Heald Ltd

Innovation is at the core of what Heald does. We have a range of unique, patent protected products, meaning you will find nothing else like our bollards and roadblockers on the market. We have been listed in the IP100 League Table for three consecutive years, always ranking in the top ten companies and have been recognised for our innovation with numerous awards. 

  1. Sustainable Perimeter Security in a Changing Landscape
    6 October 2023


    As sustainability takes on a growing significance within public development initiatives, security manufacturers like ourselves are responsible for providing alternative options which align with environmental developments. These developments contribute to ongoing environmental targets and align with the evolving architectural preferences of the end users. 

     

    Having revolutionised the perimeter security industry with our automatic Matador, our Electromechanical (EM) Matador was launched in 2017 and has since been a very popular option for many protective projects.

     

    Heald’s electromechanical  range

     

    At Heald, we take pride in innovating new products that deliver the highest quality security whilst offering a more environmentally friendly solution. Our electromechanical range is ideal for implementing a more environmentally friendly system, therefore, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Requiring over 60% less electricity to operate, our Matador Sliding BollardRaptor Retractable Bollard Evo Bollard and NEW EM shallow mount Viper Roadblocker are all available as EM versions. 

     

    What are the benefits of electromechanical perimeter security vs hydraulic systems?

     

    As part of the government’s 2020-2025 plan, sustainable consumption and production is about achieving more with less. This means looking at how goods and services are produced and the impacts of products and materials across their whole lifecycle. 

     

    Our EM products offer the same excellent protection standards as our existing hydraulic products but with various added benefits. Some of the key advantages are; the streamlined deployment, smaller electrical cabinet requirements, also there Is no need to install hydraulic ducts for product operation. Generally, less power is required to operate the EM over hydraulic systems. 

     

    As sustainability becomes a key driver in consumer decision-making, innovation and a priority across industries, it’s important that companies like ourselves adapt and align with ongoing efforts to help improve the environment. 

     

    If you are looking to introduce environmentally efficient security solutions, get in touch with our friendly team to see how we can help: https://www.heald.uk.com/get-in-touch/ 

     

    Sustainable Perimeter Security in a Changing Landscape
  2. Heald Ltd extends Sponsorship Deal with Hull City Ladies FC Footballer Hope Knight
    6 October 2023


    We’re delighted to announce that we are renewing our sponsorship of Hull City Ladies FC player Hope Knight for the 23-24 season. 
     

    The English women’s football club was formed in 2001 and currently plays in the FA Women’s National League North. 
     

    Hull City Ladies’ values align with ours, as we’re passionate about supporting local communities and organisations that empower women to chase their ambitions. This ethos is driven by our Managing Director, Debbie Heald, who received an MBE for her services to export and the promotion of STEM careers for women. 
     

    Top goal scorer and attacker Hope Knight, proudly sponsored by the Heald team, contributed to a positive 2023 season for the Tigresses. Hull City Ladies finished 5th place and scored 46 goals, which was the 3rd highest in the league. 
     

    Hope Knight had a fantastic season for Chris Hames’ side, in which the number 24 was the FA Women’s National League top scorer with 23 goals beating Bianca Owens and Georgia Gibson, who finished the season both on 19 goals. Hope also secured two hat tricks, including four goals against Bradford and four goals against Middlesbrough.
     

    Danny Johnson, Hull City Ladies FC Managing Director, said: “Our goal is to provide Hull and the East Riding with a genuine and viable female pathway that allows us to inspire, train and retain the best talents from across the region within the women’s game. We want to establish Hull City Ladies as a Tier 2 (championship) club and create a real belief in a career in football in the East Riding.” 
     

    Danny continues: “It’s brilliant that Heald Ltd have continued their sponsorship of Hope Knight. We’re creating opportunities for females in our region to develop, empower and achieve, and with Heald’s continued support, we’re able to do this. 
     

    “We’re also proud to see a great business, who are the leading innovators of perimeter security technology and have a long history of supporting local charities and organisations supporting the Tigresses, once again.
     

