Waitrose is introducing enhanced CCTV measures across its supermarkets in a bid to deter theft and improve safety for customers and staff. The retailer has begun installing CCTV cameras and live-feed screens at store entrances, displaying real-time footage of shoppers as they enter and leave, alongside a clear message stating that recording is in progress. The aim is to discourage crime by making surveillance more visible to customers. Additional screens have been fitted throughout stores in higher-risk areas, including the fresh meat and alcohol sections, selected personal care aisles, and at checkout zones. Waitrose confirmed the initiative has been gradually rolled out over the past year and is now in place in more than half of its 315 stores nationwide. A company spokesperson emphasised that all data is handled strictly in line with data protection legislation, and information is only shared with police when formally requested to support investigations. The use of cameras and live screens has become increasingly common in UK supermarkets as retailers look to tackle a rise in retail crime. While traditional CCTV has long been present in stores, recent years have seen an expansion into more visible and targeted systems, such as prominent live-feed screens near self-checkouts, sometimes referred to as VAR-style surveillance. Other supermarket groups are also trialling new technologies in response to the issue. Sainsbury’s recently announced the introduction of facial recognition technology in selected locations to help protect staff and customers. Working in partnership with Facewatch, the system alerts stores to criminal behaviour reported by their own or neighbouring retailers, supporting a wider collaborative approach to tackling theft. Waitrose’s latest investment reflects the growing importance of visible deterrents in maintaining safe and secure shopping environments, while ensuring that any surveillance is managed responsibly and transparently. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Founded in 1987, Midland Alarms is a family-run security business based in the Midlands, specialising in residential alarm systems. Over the years, they have carved out a unique niche, working closely with housebuilders such as Taylor Wimpey, Persimmon Homes, Redrow, and Cala Homes to provide intruder alarms as standard in new-build properties.  With thousands of installations to date, Midland Alarms has built a strong reputation for reliability, customer service, and technical expertise. But in recent years, the company has taken its business model to the next level, using HKC’s SecureComm cloud platform and the introduction of a recurring revenue stream through customer subscriptions. The challenge: Moving beyond bell-only systems For decades, Midland Alarms focused on fitting traditional bell-only systems, often unmonitored and lacking smart features. While these types of systems were the norm, these installations offered no recurring income and minimal long-term customer engagement. Steve Wyer, the founder of Midland Alarms, recognised the limitations: “We’d install a bell-only system and might not hear from that customer again for 20 years. There was no ongoing relationship – and no additional value being built into the business.” As modern security technology evolved, Steve saw an opportunity to pivot, moving away from single-payment jobs and towards a more sustainable, service-based model. The solution: HKC’s SecureComm and SmartLink In 2014, Midland Alarms discovered HKC’s SecureComm platform, which was a game-changing moment for the business. The system’s SmartLink app allowed customers to monitor and control their alarms remotely, while enabling Midland Alarms to offer remote diagnostics and support. “The first time Richard from HKC showed me SmartLink, I was blown away. It connected instantly, worked over Wi-Fi, and just made sense. We knew it was the future.” This allowed Steve to begin offering subscription-based services with real value to customers, rather than a one-off install. Not only could Midland Alarms improve customer experience, but they could also begin building a recurring revenue stream that enhanced the long-term viability and saleability of the business. Building recurring revenue  Midland Alarms launched a tiered subscription model, using GoCardless to streamline monthly direct debits. They offered a range of subscription options for Wi-Fi only monitoring, monitoring with GSM backup, and also a ‘Full Service’ plan that includes monitoring, extended warranty, and battery replacement after 3 years. These services were bundled with value-added support, including remote diagnostics, app access, and customer education, making it an attractive proposition. “Most people don’t want to worry about changing batteries or figuring out alarm settings. With our ‘Full Service’ plan, they know we’ll take care of everything – and that includes remote support via SmartLink.” Scalable and sustainable  The impact of adopting a recurring revenue model has been transformational for Midland Alarms. Customers tend to stay subscribed, not only because app-based control becomes part of their everyday routine, but also because of the added value built into the service, such as the promise of battery replacements after three years. This long-term commitment helps keep customers engaged well