Part of the re-development programme included within GBE's scope of works is the installation of the new PA/VA system, disabled refuge and WC alarms throughout the grandstand and new royal and private boxes.
The Jockey Club's objective is to have a PA/VA system that provides state-of-the-art evacuation messages throughout the venue and sound reinforcement for the comprehensive AV system. The technically demanding specification involved GBE performing extensive acoustic surveying and sampling to provide an accurate design suitable to meet the requirements. One of the key challenges was to design a PA/VA system that could integrate with the AV equipment to provide sound reinforcement to the large number of different zones within the new building. In addition the works are being undertaken whilst the racecourse is still functioning which calls for well-organised programming and disciplined working.
On completion of the design GBE decided to specify Baldwin Boxall's VIGIL2 PA/VA system. As a Gold Status Customer, GBE has been working with Baldwin Boxall for over 10 years and was confident the equipment, which they manufacture, would achieve the high level of technicality and quality needed. As GBE business development manager Paul Walsh said, "The level of service we receive from Baldwin Boxall from sales through to service including their technical information is industry leading. We have absolute confidence in using them on a high profile project like Cheltenham Racecourse."
In addition to the high level of service, Baldwin Boxall enabled GBE to add value during the tender process; for the disabled refuge and WC alarms, GBE has also specified the Baldwin Boxall Omnicare system. Works are due to be completed during the summer of 2015.
(Jim Evans)
