Access and Security Changes at Flaxman Terrace and Dukes Road

The project will include:

• Upgrading the door mechanisms at Flaxman Terrace and Dukes Road
• Installing new card and/or code entry systems on selected internal doors
• Installing new card readers at the main entrances to Flaxman Terrace and Dukes Road

The following areas are expected to receive secure card or code entry:

• Café
• Gym
• Quiet Room
• Changing Rooms
• Selected corridor doors

New card readers will be installed at the entrances to Flaxman Terrace and Dukes Road.

Once the system is live, access to the buildings will be via a new photo ID card during normal opening hours and any other approved access times.

The new system will:

• Improve building security
• Provide more control over access to specific areas
• Support after-hours access where appropriate
• Improve monitoring and management of access permissions

Work is provisionally scheduled to begin on 26 May 2026.

We expect the installation and upgrade works to take approximately 4–5 weeks.

We expect the system to begin rolling out during June 2026. The exact date will be confirmed once installation is complete and testing has been carried out.

Yes. The project team will work to minimise disruption and maintain safe access throughout the installation period.

Some disruption is expected, but it should be minimal.

• Typically only one or two contractors will be on site.
• Work will be scheduled to minimise noise and disturbance.

Where possible, installation will take place early in the day.

Yes. The system has the option to grant access remotely where appropriate.

The entrance can be configured in two ways:

• Pass-entry only (staff, students, and approved visitors must use a card, fob, or QR code)
• Automatic opening on sensor

The current recommendation is to operate the entrance on pass-entry mode at all times, which is considered best practice for site security.

• The new glass doors will lock automatically using magnetic locks.
• The wooden doors will need to be manually closed by the Duty Manager (DM) as part of an established rota.
• Having two sets of doors will improve overall security.

Door schedules will be programmed into the access control system and can be adjusted at any time through a secure management app.

Yes. We can work with the LCDS school team to provide access to specific spaces such as:

• Fixed Student Rehearsal (FSR)
• Quiet study areas
• Other approved learning spaces

Student access can be programmed up to 9pm where needed.

Yes.

• The glass doors will have a fail-safe unlock if the fire alarm is activated.
• The wooden doors will be fitted with compliant emergency exit hardware (drop-bars or mag locks).

When security is present, i.e. for shows, the door will work as it does now.

Visitors should, where possible, be directed to the Flaxman Terrace reception, where they can be greeted and wait safely.

If a visitor needs to enter via Dukes Road, the staff member they are meeting should collect them at the entrance.

Frosting will be added to the lower sections of the street-facing windows to improve privacy and reduce interruptions from passers-by.

Reception will hold a supply of coded visitor passes, which will be signed in and out as required for restricted access.

This will require advance planning. Options include:

• Issuing a visitor pass at reception
• Arranging for the evening Duty Manager to provide access

Access permissions can be programmed so that student cards only open designated areas, such as quiet rooms, while restricting access to other secure spaces.

Yes. One of the main goals of the new system is to enable programmed access based on role and need.

Examples include:

• Staff-only offices
• Student learning areas
• Specialist teaching spaces

Time-limited access permissions

The system records when named cardholders use their cards or QR codes to access doors.

However:

• It is not a formal attendance register
• It does not account for tailgating (people following others through doors)

If a full visitor tracking system is required, this could be added in the future.

Tailgating remains a shared responsibility.

Staff are asked to:

• Challenge unfamiliar individuals politely where appropriate
• Ensure doors close properly behind them
• Report concerns to the Duty Manager or Security

This risk exists now and will continue to require staff vigilance.

No. The system can support:

• Staff and student cards
• Fobs
• Temporary QR codes

QR codes may be used as a temporary measure while physical cards are being produced.

Physical ID cards will remain important as a visible indicator of who is authorised to be on site.

Yes. Additional doors and access points can be added in future, and the system is also compatible with technologies such as turnstiles if ever required.