beyond the initial installation. Financially, the move to monthly payments has brought a new level of stability to the business. Instead of relying on one-off projects, Midland Alarms now benefits from a steady, predictable income stream. This has smoothed out the peaks and troughs that often characterise traditional installation work. Operationally, the introduction of cloud-connected systems has made the business far more efficient. With remote access through SmartLink, engineers can resolve many issues without needing to visit site, saving both time and resources. Perhaps most significantly, the shift to a service-based model has increased the overall value of the business itself. With hundreds of customers now on subscription plans, Midland Alarms has created an asset that can function independently of its founder. Steve explains: “If I ever wanted to sell the company, a buyer can see the systems work without me, and that the revenue will keep coming in.” Educating the customer A key to success has been demystifying the technology. Steve and his team train customers in simple, relatable terms, often positioning SecureComm as a smart, cost-effective alternative to traditional monitored systems: “We ask customers: would you rather your alarm go off before or after the burglar gets in? HKC’s shock detectors and app connectivity mean it goes off before – and that’s the difference.” Plus, as customers are already accustomed to app subscriptions like Netflix and Sky, the find the monthly fees completely acceptable and the benefits clear. “The app is so user-friendly, we spend minimal time at handover showing them how it works, and that’s usually enough. It’s just a couple of taps to set or unset the alarm, and people are so used to apps these days, they love having that control.” Making the change When asked what advice he would give to installers who are hesitant about adopting cloud-connected systems or recurring revenue, Steve said: “I would encourage any installer to seriously consider making the shift. Too many are still relying on outdated business models that require long hours and offer little long-term security.  “Introducing a service-based approach can improve work-life balance, add measurable value to the business, and create a more sustainable income stream. “The market potential is significant – many homes still don’t have connected alarm systems, so there’s plenty of opportunity for those willing to adapt. It’s about staying ahead of the curve and building a business that’s ready for the future.” For more information on HKC Security, visit www.hkcsecurity.com. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

CCTV is often seen as a tool to deter theft and vandalism but its role on construction sites is far more powerful and wide-reaching. From improving health and safety compliance to supporting project management and protecting a company’s reputation, CCTV is fast becoming an essential part of modern site operations. Paul Goossens, operations director at SafeSite Facilities, believes it’s time to change the conversation around surveillance. He said: “CCTV is the ultimate double protection tool. Yes, it helps prevent crime, but it also plays a critical role in keeping employees safe, managing projects more efficiently and even reducing insurance costs. It’s a vital asset for any construction site.” Here are seven ways CCTV is transforming construction site safety and operations: 1. Boosting health and safety compliance When workers know they’re being monitored they’re more likely to follow safety protocols such as wearing five-point PPE. Some modern CCTV systems even use AI to detect whether workers are wearing hard hats and high-vis gear, sending real-time alerts to site managers if they’re not. This proactive approach helps reduce accidents and ensures compliance with HSE regulations. 2. Using public address systems to prevent unsafe behaviour Many CCTV towers are now equipped with public address systems that allow site managers to issue live or automated warnings. If someone is seen entering a restricted area or not following safety procedures, a quick announcement can stop the behaviour immediately before it leads to an incident. 3. Reviewing incidents to learn and improve In the event of an accident, CCTV footage provides a clear, unbiased record of what happened. This can be used to investigate the cause, identify areas for improvement and prevent similar incidents in the future. It also helps protect businesses from false claims and provides support to resolve genuine claims. 4. Reducing insurance premiums and managing claims Insurers increasingly recognise the value of CCTV in reducing risk, so sites with comprehensive surveillance systems may benefit from lower premiums. In the event of a claim, having footage can speed up investigations and reduce liability, saving time and money, as well as mitigating the risk of reputational damage. 5. Protecting children and the public from harm Construction sites can be tempting playgrounds for children, especially during school holidays. CCTV with thermal imaging and AI detection can identify intruders, even in low light, and trigger alarms or public address warnings to prevent accidents. This not only protects lives but also shields companies from legal issues, protecting their reputation. 