Kentec Syncro and Apollo Fire Detectors protect Leadenhall Market, City of London
An intelligent fire detection system based upon Kentec control technology and Apollo Discovery intelligent fire detectors has been installed to protect Leadenhall Market in the City of London. The Corporation of London, which owns the site, awarded the project to FFE Fire and Security Limited.
The project posed a number of challenges: the fire detection needed to take into account the site's Victorian architecture and its function as a busy modern shopping arcade. In addition the Market is not a single structure, but comprises a collection of separate buildings with a common causeway between that is covered with a glazed roof.
Site history
Leadenhall Market takes its name from the manor house around which the original market was established in the early 14th century. It quickly became one of the best places in London to buy meat, game, poultry, cheese and fish. In 1408 the occupational leasehold title of the Manor of Leadenhall was passed to the Lord Mayor - one Richard (Dick) Whittington - and the citizens of London. The freehold was conveyed to the Corporation, which continues to own the site, in 1411.
Other notable events include the partial destruction of themarket in the Great Fire of London in 1666. The current wrought iron and glass structure was designed and constructed in 1881 by city architect Horace Jones.
Today, Leadenhall Market offers a perfect balance between conservation and contemporary commercial needs. The Corporation of London has retained the original structure and Victorian detailing, whilst encouraging retail diversity. Although quality meat and fish traders continue to thrive, the market also offers fashionable shops and modern cafes.
Fire detection requirements
The fire detection system is required to provide protection for all the retail outlets, offices and communal covered walkways in the market. The Corporation specified the use of Apollo intellingent fire detection technology. FFE supplied and installed a fire detection system designed around a Kentec Syncro four-loop central control panel, complete with a 90 LED mimic panel to aid the Fire Brigade with alarm location.
Colin Reeley, Corporation of London (centre) with Richard Hackett of Kentec (left) and Ian Munns of FFE (right).
The fire detection system is designed so that each building can be evacuated individually or in sections (footprints), which ensures minimum disruption to other buildings not affected by a fire alert. However, a fire alert in the communal walkway triggers a general evacuation of the site.
Click here to visit to Apollo Fire detectors web site
