SPN (Swimming Pool News) August 2018 by Aqua Publishing Ltd

AUGUST 2018

POOLS SPAS HOT TUBS SAUNAS CHEMICALS ACCESSORIES & MORE

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR THE UK INDUSTRY

WATER TESTING

Testing that’s accurate and simple

LIGHTING OPTIONS Showing pools and spas in their best possible light

STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS

Pools and accessories that have stainless steel appeal

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

A closer look at some of the latest low and no chlorine water treatment products

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FAIRLOCKS FP AUG17 LightingSPATA.qxp_Layout 1 27/09/2017 09:19 Page 1

EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor’s Editor and Co Publisher: Jon Wadeson Features: Karen Witney Features & Subeditor: Andrea Hartshorne Co Publisher and Sales Director: Tony Weston Production: Cathy Varley Accounts: Sam Bartholomew For editorial enquiries contact Jon on: T: +44 (0)20 8306 8150 E: jon@aqua-publishing.co.uk For advertising enquiries contact Tony on: T: +44 (0)1474 813433 E: tony@aqua-publishing.co.uk For production enquiries contact Cathy on: T: +44 (0)1823 432416 E: cathy@aqua-publishing.co.uk For accounts enquiries contact Sam on: T: +44 (0)1823 430639 E: accounts@aqua-publishing.co.uk Design: Colin Halliday

To subscribe or amend / cancel an existing subscription, please visit our website. Annual subscription rates (6 issues): UK £30, Europe £50 and ROW £60 SPN is published by W: www.aqua-publishing.co.uk Printed in the UK by The Manson Group Ltd Aqua Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for any insert, display or classified advertisement included in Swimming Pool News. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure that all advertisers are reliable and reputable, Swimming PoolPNews can UBL I Sgive H I no NG assurance they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. The views expressed in the articles in Swimming Pool News are the contributors’ own. All rights reserved. Copyright for all materials published in SPN remains with the publishers. Material contained in this publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior permission of Aqua Publishing Ltd.

iveko-pools.com

letter

Cover image courtesy of NIVEKO s.r.o. – www.n

SPN incorporating Pool & Spa Industry is the ofﬁcial trade magazine for the UK wet leisure markets and is the only trade publication that invests in the industry it serves.

Since the last edition of SPN, it’s fair to say a lot has happened. There have been a couple of landmark summits, an unexpectedly entertaining World Cup and an unpredictable Wimbledon to name just a few. But most of those seem like a distant memory now, especially as the UK has been trying to cope with a heatwave that has now gone on for several weeks and is looking likely to be one of the hottest on record. Across the country, many households have struggled and some businesses have suffered in the relentless conditions. The talk of hosepipes bans has reared its ugly head too, but with some rain forecast though, perhaps these will be averted. Even so, after what is likely to be only a brief pause, the heat is expected to return. For our industry though, the last couple of months have been a godsend and businesses have been ﬂat out as the British public has taken to the water to cool off, relax or just enjoy what is almost a novelty in this country. In fact, chances are the only real complaints that you may hear are that there aren’t enough hours in the day to cope with the increased demand for the various products and services which our industry delivers! With more people taking to the water at this time of the year, it is appropriate that in this

issue we have an in depth look at the latest solutions that are keeping the water clean whilst reducing the need for chlorine use. We also examine just some of the labour-saving products that are simply and accurately testing the water in swimming pools and spas. Plus we’ve a look at the latest water play equipment being enjoyed by families and particularly children around the country. A sector that has changed tremendously over recent years is lighting and we take a look at products which are delivering some truly stunning results both inside and outside the water. Stainless Steel is also under the spotlight as we look at pools, spas and accessories that are utilising the beneﬁts of what is a truly ﬂexible, durable and timeless material.

As if that wasn’t enough, Golden Coast’s Jamie Adams gives his opinion on what he feels makes the perfect summer, whilst the STA highlight the value of working with other organisations within the industry resulting in a new Swim School Factsheet. There’s also useful information from the BSPF, SPATA and BISHTA plus the British entries shortlisted for the 2018 European Pool & Spa Awards hosted by EUSA are revealed. In addition, we’ve got our roundup of all the latest industry, product, people and eco news from both here in the UK and abroad. So with our usual wide range of subjects covered, hopefully we’ve provided a bit of everything in this issue of SPN. I hope you enjoy reading it and stay cool for the rest of the summer.

Jon Wadeson - Editor PS – If you are in involved within the industry and have some relevant news that you would like to appear within SPN or on our website, please do get in touch.

You can follow SPN on:

Aqua Publishing also publishes: What Pool & Hot Tub magazine – our sister publication – is the only consumer magazine in the UK that provides the complete and crucial information that potential buyers are looking for! For more information visit the What Pool & Hot Tub website at www.whatpoolandhottubmag.co.uk

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CONTENTS

Inside This 06

49 COVER

WATER TESTING

Labour-saving products for simply and accurately testing pool and spa water

FEATURES

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

The industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s associations dedicated pages

Illuminating solutions that show pools and spas in their best possible light

LIGHTING OPTIONS

Highlighting the value of working with other industry organisations

STA POOL PLANT

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

The latest solutions that are reducing the need for chlorine use

WATER PLAY EQUIPMENT

A closer look at the wet and wonderful world of water play equipment

STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS

OPINION

A look at pools and accessories that feature stainless steel appeal

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Jamie Adams shares his view on what makes a perfect summer

NEWS

INDUSTRY

04-15

The latest industry news, info, projects and gossip

PEOPLE

PRODUCT / ECO

HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

WORLD

New appointments and updates on industry personnel Innovations and new products on the market

Dedicated news for this important sector All the latest news from around the world

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CONTENTS

Issue Of SPN 28

39 READER SERVICES DIGITAL EDITION Read this and previous editions online at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

BUYERS GUIDE For suppliers of products and services in the pool, spa and sauna market turn to page 70

SUBSCRIPTIONS Ensure you receive a regular copy of SPN (Swimming Pool News). Subscribe online today at www.aqua-publishing.co.uk

FORWARD FEATURES For our forward features, please visit our website at www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 2-3_SPN_Aug_18_Contents.indd 3

Next Issue

• Training and education • Tiled spas and swim spas • Hot tubs – high-end models above £10,000 • Enclosures • Show preview: Piscine Global Europe Plus much, much more! SPN August 2018 3 31/07/2018 14:17

NEWS

All the Latest News, Info, Products and Gossip From the UK Pool and Spa Industry and Beyond

Leading Special Needs School Dives In With Spaciotempo Located in Newbury, Berkshire, Mary Hare School is a registered charity and is the largest non-maintained special needs school in the UK. Swimming is a major part of the school’s PE curriculum, and the existing pool required an upgrade to provide a better facility for teaching this vital, life-saving skill. After looking at costings, it was apparent that more innovative, non-traditional build solutions were the only realistic solution available to the school. Having already completed several different bespoke sports facilities for other schools, Spaciotempo were contacted to provide a solution as the company’s ability to customise temporary buildings to suit the needs of the school had been identified as an attractive and viable option. Anne Munby, Fundraiser at Mary Hare Foundation, said: “We know water can be a very dangerous environment, and it is made even more dangerous for our pupils who are deaf. It is vital that we have a facility to teach them how to be safe in and around water. “Quite quickly Spaciotempo understood our needs and the budget available. The team were able to show us their portfolio of work, and thanks to Spaciotempo we can

carry out these lessons in a safe and secure setting.” The newly refurbished pool is now more energy efficient and cheaper to maintain. It has also been specified with non-slip vinyl flooring and ventilated changing rooms, making the facility safer for pupils and staff, as well as more hygienic and easier to run. For deaf pupils, the very nature of their disability means that they may not be able to hear a warning shout of danger or a rescuer’s instructions.

Pupils will need to remove all hearing aids and cochlear implant devices before entering the pool and are totally reliant on lipreading and sign instructions. To help the students clearly see the instructors, the temporary building is designed to let in lots of natural light with eight double-glazed windows, making it as bright as possible. Spaciotempo 01889 732985 www.spaciotempo.co.uk

Sales For SPATEX 2019 Going Swimmingly Well! With six months still to go before the curtain rises on the Industry’s Show, sales for exhibition space are reported as looking very healthy indeed, with two thirds of space already sold. Promising a vibrant Exhibition, there’s wide representation from all sectors with 13 big named spa companies already signed who along with companies from the pool and wet leisure are grabbing prime spots. “It’s very gratifying to see how, each year, the Exhibition is attracting an increasing number of spa companies,” said SPATEX Organiser, Michele Bridle, who next year clocks up 20 years of working for the Industry’s Show. “2019 also sees a lot of new blood, with companies such as Hydro-Flux Aqua Products, Princess Spas Ltd, Recotherm Ltd, Rockford, Spa Solutions and Sunbeach Spas making their debut. Exhibitors aside, the team are also working hard to match, and hopefully surpass, last year’s Show where we recorded a fantastic 8.5% increase in

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visitor numbers.” Inundated with an unprecedented number of requests for larger stands, Michele has ingeniously restructured the floorplan to free up more space. Companies, such as Fairlocks, Superior Spas, Aqua Warehouse and Certikin, are all coming back bigger and bolder in 2019. Spearheading the start of the new campaign is a brand new SPATEX website which features new graphics, up-to-the minute information on exhibitors and all you need to know about the Show, whether you’re a visitor or exhibitor. Information on seminar topics and speakers will be added as it becomes available over the course of the year. SPATEX takes place Tuesday 29 to Thursday 31 January 2019 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. SPATEX 01264 358558 www.spatex.co.uk

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Designing safety. emco swimming pool gratings Safe, hygienic, durable – and unique: The rigid PVC insert type 723 DESIGN, onto which tile or natural stone strips can be bonded, is a market-unique solution for covering flood-waters. It is ideally suitable for private swimming pools and hotel pools in which the main focus is on the visually harmonious design of the swimming pool grate with the edge of the pool. This has been stressed by several awards: The cover of overflow channels has received the “Red Dot” award and the “Golden Wave” award. www.emco-bau.com Telephone: (+44) 01952 / 256446

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NEWS KENT POOL AT RISK OF CLOSURE FOLLOWING NEIGHBOURHOOD CONCERNS A swimming pool in Kent which has been providing a ‘vital service’ to children, a number of which have disabilities, is at risk of closure after Dartford Council ruled it was having a detrimental impact on the neighbourhood it serves. Swimming teacher Denise Calver moved DC Swim School into a covered pool in her back garden in Longfield nine years ago after the local school pool she used to teach at shut down. At the time, Denise said she was advised by Dartford Council’s planning department that she didn’t need planning permission as long as she took measures to curb any noise. However, e arlier this year, the Council advised she now needed planning permission after a complaint about noise and parking. Five residents objected to her subsequent change of use application, while more than 50 wrote letters of support. Kent County Council Highways raised no objections to the application and no environmental health advice was given. A planning inspector recommended approving the application subject to a number of conditions but despite meeting all but one of the conditions, a panel of 12 councillors unanimously rejected the application citing parking concerns and excessive levels of activity.

CAMPAIGNERS PROPOSE OLYMPICSIZED POOL FOR TEESSIDE Ambitious proposals have been suggested for a state-of-the-art pool centre in Middlehaven, Middlesbrough which would rival the best venues across the UK. Community Interest Company (CIC) Tees Valley International Aquatic Centre CIC is leading the campaign and is raising money to fund an initial study to get the project off the ground.

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Planning Approved For University Of Portsmouth Facility Portsmouth City Council has approved plans for an inclusive and sustainable sports facility designed by FaulknerBrowns Architects for the University of Portsmouth. The new sports facility is the first major phase of the University of Portsmouth’s estate masterplan, which aims to reshape its city centre campus to enhance the student experience and strengthen connections with the rest of the city. It will provide both wet and dry sport facilities including a 25m eight lane swimming pool. Designed to complement the valuable urban green space of Ravelin Park, the new sports facility creates a welcoming gateway into the university campus from the old city of Portsmouth, providing a positive public-facing presence for the university. The building design strategy places the dry sport activities addressing the urban edge, while the pool is positioned in the setting of the park. The building will set new standards for sustainability for a sports building and as is on target to be the first of this type in the UK to be BREEAM rated ‘Outstanding’. Considered arrangement of the building’s spaces provides the opportunity to exploit natural light and ventilation, whilst top lighting of the sports hall and pool hall

provides further opportunity for energy reduction. An array of photovoltaic panels and a biodiverse green roof bolster the building’s sustainability credentials further. Michael Hall, Partner at FaulknerBrowns Architects, said: “We are delighted to have received planning consent for the project. Having worked closely with the University and planners, this will set a significant benchmark for future buildings in the university masterplan and generally across the city.” FaulknerBrowns Architects 0191 268 3007 www.faulknerbrowns.co.uk

Wraps Are Off At Midlands Sport & Wellness Hub The wraps have been taken off a new sport and wellness hub in the Midlands – branded one of the finest in the UK – nine months before it opens to the public. The new Sport & Wellness Hub at the University of Warwick is part of a £49m investment into the site, which will fully open next spring and will feature an array of cutting-edge facilities which will be open to students and the general public. Included in the offering is a 12 lane, 25-metre swimming pool with a moveable floor.

The building, being constructed by Willmott Dixon, has just been made watertight for the first time and to celebrate the major milestone a sneak preview was given of the new facilities. Lisa Dodd-Mayne, Director of Sport & Active Communities at the University of Warwick, said: “This was a major opportunity to show people the quality and

scale of what we are creating with the new Sport & Wellness Hub. “The team working on the project are excited about what is being created, but it was fantastic to witness other people seeing it for the first time.” Students, stakeholders and local politicians were given a tour of the new centre – which will form a key part of Coventry’s role as European City of Sport in 2019. Peter Owen, Managing Director, Willmott Dixon in the Midlands, said: “It was great to be back at the University of Warwick’s Sport & Wellness Hub and to be celebrating such a significant milestone with them. “When it is completed next year, this facility will provide students, staff and the local community with world-class sporting and leisure facilities that the region so desperately needs.”

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NEWS NEW £28M LEISURE CENTRE OPENS IN BRENT Families in Brent can now take advantage of the fabulous state-of-the-art Moberly Sports Centre after its official opening in early July. Although the new centre has been developed by Westminster Council, it is located just inside Brent. Cllr Krupesh Hirani, Cabinet Member for Public Health, Culture & Leisure, said: “This development is a great example of two councils working together for the benefit of their respective residents, and it’s a particularly good deal for people in our borough. The new centre is on our land, but because of an agreement reached at the planning stage with Westminster Council, we have been able to ensure families in our borough get full access.” Taking two and a half years to complete, the centre features a six-lane, 25m main pool plus learner pool, a huge sports hall, a fully equipped gym and various other facilities.

THE YOUNGEST EVER WATER BABIES OWNER Bolton-born Holly Unsworth is taking over as the youngestever owner of a Water Babies swimming business. Apart from stints waitressing, the 23 year old has spent her entire working career working for the world’s largest baby and toddler swimming franchise business and now she is set to take over the operation across Lancashire. “I started as an apprentice six years ago,” she explained. “I have also been a pool attendant and a teacher and have worked in the office. But I have always wanted to be my own boss, I have always wanted to challenge myself.” At the end of May, she officially took over, running a business that operates classes in 10 different pools across Lancashire.

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Historic Pools Of Britain Supports Lido Guide

Gill Wright (left) and Emma Pusill at Peterborough Lido

Historic Pools of Britain has announced that it is supporting the Lido Guide – a definitive guide to Britain’s fantastic array of outdoor pools that is expected to be published in Spring 2019. Created and written by Janet Wilkinson and Emma Pusill, the book celebrates the nation’s lidos giving an insight into the swimming opportunities that exist across the country. Founder Gill Wright said: “Historic Pools of Britain shares a vision with Janet and Emma – the desire to showcase the fabulous spectrum of pools that our country enjoys – and the Lido Guide will put outdoor pools on the map and share their details in a way not done before.” Janet and Emma set out with the ambition to feature every single open-air pool that survives in the UK, together with some that are on their way to being saved. They have been swimming their way around the UK over many years, and it’s through their shared passion for outdoor swimming that the Lido Guide was born. Emma Pusill says: “We want to make a book that inspires the reader to love, and use, these pools as much as we do. The ongoing survival of outdoor

pools depends on them being swum in. That may seem obvious, but there is a real risk that people assume their local outdoor pool will be there forever. But we know from the very many that have been lost over the years that we can’t take this for granted. Swimmers need to use them, or lose them.” In giving its backing to the project, Historic Pools of Britain will give both financial and professional support to the Lido Guide and will join hundreds of people who have pledged support for the Lido Guide via Unbound, which specialises in crowdfunding for books. Historic Pools of Britain 0161 832 3588 www.historicpools.org.uk

International IAKS Swimming Pool Conference in Newcastle The swimming pool sector has a lively community in many countries, but there is (almost) no international exchange of expertise. Intelligent solutions rarely find their way across national borders, or only after a long delay. The International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) is therefore organising the firstever swimming pool conference in the UK specifically devoted to the exchange of international expertise among operators, owners, designers, consultants and manufacturers. The event starts on 12 September with a tour of

Hebburn Central designed by IAKS member FaulknerBrowns Architects. This is a municipal, multifunctional pool and leisure facility which has been combined with a library and other essential public services and facilities to promote public participation and realise operational efficiencies for the local authority. The tour will be followed by a networking dinner in Newcastle. On 13 September, the conference run by IAKS President and pool expert Dr Stefan Kannewischer will be held. Speakers and panelists from Austria, Canada, Denmark,

France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom will be discussing international trends in the fields of management, architecture and technology. The agenda will include such highly topical subjects as digitisation and inclusion, the latest trends in technology applications, how to measure the public value of swimming pools and how to communicate the social return on investment, and the impact of new media behaviour and virtual reality on swimming pools. The full conference programme and registration details can be found at www.iaks.org

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NEWS

School Pools: Don’t Just Survive – Thrive Everywhere you look, it seems budgets are getting tighter than ever before… and schools are no exception. But, while many are looking to reduce running costs, the day-to-day focus is on simply keeping things going until the following year’s budget. But as a number of schools have discovered, it doesn’t need to be like that. Refurbishment projects may not fit into budgetary plans this year, however, with a concerted fundraising effort, parents, pupils and staff can ensure their school’s pool thrives. “By inspiring schools with fresh and creative ideas which improve energy efficiency, running costs, safety or enjoyment, pool companies can win business,” said Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams. “Take pool covers, for example. Many schools rely on heavy foam covers to retain valuable heat. These can be effective, but on the flipside, they can be cumbersome for staff to remove… In practice, this means that covers which are designed to retain heat and water are often left off…” DEL’s range of automatic pool covers, which are exclusive to Golden Coast, has proved to be an exceptionally attractive alternative. Having worked with the French automatic pool cover innovator for more than a year, Pool Tech Managing Director Danny Grant knew that DEL would have a solution when St Wilfrid’s Academy, near Wigan, contacted

him about replacing their bulky cover. The ultimate in fully-customisable solutions, the new cover features hardwearing PVC slats, advanced tubular motors, supported by two powder-coated aluminium units resistant to bumps and scrapes. “But, most important of all, this new cover system means opening and closing happens with a simple push of the button,” said Danny. At Woodfield, a special needs school in Hertfordshire, the pool’s existing bubble cover was replaced as part of a major upgrade. To make the most of the refurbished pool’s increased energy efficiency, while addressing key safety concerns for its vulnerable pool users, Bedfordshire-based Eden Pools recommended the DEL Ultima safety cover. Its sophisticated design complies with the stringent French safety standard NFP 90-308. It is an especially safe automatic cover because it covers the water completely – leaving no access to the water – even around the edges. Like much of the DEL range, it can be equipped with remote control. At Woodfield, this means staff can now open and close the pool with the push of a button – ensuring it can be made secure very quickly. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