6. Improving project management and delivery coordination CCTV isn’t just for safety. It’s a powerful project management tool. Off-site project managers can monitor progress remotely, check whether key milestones have been met and ensure that materials have been delivered and installed on time. This visibility helps keep projects on track and stakeholders informed. 7. Ensuring compliance with delivery conditions Planning permissions often come with strict conditions around delivery times and access routes. CCTV allows site managers to monitor and record all deliveries, ensuring compliance and providing evidence in the event of complaints. For example, if a lorry blocks a neighbour’s driveway, footage can quickly identify the issue and help resolve it. Paul added: “Tragically the Health and Safety Executive reported 51 people died in the construction industry between 2023-2024 at the end of last year. “And every year we read of a several devastating instances where children die after entering a construction site. “Employing CCTV to monitor site safety and prevent accidents is just one of the important defences construction sites should deploy to keep their employees and members of the public safe.” For more information, visit: https://www.safesitefacilities.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Jacksons Fencing’s EuroGuard® Mesh system enhances security in time for the summer season As the summer season approaches, Chelmsford City Racecourse, a prominent venue in Essex renowned for its vibrant racing events, has recently unveiled a major enhancement to its grounds with the installation of a high-performance fencing solution from Jacksons Fencing. Designed to boost both the safety and aesthetic appeal, the upgrade arrived just in time for one of the venue’s busiest periods. To meet the challenge, Chelmsford City Racecourse teamed up with Garden Fencing Essex, an Approved Installer of Jacksons Fencing, to deliver a fencing solution that seamlessly balanced robust security with open, welcoming aesthetics, which is critical for a venue that hosts thousands of spectators at peak events. Flexible trackside barrierThe racecourse required a fencing system that could serve two functions: low-level demarcation to separate general areas without compromising the open atmosphere, and secure fencing to protect restricted zones and sensitive equipment. After careful consideration, the EuroGuard® Flatform mesh fencing system was selected for its clean, unobtrusive design and superior performance. Comprising 656 twin wire mesh panels, featuring 6mm horizontal wires sandwiching a 5mm vertical wire, the system offers exceptional rigidity and longevity, perfectly suited for a bustling venue. To meet the varied security and layout need of Chelmsford City Racecourse, two distinct fencing heights were installed as part of the project. 1.2 metre EuroGuard® Flatform mesh fencing was used for low-level demarcation across public-facing areas of the venue. This height is ideal for subtly guiding foot traffic and separating zones, such as walkways or seating areas, without disrupting the openness of the racecourse. The fencing ensures a clear visual boundary while maintaining an inviting and accessible environment for visitors. In more sensitive areas, 1.8 metre high EuroGuard® Flatform mesh panels were installed to provide enhanced security and access control. These taller panels are used to protect staff zones and essential equipment, acting against unauthorised entry. This increased height offers peace of mind for racecourse management and staff, ensuring that restricted areas remain secure without compromising the venue’s aesthetic continuity. The fencing is finished in a green powder coating which complements the natural surroundings of the racecourse, while also providing enhanced resistance to weathering and corrosion. The tamper-proof fixings ensure the fencing remains secure, even in high-traffic environments. In addition to the fencing, a matching double leaf gate was installed to facilitate vehicle access while maintaining a cohesive visual identity. Constructed to the same high standards, this gate ensures smooth logistics for maintenance and events. Fencing fit for champions Sustainability was a key factor in this project. The EuroGuard® Flatform mesh system is built from premium steel wire and comes with by Jacksons Fencing’s 25-year guarantee. This long-term durability reduces the environmental impact and provides significant savings on maintenance and replacements. Commenting on the successful project, Cris Francis, Commercial Director at Jacksons Fencing, says: “Chelmsford City Racecourse is a landmark venue; not just to the local community, but to people who travel from all over the UK to enjoy the famous races. We’re really proud to support its continued success with a fencing solution that balances performance, sustainability, and style, and enhances the experience for visitors and staff alike. With the EuroGuard® Flatform system, the racecourse gets the best of both worlds – smart, sustainable security without losing its open, friendly atmosphere.” For further information about the EuroGuard® range or to discuss our fencing solutions, please visit www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk. For further information about the project, click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Paul Goossens, operations