An NTU Social Sciences alumni has developed a system of keyless lockers for students, which are currently being piloted on NTU’s Clifton Campus.
Paula Bedborough, who graduated from NTU in 1994, is the Company Director of Sense Lockers, the company behind the innovative system.
The keyless lockers are operated through fingerprint scanning, making it easy for students to use when on a night out. They do not having to worry about any keys, cards, or passwords.
People can store their bags, IDs, coats, and even charge their phones with the help of the system which is currently trialled by Nottingham Trent Students’ Union.
Speaking to Platform Magazine, Ms Bedborough said: “I have been developing the idea for about four years. The lockers are manufactured by Lindhurst Engineering.
“Both me and the director of Lindhurst Engineering, Martin Rigley, are former NTU students.”
While studying at NTU, Paula became the first woman to run a security firm, as well as helped local authorities and the police in setting up local licensing schemes.
Ms Bedborough added: “The lockers have been developed to go into bars, clubs and student unions.
“Students carry a lot of expensive and important items around, so they are there for them to put their items away and not worry about them being taken.
“Even as a security expert, I’ve had stuff stolen.
“I want to make it safer for people to go out and enjoy themselves and not be a victim of crime.”
A prize draw of £50 to spend at NTSU at the bar or on gig tickets is also being run by Sense Lockers to promote the system.
It will be drawn on November 28, and in order to enter, people have to use the lockers, which are free of charge, and complete a short survey on their experience.
Zoe Mallett, NTSU VP Community and Welfare, said: “Smart Lockers are here to help students store their belonging safely and to improve student wellbeing on campus.
“It’s the safest way to protect your belongings.”
If the trial of the lockers is successful on NTU’s Clifton Campus, the company will look at bringing it to other NTU campuses and possibly other universities.
Lead Image: Paula Bedborough