1610 Expands Its Operations In North Devon One of the South West’s leading leisure operators, 1610 has taken over the management of South Molton swimming pool in North Devon. South Molton Leisure Trust which had previously managed the site decided to seek a new operator to safeguard the long-term future of the pool and 1610 was the preferred bidder. The new management contract for the pool began on 2 July. This brings the number of leisure sites which 1610 leisure trust operates in North Devon to four. It also runs Torrington Pool and Sports Hall, Holsworthy Leisure Centre and Torridge Pool. As a larger leisure operator 1610 hopes with its economies of scale and greater buying power it will be able to reduce its operating and administration costs as well as introduce new programmes and activities to the pool. Under the changes 1610 will own the building as well as be responsible for the day to day running of the pool. 1610 manages 19 leisure facilities on mostly shared school sites but this will be the first time that 1610 will own the building it’s responsible for managing. 1610 will be setting up a steering committee for the pool known as the Friends of South Molton Pool to give the local community a say in the future plans for the pool. 1610 Swim and Sports Development Manager Ricky Hayes said: “South Molton Leisure Trust has done a great job of managing the pool but it is easier for a larger trust such as 1610 to reduce running costs by sharing admin duties and expenses which would make it more efficient to run and safeguard the long- term future of the pool.” 1610 Limited 0330 058 1610 www.1610.org.uk

Compass Pools UK Casts Its Eye Over ‘Love Island’ As this year’s ‘Love Island’ heats up, Compass Pools UK Technical Director Alex Kemsley and his team have been taking a closer look at the leisure facilities the contestants are enjoying and their attention was immediately drawn to the pool and hot tub facilities of the hit ITV series. The pool featured is what some might call an infinity pool, but it is actually a regularstyle pool with an overflow or weir edge. The inland location of the pool makes a true infinity pool impossible. It is approximately 20m x 5m, giving a bathing capacity of around 40 people, which should be more than enough room for the show’s participants, no matter what they get up to. As with most pools in Southern Europe,

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it is most likely unheated. With a daytime temperature of around 28°C, the pool temperature will top out at around 26°C. When bathing in the hot sun for an extended period of time, this can feel chilly, especially if the contestants decide on a night-time swim, when the air temperature will sit at a brisk 18 degrees. In the UK most outdoor pools are heated, utilising air-source heat pumps or solar-powered covers. The other option available is the hot tub which is estimated to be a five or six-seat affair, made from domestic acrylic. With limited space,

the tub could easily be overwhelmed by a combination of bodies, sun cream and those ever-present gold stickers. “We’re all big fans of Love Island, so we thought it might be fun to run our eyes over the facilities the participants have this year. The pool is a nice design – but it isn’t an infinity pool! The hot tub could become an issue if it isn’t maintained, and the more people in it, the harder the filter has to work, so we might see some unpleasant developments there,” said Alex. Compass Pools 0333 456 7111 www.compass-pools.co.uk

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NEWS

Bath Sports & Leisure Centre Pool Open

Serco Leisure Aquatics Complex Wins First Ever ‘World Cup Of Pools’ The Serco Leisure-run Bangor Aurora Aquatic & Leisure Complex in Northern Ireland has won the first ever ‘World Cup of Pools’ competition, beating the London Aquatics Centre, the location for many swimming events at the London 2012 Olympic Games. The World Cup of Pools was a Twitter-based poll among 16 of the top swimming facilities in the UK, which ran between May and July, to find the pool with the most engaged social media audience. The pools were chosen by the competition organisers, Marathon Swims, a popular swimming endurance event based in London. Bangor had to beat Crawley’s impressive K2 Pool in its first round heat and was then matched with increasingly high profile London-based facilities, culminating in the final against the London Aquatics Centre, the Olympic venue, which cost a

reported £269m to build. Alan Mitchell, Serco Leisure’s Communications Manager said: “When I was forwarded the details of this competition by Chris Kelly, Bangor’s General Manager way back in March, I saw potential in it. I felt this could be a fun way to bring teams together across Leisure and Serco as a whole, grow awareness locally for Bangor Aurora, as well as having the added element of being in a ‘World Cup’, while the big one was happening in Russia. “Serco really did its bit with plenty of support from across the business, but our main job was to encourage the local community in Bangor to get behind this, and then let them run with it. That’s exactly what happened in the final, leading to a huge win for the Aurora – over 2,000 votes clear by the final whistle.”

The swimming pools and reception areas at Better, Bath Sports and Leisure Centre opened in July, the culmination of an £8m refurbishment programme. The redevelopment was a partnership between GLL, the UK’s largest leisure charitable social enterprise, through its customer brand, Better, and Bath & North East Somerset Council. It follows the completion of initial works earlier this year, including refurbishment of the gym, sports hall and a range of other facilities. These final works in the programme include a complete overhaul of swimming facilities at the centre, including the full refurbishment of the main 25-metre pool hall, as well as a brand new teaching pool. In addition, there is also an increased and improved range of play features in the centre’s leisure pool. For a streamlined customer experience, visitors will now enter the building via an improved reception area, while members will be able to access the building using a variety of new access technology. Barnaby Rich, General Manager at Bath Sports and Leisure Centre said: “We are delighted to announce the re-opening of the pools at Better, Bath Sports and Leisure Centre. “This comprehensive refurbishment programme will allow us to provide outstanding, accessible and affordable facilities for the entire community, to get more people, more active, more often.”

First Open Sky Pool For Fusion Lifestyle In the course of 2018 the Ivybridge Leisure Centre in Devon, which is managed by the fitness and leisure chain Fusion Lifestyle, will undergo a major makeover. In addition to the complete refurbishment of the building and its systems, the old outdoor swimming pool will be demolished. The sports complex will also be expanded with a larger spin studio, a centrally located café, a new fitness studio and squash courts.

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The design is by Kent-based architectural practice Abbey Design from Canterbury. When complete, the new centre will have an innovative six-lane Open Sky swimming pool with a sundeck and a state-of-the-art retractable roof combined with modern, sustainable swimming pool technology. Architect Paul Hoppe of the Dutch company Bright Buildings was asked to develop the Open Sky swimming pool structure in cooperation with Fusion’s entire design team. The project comprises a steel structure, high-grade insulated aluminium walls and the retractable roof above the pool. Bright Buildings will integrate the new Open Sky pool into the complex. The project marks the start of a threeyear programme in which Fusion is going to improve and modernise its fitness facilities.

Fusion is one of the largest fitness chains in the UK, with facilities between Wales, London and Newcastle. The new Ivybridge complex is expected to be complete for summer 2019. Bright Buildings +31 45 546 8490 www.brightbuildings.eu

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NEWS SOMERSET POOL TO SHUT AS REPAIR COSTS ESTIMATED TO TOP £1M Following 30 years of service, Somerset County Council has announced that Cresta swimming pool in Chard will shut at end of the summer due excessive estimated repair and refurbishment costs. A recent survey has estimated that costs of £1m needs to be spent to replace failing pumps and other essential equipment, as well as upgrading facilities to bring the pool up to standard. The county council will now focus on taking forward regeneration plans for Chard which were recently unveiled by South Somerset District Council. These include the potential for a new swimming pool amongst other leisure facilities. Councillor David Hall, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Planning and Community Infrastructure, said: “Cresta pool has already outlived its expected life-span by well over a decade. “Maintenance costs are escalating and major equipment now needs replacing and we are not in a position to provide the funding now required to keep it open much longer.”

PLANS REVEALED FOR NEW PUBLIC POOL IN PETERBOROUGH A new public swimming pool plus further sports facilities look set to be built in the Werrington area of Peterborough in an exciting £14m project. The City Council has revealed plans to construct a six to eight lane 25m pool which will be based in a new two storey leisure building near the existing Werrington Leisure Centre. Councillors for the Werrington area have welcomed the new sports and leisure plans, in particular for the new swimming pool which they feel has been a long time coming.

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£14m Destination Spa To Open At Five-star Sussex Hotel

Work has begun on a 4,120m² luxury spa at the fivestar rated South Lodge in Horsham, West Sussex. South Lodge is a 19th century country house hotel, located only 25 minutes from Gatwick yet in a quiet spot overlooking the stunning South Downs. Set into the natural contours of the land, The Spa will complement the landscape with a grass and sedum roof and green oak cladding. Designed with sustainability in mind, bringing the outside in and extending the spa out into the grounds. The £14m facility will extend over two floors with a third level of extensive outside terracing in a natural suntrap. When complete, The Spa will boast some impressive wet leisure facilities including a 22m x10m ozone treated indoor infinity edge pool, an 18m long natural, heated outdoor swimming pond and outdoor vitality hydrotherapy pool. An infused sauna along with marble lined salt and aromatic herbal steam rooms will also be present. Additional comprehensive fitness

facilities, therapy rooms offering a wide range of treatments plus grooming and beauty facilities will all be complemented with a restaurant and outside snack bar offering poolside refreshments. The five-star country house hotel is owned by Exclusive Hotels & Venues, whose portfolio also includes Surrey’s Pennyhill Park, which also includes a substantial and award-winning spa. The Spa at South Lodge is scheduled to open early 2019.

Nuffield Health Pools Together With STA Nuffield Health, which operates 130 swimming pools across the UK, has officially become an approved training centre for STA’s swimming pool and spa plant qualifications. Tom Kent from Nuffield Health, one of the leading not-for-profit UK healthcare organisations, said: “By creating our own national training network for our in-house pool plant operators using STA’s qualifications, we can raise standards and ensure the highest standards of training are delivered throughout all of our aquatic facilities. “STA’s pool plant qualifications are not only user-friendly and

robust, but importantly for us, they have a much more technically advanced syllabus covering all aspects of running a swimming pool. With Nuffield having 130 swimming pools to manage, all of which come in different shapes and sizes, it is very important for our operators to have this level of technical knowledge; it means our staff are appropriately qualified to manage hygienically safe facilities, which in turn ensures the wellbeing of our customers. “Furthermore, with STA’s Level

3 qualification being endorsed by CIMSPA, we know they are of the highest quality and meet our needs as an employer,” added Tom. STA’s Level 3 Pool Plant Operations qualification, which only recently launched following a year’s development and consultation with industry groups, has been produced by STA to ensure it is fit-for-purpose and relevant to the industry and all different pool types – from sports and leisure centres to hotels, spas and interactive water features. STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk

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PEOPLE NEWS

PR Turns Author With Release Of True Crime Book Penny Farmer, Journalist and PR Consultant for both SPATEX and Certikin International has this month turned author with the release of her true crime book ‘Dead In The Water’. It’s a true and horrifying account of the brutal torture and murder of Penny’s brother and his long-time girlfriend forty years ago. In July 1978, two bodies were found in the sea off the coast of Guatemala in Central America, and proved to be the remains of Dr Chris Farmer and his lawyer girlfriend, Peta Frampton, young graduates from Greater Manchester. After suffering a three-day ordeal in which they were tortured, while still alive, they were then thrown overboard from the yacht on which they had been crewing. Their bodies weighted down with heavy iron engine parts and their heads covered in plastic bags. For nearly forty years, no one was charged with these savage murders, even though the name of the yacht, the Justin B., and its owner, an American named Silas Duane Boston, were known. The book is the story of how Penny, and her family, tracked down the killer and assembled the evidence against him, leading to the arrest of Boston in California in December 2016.

At the age of 76, the serial killer was charged with two counts of maritime murder. Amongst the evidence that Chris Farmer’s family, the police forces in both the UK and the USA, as well as the FBI and Interpol, had so patiently collected, was the shocking eyewitness testimony of both of Boston’s two sons who, aged thirteen and twelve, had been present when the murders took place. Penny is pictured below (3rd from right) at a presentation in Sacramento, in which members of the Californian prosecution team, FBI and Sacramento Police Department thanked her and her family for pursuing justice. Dead In the Water is published by John Blake and is available from 9 August on Amazon and in all good bookshops priced £8.99.

A New Face At Golden Coast Following another successful year, Golden Coast is expanding its purchasing team. Abby Fletcher has joined the UK’s leading independent supplier to the wet leisure industry at their Barnstaple headquarters in the role of Purchasing Administrator. With the Golden Coast catalogue becoming the first port of call for many businesses when specifying for a job, the rising demand led to the creation of this position – ensuring the company is consistently able to meet customer needs. Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams said of the appointment: “Though she’s not been with us long, Abby is fast becoming an important part of an incredibly busy department. We are very glad that she’s decided to join our growing Golden Coast family. “We pride ourselves on finding the best people, and Abby has brought fantastic dedication and enthusiasm to the role. She’s definitely someone who likes a challenge and her fantastic teamwork is really going to help Golden Coast and its customers.” Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

Witney Swimmers Benefit From Certikin Sponsorship Witney-based Certikin International, the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier of water leisure equipment, is now one of the proud partners of Witney and District Swimming Club (W&DSC). Employing over a hundred people in the West Oxfordshire region, Certikin distributes swimming pool, spa and wellness equipment in the UK and exports to over 50 countries. Becoming a sponsor of the Swimming Club was therefore a natural synergy. Highly popular, W&DSC offers members the opportunity to take part in competitive swimming in a friendly, safe and supportive environment. It caters for a variety of

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abilities, welcoming swimmers from six years of age to adults and swimming for fitness right though to elite performance squads. The club made a splash at the 2018 West Oxfordshire and GLL Sport Awards held in May, with W&DSC being announced as the Club of the Year and their Head Coach, Chantal Clavaud, taking the Coach of the Year honour. Certikin was delighted to launch is partnership at the recent AGM where Executive Sales Manager, Bruce Coppuck was in attendance to present the Certikin

Perseverance Award to Maddie Good. The partnership will continue throughout the year, with Certikin committed to support the club through various activities. Bruce said: “Swimming is not only pleasurable, it might one day save your life. Certikin is delighted to promote the W&DSC’s values of team spirit, strong work ethic and enjoyment of competitive sport, so that swimmers are encouraged to remain in competitive swimming at any level and age for lifelong fitness.”

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

GRAD – A Unique And Efficient Decking System The Outdoor Deck Company’s new GRAD decking technology is the most efficient system the company has ever seen in the UK. GRAD is an ‘invisible fixing’ clip based system, for the rapid installation of decks and vertical cladding. The product can be supplied as anything from individual clips (for bespoke board sizes) to a complete system of pedestals, rails and boards for covering very large areas quickly and economically. The unique clip and groove design at the heart of the GRAD system means that decks can be installed about 30% faster than competing products. Once installed, a GRAD deck will resist 300kgs of uplift, and yet each board can be easily and quickly removed, without any marking or damage to the face of the material (a common problem with other hidden fixing systems). The GRAD system can be retrofitted onto existing timber joists, installed from scratch on top of a new timber sub-frame, or mounted onto the bespoke rail system –

where finished build-ups as low as 50mm are possible. Available in four natural timbers and two composite options, GRAD decking has finally brought the fully installed cost of a prestigious, luxury deck to its lowest ever price. Key features include: • Fast fit clip system • Truly hidden fixings (no edge clips) • Four rail depths available

Minimum Noise, Maximum COP – Meet The Garden Pac InverTech Fast becoming the heat pump of choice, the latest GardenPac Invertech is powered by a unique full-inverter technology fan motor, which adjusts the compressor speed hertz by hertz and the fan speed rotation by rotation. A high quality inverter is designed mainly for low speed running which leads to minimum noise, maximum COP and a long highly efficient working life. When maintaining the pool temperature by an average of 50% of the unit capacity, the average sound pressure of a GardenPac Invertech heat pump can create a sound environment 10 times quieter and more consumer friendly than standard on/off heat pump models – quieter in fact than a lot of domestic fridges! Every GardenPac heat pump has soft start technology which means the current will increase from 0A to the rated current over a 2 minute period thus eliminating any burden to the household electricity system. A unique warranty is applied to the compressor and the titanium heat exchanger of seven years giving peace of mind for many years of value for money and quality. SCP UK 01268 273040 www.scpeurope.com

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• Removable boards • Exceptional uplift resistance. The Outdoor Deck Company supply every aspect of the GRAD system – from components only to a fully turn-key design and build service. Outdoor Deck Company 020 8977 0820 www.outdoordeck.co.uk

Options Expand For AstralPool’s Updated HydroDeck Completely re-engineered and updated, the HydroDeck automatic slatted pool cover range, available exclusively through AstralPool UK, has seen sales grow and the amount of options on offer expand. As a complete solution, HydroDeck offers fully automated operation, safety, heating, insulation and innovative build in options. Each cover can be fitted perfectly to the swimming pool surround with the aid of made to measure build in and build on systems and operation is extremely simple and takes place by means of a simple key switch or a wireless remote control. Strong slats that provide safety and insulation are available in polycarbonate or PVC and have proven energy saving credentials. Providing the power, and in addition to the HydroRoller and HydroBench deck-mounted drive systems, the HydroDeck team have developed HydroDrive – a purpose built drive system with a nitrogen filled stainless steel motor that is fitted inside the cover roller.

This means installation space is minimised and there are no moving parts outside of the pool. In this system, the spindle is immersed in the pool and is supported with two flanges, which are bolted to the pool shell. The motor that winds and unwinds the cover is located inside the spindle (HydroDrive, in roller motor) and its cable passes through the pool shell in a sleeve. The cover is operated automatically by using a key switch and the limits are programmed electronically. The motor comes in 250 Nm and 500 Nm torque, allowing for a huge range of pool depths and sizes. AstralPool UK 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

AMS And Heatstar Enhance Pool Facilities At Legoland Resort

With numerous rides and attractions, the Legoland Resort attracts thousands of visitors every year with many families staying over in the Legoland Windsor Resort Hotel which boasts an extremely popular indoor pool and pirate themed water play area. Aldershot’s Accurate Mechanical Services (AMS) work for Legoland carrying out planned preventative maintenance tasks plus reactive service and remedial works. They were contacted by Legoland regarding the replacement of the existing air-handling unit which was experiencing problems leading to disruption of the hotel’s pool facilities. They decided in conjunction with AMS that the entire unit had to be replaced with a new state-ofthe-art environmental control unit. The removal and installation was complicated by the replacement of all the existing ductwork. AMS had worked with Heatstar before so contacted them for a survey and a proposal. Heatstar units with their proven reputation for quality, reliability and outstanding energy efficiency were readily accepted by the resort team and AMS was awarded the task of de-commissioning the old unit plus the supply and installation of a new Heatstar Phoenix EC 12000 AR. The Phoenix EC is a hybrid heat recovery ventilation system. Encompassing all the available energy saving technologies and fully compliant with the latest building

control regulations, it represents an optimum environmental control system for the highest specification indoor swimming pools. Key features include: • Hybrid system – dual heat recovery methods for expelled room air • Dual function dehumidifying and expelled room air heat pump • ‘Blue – EC’ ultra-efficient digital inverter fan system • ‘Auto fan’ intelligent air recirculation fan management • Active heat recycling into room air and pool water via dehumidifier. Thanks to the skills of the AMS team combined with Heatstar’s technical cooperation, the project (including the timeconsuming duct work), was completed in just three weeks. This also included Heatstar’s commissioning of the Phoenix unit. Needless to say, the Legoland Resort Hotel team were delighted with the rapid installation and with downtime kept to a minimum, visitors were soon able to enjoy the improved environment in the pool facilities. AMS 0800 112 3150 www.ams.limited Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com

HSE Issue First BPR Authorisation For Swimming Pool Algaecide Monmouthshire-based Water Treatment Products (WTP) are pleased to announce the successful BPR authorisation of its premier range of swimming pool algaecides. WTP’s algaecide dossier gained approval on 5 June 2018 for its Product Type 2 (PT2) application – authorisation number: UK-2018-1126 – a ten-year approval from the HSE (Health & Safety Executive). At the time of going to print, WTP are the only UK-based company to have been issued with a product authorisation number for a biocide in the swimming pool industry. Details of the authorisation of WTP’s algaecides can be found on the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) website at www. echa.europa.eu Brands currently manufactured and distributed by WTP which are covered by this are: • Klearpool Long Life Copper Algaecide • Pro-Swim Long Life Algaecide • Summerguard • Winterguard • Longlife Algaecide. James Lee, Managing Director of WTP’s Leisure Division commented: “This is very exciting news not only for Water Treatment Products but also for the industry, since the introduction of the Biocidal Product Regulations on 1 September 2015 the industry has seen a step change in attitude towards biocides in the swimming pool industry.” Water Treatment Products Ltd 01495 792790 www.watertreatmentproducts.co.uk

A Helping Hand For A Perfect Pool Lift

The Pool Lift Company has launched a new online pool lift finder tool along with a handy pool lift buyers guide to help direct customers to a suitable solution. This new online tool has been based on the most common questions asked when choosing a pool lift. With so many new products on the market, choosing the right kind of pool lift according to the style of a swimming pool or hot tub can be confusing. To make life simpler, the Pool Lift Company identified that by asking just a couple of online questions could save time and

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filter out unsuitable products. The tool establishes whether the pool or hot tub is fully in the ground or aboveground. If fully in the ground, it shows both portable and fixed lifts, however if aboveground only fixed pool lifts are shown. “The online pool lift finder is very simple, but it will really help customers in their selection process. There are so many different varieties of pool lifts out there and they can be a huge investment, so you

need to make sure you have the right one for the job,” said the Pool Lift Company’s Debbie Pearson. The online pool finder is supported with a buyers’ guide which further assists customers in their selection process and raises awareness of issues such as wall heights. Customers have the option of booking an access survey by the Pool Lift Company and a full installation service. Pool Lift Company 01256 896000 www.poollifts.co.uk

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PRODUCT / ECO NEWS

Deliver The Pool Of Your Customer’s Dreams… Almost Effortlessly

The dream of owning a pool is now within easier financial reach than ever before, thanks to Swimmer Pool Kits. And, because they’re available from Golden Coast, they’re an installers’ dream too. For owners, Swimmer’s polymer and block-and-build kits permit them to tailor a pool to their precise requirements – including lifestyle and budget. Three models are available (Standard, Mercury and Platinum) – ensuring a customer’s every need is met.