manager at SafeSite Facilities takes a look at what’s new in 2025 and picks out his top trends for the year ahead. A growing focus on delivering circularity Circularity is becoming a buzzword in the sustainability space and describes sustainable models that focus on re-use and the elimination of waste. For construction businesses and construction sites, the use of products and equipment in the supply chain can be a significant part of their carbon footprint. Extending the lifecycle of products is particularly relevant to construction sites, because when a job is complete the temptation is to simply send unwanted products to landfill. Many sites are now thinking harder about how to re-use those products instead, whether that’s barriers, safety fencing or electronic equipment. Businesses should look out for suppliers which offer an option to hire rather than buy, which reduces Scope 3 emissions associated with manufacturing the product. A good example might be CCTV equipment which is no longer required once the construction project is completed. Another solution is to work with suppliers that offer a buy-back service. Equipment that is bought back is either re-sold, sent to scrap metal experts who can re-use it – or to manufacturers who can melt down the material and use it in the production process. All these methods encourage circularity. Products that are recyclable, or made from recycled material, can also create a circular economy. Working with other businesses that have ISO 14001 certification A growing interest in sustainability and the measurement of carbon in the supply chain is driving changes in procurement. Scope 3 emissions are an important part of any Net Zero plan, and constructors are increasingly asking many more questions about the emissions of businesses they partner with. The first benchmark to look out for is ISO 14001 certification, a global standard created by the International Organization for Standardisation (ISO). The rise of high-tech CCTV solutions There is an increased risk environment for construction sites in 2025 and CCTV is coming to the rescue. Whether the risks are due to increased crime, the threat of community protests, vandalism or extreme weather, CCTV technology is moving fast to help construction sites keep people safe – and to prevent crime. The need for CCTV is clear. Crime tends to rise in an economic downturn, whilst changes to planning laws, encouraging developers to build on green and grey belt land, may lead to community tension in some areas. An estimated 26% (409,000) of all business premises, in England and Wales, were a victim of crime last year, according to figures from the Home Office released in September 2024. The most prevalent offence type experienced was theft (14%), followed by burglary including attempts (8%) and vandalism (8%). In addition, winter storms and summer heat provide health and safety issues on site. New CCTV systems can monitor sites for criminality or trespass (which is often children looking for adventure and failing to understand the risks). But they can also help spot health and safety threats such as fallen fences and loose roof tiles. Highly visible CCTV towers can also provide lighting and built-in alarms – which means they act as a deterrent. New-generationCCTV allows for remote monitoring and 360-degree coverage, as well as a response protocol for service providers and keyholders. In addition, AI technology is enabling CCTV to tell the difference between animals and humans, which means fewer false alarms and fewer callouts, whilst systems are now more effective in the dark than they have ever been, providing clear pictures at night. Supporting and protecting wildlife on a construction site As the government looks to make it easier for constructors to build on green belt land, the issue of how to protect wildlife on site is likely to become a hot topic. A range of specially designed barriers for protected species are available on the market that keep wildlife safe on site, whether that is great crested newts, amphibians or even snakes. For further information please visit: https://www.safesitefacilities.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A large housing development in Essex has been purchased by the local authority for the benefit of local residents, having achieved a Secured by Design Gold award for incorporating crime prevention measures into its landscaping and the physical security of its buildings. The Burnt Mills development in Harlow includes 172 one and two bedroom properties designed and constructed for rental. The development also includes ground floor commercial space, 150 cycle racks and 142 residents parking spaces – 23 of which have electric vehicle charging points – and communal roof gardens. An Essex Police Designing Out Crime Officer (DOCO) worked with the developer from the pre-planning stage in 2017 to ensure that appropriate security measures commensurate to the local crime risk were incorporated into the development. This work included incorporating proven crime prevention measures in the layout and landscaping, such as to increase natural surveillance and create defensible space, as well as incorporating products that meet Secured by Design’s (SBD) Police Preferred Specification standard into the physical security of building to ensure they are sufficiently robust to resist physical attack by opportunistic burglars. These measures included external doors and accessible windows fitted with robust locking systems.   