Project Overview
Full Fire Alarm System Replacement at MK Dons Stadium, Hotel & Arena
Neuro Systems was brought in to replace the existing fire alarm system across MK Dons Stadium, the adjoining hotel and arena. The existing system had reached the end of its serviceable life and was causing an increasing number of false alarms, so a full replacement was needed. As the venue would remain open throughout the work, everything had to be carefully planned around hotel guests, staff and scheduled events.
The work was split into 12 phases and carried out between January and October 2021. This allowed different areas of the site to be completed and handed back as the project progressed, without unnecessarily disrupting the day-to-day running of the venue.
Live Venue Operation
Work was planned around hotel guests, staff and scheduled events so the venue could remain operational.
12-Phase Delivery
The project was divided into 12 phases, with each stage completed on time or ahead of schedule.
System Integration
Existing systems were incorporated and upgraded alongside the new fire alarm installation.
BS 5839-1 Compliance
The completed system was tested, commissioned and certified to BS 5839-1:2017.
9
Networked Panels
2000+
Devices Installed
200
Manual Call Points
12
Project Phases
10
Months to Complete
The Challenge
An Ageing System, Rising False Alarms and a Live Venue That Could Not Stand Still
The fire alarm system serving MK Dons Stadium, its adjacent hotel and the arena had reached the end of its serviceable life. The aging equipment was generating persistent false alarms that were disrupting day-to-day operations, particularly in the hotel where guest experience and room availability were directly affected. The system could no longer be supported by the manufacturer, and it needed to be replaced in its entirety.
At the same time, the local authority required the replacement system to meet the current recommendations of BS5839 Pt1:2017, and regular compliance checks were in the pipeline. The client was working to a fixed timeline: hotel rooms had to be handed back after each phase of work, meaning any delay carried a direct commercial cost.
Completing a full system replacement on a live, occupied venue of this scale, without disrupting events, hotel guests or day-to-day operations, was the central challenge of the project.
End of Life System
The existing system was no longer supported by the manufacturer and required complete replacement.
Operational Disruption
Persistent false alarms were affecting day to day operations, hotel guests and room availability.
Live Venue
The stadium, hotel and arena needed to remain open and operational throughout the work.
Fixed Timeline
Each phase had to be completed on schedule so hotel rooms could be handed back without additional commercial cost.
The Solution
A Phased Replacement Designed Around the Venue’s Operations
Neuro Systems designed and delivered a complete replacement of the fire detection, alarm and control systems across the whole site, covering the stadium, hotel and arena. The new system was built on the Honeywell Sentri Addressable platform, with a network of nine panels covering the full extent of the estate.
Neuro Systems designed and delivered a complete replacement of the fire detection, alarm and control systems across the whole site, covering the stadium, hotel and arena. The new system is built on the Honeywell Sentri Addressable platform, with a network of nine panels covering the full extent of the estate.
12-Phase Delivery
The project ran from January to October 2021 across twelve carefully sequenced phases. Each phase covered a floor level of the hotel, with rooms handed back to service on schedule. The stadium and arena remained operational throughout, with works coordinated around the events calendar. All twelve phases were completed either on time or ahead of schedule.
More Than a Straight Replacement
In addition to the core fire alarm replacement, Neuro Systems delivered several integrated elements that further improved the system’s performance and usability:
Disabled Call Integration
The disabled call system was integrated into the fire alarm network to operate as a general alarm, consolidating the alert systems under a single, manageable platform
FAAST Detection Upgrade
The aspirating detection systems in the arena and ballroom were upgraded to the latest Honeywell FAAST units, providing a significant improvement in early fire detection sensitivity in these large open spaces
Isolation Controls
Isolation key switches and indicators were installed for the aspirating systems at various points across the site, giving the facilities team clear and accessible control
System Documentation
Full design, installation and commissioning by Neuro Systems, with as-fitted drawings and system records updated throughout.
End User Training
End user training provided on completion of each phase, with operating manuals handed over to the client
Technical Specification
System
Aspirating Detection
Control Panels
Devices Installed
Manual Call Points
Coverage
Compliance Standard
Project Duration
BS5839 Pt1:2017 Compliance Confirmed
On completion of the project, Neuro Systems issued a formal Modification Certificate confirming the system was installed, commissioned and tested in full accordance with the recommendations of BS5839 Pt1:2017. The local authority building inspector reviewed the installation and the client’s annual fire alarm certificate was re-issued without issue.
The Outcome
Compliance Achieved, False Alarms Eliminated, Confidence Restored
Improved System Reliability
False alarms were dramatically reduced. A system that had been generating operational disruption, particularly for the hotel, was replaced with a reliable, addressable platform that performs correctly.
Events Unaffected
Full BS5839 Pt1:2017 compliance achieved and certified. The local authority inspection was passed and the annual fire alarm certificate re-issued without any observations or remedial requirements.
Delivered on Schedule
All twelve phases were completed either on time or ahead of schedule, with no hotel rooms held beyond their agreed return date and no events disrupted.
Continued Support
Neuro Systems continues to provide ongoing maintenance and servicing for the site, ensuring the system remains fully compliant and operational year on year.
“A huge thank you to Neuro Systems for the recent changeover of the fire alarm system at MK Dons Stadium and Hotel. Thanks to Matthew, who carried out this work professionally and delivered within the specified time.”
Shane Nedley
Group Maintenance Manager, MK Dons Stadium