Kits contain everything needed to create a pool – including high quality pool fittings. For example, the luxurious Platinum kit includes a liner, walk-in step unit, underwater light, solar cover, winter debris cover and telescopic roller. Kits can be tailored further with additional products from Golden Coast, such as the high-efficiency DURA PRO heat pump. Highly specified and protected by a two-year warranty, these robust pumps, which feature oversized

Waxman Ceramics Combines Style And Simplicity With Neutra The dedicated ‘Pool & Spa’ collection from West Yorkshirebased Waxman Ceramics offers an extensive portfolio of mosaics and tiles designed specifically for swimming pools. These also include anti-slip pool surrounds and large format tiles suitable for both indoor and outdoor pools. As one of Waxman’s most popular large format ranges, Neutra proves simplicity is key with five perfectly complementary shades and textures inspired by nature. Utilising a combination of earthy tones combined with a neutral colour palette, Neutra is able to transform any space – creating clean contemporary looks with ease. From anti-slip pool surrounds to decorative wall pieces, Neutra offers a technical specification suited to almost any environment eliminating the need to compromise between style and quality. With Neutra, possibilities are endless – combining a subtle

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stone effect with the hardwearing properties found in porcelain tiles, it is perfectly suited to indoor and outdoor environments in both a residential or commercial setting. As well as offering large format tiles in Natural, Anti-Slip or Lapatto finishes, the complete Neutra range also includes 30x90cm wall tiles with relief decors and skirtings, step treads with lip and step edges making it suited to every part of your project. Neutra anti-slip is suitable for both internal and external floors and passes all the tests for slip resistance, achieving DIN 51130 R11, Grade C in the DIN 51097 and PTV +40. For projects that require the symmetry of square tiles, Neutra is available in 60x60cm and 75x75cm squares or 30x60cm and 60x120cm rectangles for a more traditional look. Waxman Ceramics 01422 371811 www.waxmanceramics.co.uk

titanium exchangers, represent exceptionally good all-round value. Swimmer kits have been designed with installers in mind. Many features have been incorporated into the pool system to make the installation process as smooth as possible. Polymer kits, for example, are quick and easy to build and are assembled using fastfit 48” high panels in lengths of one, two, four and six feet. Every panel size (except onefoot) includes cut-out details for skimmers and pool lights. Because the holes can be cut with a jigsaw after panels are erected, positioning decisions

can be made at the last minute. The advanced design features support buttresses which utilise a proven X-frame design that improves strength and rigidity. Further security is offered by heavy-duty anchor stakes which ensure it stays in place. Uniquely, Swimmer pool kits are supplied in a single delivery, which includes high quality pool fittings, vacuum and chemical equipment. Furthermore, a multicyclone pre-filter helps improve water clarity and efficiency of the pool plant. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com

Certikin Turns Any Pool Into An Endless Pool Available through Certikin International, the Fastlane Swimming Machine produces a smooth, quiet, powerful current that’s perfect for any pool and it’s adjustable from zero to 1min 14sec/100m pace. Flexibilty means that it’s fun for all the family and plus it’s also perfect for low impact exercise too. Simple to use and economical to run, the unit is available with a deck mount for existing pools or a wall mount for new constructions, meaning any pool can be turned into an Endless Pool! What’s more, owners can now take exercise to the next level with the new Fit@Home app and PCB kit. By installing the kit to the Fastlane unit and downloading the app to a compatible tablet or smartphone, the user is fully able to control it remotely. Advanced workouts with custom time and pace intervals can

also be easily created, saved and edited. Besides standard swimming intervals, users can also alternate high-to-low intensity. Called High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), it’s been shown in multiple studies to be an effective way to make rapid fitness and performance gains. Fit@Home also acts as a smart display allowing the user to see their swim speed and duration whilst in the pool. Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS

Superior Spas Gives Holiday Cottages Luxury Edge Guests staying at Sykes Cottages rental properties across the UK will soon be able to sink into luxury on their staycation thanks to the firm’s new partnership with leading hot tub brand, Superior Spas. Superior Spas is now the preferred hot tub supplier to all 10,000 holiday rental properties in the Sykes Cottages portfolio – meaning guests can indulge in a holiday let hot tub as part of their getaway. Superior Spas is a leader in the holiday hot tub sector and is committed to customer services, reliability and delivering products that are of exceptional quality. Gareth Ward, Sales Director of Superior Spas, said: “We’re thrilled to have been awarded the official title of preferred hot tub supplier by Sykes Cottages. It’s a great step forward for our growth plans and a testament

to the product and our commitment to making life as easy as possible for lettings and property management companies.” The partnership follows the introduction of HSG282 for commercial properties and holiday lets which came into force last year. The publication provides essential guidance on controlling potentially harmful bacteria in spa-pool systems. Superior Spas created their signature Holiday Let hot tub to help accommodation providers ensure all regulations are met effortlessly – a fact that made it a natural choice for Sykes Cottages. Stephen Lloyd, Sykes Cottages’ Property Services Manager, commented: “Properties that feature a hot tub are already one of our most popular searches on the site and we hope our new partnership with Superior Spas is going to give visitors even more choice

Dual Temp L-Shape – A Unique Swim Spa Concept TidalFit by Artesian Spas are proud to introduce a new unique concept for a Dual Temperature swim spa. The new TidalFit Dual Temp L-shaped spa combines a separate exercise pool with a choice of hydrotherapy spa, seamlessly integrated with a beautiful L-Shaped Dual Temp swim spa via a new patent pending system. Each side provides separate temperature, jet and lighting controls and offers all of the premium quality features found in their other TidalFit and Artesian hydrotherapy spas. There is even the option of

having the TidalFit Dual Temp L-shaped swim spa as a semiin-ground version. The DTL-14 exercise pool features a unique Quad Swim Jet system as standard to provide a powerful and fully adjustable swim current. The DTL is also available with a variety of optional features including the company’s new Variable Flow Swift Water Trainer, and Aquatic Training System featuring rowing bars, stretch cords and swim tether, ensuring everything a user needs for the perfect exercise pool. Last year’s original Dual Temp became extremely popular and Artesian envisage their new L-shaped swim spa will be even more so, giving customers more options for the layout in their garden. Artesian Spas 01302 730295 www.artesianspas.co.uk

when they’re searching for their perfect holiday home.” Superior Spas 01246 559071 www.superiorspas.co.uk

Hot Tub Entrepreneur Scoops Prestigious Global Business Honour A Welsh businessman has won a prestigious global business award. Gareth Jones, founder of UK Leisure Living, has been named winner of the Outstanding Entrepreneur category at the 2018 Global Business Excellence Awards. Gareth, whose company has premises in Conwy and Burton, near Chester, was recognised for his entrepreneurial track record over the last six years. The judges said: “Gareth Jones is a serial entrepreneur who never stands still. Since winning the Institute of Directors Young Director of the Year title in 2012 aged only 30, Gareth has set up six businesses in leisure, home improvements and energy conservation; and has a community interest business. “His latest businesses in renewables, hot tubs and glamping construction show that he is willing to take a risk in up-and-coming areas of business. “Gareth is an inspirational leader, who loves a challenge and is always ready to take on something new.” The Global Business Excellence Awards are decided by a large panel of independent expert judges who select winners according to strict criteria for each category and sector. These include financial results, innovation and the benefits for customers, employees, investors and community. UK Leisure Living is currently experiencing strong growth. The company expects to double revenues this year from £750,000 to over £2m with increased sales at its main Conwy-based hot tub showroom and its recently opened satellite showroom. Gareth said: “I am thrilled to win a Global Business Excellence Award. I have always looked to create opportunities in new and exciting markets whether it is renewables, glamping or, most recently, hot tubs.” The business sells to a mix of domestic and commercial customers with commercial clients including Bourne Leisure and the 5-star Plas Coch Holiday Park. UK Leisure Living 0845 034 3550 www.hottubsnorthwales.biz

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HOT TUB, SWIM SPA & WELLNESS NEWS

HygroMatik Winner Of Prestigious Plus X Award The new FlexLine series of steam humidifiers, by leading humidification equipment manufacturer HygroMatik, has won the prestigious Plus X Award for Product of the Year 2018. The Plus X Award’s has seven seals of approval by which products are judged: innovation, quality, design, ease of use, functionality, ergonomics and ecology. FlexLine was awarded three out of the seven seals for high quality, ease of use and functionality making it the most awarded product of all those participating. Adaptable to any humidification scenario, FlexLine optimises indoor air conditions for industrial, commercial, cultural, domestic and leisure facilities. It can also control and stabilise air humidity for industry and processes with precision.

Developed as a modular system, FlexLine units start from a basic model and only those add-ons needed to meet the specific humidification requirements of an environment are selected. You do not pay for unnecessary features. The units also feature a 3.5” touch screen control to make it easy to set up and monitor the exact humidity levels required for any environment. Now in its 15th year, the Plus X Award is the world’s largest innovation award for technology, sports and lifestyle. An independent panel of renowned industry experts from publishing houses and companies select award entries based on criteria as outlined by the seven seals. These categories reflect extraordinary and critical product features, allowing both customers

and trade to identify the added value of a holistic product quickly and clearly. HygroMatik 02380 443127 www.hygromatik.com

Coast Spas Receives ISO 9001: 2015 Certification

Aqua Warehouse Group Showcases Spas In Prime Time ITV Show Richard Hart and the team at Aqua Warehouse Group received some prime time TV coverage in June when Linda Robson and Lesley Joseph – famous for their roles in the Essexbased sitcom ‘Birds of a Feather’ – visited the company’s Chelmsford showroom to film a segment for the summer edition of ‘How to Spend it Well: House and Garden with Phillip Schofield’. The show highlights, tests and rates a number of big-selling consumer focused items that are sure to be a hit in UK homes and gardens this summer and beyond. Highlighting the demand across the country for a wide variety of hot tubs, the celebrity duo enjoyed some hydrotherapy in a Vita Spa hot tub whilst chatting to Richard about the many benefits of hot tub use. The feature also tested and rated three entry-level inflatable spas with the Intex Pure Spa coming out on top. Aqua Warehouse Group 01245 477400 www.aquawarehouse.co.uk

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Coast Spa Manufacturing Inc. (CSMI) announced recently that it has received ‘ISO 9001: 2015 Quality Management Systems (QMS)’ certification through the world leading certification company, SGS Systems. “Our motivation to obtain this registration was driven to meet customer needs and to increase customer satisfaction, with an emphasis on continuous improvement. As we focus on quality assurance and innovative products, we look forward to bringing our business to new heights,” said Jatinder Sidhu, Coast’s Chief Operating Officer. “We are pleased to certify Coast Spas Manufacturing upon successful completion of the ISO 9001:2015 audit. Achieving this standard demonstrates Coast Spas Manufacturing’s commitment to meeting and exceeding customers’ requirements for quality products,” said Phil Speed, Vice President of Certification & Business Enhancement at SGS Canada. Coast Spas is amongst the elite few hot tub manufacturers to earn ISO 9001: 2015 certification. The company first achieved ISO 9001 in December of 2000. The company has invested more than a year preparing for the ISO 9001: 2015 QMS

registration. This process required pre-audit examinations, complete design documentation, development and manufacturing processes along with support programmes, and making sure internal audit processes were predictable and consistent. Coast Spas manufactures a complete range of hot tubs and swim spas in Langley, BC for distribution to a global network of independent Coast Spas dealers in 43 countries. The company has built a reputation for bringing high quality and innovative products to market since 1997 and is considered to be one of the industry’s leaders in innovation with retail partnerships. ISO 9001 helps manufacturers prove their ability to bring products and services to market that are of a consistently good quality. Coast Spas Manufacturing Inc. +1 604 514 8111 www.coastspas.com

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WORLD NEWS

Fluidra Provides Nextgeneration Pool Systems For Mediterranean Games Fluidra has built the Olympic pool for the Mediterranean Games that are being held in Tarragona from 22 June to 1 July. The professional sports people are having the chance to train and compete in a 50x25x2metre Olympic pool designed and built using the most advanced systems in the industry. The pool boasts a new mobile bridge design so it can be divided into five spaces at the same time: four 50-metre central lanes and four 25-metre side areas. The groundbreaking design makes the pool

multi-functional and more versatile plus powers various options for use both during the swimming and waterpolo championships to take place both during the Games and afterwards. The pool also features the Freepool water disinfection and treatment system, which cleans the water using the most natural and sustainable technology on the market (Neolysis) and corrects pH levels by injecting high-efficiency CO2 while also cutting water consumption. A 2015 study by Hospital Clínic and the Autonomous University of Barcelona at the covered pool in the AtlèticBarceloneta swimming club speaks of the beneficial effects that the new chemical-product-free system has on the environment and people’s health. Fluidra has also installed the filter system and competition equipment, lane dividers, podiums, etc. When the Games have ended, Camp Clar de Tarragona sports centre members will be able to enjoy the new facility.

NIVEKO Pool Complements Swiss Home’s Minimalist Style This modern home, in its picturesque setting in the north of Switzerland, is an oasis of peace and quiet for its owners – a young family – and is a place to relax from life’s day-to-day stress. Here, less is definitely more. The house and garden feature clean, straight lines, formed from an interesting combination of materials such as wood, glass, metal, stone and more. Outside, the timeless look is perfectly complemented and enhanced by a NIVEKO Evolution pool. The design of this overflow pool is characterised by the minimalist style of the pool edge. This creates the impression of a continuous surface between the water and the surroundings of the pool. The grey colour of the pool looks very natural combined

with the stainless steel fittings, giving the water an amazing blue tint. The steps in the corner of the pool were also chosen for their simple lines, and the first step can be used as a place to relax. The pool is also fitted with a slatted cover, which provides heat insulation as well as preventing the water from evaporating from the pool. Everything in this garden has its place, from the modern garden furniture and the play area to the pool itself. Nothing disrupts this space, where functionality takes clear precedence over decoration resulting in the pure minimalist style. NIVEKO s.r.o. +420 572 693 246 www.niveko-pools.com

Vortex Wins Two International Design Awards Vortex Aquatic Structures International are proud to announce that their Explora collection has won International Design Awards in two product design categories, taking Gold in ‘Leisure Games and Fun’ plus a Silver in the ‘Designs for Social Impact’ category. The International Design Awards were established in 2007 by a group of designers and entrepreneurs to identify, celebrate and promote design visionaries and to uncover emerging talent in the fields of architecture, interior, product, graphic and fashion design. “International Design Awards recognise the strategic thinking, imagination and design that go into making products that are used, valued and loved by end users. That is a vision we share at Vortex,” said Stephen Hamelin, President of Vortex International, in accepting these awards. “We build meaningful play experiences into every product, and we are thrilled to see our innovations acknowledged.” Like all Vortex products, the Explora collection integrates a strong active play component that keeps children moving, pushing, pulling, spinning and exploring. Designed for toddlers through to tweens, Explora encourages kids to engage more deeply in the wonderful process of discovery of cause and effect. Its dynamic and vibrant design prompts kids to interact with the world around them, participate in collaborative play, and take inclusive play a step further. The Explora collection, which is available in the UK through Kentbased Ustigate Waterplay, is designed to combine with other featured Vortex products to create fun and safe aquatic play structures for families and children of all ages and abilities. Ustigate Waterplay 01322 424445 www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk

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www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 30/07/2018 17:45

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WORLD NEWS

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2018 PSP EXPO Registration has officially opened for the 2018 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo™ (PSP Expo) which returns to Las Vegas, Nevada for the first time since 2015. The event, sponsored by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), will be held 31 October to 2 November at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Bayside, Halls D-F. Organisers of the event plan to attract more than 10,500 residential and commercial industry professionals and more than 500 exhibitors spanning over 134,000 square feet. “We’re excited to return to Las Vegas,” commented Tracy Garcia, CEM, show director of the PSP Expo. “In 2015, 66 countries were represented at the exposition, signifying its importance as an international platform for business, collaboration and exchange of ideas.”

NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH NC BRANDS GOOD FIT FOR PREMIER Premier Pool Service is pleased to announce a new partnership with NC Brands, a well established company who has been innovating new products for the pool and spa industry for over 30 years. Premier Pool Service President, Charles Lauller said: “We are happy to partner with NC Brands, their brand dates back to a year after Premier was founded (1989) and they have a commitment to continually engineer and develop innovative products for the aquatics industry that help keep pool water clean and clear.” NC Brands is the parent company to Natural Chemistry. Founded over 30 years ago by Robert Kulperger and Mark Munford, the company that began as Natural Chemistry has grown to include other brands such as SeaKlear, Red Leopard, Green to Clean, Aqualus and Yellow Out.

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Cégep Marie-Victorin, a public college in north-east Montreal, offers a wide range of diverse programs, some of which are artistic in nature (graphic design, interior design and visual arts, for example). Since 2008, the college has undertaken several largescale development projects aimed at improving its environment. The college has always been daring enough to draw on its own resources – a pool of seasoned professionals and creative students – in order to foster a modern, welcoming environment that showcases its talent and a culture based on innovation, creativity and a personal touch. During the 2017/2018 financial year, three renovation and design projects were completed, one of which was the college’s pool. The outsized swimmer printed on the walls and the large windows facing the pool allows users to feel the movement of the water and draws attention to the grandeur and sheer size of the space. The integration of the swimmer is more than an aesthetic choice. It is also a creative and safe way to filter daylight and reduce the amount of light that reflects in the water. The immense images of Cégep MarieVictorin athletes are also illuminated by a series of carefully chosen light fixtures and in addition, natural light is let in by the entrance to the pool hall. The designers involved were also Cégep MarieVictorin employees so they were incredibly invested and engaged throughout the process and are all very proud of this achievement.

