The Officer Decision has decided to award the contract for replacing the electronic scoreboard at Crown Pools to The Swatch Group (UK) Limited.

URL: https://democracy.ipswich.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1425

Decision Maker: Officer Decision

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: Crown Pools operates a specialist electronic timing and scoring system that is integral to the delivery of swimming galas and competitive events. The existing electronic scoreboard has been installed for over a decade and is now reaching the end of its operational life, with replacement parts no longer readily available.   The current system is specifically designed to integrate with Swiss Timing equipment, which is already in place at the facility. This includes the Quantum timing system, touch pads, and electronic start, all of which remain fully operational and compatible with Swiss Timing products only.   The scoreboard is a critical component in delivering a fully integrated, one-stop gala timing solution, enabling live display of results across all competitive events. Crown Pools hosts approximately twenty-five gala events per year, including County Finals, where professional-grade timing and scoring presentation is essential to meet competition standards and stakeholder expectations.

Content: Crown Pools operates a specialist electronic timing and scoring system that is integral to the delivery of swimming galas and competitive events. The existing electronic scoreboard has been installed for over a decade and is now reaching the end of its operational life, with replacement parts no longer readily available.   The current system is specifically designed to integrate with Swiss Timing equipment, which is already in place at the facility. This includes the Quantum timing system, touch pads, and electronic start, all of which remain fully operational and compatible with Swiss Timing products only.   The scoreboard is a critical component in delivering a fully integrated, one-stop gala timing solution, enabling live display of results across all competitive events. Crown Pools hosts approximately twenty-five gala events per year, including County Finals, where professional-grade timing and scoring presentation is essential to meet competition standards and stakeholder expectations. To award the contract to The Swatch Group (UK) Limited.   Reason: Due to the age and specialist nature of the existing system, it is essential that any replacement electronic scoreboard is fully compatible with the installed Swiss Timing equipment. Alternative suppliers would not be able to provide guaranteed compatibility with the existing Quantum timing system, touch pads, and electronic starting equipment.   Additionally, the current supplier already holds an annual service and maintenance agreement for the remaining Swiss Timing equipment on site. Using the existing scoreboard supplier for the replacement scoreboard will:   • Ensure continuity of specialist technical support. • Reduce operational risk associated with multiple suppliers. • Provide a higher standard of maintenance and fault resolution using manufacturer expertise. • Avoid future servicing limitations that would arise with a non-compatible third-party system.   No alternative provider would be able to service or support the full integrated timing system going forward, making the use of a different supplier impractical and likely to increase costs and risks over time.

Date of Decision: May 14, 2026