Regent Theatre, Ipswich

The Ipswich Regent Theatre was originally opened in 1929 and was re-launched in September 1991 after Ipswich Borough Council successfully negotiated the ownership from the Rank Organisation and NCP. Today, Ipswich Borough Council continue to fund the running of the theatre as part of its arts and entertainment portfolio that also includes the Corn Exchange and Ipswich Film Theatre.

By working closely with Ipswich Borough Council and the contractor, Beacon Lights was able to ensure the client a return on investment and fast delivery. Kevin French of Beacon Lights design team took just 2 days to perform the necessary site survey, design and present quotations for the Regent Theatre. Delivery was key on this project so a quick turnaround was required. Once again, Beacon Lights fulfilled its commitment to provide total service to its customers with speed, flexibility and precision.

The remit on this project was to lift the lux levels and tired look of the old fittings, change the CRI index to cool white C84 giving a fresher look and feel to the newly decorated stairwells and Circle Lounge. We also had to make sure that we were fully compliant with emergency lighting with BS5266 & EN1838 as these were the main escape routes which required 1 lux in the emergency mode.

To meet current emergency requirements on the escape route, we used an emergency downlight which combines the latest in LED technology with an ultra-low profile, providing emergency lighting where aesthetics and reliability are of prime importance.

The downlight provided the high illuminance levels required for the busy stairwells. These downlights offer an efficient and wide distribution and come with a 50,000 hour life expectancy. There is also an integral 3 hour emergency lighting option available to suit the client’s needs.

For the stairwell leading up to the Circle Lounge, the luminaire c/w pro diffuser provides low glare, creates even light distribution and requires minimal maintenance. The luminaire was delivered in an elegant white opal diffuser with an IK09 rating with an high impact polycarbonate housing. The LED replacement for the traditional 38w 2D fluorescent fitting offers significant energy savings, providing 1300 lumens and using only 15w of power. The high efficacy of 87lm/W exceeds any foreseeable building regulations.

Beacon Lights was happy to help both IBC and the contractor to achieve their goals. Remember next time you go to the Regent Theatre, look up!