Preston is one of the fastest developing towns in the UK, with over 25,000 students, an ambitious urban regeneration scheme underway and a rich history in culture and commerce. The Strand is independently owned by Dave Patterson and general manager Dave Jones. They spotted a gap for a stylish venue outside the city centre that would attract over 25s and those prepared to make an effort to go out. The Strand is also the first completely non-smoking night venue in Preston.
The various social areas within the Strand include a large café bar and lounge area downstairs, complete with Ducatti superbike centrepiece, a club/dancefloor/bar and a live performance area upstairs, and a classy restaurant - also upstairs. Additionally, downstairs features a secluded cocktail bar at one end of the venue. As well as being a diverse entertainment destination, The Strand is also becoming popular as an informal conference and meeting venue during the day.
The audio installation was specified and completed by Lee Engineering from Lancaster, and the supply was co-ordinated by Martin's Benn Timbury. Quality sound was fundamental to the whole Strand concept, and the requirement for the café bar downstairs was for a good even audio coverage for the background music system. The speakers are located all around this area, and there are more in the VIP lounge and upstairs in the restaurant. Inside the CI6 is a 6" mid-woofer and ¾" soft dome tweeter; its conical horn delivers uniform dispersion, thus allowing full flexibility on the positioning and focusing, say Martin.
Dave Jones, an experienced venue operator, says: "I'm extremely pleased with the CI6's. We initially chose a Mach system for the background sound areas because I've used Martin products for a long time and they are excellent. I know I can rely on Martin for good build quality and excellent service and back-up".
(Lee Baldock)
