It hit the headlines for all of the wrong reasons back in 2008 when fire ravaged through this expansive, well known shopping area. Since then, thanks to a successful redevelopment project, London’s Camden Market is back to its best, attracting as many as 300,000 visitors each weekend to this unique retail and social hotspot.

When it came to re-developing the area in the aftermath of the fire, an integral part was to ensure the safety of the market’s businesses, buildings and tourists by finding the most suitable fire detection and alarm (FDA) system of the highest possible standard. ID Fire & Security Ltd, one of the UK’s leading independent providers of tailored fire and security solutions, were given that specific task when they were awarded a contract to design, supply, install and commission a fully integrated fire alarm system for the redeveloped Camden market area.

The challenge was to find a system that would be capable of covering such a diverse range of properties that included two open air and indoor market areas, project named Markets A and B, incorporating a vibrant mix of retail outlets, offices, bars and restaurants.

As an approved supplier and Elite System Integrator Gent Honeywell products for over a decade, ID Fire & Security worked in partnership with Gent to design and develop a tailored system for the Camden market.  

Kevin Blyde, Managing Director for Fire Services at ID Fire & Security Ltd, explained: “The requirement was for a flexible system that would support an ever changing market layout and it had to have the ability to be applied to a diverse range of applications. We needed coverage for a size-able area with multiple retail outlets, railway arches and open stalls.  A Gent solution was the perfect solution to the challenges provided by Camden Market, as having the latest and most effective fire detection system was paramount to protecting the market’s people and its contents.”

The phased installation, which began late 2010 and was finalised this year, included the feature packed Vigilon analogue and addressable FDA system. The Vigilon system incorporated the networking of two 6-loop Vigilon panels and two repeater panels to create a seamless network of devices which covered all areas of the A&B Markets. These were installed together with the innovative multi-functional S Squad Sensors to provide advanced sensing technology. The final project incorporated a substantial network of 600 smoke detectors.

Kevin continued: “The advantage of the Vigilon system is it can be tailored to suit the customer. The capacity can be increased and it isn’t a problem with the loop load. We know the Gent Vigilon system will cope with it.”

Gary Elson, Gent product manager said: “The versatility of the Vigilon range of control panels enabled the mix of single loop to six loop panels, which were networked throughout the market areas. We worked closely with ID Fire & Security to finalise the system’s design and we’re delighted with the results as the system caters for all of Camden’s coverage requirements.”