St George's Church, Leeds

Church Security Enhanced with Railings

Railings and Gates play a vital part in enhancing a building's aesthetics and security and are especially important when that building is a church in a city centre.

St George’s Church is located in the heart of Leeds, close to the city hall and council chambers and has hundreds of visitors every week as part of its work within the local community.

The church was designed back in the 1840s with a parapet that surrounds it that has a 15 foot drop on one side. In recent times, the church council had recognised the potential danger and the need for new railings to protect its visitors and especially children from the danger of falling. Another problem was that groups of people often congregated around this area at night, which provided a health & safety and also a security risk. Bespoke metalwork manufacturer Alpha Rail was commissioned to design assist, produce and install the railings for St George’s Church, because of its previous work with Leeds City Council.

Brian Haith, Chairman of the Working Party for St George’s Church, said: “The church council wanted to protect both church goers and the church itself by installing quality gates and railings that were in keeping with the area. We chose a typically ecclesiastical design that was non-obtrusive and that enhanced the surrounding area but did not detract from the beauty of the church.”

In total, 100 metres of 540mm high ‘Churchill’ railings were supplied in a gothic style as well as two 1200mm gates. The mild galvanised steel railings were delivered to site polyester powder coated in a robust dark green finish which Alpha Rail then installed.

Alpha Rail, which is based in Nottinghamshire, has extensive experience in enhancing the security of high profile public buildings, as well as offices, schools and housing developments.

Phil Ball, Sales Director for Alpha Rail, explains: “It was really important that the railings made the church a much safer place, which meant visitors could enjoy the experience so much more. We were delighted to get involved in the design, production and installation of these railings and gates that enhance the appearance and security of this celebrated building that plays an important part in the community.”

Alpha Rail is renowned for its high quality production of gates and railings and works with many local authorities, schools and housing associations to improve their security and protect their buildings, gardens and parks.