The Client
Citizen Housing is one of the largest housing associations in the Midlands, managing tens of thousands of homes across the region. Its portfolio includes general needs housing, supported living schemes, temporary accommodation and shared ownership properties, providing affordable homes and community-focused services to residents across Birmingham and the wider West Midlands.
The Challenge
The existing door entry and access control systems within Sentinel Towers were ageing and no longer suitable for modern residential living. Functionality was limited, reliability had reduced over time, and the system did not offer the flexibility or digital capability expected within contemporary high-rise housing. This also helped the buildings transition from legacy copper-based telephone and broadband infrastructure to modern fibre-optic networks
In a densely populated high-rise environment, secure and reliable access control is critical for safeguarding residents and maintaining confidence in communal security arrangements.
The key challenges included:
• Delivering a full system replacement within occupied towers
• Minimising disruption to residents during installation
• Maintaining secure access control throughout the transition
• Providing a scalable platform capable of supporting future digital integration
The solution needed to modernise the resident experience while strengthening building security and supporting long-term asset management objectives.
The Solution
A complete upgrade to the entry system of the Sentinels was designed and implemented across both towers using the Cloud 9 IP door entry systems.
Modern IP-based entrance panels were installed at key access points, integrated with new apartment handsets to provide enhanced audio and visual communication between residents and visitors.
The IP architecture enabled improved reliability and remote management capability, supporting housing management teams with greater visibility and control over access arrangements. Structured cabling upgrades were carried out where required to support the new infrastructure and ensure long-term performance.
Careful coordination and resident communication planning were central to the project’s success. Installation works were phased and scheduled to maintain secure access at all times, ensuring minimal inconvenience within the occupied residential environment.
The Results
The upgraded Cloud 9 system has significantly enhanced security and resident experience across both towers. Secure, IP-driven access control has strengthened safeguarding measures and improved oversight of building entry points. Residents benefit from clearer communication, improved reliability and a modernised interface that supports day-to-day convenience and confidence.
Housing management teams now operate a more robust and digitally capable system, improving operational efficiency and reducing long-term maintenance burden. The scalable design of the Cloud 9 platform positions the development for future expansion and integration, ensuring the infrastructure remains aligned with evolving residential security standards.
The project has delivered a secure, modern and future-proofed access control solution tailored to the demands of high-rise residential living.
The Key Product
Cloud 9 IP Door Entry System