams at large leisure complexes. The desire is to fashion a welcoming and open environment that doesn’t compromise on the safety or security of guests.

Main contractor Morgan Sindall worked with installer Secur-It right from the initial design processes to incorporate Comelit-PAC’s fire safety solutions. The end result integrates fire safety with the access control, turnstile and security services provision alongside the on-site PA system.

Arnaud Marosi, commercial director at Secur It, explained: “By specifying Comelit-PAC’s solution at the Marina Centre, we could present a fire system that realises high-performance life safety and doesn’t interfere with the natural flow of a busy leisure centre.”

Further, Marosi observed: “With excellent technical support available, we were able to integrate the fire solution seamlessly with the security and PA system to enable staff to speed up response time and advise guests about the safest emergency route. We could also install around the facilities without impacting on look or feel. The outcome is a wonderful example of a new complex that’s already exerting a positive impact on the local community.”

System detail

The 20-zone Comelit-PAC fire safety system specified for the Marina Centre complex includes a four-loop addressable panel, a repeater and 383 devices (among them detectors, Call Points, sounders and visual alarm devices).

Mandy Bowden, fire manager at Comelit-PAC, concluded: “By considering the fire detection and alarm systems early on in the programme of works, we could specify a tailor-made, integrated and inclusive solution without impacting on the location’s function, aesthetics or appearance. We’ve realised a safe and secure leisure centre. It’s a fantastic facility for local residents’ health and well-being, and for visitors to Great Yarmouth to enjoy.”

*Further information is available online at www.comelitgroup.com