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London Bridge Station upgrades its ASL PAVA system with Zenitel

Ensuring safety and efficiency at one of the world’s oldest railway stations with innovative communication technology from Zenitel.

PAVA System for London Bridge

Public Address and Voice Alarm system securing the station’s communication infrastructure for the future.

The Requirement

Between 2013 and 2018, London Bridge Station underwent a £1 billion redevelopment as part of the Thameslink Programme, doubling capacity and enhancing passenger facilities with new platforms, entrances, and improved amenities.

This required a major overhaul of the station’s 1995 ASL PAVA system to support new zones, integrate with ATOS and MICA messaging systems, provide expansion capability, comply with EN 54 and PADS standards, and fit within space constraints. Minimising downtime was critical, so a precise over-and-back methodology ensured the station remained operational during the upgrade.


The Solution

To meet requirements cost-effectively, Network Rail, with Zenitel’s guidance, upgraded the legacy PAVA system by replacing analogue VAR controllers with IP-enabled VIPEDIA units. New controllers were installed in existing cabinets, connecting to Zenitel V400 amplifiers via custom-made leads and panels, simplifying installation and over-and-back testing.

Fourway Communication managed design and implementation, with Zenitel providing support through battery calculations, site surveys, and planning. Factory preparation, including design, configuration, and testing, ensured minimal risks and downtime, keeping the station operational.

The system now supports 45 PAVA zones across two comms rooms with 10 cabinets housing eight VIPEDIA units. Integration with MICA and ATOS systems was tested offsite, and all upgrades complied with EN 54 Fire Alarm standards.


The Result

The successful upgrade of the Public Address and Voice Alarm system at London Bridge Station exemplifies the collaboration between Network Rail, Fourway Communication, and Zenitel. The project not only modernised the station’s PAVA system but also achieved this in the most cost-effective way.


The new Zenitel PAVA system guarantees long-term reliability and performance, thereby securing the station’s communication infrastructure for the future.


Key Information

Zenitel Solutions
Public Address and Voice Alarm

Key Products
VIPEDIA, EMS20, MPS20, SAP02, MPS01, EOLZ01

Key Technology
VIPEDIA

Market segment
Rail Infrastructure

End customer
Network Rail

System Integrator
Fourway Communication Ltd.


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