Business & Technology
Siemens launches cloud-linked fire detectors for buildings
Siemens has launched its Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detector portfolio for connected building safety systems in sectors including healthcare, data centres, higher education and commercial property.
The detectors combine fire detection with cloud connectivity and Internet of Things functions, enabling round-the-clock self-checks, real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance. The aim is to shift fire safety management from periodic inspection to continuous supervision.
The launch forms part of Siemens’ wider Smart Infrastructure business, which focuses on digital systems for buildings, energy networks and industrial sites. The detectors were developed and are produced in Switzerland.
Sector focus
In healthcare settings, the detectors are designed to support continuous monitoring where system downtime can affect patient safety and day-to-day operations. Siemens highlighted Disturbance-Free Testing, which runs automated self-checks, and Smoke Entry Supervision, which monitors smoke entry points in real time.
The portfolio also includes ASAplus detection technology, combining multi-wavelength optical sensing with dual thermal detection to reduce false alarms. In hospitals and similar facilities, false alarms can cause unnecessary evacuations and operational disruption.
Data centres are another target market. These facilities often contain dense electrical infrastructure and require uninterrupted service, making overheating and electrical faults a significant concern. The detectors are intended to improve visibility over system conditions while reducing service interruptions through automated checks and remote diagnostics.
For higher education campuses and commercial property portfolios, the focus is on central oversight across multiple buildings. Operators of dispersed estates often need to maintain consistent safety standards while controlling maintenance workloads. The new portfolio is designed to support that through continuous monitoring and proactive maintenance planning.
Upgrade path
A key part of the launch is compatibility with existing fire panels, allowing customers to upgrade detectors without replacing the wider fire safety system. The devices support step-by-step modernisation in both new developments and older sites.
That approach may appeal to building owners seeking to avoid the cost and disruption of full system replacement. The detectors also support plug-and-play integration and can transfer configured settings automatically, reducing installation time and project risk.
The devices are compatible with Siemens’ Building X Fire Apps, a cloud-based software environment that allows facility teams and service providers to access shared operational data. This is intended to give in-house teams and external contractors the same view of detector status and maintenance needs.
Peter Nebiker, Head of Fire Safety at Siemens Smart Infrastructure Buildings, outlined the company’s position on the shift in system design.
“The launch of our Sinteso Nova and Cerberus Nova fire detection portfolio is a game-changer in ensuring all alarms are accurate as best as possible. By moving from periodic checks to continuous, data-driven, self-supervising systems, we’re laying the foundation for truly human-centric, autonomous buildings. By automating testing, delivering real-time insights, and enabling remote action, these solutions protect people while freeing up staff to focus on strategic priorities. This shift isn’t just about innovation – it’s about smarter, safer, and more efficient operations,” said Nebiker.
Environmental detail
The detectors carry Siemens’ EcoTech environmental product performance label. According to the company, they are made with recycled plastics and are designed to support resource efficiency and circular economy principles.
The new range also sits within Siemens Xcelerator, the company’s digital business platform for software, hardware and services aimed at industrial and building digitisation.
At group level, Siemens reported revenue of €78.9 billion and net income of €10.4 billion in fiscal 2025. It employed around 318,000 people worldwide in continuing operations at the end of that financial year.
Within the wider group, Smart Infrastructure had around 79,400 employees worldwide at the end of September 2025 and is headquartered in Zug, Switzerland.
The launch gives Siemens a new offering in a fire safety market where building owners face pressure to update ageing infrastructure, cut false alarms and monitor systems remotely without taking sites offline.
Business & Technology
South Oxfordshire pubs could get much needed support
South Oxfordshire District Council’s Cabinet will consider a targeted, one-off reduction in business rates in July, aimed at easing pressure on pubs across the district.
The move follows growing concern that many venues are struggling with rising costs despite their importance as community hubs, rural assets and employers.
Cllr Pieter-Paul Barker, Cabinet Member for Finance and Property Assets, said: “Everyone knows that pubs are experiencing significant financial pressures.
“These venues play an important role in the economy and are vital for ensuring a thriving local community.
“We’re carefully considering how best to provide targeted support for pubs in South Oxfordshire which will both help to strengthen our local and rural economy and safeguard employment in our hospitality sector.”
Council leader Cllr Maggie Filipova-Rivers said: “While this support can’t fix everything, it’s a step in the right direction.
“We’re staying focused on collaborating with our local pubs and partners to provide the practical support and guidance they need right now.”
Details of the proposed business rates support are set out in a report to cabinet on July 2, when a decision is due to be made.
Business & Technology
Westgate Oxford opens new store with designer line-up
The popular shopping centre in Oxford’s Queen Street already has an exciting mix of shops on offer, from first-class dining options to familiar high street favourites and world-renowned brands.
Now, the Westgate has welcomed the latest addition to its retail offering, as David Clulow opticians opened on Friday, June 26.
READ MORE: All train lines closed out of Oxford for works from tonight
The eye health specialist store showcases the brand’s modernised retail format, with state-of-the-art testing rooms and improved accessibility.
It’s broad product range also includes designer frames from the likes of Chanel, Prada and Ray-Ban.
The hoardings ahead of the opening of the new store at Westgate Oxford (Image: Newsquest)
The store is the latest edition to David Clulow’s store collection which is hosted in nearly 30 cities and shopping centres across the UK.
The introduction of the new shop is the latest in a long line of recent Westgate comings and goings in recent months.
Shoe chain Russell & Bromley has departed its ground-floor store, leaving the unit empty, after the brand fell into administration.
READ MORE: Abingdon police seek to identify man who ‘frequents’ park
Similarly, Claire’s has also closed at the Westgate after the beauty and accessory brand also collapsed into administration.
Last month, the new Lego store opened on the ground floor of the centre, welcoming queues of shoppers at its grand opening event.
Oliver Bonas also recently moved from its home on the ground floor to a much larger unit on the middle floor, near the Queen Street and Bonn Square entrance.
Business & Technology
Armed Forces and veterans travel for free with Stagecoach
The scheme, designed to support attendance at Armed Forces Day events, will be in effect across the UK on June 27 and June 28.
It applies to all Stagecoach services except those operated by Megabus, Transport for London and the Bee Network.
To access free travel, serving military should wear uniform or present a valid military ID card, and veterans should present a veteran’s badge or military medal.
Martin Gibbon, managing director of Stagecoach West, said: “Our Armed Forces have given so much to protect our country, and offering free travel over this weekend is just a small gesture of our immense gratitude.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for our service people, past and present, to attend local events and celebrate with their communities.”
Stagecoach’s ongoing support for the military community includes similar free travel schemes on Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday.
The company’s Veterans Network also offers a platform for veterans and service families within the business to connect and shape a more supportive workplace.
Stagecoach was awarded the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award in 2024 in recognition of its commitment to supporting the military community.
Mr Gibbon said: “Through our Veterans Network, we are dedicated to ensuring Stagecoach remains a deeply supportive environment for the military community, both as passengers and as valued colleagues.”
Stagecoach has backed the Armed Forces Covenant since 2015.
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