L-R: Alastair Swan, Newcastle City Council and Tony Easingwood, Advantex Network Solutions
Plans to improve security and IT services for the Tyne pedestrian and cyclist tunnels have been given the green light as part of an extensive refurbishment project.
The move will see Advantex Network provide a new IP infrastructure in an undisclosed six-figure contract, which will involve the installation of water-resistant fibre optic emergency cabling to span the 270m length of the Grade-II listed structure. The work, which is already underway, will see a new network infrastructure implemented by Advantex that will allow for the connectivity of IP security systems, telephony and other IT services.
The technology is part of a package of improvements being under taken by owners Joint Transport Committee, which represents the North East and North of Tyne combined authorities to provide fast, reliable and cost-effective IP cameras, access control and communications systems for the tunnels, which are currently being refurbished. New concrete floor paving slabs are also being installed to provide a better surface for cyclists and pedestrians.
The Advantex contract will also include onsite and remote technical back up and annual health checks for all network hardware and software. This will allow the firm to upgrade the system to accommodate any future user requirements.
Using IP technology will also enable surveillance equipment to be specified and designed to improve operational management, particularly around tunnel safety and security.
Alastair Swan at Newcastle City Council said the 20,000 people a month who use the tunnel will benefit from new levels of safety and security: “This is an important investment for us, providing not only a technology-based deterrent but also delivering assurances that our customers will be in a safe and secure environment.”