Image courtesy of Sébastien Roy

IN BRIEF

Canadian College Utilises Its Artistic Resources For Pool Environment

Fluidra And Zodiac Complete Merger Industry giants Fluidra and Zodiac have completed their overall merger, announced in November 2017. The combined company now has 5,500 employees, a portfolio of the most widely recognised brands in the industry and a presence in over 45 countries. The new company will keep the Fluidra name and remain listed on the Spanish stock exchange. On a local level, changes within different countries will be made gradually, with the company making the maximum effort to transfer to each client the advantages of the merger. Fluidra will maintain its global headquarters in Barcelona, Spain and North American headquarters in San Diego, California. Fluidra Executive President Eloi Planes will remain Executive Chairman of its Board of Directors, and former Zodiac CEO Bruce Brooks will serve as the company’s CEO. As part of the European Commission approval of the transaction, Fluidra will divest its Aquatron unit, the Israeli manufacturer of robotic pool cleaners with distribution primarily in Europe. Nevertheless Fluidra will maintain strong global

presence across the automatic pool cleaning category, which includes pressure, suction and robotic pool cleaners. Aquatron will continue to serve its customers in a normal way as a leading supplier of robotic pool cleaners. “The successful completion of our merger with Zodiac positions us as a leader in the global pool industry. Together, we have the most widely recognised brands, a broad portfolio of innovative products and solutions, and a strong financial position to create significant value for all of our stakeholders – customers, shareholders and employees,” said Planes. “Our future is very bright.” “I am looking forward to working with our team to create an organisation that stands apart from the pack,’ said Brooks. “We will be guided by clear values, focused on exceeding our customers’ needs and driven to solve challenges through useful innovation – all in an effort to keep on adding value to our customers’ businesses.” Customers and trade press will be invited to attend an official presentation of the new Fluidra at Lyon’s Piscine Global Europe trade show in November. Merger complete – Fluidra’s Executive Chairman Eloi Planes (left) and Bruce Brooks, Managing Director of Rhone Capital

SPN August 2018 31 30/07/2018 17:46

WORLD NEWS

A Luxurious Space Dedicated To Wellness The Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris officially unveiled its new Le Spa in July, and the facility offers a sanctuary of haute couture, tailor-made, results-driven treatments in the bustling heart of the city. The brand new Spa includes a mosaiclined 17 metre swimming pool, vitality pool with hydro-massage water experience circuit heated to 34°C, two luxury hammams, a cutting-edge fitness room plus a variety of treatment rooms. “We are delighted to introduce Le Spa, a contemporary space of style and serenity

in the heart of the city. A place where Parisian elegance meets caring Four Seasons service, delivered by our team of passionate therapists who are dedicated to making you look and feel your best,” says Jean-Claude Wietzel, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel George V. Renowned Parisian interior designer PierreYves Rochon has created a space that is at once bright, modern and elegant, drawing on ancient spa traditions with a colour palette of light grey and silver tones. Inspiration from Greek, Roman and Turkish mosaic patterns

lies alongside carefully curated pieces of modern art and spectacular floral compositions designed by Jeff Leatham. “We meticulously selected materials, furniture and pieces of art that embody the spirit codes and harmony of the Hotel, both classic and resolutely contemporary,” commented Rochon.

15th Annual WAHC Debuts WAHCity And New Tracks

Countdown For Piscine Global Europe 2018 Has Begun The countdown to the 2018 edition of Piscine Global Europe, which takes place from 13-16 November in Lyon’s Eurexpo venue, has started. 2018 will be a benchmark event because as it provides the opportunity to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the exhibition and Noémi Petit, Director of Piscine Global Europe, and her team are working hard to prepare this year’s show. When asked in a recent interview how the show was shaping up, she advised: “Everything is looking good! With more than 28,000 m2 of floor space, 600 exhibitors and 18,000 visitors expected, Piscine Global Europe is promising to be a very large gathering of pool and spa professionals from around the world. It is a real showroom, acclaimed by the industry.” And to illustrate the point further, Naomi said: “This exhibition is both ‘hands-on’ and turned towards innovation. This takes the form of product tests in pools, product demonstrations and 120 pools and spas being installed and filled with water at our exhibitors’ stands. It is also a place where all the latest trends of the sector can be tapped

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into. All systems are go for the sector!” When asked to comment about the international nature of the event, Naomi said: “With 39% of visitors and 60% of exhibitors from outside France, our exhibition brings together an international offering with an array of equipment that will cater to the needs of all countries and climates. For that matter, our exhibitors are well aware that our visitors come from all corners of the world and always prepare specifically to welcome them.” Piscine Global Europe +33 (0)47 8176324 www.piscine-expo.com

The 15th Annual World Aquatic HealthTM Conference (WAHC) will feature keynote speakers, sessions and a new track, all designed to create growth for professionals in all segments of the aquatic industry. The National Swimming Pool Foundation® (NSPF®) will host the Conference in Charleston, South Carolina, 10-12 October at the Charleston Marriott. “I attend the WAHC each year to learn the latest and greatest information. By attending the WAHC, I’m ahead of the curve and can provide my clients the best the industry has to offer,” said John Mason, Registered EH Specialist of the Pool School of Oregon, in 2017 after attending his third WAHC. Mason suggests everyone in the aquatic industry can benefit from attending and encourages more people to join in the conversation that is creating growth. One of this year’s new WAHC tracks – Elements of WAHC – will be featured at NSPF’s 1st annual WAHCity events. This track spotlights ever-popular topics and will be broadcast across North America at six additional WAHCity locations: Boston, MA; Colorado Springs, CO; Dallas, TX; Minneapolis, MN; Niagara Falls, ON; and Los Angeles, CA. The track will touch on each segment of the industry, from lifeguarding practices and drowning prevention, to improving air quality and understanding biofilms. “I’m thrilled to increase the accessibility of education the WAHC provides on scientific advances and technology in our industry. WAHCity events enable more people to have access to the latest science and network locally. The cost and time savings may enable entire facilities or departments to attend!” said NSPF CEO Thomas Lachocki, Ph.D.

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 30/07/2018 17:46

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Keeping Up With Developments With a number of developments taking place for the industry, BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes looks at some of the key items

he year seems to be flying by and there are so many items that are creating an impact on our industry, ranging from the time spent on general business topics such as the implementation of the GDPR, through to industry-specific issues, such as the new (or revised) European standards and the distillation of guidance such as HSG 179. With so much work taking place and information to pass on, BISHTA and SPATA members benefit from having a weekly e-newsletter that provides snippets of information to keep as up to date as possible on key topics and below is a flavour of some of the items covered. The Final Vote on the European standard for domestic spas and hot tubs (EN 17125) is imminent and this document, if agreed, should be available in the autumn. A great deal of work is also being prepared on the revision of EN 15288 regarding the design and operation of public (commercial) pools. When all of these standards are ready, it is anticipated that they will be added to the existing 25 standards via British Standards Online (BSOL) provided by SPATA to its members, and at only £75 + VAT per year, this is a fantastic value for money service! This price is possible because of the strength in numbers provided by the SPATA members, and it is a point of interest for non-members who can see an obvious benefit to joining SPATA and having access to so many standards online – all for less than the price of just one paper copy of the these standards!

SPATA is now very close to having available not one, but three industry courses to help contribute to initial training and Continuing Professional Development. Courses on heat pumps, liners, plus sauna and steam rooms should be available later this year. SPATA is very grateful for the ongoing input from Aquaflex, Dantherm, Certikin International, Golden Coast and Plastica. Other members have discussed possible topics for development next year, so watch this space! BISHTA has been providing its members with electrical courses (through NICEIC), water hygiene management courses (through Complete Pool Controls – CPC, Pollet Pool Group – PPG, and Pool & Spa Advice and the Certified Hot Tub Technician – CHTT (through SpaTech Training). The Hot Tub Site Surveyor course is being re-evaluated, with help from the STA and other courses are being planned to assist not only the spa industry, but also the holiday park sector and Environmental Health Officers (EHOs). Education will be a crucial feature of the Industry Information and Networking Days being held for BISHTA and SPATA members in Andover this autumn. SPATA kick off the proceedings on Wednesday 3 October, and then it is BISHTA’s turn on Thursday 4 October. SPATA members may also like to note there are going to be a series of regional meetings (some face to face and others online via WebEx). The dates for these events will be published in SPATA News, with both SPATA and also BISHTA members being welcome to attend. The 2019 British Pool and Hot Tub Awards are now open online for BISHTA and SPATA members to enter to aim for a chance of winning Bronze, Silver or Gold Awards. Please see the article by Sallie Leslie-Golding on page 39 giving more ideas on the benefits of them.

Education will be a crucial feature of the Industry Information and Networking Days being held for BISHTA and SPATA members...”

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Being a British Pool & Hot Tub Award winner gives recipients the chance to be entered for the European awards and over the summer, some of the British Pool & Hot Tub Award winners have been shortlisted to represent the UK at the 2018 EUSA European Pool & Spa Awards. Congratulations to Blue Cube Pools, Certikin International, Cheshire Wellness, Cresta Leisure, Eagle Leisure (Scotland), London Swimming Pool Company, Portrait Pools, Tanby Pools, Westcountry Leisure Pools, Unipools, Whitewaters and XL Pools for being nominated as the UK entries. These European Awards will be presented at Piscine Global, in Lyon in November 2018. There will be a number of key events occurring during Piscine Global in addition to the EUSA Awards on Wednesday 14 November, including a Pool Summit and also the second meeting of the World Alliance of Pool & Spa Associations (WAPSA). On Thursday 15 November, there is to be a Spa Conference with presentations to be given by BISHTA and also APSP.

DIARY DATES 2018 11 Sep TC 402 Plenary Meeting, Paris 18 – 19 Sep EUSA Meeting, Stockholm 27 Sep PIP Committee, Andover 3 Oct SPATA Annual Information & Networking Day, Andover 4 Oct BISHTA Annual Information & Networking Day, Andover 18 Oct SPATA National Council, WebEx 6 Nov Liner course, Andover 13 – 16 Nov Piscine Global, Lyon 20 Nov BSPF Board & AGM, Andover 21 Nov BISHTA Tutor Training Day, Andover 2019 29 – 31 Jan SPATEX 2019, Coventry

A full list of Diary Dates is available on www.spata.co.uk / www.bishta.co.uk – look under the Trade heading

SPN August 2018 35 30/07/2018 17:48

POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Showcasing ‘The Best Of British’ In Europe Revealing the British entries shortlisted for the 2018 European Pool & Spa Awards, the winners of which will be announced later this year at Piscine Global in Lyon

ince 2013, the European Pool & Spa Awards has been putting a spotlight on the most innovative domestic pools, spas and hot tubs on the continent. The sixth European Awards, hosted by EUSA (European Union of Swimming Pool and

Spa Associations) are set to be announced in November at Piscine Global in Lyon, France. This year the awards have increased from five to seven categories to represent a greater spectrum of the work undertaken by the members of each of the 13 European

National Pool and Spa Associations. The award categories are: ‘Domestic Indoor Pools’, ‘Domestic Outdoor Pools’, ‘Domestic Spas’, ‘Domestic Pools with an Enclosure’, ‘Domestic Pools with an Automatic Cover’, ‘Pools by Night’ and ‘Domestic Hot Tubs’.

Domestic Indoor Pools – Eagle Leisure Scotland

Domestic Indoor Pools – XL Pools

Domestic Indoor Pools – Portrait Pools

Domestic Indoor Pools – Unipools

Domestic Indoor Pools – Tanby Pools

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY Leading the way for Britain, the projects from the various companies in this feature have all been previous winners in the British Pool & Hot Tub awards (hosted by BISHTA and SPATA), which makes them eligible to be nominated for the EUSA European Pool & Spa Awards.

BACKGROUND The primary purpose of EUSA is to support the development of a stronger and more prosperous business community throughout Europe. Firstly, to lobby on behalf of the industry, on topics such as the development of European standards (thus promoting safety). Secondly, EUSA has a significant role to play in promoting the industry. Success in the EUSA Awards is recognition from the industry for the quality of the work being entered and also celebrates the excellence within the wet leisure industry across Europe. The EUSA Awards are open to all National

Having had the privilege of hosting the last EUSA Awards, the BSPF is proud to nominate BISHTA and SPATA members for the EUSA awards to be held in France later this year...” Associations that are EUSA Members, to send in their entries. Each entry submitted by an EUSA member must comply with the relevant National Association Standards, where applicable, and with European standards and they may be disqualified if this is not the case. Judges for the EUSA Awards will assess the entries on their visual impact, innovation and aesthetic appeal. The identity of each entry will not be given to the judges, meaning that votes cast for any entry are based on which they believe to be the best. The EUSA judges will aim to have a Gold, Silver and Bronze award winner in each category, subject to their being sufficient entries, of suitable quality. Domestic Outdoor Pools – XL Pools

REPRESENTING BRITAIN The BSPF wish the shortlisted entries from BISHTA and SPATA members ‘the best of luck’ in this year’s competition. Chris Hayes (BSPF Managing Director) commented: “Having had the privilege of hosting the last EUSA Awards, the BSPF is proud to nominate BISHTA and SPATA members for the EUSA awards to be held in France later this year, and this is an opportunity for companies to raise their profile at home and abroad. The standard of shortlisted entries across Europe in 2018 is very high; we look forward to finding out whether any companies from the British Isles will be amongst the winners.” Domestic Outdoor Pools – Cheshire Wellness

Domestic Outdoor Pools – Blue Cube Pools Domestic Outdoor Pools – Cresta Leisure

Domestic Outdoor Pools – Tanby Pools

Domestic Outdoor Pools – XL Pools

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

Domestic Spas – London Swimming Pool Company

Domestic Spas – Tanby Pools

Domestic Spas – Whitewaters

Domestic Spas – Tanby Construction Ltd

Domestic Pools with an Enclosure – Certikin International Ltd (Pool installed by Cresta Leisure)

Pools By Night – XL Pools

Pools By Night – Westcountry Leisure Pools

Domestic Hot Tubs – Hot Tub Suppliers

Domestic Hot Tubs – Barnsley Hot Tubs

Domestic Hot Tubs – H2O Cannings

Domestic Hot Tubs – Hydropool Devon

Domestic Hot Tubs – North Spas

Domestic Hot Tubs – Euphoria Lifestyle

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POOL & SPA INDUSTRY

‘The Oscars of the Wet Leisure Industry’! Sallie Leslie-Golding – PR & Marketing Manager at BISHTA and SPATA – provides an insight into the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards

ven when business is good and turnover is healthy, you should never stop marketing your business, and this is where the strength of the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards can help showcase your company and give it the spotlight it deserves. Being the longest running and most wellestablished industry awards, the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards plays a crucial role in promoting the industry not only to the trade, but most importantly, to nationwide consumer audiences. The SPATA Awards are celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2018, with the BISHTA Awards celebrating their 10th. Judging comes directly from top industry specialists who work on a regular basis with BISHTA and SPATA. Submitted entries are judged on an anonymous basis, meaning they are marked based on the quality of the entry and awarded points fairly and objectively. Therefore, winning a British Pool & Hot Tub Award is a mark of excellence from the British wet leisure industry. The Awards have also been established to appeal to a broad cross-section of the consumer press. Year on year, the coverage for British Pool & Hot Tub Awards (both locally and nationally) is gaining more and more momentum. The Awards are run for the benefit of promoting and celebrating the excellence of BISHTA and SPATA members (nationwide and overseas), endorsing companies who strive for the best, as certified members who work to the recognised Industry standards and the respective Trade Association’s Code of Ethics. This provides to the press and media a crucial message about the importance of looking to BISHTA and SPATA members for

XL Pools were the night’s big winners at the last Awards

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The VIP guest in 2018 was Sally Gunnell OBE DL

Treading the red carpet in 2018 – the Tanby Pools team

‘Peace of Mind’ regarding assured standards of quality and service, with the message then being delivered to a wider audience of consumers within the UK and further afield. Entry is now open for the 2019 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards; a full list of the 2019 categories plus previous years’ award winners can be viewed by visiting the BISHTA (www.bishta.co.uk) or SPATA (www.spata. co.uk) websites. Entry to the awards is open to all BISHTA and SPATA members, and our top tip for presenting your awards is to collate great images of your projects and assemble as much content as you can about your entry. The content you provide helps to give the judges vital information to mark your entry, but it will also be used to promote your company to the media, should you win an award. In 2018, award winners were featured in an extensive range of local and national consumer and trade publications, which is all part of the service offered to members, so providing ample information about your entry is vital.

time to remember, and that’s why every year we host the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards at the biggest industry night of the year, the Industry Gala Evening hosted by BISHTA and SPATA. Everyone’s invited to the evening, whether you are a BISHTA and/or SPATA member or not. This year, the evening takes place on Tuesday 29 January 2019 in the Premier Lounge at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Even better still, the Industry Gala Evening is held during SPATEX 2019, giving both those exhibiting and those visiting a fantastic evening of celebration – what better way to bring the industry together in unity!

ROLLING OUT THE RED CARPET

TICKET INFORMATION Tickets are available by calling BISHTA or SPATA on 01264 356211/0 or emailing admin@bishta.co.uk / admin@spata.co.uk If you can’t make it to the evening, please make sure you visit the team during SPATEX, and we will be happy to show you the awardwinning entries and discuss membership options with any prospective members.

If you win an award, we want to make it a

SPN August 2018 39 30/07/2018 17:52

COMMERCIAL PUMPS

Waterco’s Range Of Commercial Pumps Expands

Ideal for aquatic facilities, water parks and commercial pools, Waterco’s Hydrostar Plus model complements the exciting range so there is a Waterco Hydrostar for almost every installation

aterco commercial pumps incorporate the latest technology in design and construction to produce a high performance, energy saving pump ideal for any situation that demands maximum output. From London Zoo’s penguin colony to a luxury residential project in China’s Hainan province, Waterco’s Hydrostar and Hydrostar Plus composite plastic pumps are featured in some of the world’s biggest and most challenging commercial installations. The Hydrostar MKIII pump is purpose built for commercial sized swimming pools and is available in 3hp, 4hp, 5.5hp and 7hp models. These pumps efficiently deliver high flow rates and incorporate an innovative quarter lid and lock ring assembly plus quick-connect unions for easy maintenance. The pump body is manufactured utilising stateof-the-art engineering plastic moulding with a single piece strainer pot for extra strength. A high grade 316 stainless steel technical seal is incorporated for extra protection against corrosion, e.g. chlorinated water, ozone, iodine, Baquacil, bromine and saltwater. The Hydrostar MKIII has been redesigned to provide a substantially quieter operation with even higher flow rates at a higher head than the previous Hydrostar models. Waterco has improved the hydraulic efficiency of the pump with the introduction of an internal volute. The volute’s hydraulic design provides a natural, balanced water flow and reduces hydraulic turbulence.

THE LARGEST HYDROSTAR PLUS COMMERCIAL THERMOPLASTIC PUMP To cater for the growing demand for highperforming, self-priming pumps that can withstand high-pressure and corrosive environments, Waterco has also expanded the Hydrostar Plus series by producing a larger,

The children of Lee Chapel School in Essex enjoying the benefits of the Waterco Micron filtration and Hydrostar Plus commercial pumps installed on their indoor pool

12.5hp commercial thermoplastic model. “Seamlessly constructed from an injection moulded glass reinforced thermoplastic, this latest pump in the Hydrostar range is free of the welds, seams or tank linings that typically corrode traditional custom-made strainers,” said Waterco’s Tony Fisher. “It also features a transparent polycarbonate lid, enabling an unobstructed view of its 16-litre strainer basket.” Equipped with 6” flanged inlet port and 4” flanged outlet port, Hydrostar Plus commercial pumps possess superior mechanical and chemical resistance, enabling them to withstand damage from a wide range of harsh water treatment chemicals. Specifically engineered for aquatic facilities, water parks and large-scale commercial swimming pools, Hydrostar Plus pumps are known for their maintenance-free and hard-wearing technology. “In fact, unlike other commercial strainers that require tools or multiple bolts to remove the lid, Hydrostar Plus pump’s lock ring requires no tools,” advised Tony.

