Historic Bridgwater Arts Centre gets a modern security upgrade with Comelit-PAC’s bespoke door entry solution.

Bridgwater Arts Centre, a historic Grade I listed building, has received a security upgrade thanks to a partnership between Comelit-PAC and Kings Group SW, who delivered a bespoke video door entry solution.

Located in the heart of Bridgwater and currently operated by the Town Council, the Arts Centre, originally constructed in 1723, has been a hub for theater, music, and film since 1946.

As part of a broader renovation, the Arts Centre collaborated with Kings Group SW to modernize its door entry system, opting for a modular video design.

## Preserving History While Enhancing Security

Scott Mason, Director of Amenities at Bridgwater Town Council, emphasized the importance of preserving the building’s historical integrity during the upgrade. “The Grade I listing of Bridgwater Arts Centre means that any changes, however minor, must be carefully planned to protect the building’s historic character,” he stated. “We involved our teams in the initial design and specification process to ensure the solution could be installed to seamlessly blend with its surroundings while enhancing video security and access.”

Comelit-PAC’s Ultra Door Entry system was selected by Kings Group SW. This high-definition video intercom solution allows staff to monitor all entry points via video intercoms, ensuring real-time visibility and secure access control.

## Sensitive Installation for a Historic Building

Adam Pitman, Security and Life Safety Systems Supervisor at Kings Group SW, highlighted the delicate nature of the project. “Every aspect of the door entry upgrade had to be approached sensitively, including routing cables discreetly and ensuring the system met the latest security standards. By choosing Comelit-PAC’s modular system, this could be achieved with minimal disruption to the building’s historic fabric while providing a flexible solution that can be adapted as the Centre’s security needs evolve.”

## Modular Design for a Perfect Fit

The Ultra system’s modular design allowed for a simple configuration of the door entry solution, tailored to the specific needs of the Arts Centre. Its 2-Wire and VIP door stations offer a combination of audio, video, and button modules in a compact layout, providing the team with the flexibility to adapt the system to various access points.

## A Seamless Integration

Tony Berry, Business Development Manager at Comelit-PAC, noted the collaborative approach taken. “Working closely with Kings Group SW and Bridgwater Arts Centre early on allowed us to tailor the solution specifically for this site. By understanding the needs of the team and how the building operates, we were able to deliver a system that functions seamlessly for staff, visitors, and performers while integrating thoughtfully into the historic environment.”