Overview
The Dome, Doncaster, operated by Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust (DCLT), is one of the region’s flagship leisure destinations, offering a wide range of fitness, swimming, and recreational facilities. With high daily footfall and multiple access points, the venue required a robust, scalable, and secure access control solution to support both operational efficiency and customer experience.
To achieve this, a comprehensive solution was deployed combining Automatic Systems POD turnstiles, ACT365 cloud-based access control, integrated intercom functionality, and VSS coverage across all entry points.
The Challenge
As a large, multi-use facility, The Dome faced the complexity of managing high volumes of visitors across multiple entrances. The existing approach to access required enhancement to reduce congestion, improve security oversight, and ensure a consistent experience for members and guests.
The Trust required a solution capable of controlling access across a wide number of doors while maintaining a welcoming and efficient entry process. It was essential that the system could provide centralised control, real-time visibility, and seamless integration with existing operations.
The Solution
The Solution
A tailored access control infrastructure was delivered, centred around four Automatic Systems POD turnstiles, strategically positioned to manage entry flow across key areas of the building.
Within the main reception area, a bank of three PODs was installed, consisting of one wide-access POD designed to accommodate inclusive access requirements, alongside two slim PODs for standard entry. This configuration ensures both accessibility and efficient throughput during peak periods.
A fourth slim POD was installed at the rear entrance, extending secure access control across an additional entry point and ensuring consistent management throughout the facility.
All PODs are controlled via the both Nortech & ACT365 cloud-based access control platform, providing centralised management of a total of 21 doors across the site, including the turnstiles. This enables full visibility and control over access permissions, user movement, and system activity from a single interface.
To further enhance both security and user support, the system incorporates integrated intercom functionality, allowing members to communicate directly with staff when assistance is required. In addition, VSS cameras are installed at each POD location, providing clear visual monitoring and supporting incident management and audit processes.
Implementation
The project was delivered in a way that aligned with the operational demands of a live leisure environment. Installation was carefully phased to minimise disruption, ensuring that members could continue to access the facility without significant interruption.
The ACT365 platform was configured to integrate seamlessly with the Trust’s existing systems, enabling a smooth transition to a fully digital, cloud-managed access control environment. Staff were supported throughout the process, ensuring confidence in managing and monitoring the system from day one.
Results
The introduction of the Automatic Systems PODs, Nortech and ACT365 has significantly enhanced both security and operational efficiency at The Dome. Entry points are now controlled, consistent, and capable of handling high footfall with ease, reducing pressure on reception teams and eliminating previous bottlenecks.
The inclusion of a wide-access POD ensures that the facility remains fully inclusive, supporting all users without compromising flow or security. Meanwhile, the additional rear entrance control has strengthened overall site security and improved the management of access across the building.
The combined use of intercom systems and VSS provides an added layer of reassurance, enabling staff to quickly respond to access queries while maintaining full visual oversight of entry activity.
From a management perspective, ACT365 delivers real-time insights and control, allowing the Trust to monitor usage patterns, manage permissions, and ensure compliance across all 21 controlled access points.
A Connected, Future-Ready Estate
This deployment demonstrates a clear commitment by Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust to invest in modern, integrated security and access solutions. By leveraging cloud-based technology and intelligent entry systems, The Dome is now equipped with a platform that is both scalable and adaptable to future requirements.
Conclusion
The transformation at The Dome highlights the impact of combining advanced access control technology with thoughtful system design. Through the integration of Automatic Systems POD turnstiles, ACT365, VSS, and intercom functionality, the site has achieved a secure, efficient, and user-focused access environment.
This project reinforces DCLT’s position as a forward-thinking organisation, dedicated to delivering high-quality leisure services supported by innovative, cloud-driven solutions.