    “It’s important to have local businesses support Hull City Ladies, as they’re inviting partners to join them on an exciting journey, be part of generating a vibrant community, and this is an opportunity for everyone to leave a lasting legacy for women and girls in our region.”
     

    We’re really excited to extend our sponsorship of the talented Hope Knight after a great 22-23 season. The Heald team have attended numerous Tigress games, and we’re proud to be a part of such a driven, ambitious, and supportive team that is an integral part of the community. We look forward to supporting Hope Knight in the upcoming season!” 
     

    To keep up to date with our latest announcements and news, please visit: https://www.heald.uk.com/news/
     

    Heald Ltd extends Sponsorship Deal with Hull City Ladies FC Footballer Hope Knight
  3. Retrofitting Perimeter Security in the Built Environment
    6 October 2023

     

    Due to altered regulations, ongoing heightened protection measures and security system expectations, evaluating existing perimeter protection for upgrades and modifications is essential to ensuring a vulnerable space is equipped with the highest-quality protection. This process is called retrofitting. 

     

    In light of the pending Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Bill, also known as ‘Martyn’s Law’ and ‘Protect Duty’, in order to ensure a vulnerable area or building is protected from unanticipated vehicle-borne attacks, perimeter protection should be regularly adapted according to changing circumstances. 

     

    From creating pedestrianised areas in towns and city centres to enhancing the perimeter security of high-profile buildings or event spaces –  retrofitting effective perimeter security measures needn’t be a challenge. In this blog, we highlight some of our products which are ideal for retrofitting: 

     

    Surface and Shallow Mount Technology

     

    Taking into consideration retrofitting scenarios, we have developed a collection of surface and shallow mount technology, appropriate for areas where deep mount excavation may not be appropriate or possible due to the underground infrastructure. 

     

    Apex Static Bollard

     

    Heald’s Apex Static Bollards are positioned with no pinning required and secured with concrete backfill – this makes it the ideal system for councils to create secure spaces in pedestrianised areas retrospectively. Moreover, the Apex Static Bollard can provide a seamless perimeter security system for historic and contemporary architecture, subtly blending in with the public realm.

     

    Synergy Bridge Bollard System

     

    In some instances, retrofitting perimeter security may be a complex fix, and bridges are an example. Since the number of attacks on high-profile city bridges, including London Bridge, our Synergy Bridge Bollard system was brought to the market to address challenges faced by retrofitting HVM measures.

     

    Digging into foundations or bolting products to the ground may cause severe damage to the structural integrity of a bridge. To combat the installation issue, we purposefully designed a shallow mount security system ideal for protecting vulnerable bridges and pedestrian areas needing modified or new protective measures.

     

    Suitable for securing various inner-city locations, as well as a more comprehensive number of locations, the Synergy Bridge Bollard system takes roughly 45 minutes to deploy and requires no pinning or concrete base. The Synergy Bridge Bollard system has also been IWA-14 crash tested to halt a 7.2 tonne N3C truck (18 tonner) travelling at 48 kph (30 mph). 

     

    Perfect for retrofitting, the modular design of the Synergy Bridge Bollard system also provides the option for an expansion joint, allowing for expanded protection. 

     

    Sliding Matador System

     

    Our multi-award-winning Matador range can also be suited to retrofitting scenarios. Our patent-protected Sliding Matador Bollard System can be easily bolted to a suitable base and removed when necessary, making it ideal for temporary events in particular. Likewise, our Matador range requires a very shallow foundation depth – please contact Heald for further details.

     

    For many years a surface mount Matador was in place to protect The Crucible and in particular, the World Snooker Championships before a shallow mount Matador was installed as a permanent measure. 

     

    Are you looking to introduce enhanced hostile vehicle mitigation measures to a built environment or to modify or upgrade an existing perimeter security system? Get in touch with our friendly team to see how we can help: https://www.heald.uk.com/get-in-touch/

     

    Retrofitting Perimeter Security in the Built Environment
  4. Perimeter Security Bollards: Balancing Aesthetics and Safety
    6 October 2023


    At Heald, although ensuring robust pedestrian protection and mitigating the risk of vehicle-bourne attacks is at the forefront of the business, we understand that aggressive security in the public realm is not always the answer. 