Harlow Council recently announced its purchase of the development in a move to secure more Harlow social housing and affordable homes for Harlow people – all 172 homes will be available to anyone who lives in Harlow. Thirty percent of homes (52), which is three times more than the original planning approval, will be allocated to Harlow families on the Housing Needs Register at affordable rent levels (at least 20% below market rent). A further 120 homes will be available to Harlow residents at market rent levels. The development has also been awarded the National House Building Council (NHBC) Pride in the Job Award in the High-rise Builder category. Caroline Peters from Essex Police said: “Millbrook Studios development was part of the Harlow regeneration scheme and was my first large development as a DOCO. I worked closely with the architects to ensure the development could achieve the SBD Gold award. Originally the developer was only seeking Silver however, we worked together to easily achieve the higher standard. “Hollybrook were very engaging and considered my recommendations and security provisions, they wanted the development to be safe and secure for the future residents. “Harlow Council have recently purchased the development located in a very active part of the Town. It is encouraging Secured by Design has been implemented as this gives Essex Police that extra reassurance that residents of Harlow are safe in their homes.” Ian Brown from Developers Hollybrook said “We are thrilled to announce that our Millbrook Studios development has been awarded the Secured by Design Gold award. This significant gateway regeneration project not only delivers much-needed housing for the Harlow community but also prioritises the safety of its residents by designing out the risk of crime. Hollybrook, in collaboration with Burwell Architects, worked diligently with the Designing Out Crime Officer to ensure the development exceeds the highest standards to provide safe secure homes.” Announcing the purchase of the development earlier in the year, Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said: ““We have worked extremely hard to buy this private development for the benefit of Harlow residents. This is an impressive and modern development, which has been built to a very high standard and is located on a key gateway in and out of Harlow. The original development was always intended for the rental market with just over 9% being affordable housing. We will be increasing the amount of affordable housing to 30% with those homes allocated to Harlow families on our Housing Needs Register with the rest being available for Harlow residents to rent.”  Improved security Developers around the UK can achieve SBD awards for incorporating crime prevention measures and techniques into their developments in all kinds of building sectors, such as residential, education, health, transport, commercial, retail, sport and leisure. Indeed, SBD can be used as evidence to discharge third-party obligations under Part Q of Schedule 1 (Security) to the English Building Regulations, the Scottish Building Standard 4.13 (Security) and Welsh Building Regulations Part Q (Security – Dwellings). These awards are gained by working with police Designing Out Crime Officers (DOCOs), who advise architects, developers and local authority planners long before construction begins – and continue to provide advice and guidance until the development is complete. Academic and other research shows that improving standards of security in brand new and refurbished properties, helps deter and reduce crime. Reducing crime and the fear of crime has direct links to better physical and mental well-being, such as with regard to high volume crimes like domestic abuse.    The built environment influences the behaviour of people who work, live, socialise or simply pass through. SBD seeks to create environments where the law-abiding feel safe and secure whilst at the same time causing the criminal or anti-social to feel vulnerable to detection and thereby influence behaviour in a positive way. This continues to be a key objective for SBD. Find out more about SBD Developers Awards here. SBD Design Guides SBD has produced a series of authoritative Design Guides to assist the building, design and construction industry to incorporate security into developments to comply with the Building Regulations in England, Scotland and Wales and meet the requirements of SBD. These Design Guides, available to download for free at the SBD website, have been updated over the years to keep pace with changing patterns of criminal behaviour and advances in building design and new technology. They are a valuable source of reference to architects, developers, self-builders, local authority planners and police officers and cover a range of building sectors, including residential, education, health, transport and commercial.  Police Designing Out Crime Officers DOCOs provide specialist crime reduction advice to the public, businesses and colleagues about premises or property security. They also work with building developers, architects, and council planning departments regarding new developments and refurbishments, to ‘design out’ crimes