The Odyssey Complex, a premier entertainment venue in Belfast that plays host to many of the city’s high-profile concerts, exhibitions and sporting events, has installed a future-proofed IP security solution that ensures its 1,000,000 visitors each year can enjoy the facilities in a safe and secure environment.
The vast 23-acre site comprises the SSE Arena; a Pavilion including restaurants, shops and a cinema; the W5 Science and Discovery Centre; as well as a 1,500-space car park.
The new system, consisting of more than 140 IP cameras from Axis Communications, replaces an analogue CCTV solution which was nearing the end of its technical life cycle. It produces better quality images and makes it easier for the onsite security teams to investigate crimes and identify individuals of interest.
The IP camera system was installed by Diamond Systems, an Axis Partner and specialist in electronic fire and security solutions. The inclusion of HD IP cameras, which feature Axis’ innovative Lightfinder technology with extreme light sensitivity, provides security teams with more life-like colours in low-light conditions, vital within the arena during sporting events and concerts.
Brian Hughes, Group Head of Facilities at The Odyssey Complex, states: “The safety of our patrons is of paramount importance to The Complex, which is why we have taken this step to invest in a future proof system. Upgrading to HD IP camera technology made complete sense to us as we strive to maintain our status as the leading event facility in Northern Ireland.
“Through the use of intelligent applications such as Lightfinder we can be confident that we have the technology to support our unique security needs. Working closely with Axis and Diamond Systems, we were also keen to ensure the system had capacity to include analytics in the future. This could include customer footfall and queue management, bringing benefits in terms of operational effectiveness, guest satisfaction and, of course, visitor safety.”
Steve Snoddon, Managing Director at Diamond Systems, adds: “We installed the original CCTV system 17 years ago when the complex was first developed. While providing value at the time, technology has progressed at such a rapid pace since that it was time for us to re-evaluate the technology available to support its requirements.”
Peter Dempsey, Key Account Manager at Axis Communications, comments: “We wanted something that would not only incorporate today’s leading technology and maintain a high level of cybersecurity, but also prepare the complex for its security needs in the future. As the leading entertainment venue of its kind in Northern Ireland, the Odyssey’s security requirements are continuously evolving. Our commitment to really understand the business, and partnering with organisations such as Diamond Systems, ensured we could deliver a solution that was tailored to its needs.”