     

    When people think of perimeter security, many assume these systems are meant to look purposely hostile and aggressive. However, this is not the case. When it comes to protecting public spaces, various aspects must be considered, including the bollards’ overall aesthetic and how it fits in to match the surrounding architectural design.

     

    The Importance of bollard aesthetics and user experience 

     

    It’s important to consider how the public perceives physical security, especially in an urban city centre environment. The look and feel of a public space doesn’t need to be compromised by safety. Moreover, as English tourism generates approximately £100.8 billion in revenue annually, encompassing a safe yet welcoming approach in high-footfall locations is essential. 

     

    Due to hostile vehicle mitigation being in place to provide the public with safety, peace of mind and ease of use, there is no need to create unnecessary fear. Aesthetically pleasing bollards well-integrated within the environment can still fulfil their safety function while maintaining a positive pedestrian experience.

     

    Blending in with the public realm and appropriate surroundings 

     

    Bollards are often installed in public spaces, streetscapes, and urban areas, and with the correct choice of bollard design, hostile vehicle mitigation can enhance an area instead of making the location feel uninviting. Likewise, they can contribute to the architectural design of a space, successfully creating a cohesive and visual experience instead of an unwelcoming one. 

     

    Whilst we encourage bollards integrated into vulnerable spaces to remain aesthetically pleasing, we recognise that a vibrant look may not be appropriate for some environments, especially historical ones. Although we can provide covers and colours to our products to fit these historic locations, a classic and clean design perfectly suits high-profile, corporate and professional sites. 

     

    Bollard aesthetics for different occasions 

     

    We can supply a range of bollard designs which can be adapted for use in a variety of different applications, ideal for creating a welcoming and safe atmosphere while providing public safety and security.

     

    Over the years, we are incredibly proud to have been chosen as the perimeter protection providers for some of the most high-profile spaces across the globe, as well as a number of elite sporting events. Our patent-protected Matadors were installed at the 2012 London Olympics, outside the iconic Wembley Stadium, and at the World Snooker Championships. Both presented appropriately suited designs.

     

    Retrofitting perimeter security to suit events and locations

     

    Retrofitting perimeter security has never been easier, thanks to our innovative products ideal for surface and shallow-mount installations. Our range of automated, rising and sliding bollards are perfect for allowing warranted vehicle and visitor access whilst complementing the area’s aesthetics. Whether it’s a historic building, a public venue, a sports event or a retail high street, we can provide options to create a high-quality yet subtle design which will blend into the public realm.

     

    At Heald, we strive to provide security solutions to meet your needs. If you are interested in finding a protective solution that fits In with your bespoke requirements and still offers the highest level of protection, we have many available options at Heald. 

     

    Get in touch today: https://www.heald.uk.com/get-in-touch/

     

    Perimeter Security Bollards: Balancing Aesthetics and Safety
  5. Busiest Tourism Towns in the UK
    6 October 2023

     

    This Summer, the influx of visitors to the UK will increase population density (35.1 million by the end of 2023)¹, meaning there could be an increase in accidents, such as vehicle collisions, and, unfortunately, crime. Following this, the high concentration of tourists makes popular attractions and landmarks areas a cause for concern.

     

    With this in mind, our team of hostile vehicle mitigation experts (HVM) identified the cities that will likely have an influx of tourists during the Summer months, and that should remain extra cautious. 

     

    Our new research considers factors such as the current resident population and the potential number of visitors from overseas². This summer, the cities that need to take extra care include London, Manchester, Glasgow, Liverpool, Birmingham, Nottingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Leicester, and Edinburgh. 

     

    London 

     

    Given London’s already substantial population of 9,648,000 residents, combined with the significant influx of potential overseas visitors totalling 16,118², local authorities should consider heightened security measures, surveillance, and effective law enforcement strategies to protect locals and visitors. 

