Introduction: Mere UK recently completed the installation of automated glass Speed Gates and an integrated Paxton Net2 access control system at Wigan & Leigh College. The project was designed to improve site security, manage pedestrian access and provide a modern, secure entrance solution for students, staff and visitors. The Wigan and Leigh College Performing Arts Department, renowned for its dedication to artistic education and creativity, recognised the need for an access control solution that ensured security and streamlined access while preserving an inviting atmosphere for students, staff, and visitors. To meet these objectives, the department initiated a project to install state-of-the-art access control systems, including Automatic Systems Slim Lane turnstiles, or Glass Speed Barriers, with enhanced features.
Glass Speed Barrier Installation at Wigan & Leigh College | Speed Gate Installers
Elevating Security and Access Control at Wigan and Leigh College Performing Arts Department with Automatic Glass Turnstile
Client: Wigan and Leigh College Performing Arts Department
Location: Wigan, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
Completion Date: 04/10/21
Project Duration: 2 Weeks
Project Overview:
- Slim Lane Turnstiles: A bank of Automatic Systems Slim Lane turnstiles was installed, comprising one SL940 Slim (standard width lane) and one SL950 (wide lane).
- Housings: Three housings were strategically placed to house the control units and electronics for the turnstiles.
- Glass Obstacles: The turnstiles featured 900mm high glass obstacles, enhancing both security and aesthetics.
- Enhanced Protection Cells: Protection cells were integrated to ensure the continual safety of children under 1000mm tall, addressing the diverse user population of the college.
- Enhanced Detection Cells: Detection cells were incorporated, allowing users to smoothly pass through with trolleys, bags, and other items, enhancing convenience.
- Cabling and Ground Preparation: All necessary cabling and ground preparation were executed, ensuring a seamless installation process, with the finish floor level (FFL) serving as a reference point.
- Floor Upgrades: The project included the removal of the existing tiled floor area and the installation of new heavy-duty matting, offering durability and aesthetics.
- Paxton Net2 Access Control: Paxton Net2 access control was installed to allow secure entry and exit from the arts center, enhancing overall control and monitoring capabilities.
Implementation: The project began with meticulous planning and a site assessment with David Duffy from Automatic Systems who advised and informed the placement of turnstiles, housings, and cabling requirements. The removal of the existing tiled floor area and the installation of heavy-duty matting were seamlessly integrated with the turnstiles. The Automatic Systems Slim Lane turnstiles were meticulously installed, ensuring a harmonious integration into the college’s environment. Outcomes:
1. Enhanced Security: The Automatic Systems Slim Lane turnstiles significantly improved security, minimizing unauthorised access and ensuring a safe learning and working environment.
2. Efficient Access Control: The combination of Paxton Net2 access control and the turnstiles allowed for streamlined and controlled entry and exit, reducing congestion and bottlenecks.
3. User-Friendly Experience: The turnstiles featured an intuitive design, with enhanced protection cells ensuring safe use and allowing for convenient passage with luggage or equipment.
4. Aesthetic Upgrade: The glass obstacles and modern design of the turnstiles along with complimentary flooring contributed to an aesthetic upgrade of the college’s performing arts department.
5. Durability: The installation included heavy-duty matting, providing long-term durability and easy maintenance.
Conclusion: The Wigan and Leigh College Performing Arts Department’s installation of Automatic Systems Slim Lane turnstiles, combined with Paxton Net2 access control, has significantly elevated security, access control efficiency, and user experience. The project successfully achieved its objectives, allowing the college to maintain a safe, welcoming environment while embracing modern technology. This investment exemplifies the college’s commitment to providing a secure and aesthetically pleasing learning and artistic environment for its students and staff.
Professional Glass Speed Barrier Installation
Mere UK was selected to deliver a complete glass speed barrier installation for Wigan & Leigh College Performing Arts Department, providing a modern and secure entrance solution for students, staff and authorised visitors. As experienced speed gate installers, we supplied and installed Automatic Systems Slim Lane glass speed barriers integrated with Paxton Net2 access control technology. The system was designed to improve pedestrian flow while maintaining high levels of security and preventing unauthorised access.
The installation included standard and wide access lanes, allowing safe and convenient access for wheelchair users, visitors carrying equipment and maintenance personnel. Advanced detection technology and safety sensors were incorporated throughout the system to provide reliable operation and user protection within a busy educational environment. Glass speed barriers are increasingly being specified for colleges, universities, office buildings and public sector facilities due to their ability to combine security, aesthetics and ease of use. By integrating the speed gates with the site’s access control platform, Wigan & Leigh College now benefits from improved access management, enhanced security monitoring and a professional entrance experience for all building users.
Mere UK provides glass speed barrier installation, speed gate maintenance and access control solutions throughout Merseyside, Greater Manchester and the wider North West for educational, commercial and public sector clients.
Glass speed barriers, also known as speed gates or optical turnstiles, are access control barriers designed to manage pedestrian entry into a building. They combine sleek glass panels with advanced sensors and access control technology to provide secure, controlled access while maintaining an open and professional appearance.
Visually appealing, glass speed barriers help colleges and educational facilities improve security by ensuring only authorised students, staff and visitors can access specific areas. They also provide efficient pedestrian flow during busy periods while creating a welcoming and modern entrance environment.
Yes. Glass speed barriers can be integrated with a wide range of access control systems, including card readers, fobs, PIN entry systems and biometric solutions. At Wigan & Leigh College, the speed barriers were integrated with the Paxton Net2 access control system to provide secure and efficient access management.
Yes. Speed barrier systems can include wider access lanes that comply with accessibility requirements and provide convenient access for wheelchair users, visitors with mobility aids and those carrying equipment. This ensures all building users can pass through safely and comfortably.
Glass speed barriers use sensors and access control technology to prevent unauthorised entry, tailgating and misuse of building entrances. By restricting access to authorised users, organisations can improve building security, monitor movement and maintain better control over who enters and exits the premises.
Yes. Mere UK provides glass speed barrier installation, maintenance and servicing throughout Merseyside, Greater Manchester and the wider North West. We work with colleges, universities, commercial organisations, healthcare facilities and public sector clients to deliver secure and reliable pedestrian access control solutions.













