Case study
Access control at a council operated leisure centre
EA Group recently completed another project for a long-standing client in the leisure sector. Over the years, the group has worked with EA Group across several of their leisure facilities, installing access control solutions that help improve security and manage visitor flow.
For this site, the client needed a new system that would allow them to control entry to the facility while maintaining a welcoming and efficient reception environment.
About the client
This council operated leisure centre provides fitness facilities, classes and activities for the local community. With large numbers of visitors moving through the building each day, managing entry in a secure but efficient way is essential.
The site had previously operated without any physical access control at reception. This made it difficult to prevent tailgating and unauthorised entry, creating challenges for staff and reducing overall site security.
The challenge
issues with existing system
The leisure centre had no access control, which led to tailgating and unauthorised entry. The reception area was tight, so any solution installed needed to fit the existing layout without blocking corridors. Installation also had to be carefully scheduled to keep the main entrance open to maintain normal operations each day.
Client objectives for the upgrade
Promote security with a reliable access control system that prevents tailgating and ensures only authorised members and guests can enter the facility.
Improve traffic flow so visitors can move smoothly through the entrance during busy periods such as classes and peak gym hours.
A solution that offers integration with the leisure centre’s existing QR membership system, allowing members to access the facility quickly and efficiently.
Install a modern entrance solution that fits within a tight reception space while maintaining a professional and welcoming environment for visitors.
The solution
What EA did
EA Group carried out a pre-survey before providing a quote and then conducted a further survey once the order was confirmed. This allowed the team to explore multiple layout options and to identify the most effective solution for the available space.
The final design included the installation of EA Group’s Flow Turnstile in addition to a Glass Swing Gate at the main reception area.
The Flow Turnstile offers the versatility of a traditional tripod turnstile while providing the cleaner aesthetic typically associated with speed lane systems. This made it an ideal choice for a leisure environment where both functionality and appearance matter.
To complete the installation, bespoke stainless-steel housings were manufactured to house the client’s QR readers. EA Group also worked closely with the leisure centre’s software provider to ensure the access control system integrated smoothly with the centre’s existing QR based membership system.
The installation process
We followed a structured 4-step process to install the new Flow Turnstile and Glass Swing Gate solution at the leisure centre:
SITE SURVEY AND PLANNING
EA Group conducted a pre survey before quoting and a second survey after the order was confirmed. Several layout options were explored to maximise the available space and ensure smooth visitor flow.
SOLUTION DESIGN
The team selected a Flow Turnstile and Glass Swing Gate configuration that would provide effective access control while fitting comfortably within the tight reception layout.
Key challenges overcome
Space constraints: the reception area offered limited room for access equipment. By evaluating multiple layouts and selecting the Flow Turnstile, EA Group was able to create a solution that fits comfortably within the space while maintaining a clear and natural flow through the entrance.
Operational continuity: because the site has a single main entrance, the installation had to be completed without restricting access for visitors. By carefully scheduling the work and containing the installation area, the team ensured the facility remained open throughout the project.
Upgrade your speed gate
EA Group successfully improved security at this council operated leisure centre by introducing a modern access control solution designed for a busy public environment. The new Flow Turnstile and Glass Swing Gate now allow the centre to manage entry more effectively, preventing tailgating while integrating smoothly with the existing QR membership system.
The updated entrance solution helps staff ensure that only authorised visitors enter the facility while maintaining efficient traffic flow during busy periods. By completing the installation during normal operating hours, EA Group was also able to minimise disruption and help the council avoid additional project costs.
If you’re looking to install or upgrade your entry solution, our team can help. For more information or guidance on what solution is right for your site, chat to our team.