Seamlessly constructed from an injection moulded glass reinforced thermoplastic, this latest pump in the Hydrostar range is free of the welds, seams or tank linings that typically corrode traditional custom-made strainers” 40 August 2018 SPN 40_SPN_Aug_18_Waterco.indd 40

“Ergonomically engineered, our lock rings only require a quarter turn to disengage and remove the lid.”

SPECIAL FEATURES OF WATERCO’S HYDROSTAR PLUS COMMERCIAL PUMP RANGE: • 16-litre moulded polypropylene strainer basket • Lid lock ring equipped with ergonomic grip handles for easy removal without tools • UV-stabilised glass filled polypropylene housing • Heavy duty weather proofed motor with stainless steel shaft • Enclosed glass filled Noryl impeller for long lasting reliability • Available in 7.5hp, 10.0hp and 12.5hp models. Hydrostar Plus pumps weigh considerably less than their steel counterparts, while still possessing superior strength and durability. Easy to ship and install, their unique construction requires no maintenance or repairs once operational. For more details and information on the Hydrostar pump range and other commercial Waterco product lines, visit the Waterco Europe website or contact them direct and one of their sales team will be happy to help with any enquiry. Waterco Europe 01795 521 733 www.waterco.eu

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INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIPS

Combining Expertise Luke Griffiths, Qualification Development Manager (Pool Plant) at STA’s awarding organisation ‘Safety Training Awards’, shares the latest industry developments which highlight the value of working with other organisations within the industry

TA and SPATA (the Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association) have been working together looking at areas that they can combine expertise to provide a benefit to the pool and spa industry and their respective members. By strengthening the partnership, the aim is to provide more opportunities for staff to attend suitable courses and where applicable, to gain qualifications. SPATA were established in 1961, and today the role of the Trade Association is to work with companies involved in building swimming pools and spa pools so that they are working to British and European Standards. SPATA members are expected to work to SPATA Standards and also to abide by a Code of Ethics set out by SPATA. STA and SPATA both sit on the PWTAG council contributing towards raising standards in the quality and treatment of swimming pool water.

Pools for Swim Schools (M99) This factsheet has been jointly produced by the STA and SPATA and outlines the key points regarding the project requirements for a pool suitable for a swim school. Further advice is also available from both organisations, including details of a Publically Available Specification (PAS 81) on this subject. The contact details for the organisations are included in this factsheet. While the general principles of swim schools are covered, for more specific advice there is a very useful guide to running your own swim school produced by Swim England (and for advice on the teaching of babies and water hygiene management). PWTAG has guidance on their website (www.pwtag.org) to highlight the potential risks for immuno-compromised bathers and of the possibility of outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis that need to be taken into account. It should be noted that converting domestic pools for use by swim schools can potentially be fraught with dangers. Swim school operators should undertake a series of site specific checks and technical research before deciding whether the pool is appropriate and safe to be used for a swim school. This factsheet should be applied to any potential domestic pool conversions. It should be noted that any conversion of a domestic pool will require discussions with the local planning department in the first instance, as will any other non swimming pool change of use (e.g.factory units, shops etc.). Introduction Any pool used for swimming teaching should undergo a rigorous risk assessment for all aspects of use, from these assessments a comprehensive set of risk controls should be in place to ensure a safe, hygienic pool is provided for all users of the pool and building. The basic facilities etc. needed for a swim school are: •

An indoor (or enclosed) pool for all year teaching is preferable, but not necessarily essential.

•

The pool size is important to ensure the correct water area for the purpose and number of persons using the pool (safe bather area). The water depth for the introduction to water (for babies) may vary from approx 300mm to 800mm, although where adults directly support the babies on a 1:1 basis, then a very shallow pool may be uncomfortable for the adults to kneel / crawl over. If the water is less than 900mm deep, this may not be suitable for some children to learn to swim easily, but a typical average depth is often 1.2m. Where the pool depth is greater than 1.35m this should be noted in the risk assessment, as the water depth may be an issue for some of the bathers learning to swim and a qualified lifeguard should be present. Varying depths will have a direct effect on manning the pool in terms of teaching and lifeguarding.

•

Easy entry and exit to and from the pool. For ease of access to the pool, steps and handrails are generally more useful and accessible than ladders, but other entry and exit methods may be used. If it is a new build or major building renovation, change of use etc., then disabled access and egress may be compulsory.

•

Pool water at the correct temperature (ideally 29oC - 31oC for children and ideally 30oC - 32oC for babies over 3 months) for indoor pools. The water temperature is important to have set at the optimum range for teaching, as it is very difficult to vary the temperature quickly. A risk assessment will determine at what temperature the commercial or domestic pool should be set. The original pool finish should be checked as part of the risk assessment to ensure that it is suitable for these higher water temperatures.

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NEW SWIM SCHOOL FACTSHEET The latest project that STA and SPATA have been working on is the development of a Swim School Factsheet. SPATA had identified the need to provide suitable guidance to its members about the requirements for swim school facilities due to growing interest in the sector and STA had identified the need to work with others to support their members in looking for the right advice. It became clear that by us working together, a useful document could be provided to our respective members. The factsheet has been jointly produced and outlines the key points regarding the project requirements for a pool suitable for a swim school: • An overview of the requirements and considerations for a pool to be used as a swim school

• Information about the building and pool plant facilities / equipment • Recommended qualifications • Health & Safety advice • Setting up a swim school at an existing facility. The swim school factsheet is one of over one hundred topics that have either been produced or are currently being drafted for SPATA members. SPATA members can access the factsheet from the members’ area of the SPATA website, and STA members can download the factsheet along with many technical publications from the STA Online member resources section. As further support, SPATA’s Managing Director Chris Hayes, has also been

delivering ‘building your own swimming pool’ presentations at STA’s regional roadshows, which are being held all over the country this year. The aim is for SPATA to generate ideas and guidance for STA members who will then work with SPATA members and turn these ideas into a reality. SPATA confirmed that the feedback has been positive and there seems to be a latent demand for existing facilities to be refurbished or for new facilities to be built, and it is anticipated that more guidance will be produced to enable swim school facilities to be developed. The aim is for SPATA to be able to offer further updates to STA members at our annual conference in October and also at some targeted workshops at the SPATEX 2019 exhibition in Coventry.

QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING UPDATE STA and SPATA are also both members of the BSPF (British Swimming Pool Federation) along with BISHTA (British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association). STA and BISHTA are currently looking to redevelop and launch a ‘Hot Tub Site Surveyor’ qualification. The qualification aims to give surveyors the knowledge to undertake site surveys on prospective plots for the siting of a hot tub. STA presented at the BISHTA conference and are currently gathering evidence and feedback from BISHTA members on how the qualification should be developed. Watch this space for a launch date. STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Knowledge is essential, which is why training is so necessary. To find out more about Safety Training Awards qualifications visit www. safetytrainingawards.co.uk or email luke.griffiths@safetytrainingawards.co.uk For further information on SPATA and SPATA standards please visit www.spata.co.uk or email admin@spata.co.uk and for BISHTA and BISHTA standards, please visit www.bishta.co.uk or email admin@bishta.co.uk

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WATER TESTING

It Pays To Be Perfect Thanks to numerous recent innovations, the regular testing of pool and spa water is now a much simpler task than in times gone by. In addition to more traditional testing products, the latest smart and mobile technology has been utilised resulting in photometers that provide multiple, accurate tests and manage results data on the go. It’s a sector that doesn’t stand still for long and we take a closer look at what’s available By Andrea Hartshorne

n the recent scorching temperatures, a refreshing, cooling breeze from the crystal waters of a perfectly filtered and correctly dosed pool or hot tub is highly appealing. No one wants to spend unnecessary time and energy measuring, dosing and monitoring when there’s water fun to be had. The hot summer weather has sent people in their droves to their local swimming pools and lidos. When the families and serious swimmers head to their local baths they have to be able to trust that the water that they’re cooling off in is guaranteed to be the best it can be. Everyone knows and understands the importance of having clear, sparkling water to swim in and enjoy and there is an ever-increasing demand made on companies to improve on the monitoring and implementation of the testing procedures. Considerable money and time is spent developing and producing more efficient and user-friendly systems. Only the best products and treatments are good enough where there is the possibility of infection and problems lurking in pipes and filters. No one can afford the down time or bad press should an infection be allowed to develop. Due to the large footfall that the hot weather has produced at leisure centres and lidos, correct testing and monitoring is imperative to ensure algae, bacteria and general contaminates like cosmetics, sun tan lotion and other easily transported oils and dirt are prevented from causing problems or harm. The vast and sometimes confusing array of chemicals, solutions, processes and The eXact® iDip™ harnesses Bluetooth® Smart wireless technology so that data is seamlessly transferred between the two devices

treatments can be dazzling for the new pool or spa owner so, with that in mind, some companies produce free guides to assist with maintaining and treating pool or spa water to keep it within a safe and comfortable level. A pool or hot tub is a major investment and it needs to be kept in the best condition possible and having the correct products to monitor the water conditions is paramount and in this issue, we take a look at just some of the solutions.

Designed for testing convenience, the Pocket Pro+ and TruTest® Spa Digital Test Strip Reader testers from AquaChek®

IDIP FROM CERTIKIN PASSES THE ACID TEST

RELAX AND LET AQUACHEK® PRODUCTS DO THE WORK!

Available through Certikin, the eXact® iDip™ by Industrial Test Systems is the very first photometer in the water testing market to provide 2-way wireless connectivity (Bluetooth Smart) with the iPhone®, iPad®, and iPod Touch® and Android devices. It reduces on site test time, increases accuracy and enhances customer experience through real-time mobile sharing of results via email or exported as a CSV file. The eXact® iDip™ harnesses Bluetooth® Smart wireless technology so that data is seamlessly transferred between the two devices. The application stores the test result history of multiple pool, spa and water sources. The app can be customised so that you only download the tests you need. Pool technicians will appreciate the ability to store customer data, eliminating repetitive data entry tasks while saving time and money. The ingenious iDip is IP 67 rated, waterproof, it floats and it’s available from Certikin International.

The Pocket Pro and Pocket Pro+ testers from AquaChek® use sensor technology to deliver quick, accurate results for electrochemical parameters in a broad range of water applications. The family of 12 testers offers convenient portable solutions for pH, ORP, conductivity, TDS, salinity and temperature, delivering results you can be confident in. The Pocket Pro+ series offers all the benefits of the Pocket Pro standard testers, plus convenient backlight and replaceable sensors. Users can have confidence in results thanks to easy calibration steps and builtin diagnostics for pH testers which take the guesswork out of calibrating the sensor to keep it in optimum condition. Save time and money with easy-to-replace AAA batteries plus a convenient sample cup make maintenance and measurements simple. For ease of use, the large LCD screen is simple to read; backlighting is included on Pocket Pro+ models, allowing measurement

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WATER TESTING Lovibond has always been one of the leaders in innovation and recently introduced ‘green chemistry’ by removing all hazardous components, including boric acid, from their pool water testing tablets

in almost any lighting environment. These durable meters come with a one-year warranty and can be easily calibrated with a few clicks of a button. Calibration solution is included with each meter; additional solution can be purchased separately. When it comes to spa water, the AquaChek® TruTest® Spa Digital Test Strip Reader eliminates all the guesswork required with interpreting colour results by combining the ease and accuracy of the company’s test strips with advanced digital technology. It’s so simple – just dip a test strip in the spa water, insert into the test strip reader and get fast, accurate digital results in seconds. The TruTest Digital Test Strip Reader is also ideal for customers who aren’t comfortable distinguishing colour. Tests are for total bromine, pH and total alkalinity.

And if you’re using chlorine, try the blue AquaChek® TruTest® Digital Reader. The same technology as the TruTest Spa Digital Reader for use in chlorine-based pools or spas. Tests are for free chlorine, pH and total alkalinity.

POOL WATER TESTING INNOVATIONS FROM LOVIBOND TINTOMETER Since the introduction of DPD and tablet chemistry in the 1960s the ideas behind pool water testing have changed very little. Indeed even in today’s world of advanced electronic test systems the humble comparator still offers a reliable and easy to use alternative for all pool water testing needs. On saying this, there have been changes in both the chemistry and testing systems and Lovibond has always been one

of the leaders in innovation. More recently, the company has introduced ‘green chemistry’ by removing all hazardous components, including boric acid, from their pool water testing tablets. Therefore what seemed impossible has now been achieved – reagents that are easy to dose; are safe; have a long and stable shelf life; are extremely accurate; provide reproducible results; and are environmentally friendly. When it comes to chlorine testing Lovibond DPD tablets are not only boric acid free but also follow the ISO standard – can the tablet you are using boast this? Does it make sense to use a tablet that may contain harmful chemicals when a safe alternative is available? There have also been changes in the company’s range of photometers with the introduction of their MD110 and PM630 Bluetooth® enabled meters. Not only do these systems cover all pool water testing needs, they also enable the results to be downloaded via a free app or straight to any laptop via a Bluetooth® dongle. Whether it is reagents or testing systems, Lovibond is always looking for ways to make pool water testing easier, accurate and safe.

GOLDEN COAST SOLUTIONS PROVIDE WATER CONFIDENCE When it comes to keeping your water quality in check, Golden Coast is a one-stop shop for water testing products and the company offers a wide range of choices to suit every budget: from tablets and easy-to-use testing kits to advanced electronic photometers. For home pool and spa customers looking for an affordable and simple testing method, the Insta-Test range of products is popular. “Testing is incredibly straightforward,” said Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams. “Simply place in the water to measure the concentration of chlorine

CASE STUDY AQUA PAL APP HELPS OPERATORS RECORD (AND SPOT) TESTING TRENDS A new app from Palintest is gaining increasing interest among customers at Golden Coast… and for good reason too, as Surrey’s Specialist Pools Services (SPS) discovered. Looking for greater control when water testing, the company, whose customers include 35 David Lloyd clubs, recently invested in a Palintest Pooltest 25 Bluetooth. The complete photometer, which is designed for pool professionals, provides a full range of pool parameters to ensure disinfection control and water balance testing. SPS Director Phil Stevens said: “Compared to a manual comparator, it makes a world of difference. It looks at all elements which contribute to the state of the water, including hydrogen peroxide, ozone and copper. “Making the switch has significantly improved testing by providing us with a complete picture of the water’s health. Since

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we made the switch, we’ve found our accuracy with testing has significantly improved and we now have a ‘complete’ picture.” What has really improved the business, according to Phil, is the new Aqua Pal app from Palintest. Available from the Google Play and Apple stores, the app automatically connects with your water and environmental data. Phil explained: “The app allows you to have set locations for testing. Once you’ve set these up, every time you visit a location, the results will be recorded against it. This gives you the overview you need to identify any concerns early on before they grow into bigger issues.” The app’s comprehensive reporting options allows water quality data to be shared via email or SMS – giving instant notification of test results.

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WATER TESTING or bromine and levels of alkalinity, pH and hardness.” Maintaining commercial water quality, however, requires a much more sophisticated system, but one that is just as user-friendly. Jamie explained: “That’s why we offer testing products from Palintest. The Pooltest 25 Photometer Kit, for example, delivers the most comprehensive range of tests available – in an easy-to-use photometer. “For installers and users alike, it’s simple and intuitive. What’s more, it doesn’t require specialist software.” The latest addition to the Palintest range is the Pooltest 9 Bluetooth, which features Bluetooth SMART technology. This allows it to communicate wirelessly with smart devices, including phones and tablets. It was specially developed to help those managing pools and spas to generate accurate results every time – regardless of experience. Jamie Adams added: “For example, when you’re selecting tests, there’s no need for scrolling endlessly or entering numbers manually. Instead, you simply push a single button to identify the tests you need. “The tablet reagents give you the consistency, stability and portability you need, but Pooltest 9’s biggest advantage is its user-friendly approach, which means that – whether someone’s testing for the first time or even the hundredth, they can be confident they’ll generate the data required – quickly and reliably.”

THE NEW POOLLAB 1.0 – THE PERFECT TOOL FOR EVERY POOL OWNER For some, testing pool water can be a real pain but it isn’t rocket science and doesn’t require much time. Questions such as “is my pH-value balanced?” and “is the alkalinity (acid capacity) and cyanuric acid (stabiliser) in between acceptable ranges?” often cause panic for novice testers and quite often, test strips and Pooltester are used, as photometers seemed to be reserved for professionals simply because they are

Available from Golden Coast, the Pooltest 25 Photometer Kit from Palintest delivers the most comprehensive range of tests available – in an easy-to-use photometer

expensive. Luckily, times have changed and a photometer was launched that everyone can afford! The new PoolLab 1.0 Photometer by Water-i.d./Pool-i.d. is easy to use, gives accurate results of 11 pool parameters (tested on three wavelengths!) and even comes with Bluetooth, a powerful app and software which both synchronise via a cloud server, free of charge. Test results can be downloaded via the app/software and individual water treatment chemicals can be stored and used to let software and app

calculate a dosage recommendation. The in-built cuvette can be changed, if necessary. The PoolLab is waterproof to IP68 and simply needs to be held in the pool to scoop the water used to perform the test. The six buttons allow direct access to all 11 test procedures. The recommended retail price of the PoolLab is £149, including reagent tablets (for most common parameters), a stirring rod and a syringe. If PoolLab isn’t your choice, Water-i.d./ Pool-i.d. also offers a wide selection of Pooltester and test strips.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Hach Lange +800 227 4224 www.aquachek.com

The new PoolLab 1.0 Photometer gives accurate results of 11 pool parameters and even comes with Bluetooth, a powerful app and software which both synchronise via a cloud server, free of charge

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Lovibond Tintometer 01980 664800 www.lovibondwater.com Pool-i.d. +49 (0) 721 7820 290 www.water-id.com

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LIGHTING OPTIONS

Advanced Systems Lighting The Way!

With the introduction of the EVA R6 underwater light, EVA Optic has fulfilled a common request from the market for a private swimming pool light

Lighting has developed at a fantastic rate over recent years and thanks to advanced and innovative technology, lighting solutions are now enhancing a variety of wet leisure environments. Installations, both new and old, are benefiting from the latest energy efficient products, which when combined with highly creative ideas, results in some incredible settings. This issue, we take a closer look at some of the latest illuminating options By Andrea Hartshorne

t’s probably no exaggeration to say that the latest lighting technology has quite literally transformed the look of many of today’s pool and spa installations in both private and public settings. The use of highly efficient LED’s has meant that the plain yet functional white lights with the occasional coloured filter thrown in, which were an accepted norm not that many years ago, are increasingly being seen as a memory of how things once were. With a variety of options available for a wide range of budgets and settings, LED’s are now both the present and seemingly the future too with them becoming the accepted choice of professionals across a variety of projects. And it’s easy to see why – a modern mix of cleverly installed lighting can provide dramatic effects inside a pool or spa and can also be used externally to soften walls and outdoor finishes. Whole areas can be improved with thoughtful and imaginative lighting, providing both safety and style to complement the surroundings. With plenty of

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options available on the market, this issue, we take a closer look at just some of the many solutions which are lighting the way.

SHINE A LIGHT WITH SPECTRAVISION While pumps and filters may be the heart and soul of a pool, the right lighting adds real value to a pool. A well-lit pool can improve safety. But, more than that, it can instantly transform a pool’s look and feel. In one moment, it can be an oasis of calm, while in the next, it is vibrant and exciting. Spectravision’s impressive range of LED pool lighting, available exclusively through Golden Coast, offers a wide range of options to light up both new and existing pools. The Spectravision Moonlight, as the name

would suggest, offers a striking, crisp, white moonlight beam. If customers are looking for something more vibrant, colour models are also available and they offer 16 modes of natural colour mixing. For customers looking for even more options, there’s the Spectravision Adagio PRO. Like the Moonlight, it’s an ultra-low profile pool and spa LED light. Single-colour models are available

Spectravision’s impressive range of LED pool lighting, available exclusively through Golden Coast, offers a wide range of options to light up both new and existing pools

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LIGHTING OPTIONS

Featuring bespoke 316 stainless steel front face plates and a hard adonised back, Water-Tec lighting from Fairlocks shows the way ahead

in warm white, daylight white and blue, while the colour model features RGB LED technology and offers 14 colour modes – including three different whites. Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams said: “Spectravision delivers customers exceptionally good value. And with the back up from Golden Coast, it’s exceptionally good value for installers, too. “We understand how important it is to you that you get your job done quickly, correctly and – above all else – efficiently. That’s why we’ve invested time and money into creating the resources our customers need to succeed: from technical information and manuals to video how-tos. You can find it all at www. goldenc.com.”

