Birmingham City University (BCU) has awarded North a £1 million contract to install a state-of-the-art access control system as part of its initiative to become a smarter campus.
This investment marks BCU’s initial step toward enhancing campus security, sustainability, and the overall student experience. After a competitive tender process, North will design and implement an innovative security solution utilising Genetec technology to replace the university’s aging current system.
BCU, one of the UK’s largest and most diverse universities, is home to over 31,000 students from more than 100 countries. The upgrade will be rolled out across its two city centre campuses, impacting thousands of students, staff, and visitors. The new system aims to future-proof the university’s infrastructure by ensuring resilience, regulatory compliance, and improved safety standards.
The upgrade will enable BCU to transition to a digital, app-based access control system, aligning with its sustainability objectives. The university, recognised as Birmingham’s most sustainable institution and among the UK’s leading environmentally conscious universities, aims to leverage this technology to support its green goals.
North’s integrated solution will seamlessly connect the new access control platform with existing systems such as student records, streamlining operations and bolstering security. Additionally, the system will generate valuable data and analytics, offering insights into areas like student accommodation occupancy and attendance patterns, aiding staff in operational decision-making.
“It is fantastic to partner with BCU on its journey toward becoming a smart campus. This upgrade not only enhances security but also provides a modern, user-friendly experience for students and staff. As higher education budgets become more constrained, adopting smart technology is essential for future-proofing campuses and creating safer, more sustainable learning environments,” said Andrew Foster, Managing Director for Public Services at North.
The new access control system will also help BCU comply with emerging legislation, including Martyn’s Law, ensuring safety standards are met and maintained.
“This partnership with North reflects our commitment to building future-ready campuses. We’re not just upgrading security; we’re reimagining how people move through and interact with our spaces. North’s expertise will accelerate our transition to a smart, data-driven environment that supports sustainability and enhances safety,” said Nick Moore, Director of IT and Digital at BCU.
