Gateshead Council has appointed the security and tech installer North to carry out a £4.6m upgrading of door entry systems and video surveillance across 18 high-rise residential blocks in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear. It forms part of the Tyneside council’s wider five-year housing improvement plan. North will install over 3,000 new video door entry units and integrated video surveillance systems, designed to deter anti-social behaviour.
A control centre will combine video analytics and real-time monitoring to support rapid response, coordination, and what the firm terms intelligence-led community safety. Delivered in compliance with the new Building Safety Act and overseen by the Building Safety Regulator, the work began in September 2025 and will continue until 2027. The council points to its wider safety initiatives, including the introduction of:
- Door Entry systems, so only residents and approved visitors can access properties;
- Video Surveillance in communal areas, inside and outside buildings;
- Two-way communication links to a 24/7 concierge service, so residents can request assistance or report issues; and
- Manual call points on each floor for residents to connect with support staff.
North adds that it will deliver £100,000 in community initiatives, including:
- a new apprenticeship opportunity for a local resident.
- Development of safe and secure social spaces for residents.
- Smart housing Internet of Things (IoT), using sensors to monitor home conditions such as damp and mould, and supporting proactive housing maintenance.
- a carbon emissions baseline, towards measurable annual energy and efficiency savings over the contract.
Andrew Foster, pictured, MD, Public Services at North, said: “North is proud to support Gateshead Council with this ground-breaking project. The investment in innovative integrated technologies coupled with a wide-ranging programme of sustainability and social value initiatives will support the council with re-shaping communities that are safer, future-proofed and create places that residents are proud to call home.”
And at Gateshead Council, Chris Buckley, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “The wellbeing of our tenants is a top priority. That’s why we’re introducing modern technology and services that will not only improve safety but also make day-to-day living more convenient.”
“We want all our tenants to feel safe and supported in their homes. These new systems will not only give people greater peace of mind but also make it easier to raise concerns and get help when it’s needed. This is a major investment in our communities, and part of a bigger programme of improvements we’re making to keep our homes secure, well-managed, and good places to live.”