CERTIKIN OFFER A LIGHTING RANGE TO ENHANCE ANY POOL Certikin’s PU9 underwater pool lights are an industry standard. The concept of the PU9 light was first created in the 1970s and whilst the overall design has not changed much, the actual bulbs have, with the

latest LED technology providing longer life expectancy and vastly reduced running costs. Certikin also offer colour change lighting to give customers options on mood and for more high-tech properties, DMX bulbs can be used with home management systems. 2007 saw the launch of the Certikin PU6 Quick Change lights. These utilise the traditional PAR56 bulb shape but have a ‘guts’ system that could be disassembled by hand without the use of tools, making bulb changes even easier. The PU6 also benefits from a smaller niche and less exposed plastic. A stainless steel facia ring is also available which covers the plastic and enhances the appearance. As with the PU9, LED technology and the various options have been fully absorbed into the PU6 range. What’s more, any existing Certikin PU9 or PU6 light can also be easily upgraded to the company’s LED bulbs. The advantage of the larger PU9 and PU6 lights means that often just one light unit is required for a domestic pool – minimising both costs and installation time. However, if a design statement is needed or there’s a preference for mini LED lights for a modern look, then Certikin can help with that too. Their Mini range of LED lights are available in white, colour or DMX and can be supplied with plastic or stainless steel facias. Certikin offer the Mini and the LumiPlus Mini lights to suit any design. Both are discreet and simply install in the pool wall via a puddle flange. Lastly, but by no means least, every pool light needs a transformer and Certikin’s PU11 and PU11H options are hard to beat. Built for safety and reliability they will power the brightness in any pool.

POOL LIGHTING WITH FINGERTIP CONTROL FROM FAIRLOCKS LED technology has been fully absorbed into Certikin’s PU6 range and any existing Certikin PU6 or PU9 light can also be easily upgraded to the company’s LED bulbs

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LED lighting is fast becoming the world’s number one choice for all lighting applications and Water-Tec lighting from

Fairlocks offers a unique and innovative experience with swimming pool lighting which features wireless controls powered by any mobile device and exceptional LED packages that keep swimming pool lighting costs low, without compromising on the highquality feel. The Water-Tec system can save up to 80% on swimming pool lighting bills, offers up to 50,000 hours life span and provides colour changing LED lighting. The highpowered energy efficient LED lighting system also comes with full digital control DMX and Zigbee. The lighting can be controlled through Wi-Fi through a smartphone or a touch-screen display. The lighting system is easily controlled and adapted to suit the needs of the user and there are options to select conventional on/off control, touch pad, remote control or Wi-Fi operation. Water-Tec lights offer the very best in mood lighting. The range is available in RGB (Red, Green and Blue) thus creating a unique colour lighting system that is controlled by the end user. All Water-Tec products are designed and manufactured in the UK by a team of highly qualified engineers. With LED now becoming the industry standard, the products on offer provide the very latest in LED technology along with a complete lighting control package. The lights are made up of bespoke 316 stainless steel front face plates and a hard adonised back. The durability of these Water-Tec light fittings offers clients extremely reliable lighting with unprecedented levels of options for underwater LED light fittings.

A PRIVATE POOL SOLUTION FROM EVA OPTIC EVA Optic, internationally known for its underwater lighting, offers a wide range of products for waterparks and (recreational) swimming pools. The EVA Aqua HE products

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LIGHTING OPTIONS are specifically developed for the aggressive swimming pool environment where heat, moisture and chlorine have a great influence on lighting. In addition to its extensive range of professional (underwater) lighting, EVA Optic has developed the EVA R6 underwater light for private swimming pools. Underwater lighting is a beautiful eyecatcher and increases the allure of every swimming pool. EVA LED underwater lighting has been known for years for its rock-solid product quality and high light output. For example, the Groupe Pierre & Vacances Center Parcs has been exclusively using EVA LED underwater lights for their subtropical swimming paradises since 2011. With the introduction of the EVA R6 underwater light, EVA Optic has fulfilled a common request from the market. The EVA R6 underwater light is based on the quality, technology and experience from the highly appreciated A-series of EVA Optic, but is suitable for a private swimming pool. The 15W underwater light with six RGB highpower multi-chip LEDs is a fully-fledged RGB underwater light due to the unique RGB control via the regular 2-wire powerline. There’s no DMX control with all associated options as used in the A-series, just easy operation of nine pre-programmed colour and colour change programmes. The control panel can be mounted in the pool edge so that the colour of the underwater lighting can be changed from inside the water. The underwater light, specially designed for private swimming pools, can be installed in the same installation niche as EVA A6 and A12 underwater lights. The underwater LED lighting models from EVA Optic comply with the international safety standard for underwater lighting IEC EN 60598-2-18. The model has been tested for electrical safety (SELV), watertightness (IPX8 / IP68), insulation class (III), impact

Plastica are now of the firm belief that any swimming pool light sold should be LED and offer a full range of options, from standard like for like PAR56 replacement, all the way up to multi light configurations

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Available in surface mount or niche mount, the Britestream LED range of pool lights from Waterco offer energy efficiency, value for money and adaptability

resistance, mechanical strength, resistance to high pressure, thermal protection and fire safety.

A REVOLUTIONARY PRODUCT – FLOWBRIGHT FROM DAMAR FlowBright is an underwater LED pool light that sets a new standard for all pool lighting products. This revolutionary product uses their patented electrical generation system to illuminate a pool without the need for electrical hook-ups, cables, transformers, niches, deck boxes or intricate installations. With its straightforward design, precisionengineered components and high output, FlowBright will simplify pool installation/ maintenance and give installers more time than ever before! FlowBright requires no complex installation, expensive additional equipment, or extra electrical installation costs. Simply remove the eyeball fitting and screw this light into the return inlet and the installation is complete. FlowBright will then use water returning from the filtration system to power its electrical needs, uniquely utilising

the pressure drop, providing up to 1,500 lumens of radiant light. Because of this selfgenerating process, FlowBright is possibly the most environmentally friendly light on the market and contributes zero carbon emissions during its operational lifetime. In addition to these benefits, FlowBright is much safer than traditional lights on the market because there are no electrical connections or live cables required. This means that the product will protect time, profit, customers and the environment! Further features include, plug and play screw-in installation (fitting directly into a standard 1.5” inlet), remote control, ultra-bright LEDs generating up to 1,500 lumens, directional exhaust to increase pool filtration/circulation, 360 degrees of rotation for perfect placement, it fits various pump sizes, two lengths of adaptors and three years warranty. FlowBright will be available for preorder in autumn 2018.

ILLUMINATING POOL OPTIONS FROM PLASTICA LED lighting is now accepted as standard in any installation and industry, ranging from the workplace to the home and garden. This is largely due to the leap forward in technology over the last five years. Plastica have made a conscious effort to adopt and understand the concept in order to give the best possible service and support in planning and specifying LED lighting projects. They are able to offer a full range of options, from standard like for like PAR56 replacement, all the way up to multi light configurations which all link in to a central controller to ensure synchronicity during colour changes. Plastica are able to supply this cutting edge synchronisation across the size range allowing projects to have large PAR56 LED lights in the bulk of the pool, plus details like steps or spas can be illuminated using much smaller units that all change colour instantly together at the touch of a button. The company showcased their range of mini lights and controller at SPATEX 2018 with a compact five light system inside the ‘HoT-DuB’ Beetle Spa car.

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LIGHTING OPTIONS Plastica are now of the firm belief that any swimming pool light sold should be LED. Not only are they far more efficient and therefore cost effective than the old 300W bulbs – the range of colours and features available means installers can completely change the look/ mood of a swimming pool or spa, creating the perfect ambience for the owner or user to relax in.

With a new European base for manufacturing and distribution, all of LIGMAN’s interior and exterior luminaire products are available to the UK market

WATERCO BRITESTREAM LIGHTING RANGE The Britestream LED range of pool lights from Waterco offer energy efficiency, value for money and adaptability without compromising on quality or results. Available in surface mount or niche mount and comprising options for fibreglass installations as well, there is a light to suit almost any installation. Super bright energy saving LEDs operate on only 26 watts of energy, which is 25% of the electrical power of a halogen light. The long-life LEDs which have a life span of up to 70,000 hours work in conjunction with the new BriteLUX diffuser lens to produce a light that radiates throughout the pool rather than restricting the light output to individual hotspots like a traditional lens would. In fact, the BriteLUX diffuser lens significantly boosts colour saturation, increasing light transmission by 50% and giving 180° zonal illumination. The streamlined design of the surface mounted, flush mounted fibreglass lights and the niche mounted lights means that physical projection into the pool is kept to an absolute minimum for all models in the range, giving a sleek, high-end finish to your installation while maintaining performance. All the Waterco Britestream lights are available in either white, multicolour or tri-colour options. The Britestream multicoloured LED lights are cleverly designed with a built-in colour memory, which means the light’s multicoloured LEDs always defaults to the last colour selection with nine different colour programmes available if required. As well as the impressive energy savings and performance, all Waterco Britestream LED lights also come with the peace of mind of a full two year guarantee.

SWIMMING POOL LUMINAIRES FROM LIGMAN With nearly 25 years’ experience within the lighting marketplace, LIGMAN is committed to producing world-class, efficient, top quality and competitive lighting products for which they are recognised globally. With a new European base for manufacturing and

distribution, all of the company’s interior and exterior luminaire products are available to the UK market. LIGMAN’s underwater ranges exemplify how high they have set the bar in terms of how permanently immersible LED lighting fixtures need to be constructed, plus how they need to perform and to last. There are currently five ranges within the company’s portfolio which are designed for various swimming pool applications. Aqua is LIGMAN’s modern underwater narrow projector and floodlight family. The Oregon range are miniature contemporary underwater projectors. Janet is a compact and economic underwater fixture family. Nemo is a powerful professional underwater adjustable projector family. And lastly Annet is a simple, cost effective, adjustable underwater light range. The difference LIGMAN’s underwater ranges bring to UK projects is further characterised by exemplary material and performance figures that put many competitors in the shade. The combination of high IK07 impact resistance, coupled with fully a submersible IP68 ingress with a protection rating down to 2m, plus Class I/III and CE certification, is unparalleled. A five-year warranty (extended to all their ranges) is also supplied – a unique offering for quality competitive in-ground fixtures. LIGMAN only uses colour stable LED sources within Step-3 MacAdam Ellipses, in many colour-temperatures and designed and tested to achieve 50,000 hours useful

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life. The company undertakes all machining and construction fully in-house to ensure absolute quality control, all culminating in an extremely high fixture performance and environmental resistance. In addition, LIGMAN has a dedicated and award-winning lighting design team able to offer full support as needed from providing simple lighting calculations through to 3D modelling and visualisation services. SPN

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Damar 01924 479717 www.hydro-flux.com EVA Optic +31 (0) 38 337 5067 www.evaoptic.nl Fairlocks 01865 988346 www.fairlocks.co.uk Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Ligman 0800 975 0622 www.ligman.com Plastica 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

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WATER PLAY EQUIPMENT

Fun And Games In The Water Bright, vibrant and entertaining, water play equipment is one factor that can increase the popularity of swimming pools and bring in much needed revenue to commercial operators in the UK. In this issue, we look at the appeal of this exciting age targeted sector for swimming pools across the country and cover everything from slides, play structures and water games through to simple but effective pool toys By Jon Wadeson

ids of all ages love to play, especially when water is involved. There is something about diving for toys, running through water jets or rushing down slides that shouts fun and freedom. No other play area can rival a welldesigned water play area, and the popularity of these areas never diminishes with new designs of play equipment continuously coming to the fore. Anything ranging from a water canon to a tipping bucket that releases water down onto a Splashpad to a small hand held water pistol actively stimulates the imagination so that kids can be anything they want to be whilst in the zone! So with a long and hot summer to contend with, in this issue, we take a closer look at some of the fun options available in the water play sector.

ZOGGS PROVIDES SUMMER SWIMMING POOL GAMES With the summer holidays starting, many families will be spending time by a pool playing games. Whether it’s heading to the local leisure centre, lido or further afield, Zoggs have a number pool game products that are sure to become a favourite over the

warmer months. For younger children, or those visiting the pool for the first time, the DC Super Heroes Splash Balls are ideal for building water confidence. Splash balls can be introduced at bath time and they a great way to encourage babies and children to reach for their favourite superhero. Zoggs Seal Flips can be used as a swim and retrieve game or you can blow them so they flip! This brilliant fun game is ideal for making children feel comfortable in the water and can be combined with a swim jacket or armbands to help their confidence. Dive balls are an entertaining way for families to play together. There’s a lot of fun to be had seeing who can race to the bottom of the pool to retrieve a dive ball first. You can mix and match superheroes like Wonder Woman, Batman and Superman too. A similar game can be played with Zoggy Dive Sticks. These can be thrown in the water and retrieved. Children can either collect one each as part of a competition or go after all 4 of the dive sticks themselves. Heading beneath the surface for Zoggy Dive Rings are a brilliant way to develop competent skills as well. The feet are weighted to help them land

upright making it easier for children to grab them.

THE AQUA RANGE OF QUADRO CONSTRUCTION KITS Available since 1976 and manufactured in Germany to all current CE and TUV standards, Quadroplay UK have been distributing the Quadro range of products in the UK since 2004. Quadro is the world’s number one large scale construction kit. Easy to build and modular, it is also available in a dedicated Aqua range for use in swimming pools and will provide hours of entertainment for children of all ages. The product is ideal for the wet leisure environment and as a construction kit, its uses are numerous. Owners and more importantly children can utilise existing designs or build to their own specification – from basic play structures to complex platforms – all can be used and enjoyed in any swimming pool. With Quadro Aqua being a modular system, additional pieces can be added to existing sets over time and additional items such as slides can be incorporated too. For outdoor use, there’s

Zoggy Dive Rings are a brilliant way to develop competent skills for children

Quadro – the world’s number one large scale construction kit – is also available in a dedicated Aqua range for use in swimming pools

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WATER PLAY EQUIPMENT

Keeping the whole family entertained in the pool environment is key for Hippo Leisure, regardless of age or ability

Certikin can provide design expertise for projects of any size, and work around a chosen theme or suggest ideas

even a small pool option. The product is easy to assemble and comes with detailed catalogues plus there’s an online construction model database for those that really want let their imagination run free. Quadro is manufactured from high quality UV stabilised thermoplastics (PP + PE) and comes with a six year guarantee.

WHEN IT COMES TO FUN, CERTIKIN PLAYS UP! Slides and play structures, in the shape of mermaids, giant taps and pirate ships, are just some of the fun play features that Certikin has to offer. In fact, the company boasts one of the most advanced in-house design departments, complete with computer generated graphics and 3D imagery, of anywhere in the UK. “Our team can provide design expertise for projects of any size, and work around a chosen theme or suggest ideas. Our product range is extensive. Whether it is custom-build or off-the-shelf features you are after, we can supply the lot!” said Certikin’s Commercial Manager, Steve Nelson.

“Playing with water is a vital part of a child’s development,” continued Steve. “Although the primary aim of the equipment is to allow kids to have fun in a safe environment it allows them, at the same time, to learn through play. Kids’ play equipment needs to be strong and durable especially when coupled with the harsh environment of a swimming pool.” Fortunately, all of Certikin’s range of products including Van Egdom and Aqua Drolics are made from a combination of UV stabilised GRP, Marine Grade stainless steel and chemically resistant rubber, making them tolerant of kids and chemically treated water! Steve added: “All the interactive features are very easy to install. There’s no need for additional plumbing because most of the water features have built-in mechanical hand pumps that children operate manually. There’s no need for buried pipework and costly electrical pumps as the features use the existing swimming pool water. Retrofitting is a breeze – in most situations the only requirement is to lower the existing pool water level to allow small anchors to be

installed in the pool floor. This can be done at night so that the facility can open for business in the morning.”

HIPPO PROVIDE ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Keeping the whole family entertained in the pool environment is key, regardless of age or ability. This can be achieved by installing a variety of interactive water play features that provide both low level sensory play for toddlers as well as high level anticipatory and big splash play for older children and even adults. Hippo Leisure’s play features are designed to encourage children to learn through play and increase their water confidence as they explore their aquatic environment. Hippo believe that leisure facilities investing in family friendly water play equipment that is designed to appeal to their customer base will increase their success in attracting new visitors and maintaining repeat custom. Working closely with children has contributed to the success of Hippo Leisure’s product design and developments.

CASE STUDY HIPPO LEISURE TRANSFORMS BASINGSTOKE AQUADROME Hippo Leisure has recently transformed the spectator area at Basingstoke Aquadrome into an ‘Under the Sea Splash and Play Zone’, aimed at increasing the fun appeal for toddlers and young children Hippo have provided a range of eye-catching, interactive water play features including a waterball, water wheels, tipping buckets, fish water squirts and interactive sensory wall panels. The features are designed to encourage children to learn through play and increase their water confidence as they explore and discover their aquatic environment. The interactive waterball centre piece features a variety of water jets and is the first ever waterball to include internal lights which constantly change colour and can be seen through round windows that have an underwater fishy theme. The lights are powered by a low

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voltage supply. The waterball has a variety of low level water features which are popular with toddlers and less water confident children. The waterball is connected to the pool hall wall via a span pipe which houses four tipping buckets which create exciting, anticipatory play as they tip in a random sequence and splash children playing underneath them. Two waterwheels spray children with water as they constantly spin around. The waterball also has a tipping bucket arm, a shark shower arm and a waterwheel arm which provide extra excitement! Finally, a pelican perched on one of the arms squirts water from its beak into the pool. The new play features are sure to attract both returning and new visitors to Basingstoke Aquadrome this summer and provide splashtastic fun for young children and toddlers.

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WATER PLAY EQUIPMENT Blending exercise and fun, Ustigate’s award winning aquatic play equipment keeps children spinning and splashing!

Direct input and feedback from Hippo’s kid consultants enables new product designs to consider the needs of all levels of ability and provide a complete family play scenario. It is also important to keep water play areas fresh and appealing. Hippo Leisure’s modular play equipment including Water Factories, Interactive Masts and Play Platforms are all extremely versatile products and can be expanded / updated to help to encourage regular, repeat visitors. Providing a service that is tailored to suit each customer’s needs from the supply of a strainer box to the development of a multiflume slide installation is at the heart of Hippo’s core values. They are proud of the partnerships they hold with some of the UK’s premier leisure facilities and management companies and are always looking for ways to extend their innovative approach to more likeminded businesses.

EXERCISE AND THRILLS FROM USTIGATE Aquatic play is one of the few provisions in the world that can entertain every age, every culture and every ability, at the same time in the same place, with one of the greatest benefits being the inclusive fun that it provides. Having partnered with Vortex International fifteen years ago, Ustigate Waterplay are proud to have completed over 100 aquatic installations in the UK, all of which have been greeted with much enthusiasm and contributed to aquatic play growing in popularity. It’s a sector that has generated a lot of interest with several community groups campaigning for aquatic play close to home, and more and more facilities choosing to add it their everyday offering. With a look into the advantages of aquatic play, it’s easy to understand why. Aquatic play is an activity that provides

No other play area can rival a well-designed water play area, and the popularity of these areas never diminishes with new designs of play equipment continuously coming to the fore”

both exercise and a thrill at the same time. No matter what age, it encourages us to collaborate and interact with each other. A Ustigate Waterplay design will include innovative products that maximise both play value and movement. Wherever possible an aquatic scheme will include an Elevation Play Structure to provide climbing and sliding, along with products such as tipping buckets, cannons, cascades, activators and sprays that excite children to duck and dive, twist and turn, and move from left to right. For children that prefer their aquatic play served at ground level, Ustigate Waterplay provide a ‘Water Journey’ complete with a water pump, water channels and a choice of dancing jets and weirs, plus carefully selected play equipment from their 300 strong product portfolio. The company takes pride in keeping children fit, happy and entertained, and after fifty-two years in the aquatic industry, Ustigate Waterplay knows what delivers an amazing aquatic play experience for all the family. The greatest of aquatic play schemes will always retain visitors, increase visitors and leave visitors not wanting to go home!

