CASE STUDY
Life Safety & Security Systems Delivery at NRM Locomotion, Shildon
Project Overview
In 2023, Northpoint Fire & Security successfully completed the full design, installation and commissioning of the life safety and security systems for the new New Hall development at NRM Locomotion in Shildon, County Durham.
The works were delivered on behalf of the National Railway Museum Locomotion (part of The Science Museum Group) via our client and M&E contractor Kennedy Services.
This landmark development forms part of The Science Museum Group’s wider £95m masterplan, supporting the regeneration and expansion of Locomotion and the National Railway Museum in York. The £8m New Hall is the museum’s most significant development in two decades—now recognised as the largest undercover collection of historic rail vehicles in Europe, with more than 100 locomotives and rolling stock on display.
Scope of Works
Northpoint were appointed to deliver a comprehensive life-safety and security suite, including:
Fire & Life Safety
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Full fire alarm system design in accordance with BS 5839-1, integrating seamlessly with the museum’s complex layout.
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Installation of all detection, notification, control modules and interfaces.
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Deployment of a fully networked voice alarm/PA system for clear and effective evacuation messaging in large open spaces.
Security Systems
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Complete CCTV system installation, covering exhibition halls, public circulation routes and service areas.
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Intruder alarm system installation, providing secure monitoring across high-value collection zones.
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Integration of systems to support museum security and conservation requirements.
Commissioning & Handover
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System commissioning, cause & effect configuration, and full client witness testing.
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Handover documentation, user training and operational support for museum staff.
Key Deliverables
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Delivery of multi-discipline systems on a live construction site with strict heritage, safety and conservation controls.
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High-level cable routing and installation in areas designed for large historic vehicles and open exhibition spaces.
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Sensitive integration to protect the museum’s nationally significant rail collection.
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Coordination with project teams to support ongoing regeneration phases and future museum upgrades.
Challenges & Solutions
1. Working Within a Heritage Environment
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The museum holds irreplaceable historic rail vehicles. Northpoint implemented enhanced protection measures, conservative access planning and non-invasive installation techniques to safeguard all artefacts.
2. Wide, Open-Span Exhibition Areas
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The high ceilings and expansive floorplates demanded specialist access equipment and precision installation to achieve correct detector spacing, audio clarity and CCTV coverage.
3. Multi-System Integration
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Fire, voice alarm, CCTV and intruder systems had to operate harmoniously with the museum’s operational, conservation and visitor-experience requirements. Northpoint’s design team ensured seamless interoperability and intuitive functionality for end users.
Outcome
Northpoint delivered a fully operational, compliant and future-proof life safety and security infrastructure for the New Hall development. The installed systems provide:
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A safe environment for the public and staff
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Protection for one of the most important railway collections in Europe
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Reliable, flexible building-wide communication for evacuation and emergency scenarios
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High-integrity surveillance and intruder protection for valuable artefacts
The project supports The Science Museum Group’s long-term regeneration vision, helping ensure the railway collection can be preserved and enjoyed for generations.
Project Significance
The New Hall development marks a major milestone for NRM Locomotion, expanding its exhibition capacity and reaffirming Shildon’s legacy as the world’s first railway town. Northpoint are proud to have contributed to a project of such cultural and historical importance.