Client Context
Ensign Estate in Purfleet is a strategically located, high-traffic multi-let industrial warehousing park covering 13 acres, home to 38 storage units and over 100,000 sq ft of operational space. Its proximity to the M25 and core tenants such as Scania means the site sees the continuous movement of up to 300 heavy vehicles a day. During the pandemic, Fisher German, the managing agent, sought cost-efficient ways to safeguard the estate amidst heightened budgetary constraints. The visibility of gate operations and security for overnight lorry parking had become a concern, with persistent incidents of diesel theft and trespassing.
Challenges Identified
Despite employing a static gateman, Ensign Estate experienced repeated break-ins and fuel theft. The scale of the site, coupled with reduced human resource availability during COVID-19, exposed vulnerabilities in access control, perimeter monitoring, and general oversight of truck movements and servicing activities. There was an urgent need to reduce costs without compromising security or operational efficiency.
Our Solution
To provide round-the-clock protection and visibility across the site, Optimum Group implemented a hybrid virtual guarding solution, tailored to Fisher German’s objectives. This included:
- High definition 4MP CCTV cameras mounted on robust towers for full perimeter and yard coverage
- ANPR cameras for secure, automated tracking of vehicle entries and exits
- INT smart devices integrated into a seamless virtual access control system
- Time-lapse cameras for construction and logistics visual documentation
- Audio-enabled deterrent speakers for live verbal challenges during unauthorised access attempts
- Intercoms installed at key touchpoints to support real-time communication with remote operatives
- Gate automation improvements to reduce congestion and unauthorised vehicle movement
Our ARC (Alarm Receiving Centre) provided virtual gatekeeping and live surveillance of the yard, servicing areas, and external truck bays, with immediate incident escalation protocols in place.
Tailored Enhancements for Ensign Estate
Given the industrial nature and constant traffic at the estate, wireless connections and weather-resistant equipment were critical. The camera systems were IP-rated for harsh weather conditions and installed using bridge connections where cabling was impractical. Additionally, our remote response system was tailored for high-frequency vehicle access, ensuring gate operations could continue smoothly even outside of staffed hours.
Impact and Measurable Results
Within months of deployment, security incidents dropped significantly, with theft and break-ins reduced by over 70 percent. Verbal challenges via speaker systems proved highly effective in deterring trespassers before escalation. These results restored client confidence in the estate’s safety standards and contributed to improved tenant satisfaction and retention. Fisher German have since engaged in discussions regarding potential system expansion as the site continues to attract high-profile logistics clients.
Key Services Delivered
- Remote CCTV Monitoring
- Virtual Gatekeeping
- Video Surveillance and Speaker Challenge
- ANPR and Timelapse Camera Installation
- Key Holding and Alarm Response
- Access Control Integration
- System Maintenance and Callout Support