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Certikin International 01993 778855 www.certikin.co.uk Hippo Leisure 01752 771740 www.hippoleisure.com Quadroplay UK 01904 489057 www.quadroplay.co.uk Ustigate Waterplay 01322 424445 www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk Zoggs 01276 489089 www.zoggs.com

CASE STUDY OLYMPIC SWIMMER LAUNCHES AQUATIC PLAY AT 5* LADRAM BAY Ustigate Waterplay are proud to announce their ocean themed splash zone at Ladram Bay is now in play having been officially opened by Olympic swimmer Liam Tancock. Liam was happy to support the event and to see so many children enjoying the water, and commented that an early found confidence with water can lead to the next generation of competitive swimmers. Running alongside Ladrum Bay’s indoor swimming pool facility, the aquatic play area consists of 19 products to please all ages. There is a low level interactive fish, a boat armed with a tipping bucket and cannons, twelve jets with varying water effects and a spraying sea serpent. The aquatic play scheme at Ladram Bay is a Splashpad concept where aquatic play

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is provided with zero standing water, allowing children to play safely in the water without the need for lifeguards. Ustigate Waterplay were delighted to work with Ladram Bay Holiday Park and think that it is wonderful that they chose to install aquatic play to mark and celebrate their 75th anniversary. Ladram Bay is an award winning holiday park set on the cliffs of East Devon with its own private beach and panoramic views out to sea, a perfect spot for every family vacation. Zoe House, Director for Ladram Bay Holiday Park said: “Our aim has always been to create amazing memories with first class facilities, and I think that our new splash zone comes right up to the mark!”

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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

Alternative Water Treatment Options

When it comes to low and no chlorine water treatment options, there’s no shortage of solutions on offer these days. As owners seek alternative, and often gentler ways to treat pool and spa water effectively, new chemical products have been developed and systems such as UV and Ozone have been added to. With the goal of reducing chlorine an important one for many, we look at some of the options available in 2018 By Karen Whitney

ay back in the early days of water purification, talking about an alternative to chlorine was a bit like entering a parallel universe. Reduce or worse still, not use chlorine? Are you mad? Pools would be awash with pathogens and bathers would be dropping like flies with Crypto, E-coli and Guardia. But that was then and this is now. Chlorine of course still has an established place at the heart of the pool and spa industry but there are more and more systems entering the market that are efficient in use and effective in swiftly killing off any bacterial introduction. In addition these modern methods are kinder to the environment and to the skin and eyes of swimmers and we take a closer look at just some of the options available.

SO WHAT’S WRONG WITH CHLORINE? Justin Jeffries, Water Treatment Manager at Plastica, answered: “Not much, it's served our industry well for over a hundred years now. However, it does have its drawbacks. There is a need for less harsh alternatives. Two worth looking at are the Quantum pump that uses AOP technology and the Resilience salt chlorination generator.” What is AOP? Advanced Oxidisation Process has emerged as the modern method of treating waterborne pathogens. The use of AOP in domestic swimming pools has grown in popularity worldwide and the UK is starting to catch up. Quantum has been designed as an AOP device for treating domestic swimming pool water, and its growth in popularity can be attributed to the fact that it is extremely effective at destroying pathogens that are resistant to chlorine, particularly Cryptosporidium that plagues swimming pools. Quantum leaves no residual in pool water and it noticeably improves the clarity of pool water. The chemistry of AOP sounds complex, but the reality of Quantum is quite simple: contaminated water in, pure, sterile water out. Salt chlorination – natural salt water chlorinators are the most economical, natural

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and environmentally friendly disinfection systems for swimming pools and spas converting natural table salt into chlorine. This sanitises the water while eliminating the negative side effects associated with traditional chlorine. A low concentration of salt is converted through low voltage in a safe electrolysis cell. This creates a pure form of ‘free chlorine’ that destroys algae and bacteria. It then reverts back into salt (sodium chloride). This sanitation process is continuous, eliminating the need to add any extra disinfecting chemicals to the pool. Plastica offer their ‘Resilience C Salt Chlorine Generator’, a simple, easy to use, suitable for indoor or outdoor pools, self cleaning and chlorine free device.

TOTAL WATER PRODUCTS HAVE THE KEY TO ALGAE FREE POOLS Phosphate is the major food source for algae growth in swimming pools. Whilst chlorine and algaecides kill or prevent algae they do not remove unwanted phosphate from the water. As algae dies it releases phosphate, Available through Plastica, the Quantum with its Advanced Oxidisation Process provides a bacteria free swimming environment

Phosphate elimination is effectively achieved by implementing the Lo-Chlor Phosphate Protection Programme to keep pools algae free

unless the phosphate is removed it remains as a food source for new algae growth. The Lo-Chlor Phosphate Protection Program is key to keeping pools algae free, maintaining maximum water quality and allowing other chemicals to work at their most effective level. Their expertise in this area has ensured that the Lo-Chlor Starver® range of products are the phosphate removers of choice across Europe. Lo-Chlor Starver® X is a curative for high phosphate levels and should be used when the level of phosphate is 2,000ppb or above. This unique concentrated product is the initial shock treatment for pools. Each 1 litre dose will remove up to 6,000ppb per 50,000 litres of water. Once shocked lower phosphate levels can be effectively managed using Lo-Chlor Starver®. Lo-Chlor Starver® is a preventative and should be used ongoing as a maintenance product to keep the phosphate level as close to zero as possible. This patented product is designed for weekly use once the level is below 2,000ppb. Current market conditions indicate rising prices of chlorine sanitisers, linked with shortening of supply. By removing phosphate and eliminating algae the demand for chlorine as a sanitiser is reduced.

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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

The Certikin UVC is simple to install and can be fixed horizontally or vertically. The unit optimises flow rates and improves energy efficiency

Manufactured in the UK Lo-Chlor Chemicals are one of the global leaders in phosphate removal and control. Their Starver® range is sold in over 50 countries for use in the domestic pool market.

CERTIKIN UV – WHAT EVERY POOL NEEDS Such is the success of the Certikin UV Clarifier that a new 110W version, for swimming pools up to 75,000 litres with a maximum flow rate of 25,000 litres per hour, has been introduced for 2018. The unit has been designed to help prevent green water in swimming pools and ponds by emitting 254nm UV light inside a sealed tube, damaging and destroying singled celled algae which cause green water. This clarifier will help clear green water and prevent it coming back. Lower pressure UV-C breaks down monochloramines, reducing the associated symptoms and the amount of chemicals required, allowing the pool to be operated at a lower free chlorine level. The CUV is installed in the plant room after the filter and before the salt water chlorine generator or tablet feeder, on the return line to the pool. It is simple to install and is supplied with pre-fitted stainless steel mounting brackets that allow you to fix the unit horizontally or vertically. The design of the CUV optimises flow rates and improves energy efficiency, to deliver optimum performance at all times. Each model comes with high output UV bulbs powered by energy efficient ballasts, all housed within a watertight, robust housing that is fused with thermal overload protection. Made from HDPE, for its highly reflective properties, the unit is fully UV stabilised and its tough outer casing has translucent ends that glow when the UV is operational. The unit is fully CE and UL compliant and is supplied as standard as 50Hz. A 60Hz model is available on request. CUV bulbs last for 9,000 hours or two years (assuming that the pool filtration system is operational for 24 hours a day for 6 months of the year). The CUV is fully compatible with salt water chlorine generators, allowing for a lower level of chlorine to be used. Six models are available for pools between 15,000 and 110,000 litres and multiple units can be used on larger pools.

LIGHTHOUSE... SWIM WITH YOUR EYES WIDE OPEN! As a living environment, water in the pool

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changes all the time: depending on the number of bathers, the weather and the temperature, water can become cloudy or go green. Incorrectly dosed, treatment can also cause skin and eye irritation. With its effective treatment solutions, Zodiac® makes it easy to maintain clear and healthy water, resulting in incomparable bathing comfort. One hundred per cent automated, Redox regulation includes Auto-Adaptive Dosing (AAD) technology to maintain ideal chlorine levels continuously in the swimming pool. Combined with automatic pH regulation, a perfectly healthy swimming pool, without tedious dosing and manipulation is guaranteed. Zodiac® salt chlorinators work continuously, without adding chemical product and without requiring intervention or maintenance: electrolysis converts salt into chlorine, which recombines into salt under the action of UV rays in sunlight. Endlessly reproducing this cyclic reaction, giving unequalled bathing comfort in soft and slightly salted water (2g of salt per litre, compared with 38g per litre in sea water). Combined with automatic pH regulation, they offer a complete and totally automated water treatment solution for the swimming pool. The popular Tri unit is now available in a ‘LowSalt’ version. Offering the most complete and upgradable system in the range of Zodiac® chlorinators, with its different sized TRi Expert LS models, allows the operator to manage both the disinfection and pH regulation of the swimming pool completely automatically. Fitted with several safety alarms and ‘Boost’ function for intensive bathing and ‘Low’ for lack of water flow. Along with self-cleaning electrodes using adjustable polarity inversion to reduce maintenance on its titanium electrodes. The unit has an unconditional warranty on the control and cell whatever the cause of damage. Tri Expert LS, Tri Expert and Magnapool are available as exclusive Lighthouse dealer products and are unavailable on the internet.

The Microtech Aligator water purification system is an eco-friendly and automatic solution

MICROTECH ALIGATOR – AN ECOFRIENDLY WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM Chlorine has long been the industry favourite for it’s proven to be very effective, but it is harsh and can cause skin and eye irritation as well as an unpleasant odour. Salt pools are a popular alternative but they convert the salt to Chlorine and they can irritate as can other alternatives such as Bromine. The Microtech Aligator water purification system is a low chemical, eco-friendly and automatic solution which is well within the budget of most domestic pool owners. “We believe that it is really the end for stinging eyes and irritated skin conditions,” said General Manager David Dunn. The system works by harmlessly charging copper and silver ions creating a residual disinfectant throughout the pool. No other system other than chemical sanitation will do this. The ions are pH neutral, non-corrosive and have no effect on the human body. The system is not effected by heat or light and is effective for longer periods than UV or chemicals. Once programmed the system is fully automatic and will reduce chemical usage by 80%. Established in the UK since 1992, Microtech Aligator has installed systems in health clubs, hotels, spas and private homes across the UK and Ireland and has thousands of satisfied customers. “The water is pure, you can use the

The TRi Expert from Lighthouse Pools expertly covers disinfection and pH regulation totally automatically

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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

“Chlorine of course still has an established place at the heart of the pool and spa industry but there are more and more systems entering the market that are efficient in use and effective…”

100% eco-friendly operation providing natural health water the PURIQ UVC system from Fairlocks guarantees crystal clear water

backwash from your pool to water your garden as it contains less chemicals and is completely harmless,” added David. The company are so confident of their system they offer a return to base guarantee on parts and labour for five years.

PURIQ SYSTEM UTILISES THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY FOR OPTIMAL PURIFICATION Available from Fairlocks, the PURIQ UV-C water purifier guarantees crystal-clear water. Utilising the latest technology, the lamp emits very powerful UV-C light with a wavelength of exactly 253.7nm that kills practically all bacteria, viruses, algae and moulds. This results in optimal purification,

CASE STUDY

so the use of chlorine and other chemicals can be reduced by up to 80%. The PURIQ UV-C system, with its 100% eco-friendly operation, provides more natural, healthier water. The extended life UV-C lamp lasts an incredible 12,000 hours ensuring the water quality is free from bacteria and algae. This enables customers, friends, or patrons to enjoy safe, clean swimming pool water for longer. So how does PURIQ work and why is it so effective? UV-C is invisible electromagnetic radiation that ranges in wavelength from 100 to 280 nanometres. These wavelengths fall just outside of the part of the spectrum visible to the human eye. The disinfecting qualities of UV-C light are based on the damage it causes to the DNA of microorganisms. Good disinfection lamps produce UV-C light with a wavelength of 253.7 nanometres. The DNA absorbs the UV-C rays, and the resulting photochemical reaction breaks down the DNA code. As a result, the microorganism is made harmless and can no longer multiply. The extra wide SAE 316 stainless steel housing in the PURIQ system extends the time the water is exposed to the strong UV-C radiation while also minimising the pressure drop as the water passes through. Thanks to the polished interior, there is virtually no adhesion of contaminants to the walls, which boosts the effectiveness of the UV-C radiation by a further 35%. Installation of the PURIQ UV-C system is very simple and for peace of mind, each comes with a three year warranty against manufacturing defects.

This year, Bosta UK have launched a new approach to pool filtration with the Lotus Box

A NEW APPROACH – BOSTA’S BIOLOGICAL LOTUS BOX This year, Bosta UK have launched a new approach to pool filtration. The use of chemicals to maintain pool water quality has been the norm for decades, but there are now efficient ways to maintain a pool without the need to use chlorine. The Lotus Box is a complete assembled plant room which includes everything needed to filter the pool successfully by biological means. The Lotus Box can be installed on new or existing pools and includes a filtration pump for water circulation, mechanical pre-filtration using a multicyclone filter, biological filtration using the shark bead filter which uses microorganisms to digest the organic residue. Water purification then takes place through the UV-Ozone system which gives ongoing disinfection in the pool without the use of detergents. Don’t be mistaken in thinking this is a natural pool which relies on plants to filter

GOLDEN COAST KNOW-HOW HELPS SPS SEAL THE DEAL

When a domestic customer was referred to him by one of the 35 David Lloyd clubs served by Specialist Pools Services (SPS), its director Phil Stevens realised how valuable Golden Coast’s expertise would be in meeting the homeowner’s expectations. Phil explained: “They had very specific requirements for their pool, such as using saltwater rather than chlorine. It’s a far cheaper and safer option, but it was treading new ground for SPS.” Luckily Golden Coast boasts an extensive range of products which are perfect for optimising new and existing pools to an owner’s precise requirements, including a wide choice of low chlorine treatments. “I’d been working quite closely with Mitch at Golden Coast for some time and knew he’d ‘have my back’. He recommended the Waterco Hydrochlor, which is designed to keep risk, as well as running costs to a minimum,” added Phil. The Waterco Hydrochlor Saltwater Chlorinator, uses salt and electrolysis to sanitise pool water. Its self-clean function prevents calcium build-up, while its inbuilt Ezy Timer matches the device’s operation to the pool owner’s lifestyle and preferences.

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By also opting for a bespoke control panel from Golden Coast, SPS was able to give the customer all the control needed. At the push of a button, the owner can control important functions, such as heating and lighting too. Phil continued: “We found Golden Coast quite by accident, but I’m so glad we did. Their sage advice and technical support throughout this project has been indispensable. It has given us and our customer real peace of mind. Golden Coast 01271 378100 www.goldenc.com Specialist Pools Services 01737 202424 www.specialistpools.co.uk

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THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH CPC’s Aquablanc O2 Gentle provides chlorine-free disinfection, based on active oxygen

the water through phyto-purification. There is now no need to use plants to maintain crystal clear water. Through the careful design of the Lotus Box, the manufacturer can guarantee the flow rates required to maintain healthy pool water and treat the water through biological means. Although new to the UK, the Lotus Box system has been successfully installed at a number of commercial pool sites in France and Belgium and conforms to the stringent water treatment laws in these countries for pools up to 500m3.

CPC OFFER A GENTLER APPROACH TO WATER TREATMENT The innovative Aquablanc range of chlorine free pool and spa products is seeing a rapid growth in its popularity. Domestic pools and spas using Aquablanc, benefit from pure, gentle and safe water without the accompanying odours and sometimes harsher bathing conditions that are associated with

traditional halogen (chlorine and bromine) based sanitisers. Aquablanc O2 Gentle provides chlorine-free disinfection, based on active oxygen. It is non-odorous, gentle and soft to the skin, eyes and hair of swimming pool users. The effectiveness of the disinfection process is enhanced through the use of the algaecide, the second component. Together the two O2 components create a reliable water treatment system that guarantees optimal water quality. In addition, the water treatment system includes substances to clarify water thus ensuring it remains crystal clear. Finally, scale prevention and pH buffering agents are included to ensure operating on the O2 Gentle system is simple and complete. Hot tubs and spas are well served too. Aquablanc Spa provides an easy to use, soft and gentle sanitising system for domestic hot tubs. Supplied as a comprehensive starter kit or individual products, the two Aquablanc Spa components work in synergy for safe and gentle spa water. Aquablanc as a system is very flexible, so can also be used in conjunction with regular balancing, oxidising and speciality products.

WATERCO’S ENERGY EFFICIENT HYDROCHLOR MINERAL CHLORINATOR Waterco’s new, energy efficient Hydrochlor chlorinates the pool, making it healthy, crystal clear, and ready to swim in. A further benefit for owners is that a mineral / salt water chlorinated pool requires considerably less attention than a standard chlorinated pool. Hydrochlor uses the latest Switch Mode Power Technology to increase energy efficiency by over 50%. The power pack draws less current and this translates to high power conversion and less energy wastage, without compromising chlorine output, it also intelligently recognises the size of the connected chlorinator cell and automatically Whilst working perfectly with salt, Waterco’s Hydrochlor also works in synergy with their mineral crystals to transform the pool into a therapeutic pleasure

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adjusts its power output to suit. Featuring salt level protection, an alarm indicates when salt levels in the pool water are too high or too low. If the pool is running beyond the maximum recommended salt level, the chlorinator will limit its output to protect the chlorinator cell. The Hydrochlor also includes a built-in easy to use timer equipped with battery backup, which will maintain settings for up to 150 hours. If no water flow is detected in the chlorinator cell, Hydrochlor automatically switches off the chlorine production to protect the chlorinator cell, and activates the No Flow LED indicator, and the automated self-cleaning capability means that the Hydrochlor’s chlorinator cell has the added ability to reverse its polarity and automatically clean calcium build-up off its electrodes. Hydrochlor works perfectly with a standard salt pool, but Waterco’s engineers didn’t stop there. They specially designed it to work in synergy with the company’s Mineral Crystals to transform any pool into a therapeutic oasis of magnesium enriched water. Adding Waterco’s Mineral Crystals to pool water in place of salt enables the pool owner to experience the health benefits of bathing in magnesium enriched water. Magnesium has been recognised by medical professionals and consumers all over the world for its ability to alleviate a variety of ailments relating to the skin, muscles and nervous system. Mineral Crystals not only improve pool water with a blend of naturally occurring minerals, but also moisturise the skin.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Bosta UK 01284 716580 www.bosta.co.uk Certikin International 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk Fairlocks Pool Products 01865 988346 www.fairlocks.co.uk Lighthouse Pools 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Microtech Aligator 01206 543485 www.aligator.com Plastica 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net Total Water Products 01639 823233 www.totalwaterproducts.co.uk Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu

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STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS

The Timeless Appeal Of Stainless Steel Working with Berndorf Bäderbau, London Swimming Pool Company offer luxury stainless steel pools to private clients

The appeal of stainless steel for pool construction goes much further than it being a material chosen for use solely in challenging environments. Trendsetters love its polished looks and the same applies for many pool accessories too. Strength and durability combined with timeless aesthetics – it’s a winning combination that ensures stainless steel solutions are always in demand and in this issue, we examine just some of the options By Jon Wadeson

eaturing unique characteristics that make it ideal for use in the building of pools, spas and a number of accessories, stainless steel is being seen by an increasing number of people as the go-to material for use in a wide range of projects. Lightweight and flexible, stainless steel is also extremely strong and durable too. Combine these properties with timeless aesthetics which just shout quality, and it is easy to see why the appeal of stainless steel endures. In addition to its many qualities, stainless steel also offers the ability to ‘pre-engineer’ pools in a modular process, meaning contractors can now also utilise the efficiency of the construction process and save considerable time and therefore money during the project build. As with smaller stainless steel accessories, components for a complete pool or spa project are produced to design templates in

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manufacturing facilities where quality control is carefully monitored. This process means that construction surprises are effectively eliminated and costs are always known. With numerous advantages over other materials used in many wet leisure projects, it seems the flexible nature of stainless steel will guarantee it’s a popular choice for many years to come and in this issue, we take a closer look at just some of the stainless steel solutions that are on the market this year.

