Durrington High School, Worthing

Education

28 Sept

Durrington High School: Complete Electrical Package for the New Performing Arts Building

Bradbury Electrical was appointed to deliver the comprehensive electrical package for the new Performing Arts Building at Durrington High School. This state-of-the-art facility was designed to provide the school with modern spaces for both academic and extracurricular activities, particularly focusing on performing arts. The new building features a large 500-seat capacity main hall, which will be used for theatrical productions, music performances, shows, and even exams. Additionally, the building includes a backstage area with changing facilities, and a dance studio located on a mezzanine floor.

The electrical works for this project encompassed a wide range of systems and installations, each tailored to support the building’s various functions. From high-performance lighting for the stage area to advanced security systems, Bradbury Electrical was responsible for providing a reliable, future-proof electrical infrastructure that would meet both current and future needs.

Bradbury Electrical’s Role in the Performing Arts Building Project

Bradbury Electrical's role in this project was extensive, covering everything from enabling works to full-scale electrical installations across various areas of the building. Below are the main components of the electrical package:

1. Enabling Works:

Purpose: Enabling works involved the preparation of the site, including routing new power supplies, providing temporary lighting and power, and preparing the building infrastructure for the main electrical installations.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical carried out the enabling works, which included laying the groundwork for the larger electrical installation. This involved trenching for cables, setting up temporary power supplies for construction purposes, and ensuring that the building’s existing electrical infrastructure could be integrated with the new systems.

2. Electrical Design:

Purpose: A detailed electrical design was required to meet the specific needs of the new building, including the diverse requirements of the main hall, backstage area, dance studio, and support spaces.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical’s team of designers worked closely with the architects and other stakeholders to create an efficient and sustainable electrical design. The design included careful planning for power distribution, lighting placement, security systems, and data infrastructure. The design also took into account energy efficiency, incorporating modern technology to minimize operating costs and environmental impact.

3. Electrical Distribution:

Purpose: The distribution system was designed to ensure that the building had a stable and reliable power supply, capable of supporting the high demands of the performing arts equipment, lighting, and other systems.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed a new electrical distribution system throughout the building. This included upgrading the building’s main distribution board to handle the electrical load, as well as ensuring that power was evenly distributed to all areas, including the main hall, backstage area, changing facilities, and mezzanine dance studio. Special care was taken to accommodate the high-power requirements of stage lighting and sound equipment.

4. Electric Vehicle Charging (EVC):

Purpose: As part of the school’s commitment to sustainability, the project included the installation of Electric Vehicle Charging (EVC) points for staff and visitors.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed a number of EVC points in the parking areas of the new performing arts building. These charging stations were positioned for easy access and were designed to support the growing number of electric vehicles within the school community. The installation was future-proofed to ensure compatibility with a range of vehicle models and to accommodate future increases in demand.

5. Small Power:

Purpose: Small power refers to the supply of electricity for general equipment and devices, including power outlets for audio-visual equipment, computers, lighting controls, and other devices in the performing arts spaces.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed small power outlets throughout the building, including in the main hall, backstage areas, and dance studio. This included the provision of ample power outlets to accommodate all of the equipment required for performances, rehearsals, and other activities, ensuring a flexible and functional space.

6. Containment Systems:

Purpose: Proper cable containment was essential for organizing and protecting wiring systems, ensuring safety and compliance with building codes.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed various containment systems throughout the building, including cable trays, conduits, and trunking. These systems safely housed the power and data cables while maintaining easy access for future maintenance. The containment design was optimized for aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that the building's electrical infrastructure was neatly organized and unobtrusive.

7. Lighting:

Purpose: Lighting was a critical aspect of the project, especially for the main hall, stage areas, and dance studio. The lighting had to be versatile, adjustable, and energy-efficient to accommodate performances, rehearsals, and examinations.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed a variety of lighting systems across the new building:

Stage Lighting: For the main hall, Bradbury Electrical provided specialized stage lighting, including dimmable lights and spotlights that can be adjusted depending on the performance type.
Ambient Lighting: Energy-efficient LED lighting was used throughout the public areas, such as the backstage area, dance studio, and corridors, providing clear and even illumination.
Dance Studio Lighting: The lighting in the dance studio was designed to meet the specific needs of dancers, offering high-intensity lighting with the ability to adjust the brightness based on the type of session or performance.

8. Data Infrastructure:

Purpose: The building required a reliable data network to support administrative functions, communication, and the integration of smart technology within the building.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed a data infrastructure that included structured cabling, network ports, and data cabinets. This infrastructure supports a wide range of technologies, from administrative systems and security cameras to digital signage and audiovisual equipment in the performance spaces.

9. Intruder Alarms:

Purpose: Security was a key consideration for the new building, which houses valuable equipment and is used for performances and events outside regular school hours.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed an intruder alarm system that covers the entire building. This system includes motion sensors, door and window contacts, and an alarm panel connected to local security services. The system ensures that the building and its contents are protected at all times.

10. Fire Alarms:

Purpose: Fire safety was a priority in the design and installation of the electrical systems. The fire alarm system had to be highly reliable and fully integrated with the building's safety protocols.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed a fire alarm system that includes smoke detectors, manual call points, visual and audible alarms, and emergency evacuation lighting. The system was linked to the school’s central monitoring service and provides early warning in case of a fire emergency, ensuring the safety of staff, students, and visitors.

11. CCTV:

Purpose: CCTV cameras were required to monitor the building’s exterior and key internal areas, enhancing security and providing surveillance during events, performances, and after-hours activities.
Implementation: Bradbury Electrical installed a CCTV system with cameras strategically positioned around the building’s perimeter and within key internal areas, including the main hall and backstage. The system is integrated with a central monitoring station, allowing for real-time surveillance and recording.

Challenges Faced and Solutions Implemented

Complexity of the Building Design:

The building’s unique layout, with its large main hall, backstage area, and mezzanine dance studio, presented challenges in ensuring that all electrical systems were optimally integrated without affecting the aesthetics or functionality of the space.
Solution: Bradbury Electrical worked closely with architects and other contractors to design and install electrical systems that were both efficient and discreet. The team took extra care to ensure that wiring and equipment did not obstruct sightlines or interfere with the building’s use.

Scheduling and Coordination:

The project had to be completed within a strict timeline, with minimal disruption to the school’s operations.
Solution: Bradbury Electrical used careful project management and scheduling, working outside of peak school hours and coordinating with other trades to ensure that the installation process was smooth and that any disruptions to school activities were minimized.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability:

The school was committed to sustainability, requiring energy-efficient solutions throughout the building.
Solution: Bradbury Electrical installed energy-efficient LED lighting, integrated intelligent control systems for lighting and HVAC, and ensured that all electrical installations were compliant with the latest sustainability standards.

Outcome

The new Performing Arts Building at Durrington High School is now fully equipped with cutting-edge electrical systems, designed to support a wide range of activities and performances. The space is not only energy-efficient but also safe, secure, and adaptable to the evolving needs of the school’s performing arts program.

Key outcomes of the project include

A fully integrated electrical system that supports both administrative and performance needs.
Flexible lighting systems that enhance the performance experience, both for students and the audience.
Advanced security and fire protection that ensures the safety of both the building and its occupants.
Sustainable electrical solutions that align with the school’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Bradbury Electrical’s expertise in delivering complex electrical packages, while overcoming challenges in coordination and installation, was instrumental in ensuring the successful completion of the project. The Performing Arts Building now provides Durrington High School with a world-class facility for performing.