VSI installation at new Llanelli stadium

20 April 2009

UK - Vaughan Sound Installations (VSI), in conjunction with Whitehead Building Services, completed the supply and installation of a full public address and voice evacuation system at the new and recently opened home of Llanelli RFC, Parc y Scarlets.

The high-tech stadium is located at Pemberton, Llanelli, UK, with close links to the M4 and surrounding areas.

VSI's long and established partnership with Whitehead BS includes work on numerous projects together. Whitehead were the electrical sub contractor to main contractor Andrew Scott on this, for end client Llanelli RFC and Scarlets Region. The project was a partnership between the Scarlets and Carmarthenshire County Council.

VSI's history with the club also dates back, including the installation of a public address system at the famous Stradey Park ground in 1999, for the Rugby World Cup.

VSI opted for the Community range of R.5 stadium speakers with control via the TOA VX system manager, power amplifiers and power supplies.

The initial audio brief was for a standard voice alarm and public address system, however during early discussions it became apparent that the requirement was for a more flexible system that would be suitable for pre-match entertainment and the requirements of a modern sports stadium.

VSI's Richard Vaughan consulted with Community UK over a design for upgrading the stadium loudspeakers to produce an effective and economically viable solution. Community UK's Stuart Cunningham produced performance models of the new design to satisfy the architect, client and other involved authorities.

A total of 39 R series loudspeakers are installed, fixed to the underside of the grandstand roof structure. The main amplification racks are located in the stadium's impressive air conditioned IT room.

The audio produced throughout the Stadium offers an impressive clarity for both speech and a wide range of music, enabling a variety of events to be undertaken without the need to hire equipment. Work on the stadium started in 2007 and was completed on time for handover at the end of 2008.

(Jim Evans)