WORLD LEISURE PROVIDE THE COMPLETE STAINLESS STEEL PACKAGE Manufactured from the highest quality material, World Leisure stainless steel pools offer a long lifespan, provide exceptional hygiene benefits and incredible aesthetics. They are leakproof, colourfast and provide frost-safe performance too.

But the advantages don’t stop there, as World Leisure Managing Director Simon Smith explained: “Water and stainless steel just look great together, but we can also add further optical effects and water shades depending on natural or artificial light as well as water depth and overall environment. “With sophisticated lighting design, stainless steel allows us to deliver a unique bathing landscape with atmospheric highlights, achieved with white or RGB LED underwater lights or fibre optics.” For extra special effects, glass fibre light conductors and special plastics can conduct the light created by a projector evenly along a path to the light outlet opening, which is a feature that works especially well with stainless steel. Further features that can be provided in stainless steel by World Leisure include slip resistant pool stairs, waterfalls, massage

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STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS This & left: World Leisure’s experience and innovation puts them at the forefront of swimming pool and spa design plus installation, with the company specialises in full turnkey packages

systems and water games. Stainless steel inflow and hydraulic systems also provide exceptional water quality. “Thanks to its outstanding technical and optical characteristics, stainless steel is the ideal material for constructing all types of installations from private hotels, through to large local authority projects,” added Simon. World Leisure’s experience and innovation puts them at the forefront of swimming pool and spa design/installation, with the company specialising in full turnkey packages. “With stunning aesthetics and exceptional technical benefits they provide, we’re proud to be among the leading companies delivering stainless steel pools and associated technologies in the UK,” concluded Simon.

REDUCING CONCRETE USE MAKES FOR A QUICKER BUILD According to Mark Watson of Wrightfield Pools, much of the build time for new pools is typically taken up with the traditional concrete casting process. “Complexities include difficulties created by weather conditions and regulatory compliance. Significant risks are associated with pouring vast amounts of concrete,

creating the potential for time and budget overruns,” he said. “And of course, concrete is not in itself waterproof, so there is the challenge of ensuring durability and performance over a long time period. “But if you reduce the amount of concrete casting required, the whole project suddenly gets a lot less complex, and therefore shorter from start to finish. It’s even possible to remove the pool from the critical path for the build plan.” According to Mark, this is one of the reasons the company focuses on offering stainless steel pools from Natare in the UK. Offsite fabrication using modular construction methods is possible, and the company has found that less time is needed at the site itself. Installation is streamlined, with just a single concrete slab required to create a horizontal footing for the buttress support system. The company’s experience has been considerably shorter build times and less risk of delays than with traditional concrete construction. The company also points to the increasing focus on the reduction of waste and minimising environmental impacts, noting that most stainless steel produced today

contains over 60% recycled materials. It’s also 100% recyclable, so the environmental impact of a stainless steel pool at end of life is less than an equivalent concrete pool. Mark summed up what he sees as the key ingredient for achieving business goals with new build or redevelopment pool projects and said: “Architects and operators need to talk to engineers, manufacturers and installers

Wrightfield Pools focuses on offering stainless steel pools from Natare in the UK and offsite fabrication using modular construction methods is possible

ACCESSORIES THAT BOAST STAINLESS STEEL STYLE PAHLÉNS STYLISH STEEL FITTINGS FROM GOLDEN COAST Golden Coast offers a wide-range of stainless steel fittings and features that meet the exacting standards of even the most discerning pool owner. Their comprehensive offering includes the luxury-look range of fittings from Pahlén.

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The Swedish manufacturer’s products combine form with function and the results are impressive, as Golden Coast Managing Director Jamie Adams explained: “Their widemouth, stainless steel skimmer, for example, has been carefully considered. Typically, because they empty from above, owners have no choice but to live with skimmer lid detracting from their pool surround. “But, that’s the last thing a high-end pool owner wants or needs. Thankfully, Pahlén’s designers found a very simple-but-ingenious work around. They created a skimmer basket which can be emptied from the front – eliminating the lid issue completely.” The skimmer is just one of the wide-ranging selection of Pahlén stainless steel fittings available exclusively through Golden Coast. Other accessories on offer include inlets, vac

points, main drains, underwater lighting and counter current units.

ADD SOME COUNTER CURRENT CLASS WITH FLUVO FROM CERTIKIN Looking to inject some extra excitement and fun into a swimming pool? Look no further than Certikin’s Fluvo range of hydrotherapy equipment which stands out as a beacon of excellence in terms of both performance and looks. Forget going to the health club, now all the equipment that even the best clubs can offer is available for the home market, thanks to the Fluvo range with its air pads, bubble seats and counter current units. Ultra-stylish, the Fluvo systems are built into the wall of the pool so only the attractive face plate is visible. The latest Fluvo model, the award winning

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STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS about options open across all aspects of pool technology. “Instead of simply repeating the last project because it worked, exploring new ideas can create opportunities for cost effectiveness, durability and operational success.”

ASTRALPOOL OFFERS A FULLY INTEGRATED SERVICE FOR STAINLESS STEEL PROJECTS Although not a new concept in terms of pool construction AstralPool UK Ltd are once again breaking new ground in their approach to providing stainless steel pools through their trade customers. Dyfed ThompsonSmith General Manager for AstralPool UK advised of the extra improvements now being offered with the creation of a dedicated Business Development Management role to further complement the existing project and technical management support that AstralPool UK can offer. The main duties of the dedicated business development role will be to develop sales of the company’s project based solutions (stainless steel pools) within the professional

Thanks to its outstanding technical and optical characteristics, stainless steel is the ideal material for constructing all types of installations from private hotels, through to large local authority projects” pool trade market. The role will be part of a ‘three stage’ solution to the professional pool trade and will complement the existing technical and project management functions that the company is already delivering. This will ensure that AstralPool UK’s offering fully supports and delivers an integrated service to the pool trade on any project based sales. The three stage solution, which consists of sales, technical/specification and project management, will offer full support at each individual stage and includes support for the trade customer at design meetings, ensuring a robust technical specification with full design capability, support on site with a transparent supply chain plus full attendance and

co-ordination to ensure that the employers requirements are fully met and satisfied. Alongside the local based UK service, further support comes from the manufacturers and the parent company Fluidra. The ‘offer’ is not just a box full of water, but comes with the following as standard: 316L stainless steel, 20 year warranty, guaranteed waterproofing and a project which conforms to all BSI/SIO European standards. A dedicated installation team from AstralPool UK’s Spanish manufacturers, robust technical specification and full project management support on site are also included ensuring all relevant health and safety and contractual obligations are fully complied with.

AstralPool UK have added a dedicated Business Development Management role to further complement project based solutions (stainless steel pools) within the professional pool trade market

sensitive switches or rotary knobs with single or three phase options.

SOPHISTICATED AND DURABLE ACCESSORIES FROM FAIRLOCKS

Xanas counter current unit, is state of the art, both aesthetically and in terms of its high performance. It is designed with the regular swimmer in mind, who is looking to add another dimension to his pool and wants fun and rewarding exercise. Suitable for liner, concrete and one-piece pools, the Xanas features an extra-flat design with a brushed stainless steel or ABS drop-shaped grill. It can be specified with pressure

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At Fairlocks, the increase in demand for Flolux stainless steel fittings and Water-Tec stainless steel underwater lighting has been unprecedented in the last 12 months. With a focus on innovative design, aesthetic excellence and quality craftsmanship, the uncompromising Flolux range is a revolution in safety, elegance and incomparable finishing for concrete pools and spas. Flolux facias are designed and sculpted from marine grade stainless steel (FloJet and FloAir facias are turned from solid marine grade stainless steel); are polished for a superior, first-class finish; and are safely secured to the high-grade PVC backing through the FloLock System. The Flolux

Finish ensures every aspect of a luxury pool or spa is visually and functionally of the highest calibre. The Water-Tec underwater lighting offers stylish colour-changing underwater pool lighting housed in stainless steel casings can be controlled at the touch of a button either wirelessly through a touch pad or mobile device. The stainless steel fittings and lighting designs on offer provide a feel and look of luxury that is timeless, strong, and long-lasting.

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STAINLESS STEEL SOLUTIONS QUALITY AND PRECISION ARE THE HALLMARKS OF A CASTILLO POOL Castillo offer a wide range of precision made pools with countless features including cave cover systems, infinity edges, curved walls and moveable floors. Quality begins with the selection of the stainless steel from which each Castillo pool is made and the company only selects European certified stainless steel. All Castillo components are manufactured in a contamination free facility using processes that comply with ISO 9001 and EN 1090. Stainless steel is a high performance material which will maintain its integrity even after decades of use and each Castillo pool is built to withstand variations in climate in the most challenging geological conditions. Castillo’s engineering and manufacturing processes are world class and the company uses state-of-the-art computer automated, 3D design technology. The processes require the manufacture of each component to be independently verified and tracked and this permits Castillo to affix the coveted CE quality mark to their pools. The highest quality stainless steel is used to create the structural panel system which is strong enough to be self-supporting and free standing, allowing total access around the pool at all times. Its unique structure also lends itself to being built above-ground. With their precision engineered panel system, Castillo can design and manufacture pools of any size, shape or scale for virtually any location or purpose. The strength, durability and flexibility of their proprietary high quality stainless steel panel system opens up new design possibilities offering greater potential to create unconventionally shaped swimming pools in almost any space. Freed from the constraints of traditional pool

The highest quality stainless steel is used in a Castillo pool and the company offers a wide range of precision made pools with countless features

construction methods Castillo offers bespoke, ultra modern pools tailored to their client’s exact design specifications.

THE COMPLETE STAINLESS STEEL SERVICE FROM LSPC London Swimming Pool Company (LSPC) has a 30 year track record of creating award winning concrete pools, but two years ago it expanded its portfolio of services to offer luxury stainless steel pools to private clients, capitalising on the growing interest in this spectacular finish. Working in concert with Berndorf Bäderbau, Europe’s premier stainless steel pool manufacturer, LSPC creates the bespoke pool design and the stainless steel pool shell is constructed to exactly fit the pool specification to ensure smooth installation.

Once the pool is built and testing of the pool shell integrity has been successfully completed, the LSPC Servicing team commissions the pool before handing it over to the client. LSPC Servicing will tend to handle the ongoing regular pool maintenance too. LSPC Managing Director, Jamie Smith said: “There is tremendous interest in stainless steel pools now. Clients are drawn to the finish because of its ultra sleekness which graces any upscale residence, traditional or modern. Our design team spends a lot of time with the client at the concept stage, taking them through different design options, of which there are many because the material is so flexible, as well as the requirements for the plantroom. Clients soon begin to appreciate the benefits of a stainless steel pool way beyond pure aesthetics. A big advantage to them is the potential to have their pool finished sooner, because the construction process is considerably faster than building a traditional pool.”

FOR FURTHER DETAILS: AstralPool UK Ltd 01329 514000 www.astralpool.co.uk Castillo Pools 028 2544 6111 www castillopools.com London Swimming Pool Company 020 8605 1255 www.londonswimmingpools.com

The London Swimming Pool Company’s clients soon begin to appreciate the benefits of a stainless steel pool way beyond pure aesthetics

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Natare UK 020 7566 2187 www.natare.co.uk World Leisure 01772 284883 www.worldleisurepools.com

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BUYERS GUIDE CEILING SYSTEMS

DIVING – REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

FILTRATION

HEAT EXCHANGERS

BOWMAN

Manufacturers of swimming pool heat exchangers for chlorine, saline and spa pools. EJ Bowman (Birmingham) Ltd Chester Street, B’ham B6 4AP, UK Tel: +44 (0) 121 359 5401 Fax: +44 (0) 121 359 7495 Email: info@ejbowman.co.uk

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

CONTROL PANELS

DIVING – REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

FLOOR SERVICING

HEAT EXCHANGERS

PPF Servicing have been servicing, maintaining and refurbishing Moving Floors, Booms and Bulkheads since 1985 Na onwide using a fully qualiﬁed and experienced HSE approved Commercial dive team.

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

PPF Specialist services include: ‐ • Condi on Surveying • Commissioning • Under Floor Cleaning • Hazard & Defect Surveys • Underwater Video Footage • Balance Tank Cleaning • Annual Servicing • Emergency Breakdown Cover • Bespoke Service Packages Available HSE SCUBA under commercial inland/inshore and media ACOPs.

UK DISTRIBUTOR • In depth technical back up • Quick delivery • Complete heat exchangers in stock

PPF SERVICING LTD

01799 513253 AMANDAM PPFSERVICING.CO.UK

WWW.PPFSERVICING.CO.UK

sales@gvsswimmingpools.co.uk www.gvsswimmingpoolsonline.co.uk

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BUYERS GUIDE HOT TUB & SPAS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

POOL BUILDERS

HOT TUB & SPAS

ON-SITE LINING

PLAY EQUIPMENT

POOL BUILDERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £395! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £395! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL COVERS

POOL COVERS – LIQUID

POOL ENCLOSURES

Retractable and static glass pool enclosures for domestic and commercial use

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £395! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

POOL COVERS

POOL ENCLOSURES

POOL ENGINEERS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL ENGINEERS

POOL EQUIPMENT

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £395! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE POOL HEATERS

POOL LIGHTING

SPRAYED CONCRETE

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

POOL LIFTS & SPA HOISTS

PRESSURE TESTING & LEAK DETECTION EQUIP

SPRAYED CONCRETE

SWIM SPAS

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433 E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

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BUYERS GUIDE TILED SPAS

TILING & TILING REPAIRS

WATER TREATMENT

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Aligator Systems Ltd

Aquaflex

Artesian Spas

OBC

AstralPool UK

64 & 69

Bosta UK Certikin Complete Pool Controls

Damar

Earth Save Products

emco Bau

EVA Optic

Golden Coast

E. TONY@AQUAPUBLISHING.CO.UK

WATER MONITORING & CONTROL

WATER TREATMENT

www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk

19 & 53 14

Heatstar Europe

Hippo Leisure

ISPE

Ligman

Lovibond/Tintometer

NIVEKO

On-site Pool Linings Ltd

Passion Spas

Piscine Global Europe

Plastica Pools

Pool-i.d.

PoolLock

Raywood Graphic Designs

58 08 & 29

Spaeuro

SPATEX

STA

Stoneworld

Superior Spas

E.TONY@AQUA-PUBLISHING.CO.UK

IFC

Hanna Instruments

SCP UK

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £395! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR JUST OVER £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

21, 63 & 69

Fairlocks Pool Products

AN ADVERT THIS SIZE IN THIS BUYERS GUIDE IS JUST £295! THAT’S 6 ISSUES OR 12 MONTHS COVERAGE FOR LESS THAN £1 PER DAY! TO ADVERTISE CALL TONY WESTON ON 01474 813433

TILED SPAS

24 & IBC

Suez

Ustigate Waterplay

VitrA Tiles

Waterco

Waterco/Certikin International 05 Waxman Ceramics

Wellis UK

World Leisure

SPN August 2018 75

OPINION

We’re All Going On A… “I think more people share a common view of what makes a perfect summer than of any other season and summer memories are easily triggered by a snatch of a song or the sight of the sun. Isn’t that glorious?” Asks Jamie Adams, Managing Director at Golden Coast

ere we are, pretty much midsummer, and the pundits are muttering about its potential to be one of the hottest and driest on record. It has certainly been a joy to look out of my office window and see a blue sky and blazing sun pretty much day-after-day for what feels like the last couple of months. Walk around the office and you can see that people have stopped bringing a jacket or jumper into work, ‘just in case’ and that most people’s tans have settled down to a rich and healthy glow. And of course, with ours being a solar-powered industry, summer brings another welcome sound. The phones are ringing – a lot. Historically this would have been a good year for above-ground pool kits and inflatable paddling pools, for water fights in the garden and risking a sneaky bomb-dive into the local swimming baths but in so many ways, time has moved on. One of my own first poolside memories was going to a lido in Berkshire when I was just 5. I can’t say I remember all that much apart from the fact that it was warm and sunny but oddly, the water was bloody freezing as I clung to the handrail for dear life while navigating my way unobserved around the perimeter of the pool. At least standards of parental safety have improved and it would be nice to think that if that lido was still there it might be being warmed by a couple of big heat pumps.

NO MORE PENCILS. NO MORE BOOKS. NO MORE TEACHERS DIRTY LOOKS By the time the seventies came around and Alice Cooper put the words to an old schoolplayground chant to music, my love affair with summer holidays was well established. In the halcyon summer of ’76, I was a teenager helping my father build a pool at home and, in a ‘Boys Own’ version of the same project, my friends and I went up on Exmoor and dammed the river at Simonsbath to make our own, wild swimming hole (ecofriendly and chlorine free). Summer holidays seemed endless, with every day a perfect copy of the one before.

SURF’S UP! Living in Devon and loving the water there was very little doubt that I was going to end up standing on a surfboard. I seem to remember that it began with sitting with my brothers in the open back of my father’s VW double cab transporter and heading off for a days belly boarding, dune jumping and rock pooling on Croyde beach. Over the next couple of years I grew my love of surfing and spent the summers working in Woolacombe, in The Red Barn café by day and behind a bar at night. Earth Wind and Fire, The Bee Gees and Michael Jackson were top of the pops and Anita Ward would let you ring her bell while Donna Summer was busy being a bad girl. Surfboards were longer and heavier in those days and suntan lotion was more like cooking oil than anything that offered a degree of protection. I have a clear memory of the sting and tingle of skin as it came into contact with a warm shower after a long hot day in the sun.

SUMMER DAYS DRIFTING AWAY TO, UH OH, THOSE SUMMER NIGHTS Hot summer nights and even hotter days. Lazy afternoons spent with family and friends around the swimming pool at home followed by barbecues that lasted well into the night. If it sounds idyllic, I guess that’s because it

With ours being a solar-powered industry, summer brings another welcome sound. The phones are ringing – a lot” 76 August 2018 SPN 80_SPN_August_18_Opinion.indd 76

was. I’ve been lucky enough to take some of those experiences and weave a career out of them. So here I sit in my office looking out at the summer sunshine, attending to business but reminiscing about how much sheer fun this time of year has brought me. But yesterday I wasn’t.

MITCHING OFF (TO BE ABSENT FROM SCHOOL / TO PLAY TRUANT) Yesterday I treated myself to an impromptu summer holiday. I’m at the age where I realise that opportunities to enjoy as much of life as possible just shouldn’t be overlooked, and that’s a good thing. So yesterday I was mitching off to get up early and meet a friend for a morning’s fly-fishing at a local beach. As we walked out towards the water a solitary skylark, Wordsworth’s ‘ethereal minstrel’, hung high above us, its melody full of the possibilities of the day. Did we catch anything? No, but to be out scot-free in the great outdoors on the coast of this beautiful sceptred isle on a warm summer’s day was more than enough to satisfy the soul and leave me feeling that although I love my job, sometimes it’s good to take yourself away from it all and remind yourself just how good life is. I hope that you find a day or two this summer to do that too. Jamie Adams is Managing Director of Golden Coast, the current Chairman of Pool Industry Promotions (PIP) and a board member of the British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF).

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