     

    Not only do local authorities need to consider extra security for crime reasons, but residents and tourists exploring this location during a busy time should be extra cautious of things such as traffic and high footfall areas. Recently, across the UK, there’s been an increase in accidental vehicle incidents, and if this type of accident occurred within a busy location, the consequences would be detrimental to a high proportion of people. 

     

    Manchester

     

    Manchester is currently making important strides in protecting the city’s population by implementing HVM across key locations. This is a positive move from the city, however, HVM experts encourage the northern location to take extra care this summer, with its population of 2,791,000 and a substantial influx of potential overseas visitors (1,230²). 

     

    As a vibrant and culturally rich city, its popular landmarks and attractions will inevitably attract large crowds; iconic sites such as the Manchester Arena, home to large-scale events, and the bustling shopping district of Manchester Arndale, which attracts numerous visitors daily. 

     

    We’ve witnessed Manchester’s progress in terms of security measures since the Manchester Arena attacks, I must commend the city for its efforts. It’s likely that this will be on most cities’ agenda. However, during busy tourism months, authorities should consider enhancing security protocols at popular tourist spots, implementing perimeter protection measures, increasing police presence, and fostering better communication between law enforcement and the community are areas where continued focus is needed. Businesses should also play a part in making safer cities, and implementing Martyn’s Law measures would be a good place to start.

     

    Glasgow 

     

    Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is home to numerous famous landmarks, including Glasgow Cathedral, The Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow Science Centre, The SSE Hydro, and The University of Glasgow. Busy areas like this pose a significant risk when it comes to unexpected accidents, such as vehicle collisions. Even though these incidents may be an accident, if occured in a bustling location like Glasgow, they can lead to considerable property damage or harm to life.

     

    Like the above cities, Liverpool, Birmingham, Nottingham, Bristol, Cambridge, Leicester, and Edinburgh should implement extra security measures within high footfall and traffic areas.  

     

    Traffic control measures 

     

    To prevent vehicle collisions from causing damage, local authorities should look to implement traffic control measures such as bollardsbarriers, or traffic calming solutions. If products like these are already implemented, our team advise ensuring HVM products are being tested regularly to ensure they’re performing effectively. 

     

    Our goal isn’t to scare people or deter tourists from these thriving locations, but rather to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone. Thriving cities are meant to be enjoyed, and it’s essential that residents and visitors alike feel a sense of security while exploring and experiencing all that these vibrant destinations have to offer. 

     

    By prioritising effective security measures and making them known to the public, we can foster an environment where people can fully enjoy their surroundings without unnecessary worry. 

     

    It’s important to strike a balance between maintaining a safe environment and preserving the openness and freedom that define our cities. Highlighting the presence of security measures should not create an atmosphere of fear or restriction but rather provide reassurance and peace of mind.

     

    It’s likely that most major cities will have the correct amount of safety measures or will be in the process of implementing them, but as we head into busier periods, it’s our duty as perimeter security experts to share gentle reminders to our thriving cities. 

     

    To learn more about the best security measures for your business or location, get in touch with our experts here: https://www.heald.uk.com/get-in-touch/ 

     

    Sources: 

     

    1. https://www.visitbritain.org/2023-tourism-forecast
    2. Information gathered from International Passenger Survey, Office for National Statistics. Figures of overseas visitors (staying overnight) are based on small sample sizes for all cities with the exception of London (2022 data). For more information, please visit: https://www.visitbritain.org/inbound-trends-uk-town
    3. Learn more about Terroism (Protection of Premises Bill) here: https://www.heald.uk.com/news/what-is-the-terrorism-protection-of-premises-bill/

     

    Busiest Tourism Towns in the UK
  6. Heald Secures Central London Locations to Enhance Public Safety
    6 October 2023

     

    We are proud to announce that we have recently installed and secured a number of high-footfall central London locations, including the renowned Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square and The Strand. 

     

    Alongside vehicle-borne attacks remaining a dominant threat to busy locations, the plans to implement higher levels of public safety in these central spaces were chosen due to concerns surrounding high footfall and the tourist-heavy nature of the locations. 

