Sandy Park required a single IT and communications solution to satisfy the operational needs of both its rugby and conferencing staff, as well as those of its visitors.

The stadium and conference centre required a wide-ranging solution to meet its voice, data, internet, CCTV, disaster recovery, metered Wi-Fi access, audio-visual entertainment and media accessibility needs. Doing this would be no easy feat, as it meant integrating an intricate range of technologies and equipment from a variety of manufacturers, underpinned by a stable and well-managed cable infrastructure. Furthermore, Sandy Park was built on an isolated green-field site, making provision of ample voice, data and internet connectivity at a reasonable price very problematic.

Sandy Park could not open for business without its communications solution being in place for both health and safety reasons and for the stadium to receive the endorsement of the public and media to make the opening a complete success.

Access to the unfinished site was not available until late August, so everyone involved had less than three weeks to complete and test the whole installation. It wouldn't be an easy challenge to tackle, but our team were eager and optimistic to score that sweet touchdown.

Focus Group worked closely with Sandy Park throughout the project, with dedicated project management that adapted to the changing demands of the stadium’s construction. We delivered a complete communications infrastructure, including high-density CAT5 cabling, fibre backbones and network outlets to support PCs, CCTV, TVs, Wi-Fi, telephony and specialist equipment.

A Cisco LAN provides secure, reliable connectivity for voice, data and internet services, including CCTV feeds to the stadium’s matchday control centre. Resilient point-to-point microwave links connect Sandy Park with our data centre and a backup site over a 1.8km distance, carrying essential communications traffic. The stadium’s hosted telephony solution provides the features staff need, supported by pooled ISDN lines to manage high call volumes on matchdays.

We also installed DECT wireless handsets, allowing conference centre staff to move freely around the building while remaining contactable. An automated attendant gives callers information about upcoming matches, ticket sales and travel, while directing enquiries to the relevant staff. Public Wi-Fi completes the solution, providing conference delegates and visiting media with internet access while creating an additional revenue opportunity for Sandy Park.