Protecting historic buildings with advanced alarm signalling

Protecting the past with the technology of the future

Angus Brown, Managing Director of E-bound AVX, knows all too well the challenges of securing some of the UK’s most treasured historic buildings. From centuries-old churches to castles and stately homes, these listed buildings are rich in history — and unfortunately, in valuable materials like lead and copper that make them prime targets for theft.

“For a long time, churches were largely unprotected,” Angus explains. “After all, who would steal from a church? But the reality is that materials like lead and copper are worth a lot and are far easier to steal from a rooftop than to dig out. The temptation is too great.”

E-bound AVX was born out of that problem. Over 15 years ago, Angus was asked if he could help protect a church roof. He said yes, without yet knowing how. Today, his company is a trusted name in security, having developed a proprietary intruder alarm system tailored for high-value, hard-to-secure properties.

At the heart of their solution is a network of sensors installed across the rooftops of buildings. “No one ends up on a church roof by accident,” Angus says. “Our sensors detect movement and trigger a loud alarm before any damage is done. We send a signal to our alarm receiving centre immediately.”

Reliable security with future-proof technology

Key to the success of E-bound AVX’s systems is their integration with robust, IP-based communication technology. Unlike older systems reliant on PSTN lines, E-bound AVX use an IP-based solution which ensures rapid, secure, and reliable transmission of alerts, this is especially crucial in remote locations that is hard to access and may not be visited for weeks or even months.

“We’re not sending video or complex data — just simple, critical signals: mains failures, battery levels, tampers, intrusions. But we need that to be rock solid, and IP gives us that stability and reach,” Angus explains.

When evaluating communication solutions, Ebound AVX prioritised simplicity, reliability, and support. That’s where AddSecure came in. “We’ve used other communicators, but the level of support from AddSecure has been first rate. They’re responsive and always ready to help solve a problem.”

Another advantage of the IP-based system is cybersecurity and remote access. “We offer remote services to our customers, so secure communication is absolutely essential. We need to be confident that no one else can access our interface.”

E-bound AVX’s approach shows how modern technology, when thoughtfully applied, can protect the past without compromising its integrity. Their work is a perfect example of how IP-based alarm solutions are opening new opportunities in sectors where traditional systems simply can’t keep up.