     

    Installations commenced in the location of Pall Mall East Trafalgar Square, where Heald provided two Electro-Mechanical Matador 4’s. This was shortly followed by the second location of Charing Cross Eastern Side. Heald also installed two Electro-Mechanical Matador 4’s at one of London’s busiest locations, Leicester Square.

     

    Following the central installations, Heald also provided bespoke Matador systems to The Strand’s East and West sides.

     

    Debbie Heald MBE, owner and managing director at Heald Ltd, comments: “Due to the high levels of footfall London attracts and recent hostile vehicle incidents, the correct level of public protection must be in place to mitigate the risk of an unanticipated vehicle attack. Implementing high-quality security systems such as crash-tested hostile vehicle mitigation bollards will provide a visual deterrent to mitigate the chances of a vehicle-borne attack, providing peace of mind to members of the public.

     

    “Heald’s Matador is crash tested to IWA-14 and PAS 68 standards, as well as holding a CPNI Vehicle Attack Delay Standard (VADS) rating. By carrying out PAS 68, ATSM and IWA-approved crash tests, our customers can be assured that they are receiving dependable and extremely robust security solutions.”

     

    To learn more about previous projects, please visit: https://www.heald.uk.com/projects/ 

     

    To get in touch with our security experts regarding an upcoming project, please visit: https://www.heald.uk.com/get-in-touch/

     

    Heald Secures Central London Locations to Enhance Public Safety
  7. Heald Expands into Germany with Launch of GmbH
    6 October 2023

     

    We are delighted to announce that Heald has enhanced its German presence with set up of Heald GmbH.

     

    Having originally established a presence in Germany in 2021, which saw our award-winning Matador product – a patent-protected sliding bollard solution, securing Christmas Markets in the city of Mainz, Heald has made a strategic decision to establish a permanent presence in the region to better support the security requirements of the country and its new customers.

     

    Experienced security industry professional, Michael Dahinten, has also been recruited to lead the sales of the German business as the Managing Director of Sales (Germany).

     

    Heald Ltd, Owner and Managing Director Debbie Heald MBE, said: “With recent changes in global trade, establishing a presence in Germany enables us to be better positioned to serve the German market and enhance levels of customer service and satisfaction.

     

    Having worked with Michael previously, he has a solid understanding of our industry, including the very important topic of hostile vehicle mitigation, he is familiar with our products and the way we work, so is the perfect addition to our team. We look forward to continuing to expand our European presence as one of the global leader’s in high security perimeter security”.

     

    Michael Dahinten added: “I am delighted to join the team at Heald and look forward to helping grow the German market, protecting sites with high quality unique products. Heald is known worldwide as one of the best in the industry so it’s a very exciting time which I am really looking forward to”. 

     

    Export accounts for over 60% of Heald’s annual sales, and continues to grow year on year. The firm has also been recognised as a Department for International Trade “Export Champion”, and Managing Director, Debbie Heald was also awarded an MBE for services to export in 2017.

     

    Global installs include Avinor Airport, Norway, the World Trade Centre and UN building New York City and multiple other locations around the globe.

     

    Heald Expands into Germany with Launch of GmbH
  8. Securing New Orleans Historic French Quarter
    12 June 2018

    The project, which was part of a wider $40 million citywide security investment, saw the instalment of 22 Matador’s to secure several intersections within the French Quarter which hosts events such as New Orleans famous Mardis Gras.

    Commenting on the security measures New Orleans Homeland Security Director Aaron Miller commented: “What we’ve seen in Nice (France), what we saw just several weeks ago in New York City, is that vehicle attacks against pedestrians are become more common across the country and across the world.”

    “As a result, cities are taking protective action to mitigate against that risk where it’s necessary. We see a large concentration of pedestrians in the French Quarter, particularly on Bourbon Street. It offers what we consider to be an iconic or symbolic target.”

    For more on this story, visit our website.

    Securing New Orleans Historic French Quarter
  9. Heald MD wins Family Company Director of the Year category at the IoD Awards
    24 July 2017

    It may only be the beginning of the month, but it is already proving to be a successful one for Heald. We are delighted to announce an award win for our Managing Director, Debbie Heald, who won the Family Company Director of the Year category at the IoD Awards, Yorkshire and North East. This comes after last month when Heald won the ‘Sold Nationwide’ category at the Made in Hull Awards.

    The awards were held at the Principal Hotel in York on 5th July, which was accompanied by a black-tie dinner. The IoD awards believe in the value of leadership, and directors who win these awards have been recognised as the best in their field by the organisation for business leaders.

    Not only did Debbie win the Family Company Director of the Year award, she was also shortlisted for the Director of the Year (SME) and International Director of the Year.

    After winning the regional award (Yorkshire and North East), Debbie has now been put forward for the national Director of the Year finals, set to take place on 22nd September in London, at the London Lancaster Hotel.

    Commenting on the award win, Debbie Heald added: “I was thrilled to have been shortlisted for three IoD awards but feel honoured to have won the Family Company Director of the Year category. It was an excellent night and I cannot wait for the national awards in September. I would also like to pass on my congratulations to the other winners.”

    Heald MD wins Family Company Director of the Year category at the IoD Awards
  10. Matador Crowned Winner at Made in Hull Awards
    24 July 2017

    We are delighted to announce that on the 8th June, at the fourth Made In Hull Awards, Heald’s automated, sliding bollard, the Matador was crowned the winner in the ‘Sold Nationwide’ category.

    Held at the KC Lightstream Stadium, the Made in Hull Awards seek to celebrate the area’s excellence in manufacturing and its well-earned reputation for innovation within the sector.

    Up against two other strong competitors, Savantini and Kingston Engineering, Heald secured the overall win with our revolutionary perimeter security product, the Matador.

    The Matador is an automatic, sliding bollard system that has been IWA-14 tested to halt a 7.2 tonne truck travelling at 64 kph (40 mph). In product tests, not only did the Matador arrest the test vehicle with a zero-penetration rating, it continued to function following the impact with no repairs.

    The Matador was recognised following a number of installations both nationwide and internationally. Sites protected by the Matador include the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre in Athens and the securing of the perimeter at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

    Commenting on the win, Managing Director Debbie Heald added: “We are very proud to have taken home the win in the ‘Sold Nationwide’ category and to have had our successes recognised in our local region amongst such a range of outstanding businesses. It was an excellent afternoon and we would like to congratulate all the other winners too.”

    Matador Crowned Winner at Made in Hull Awards
  11. Heald Secures Athens Cultural Centre with Sliding Bollards Solution
    24 July 2017

    In early 2016, Heald was approached by Caramondani Bros Public Company Ltd, who required a surface-mount perimeter security solution to meet both the protection and architectural needs of their newest development project, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre (SNFCC).

    The HT-2 Matador 3 was implemented on the site, meeting the need for a surface-mount sliding bollards solution which would complement and blend in with the architectural design, whilst at the same time providing the highest level of security. The HT-2 Matador 3 has been tested to stop a 7.2-tonne truck travelling at 64 kph (40mph), whilst providing a zero-penetration rating and continuing to be fully operational afterwards.

    The site’s security was especially important because the venue hosts many significant, high-profile events, which are regularly attended by VIPs. An example of such an event was President Obama’s speech at the SNFCC Opera, during his recent visit to Greece in November 2016.

    General Manager of Caramondani Bros Public Company Ltd, Erina Caramondani commented: “The entire Heald team are very professional.  We had full technical support and we were very pleased with their responses to our queries as well as with their response time.  The product itself is made of very high-quality materials and it has been functioning without any problems since its installation in March 2016.”

    Heald’s Managing Director, Debbie Heald added: “Heald were proud to be chosen to assist in the security of this prestigious site. Our offering of shallow and surface mount technology is unique, giving the customer ease of installation and peace of mind when it comes to security and product longevity. We are pleased to have once again proven the quality of our product.”

    To discover how Heald can assist with your perimeter security needs, contact us!

    SFNCC Image credit: SNF - Yiorgis Yerolymbos

    Heald Secures Athens Cultural Centre with Sliding Bollards Solution

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