SwimConstruct V01N04

V01 N04

“WHY SWIM? WHEN YOU CAN FLY?”

Pages 4-5 Preview UK Pool & Spa 2014 Pages 6-7

Preview SPATEX 2014 Pages 46-47

Contents . . .

36.

Craig Bragdy Designs

10.

News

38.

Harris Pools

14.

Desco news from the ASA Conference

40.

West Bromwich Leisure Centre

18.

Alliance Leisure

42.

SCS Expeditions

22.

Telescopic Pools

46.

Spatex Expo Preview

26.

FT Leisure

48.

30.

Swimming Pool Finishes

32.

Swimfin Product review

34.

Pollet Pools

50.

For nearly 20 years Pro-Mark Publishing has been circulating three national construction, civil engineering and architectural publications across the UK and Ireland. UK Construction, Building Scotland and Construction Ireland magazines have become geographically some of the largest industry publications in circulation. The hard copy and online (feel free to view our magazines at www.pro-mark.org. uk) publications have gained an extensive subscription rate with a fantastic readership of key specifiers and decision makers throughout all sectors under the construction and architectural banner.

Introduction . . .

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UK Pool & Spa Expo Preview

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18

6

6.

Following the success of a Wet Leisure profile within UK Construction magazine and continuing conversations with major swimming pool and spa authorities such as SPATA and the BSPF, it was found there was NO dedicated publication focused on the swimming pool industry targeting the construction and architectural sector.

In order to deliver a publication of this nature SwimCONSTRUCT magazine was born and is now the only dedicated publication highlighting the direct link between the two industries.

The launch of SwimCONSTRUCT was highly successful and the magazine has featured a range of exhibitions and profiles on leading swimming pool and spa companies over its past issues. SwimCONSTRUCT aims to provide the latest industry news, expo previews and reviews, project updates and company profiles within each issue.

Exploiting new opportunities whilst avoiding feeling the squeeze by Dorian Davies The Benefits of Swim Spas by Sallie Golding

Regular editorials are supplied from, and written in conjunction with: SPATA - Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association, BSPF - British Swimming Pool Federation, BISHTA - British & Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association, ISPE - Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers, PWTAG - Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group SPATEX Exhibition UK Pool & Spa Expo On publication, SwimCONSTRUCT will be circulated via hard copy and digitally online to over: 250+ pool Installers, 25,500+ architectural design practices, 12,500+ construction companies, 1,200+ council offices, All leisure, health & NHS trusts throughout UK & Ireland, national hotel/leisure chains including Accor, De Vere, Hilton, Ibis, 180+ leisure development organisations.

Pro-Mark is more than happy to help with all aspects of promotion to one of the largest circulations in the UK and Ireland’s construction industries to enable the opportunity to gain specifier or preferred bidder status, putting your company, services and products at the top of all swimming pool construction contact listings.

For further information, please contact Mat Blackmore or Raimy Greenland, SWIMCONSTRUCT on 01257 231900 or via E-mail to mat.blackmore@pro-mark.org.uk and raimy.greenland@pro-mark.org.uk Pro-Mark Publishing

Editors Gareth Trevor-Jones Victoria Lee Staff Writer John Train Editorial Raimy Greenland Robert Atherton

Studio Manager Séamus Norton Designer Richard Gill ISSN 1461-1279

Proof Reader Matthew Brown Approvals Remi Wilson Credit Control Carol Ryan

Validated by

Circulation of 93,519

Unit N4, Chorley Business and Technology Centre, East Terrace, Euxton Lane, Euxton PR7 6TE Tel 01257 231900 Fax 01257 234123 Email: mail@pro-mark.org.uk www.pro-mark.org.uk

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AquaFly Why swim? When you can fly!

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AquaFly caters for private pool owners who don’t just swim on the surface. The innovative system uses state-of-the-art ceramic technology alongside the most modern of application methods.

The pool skin system creates a whole new world within a customer’s pool, providing a world that people can really immerse themselves in.

AquaFly specialises in the design and illustration of fine photographic and illustrated art for swimming pool design. The Company has developed a brand new concept allowing for the installation of tiles that feature a high definition, high quality mural display on the walls or the floor of a swimming pool.

Any image can be considered and customers can use the Company’s team of seven illustrators or five landscape and aerial photographers to gather their perfect design.

Replicating a particular image within the pool can create a unique underwater experience for the user, allowing for a realistic beautiful environment in which to immerse themselves.

Making use of the aerial photographer can mean that the swimming experience can be transformed into a whole new dimension, giving the feeling of flight or weightlessness.

Two image collections are on offer from AquaFly; the standard range will allow for customers to choose from an image library from the Company’s list of fine art photographers and illustrators, while the ‘Signature Range’ comprises high end pieces of art produced by renowned international artists and photographers who have agreed to license their work to AquaFly. The agreed terms for these prices will allow for no reproduction of the image and therefore the end result is completely unique.

The new technology allows the image to be encompassed within the tile surfacing during the production process, the colour fixing

and matching technology is completely unique and AquaFly is the only company currently registered to produce the product.

Previous developments in image recreation on tiles have included mosaics and painted tiles. However, this technology allows the image to be fixed within the tile, which is UV and chemical proof, and comes with a high quality, high definition finish.

AquaFly has a specialist insulation team with years of experience in fitting high-level swimming pools. Founder Jason Lock has 20 years of experience in the ceramic tile industry and knowledge of its technologies.

Jason and the team will see the entire process through from the initial survey to the installation, including re-filling the pool and will even undertake a second underwater survey to inspect all elements of the product are performing as expected.

AquaFly will undertake an initial survey of each pool to determine with the client the best use of the pool itself as well as the most appropriate artwork to be installed. A photographic survey of the pool and its surroundings will be taken, as well as light reading and colour matching.

Precise measurements are taken of the areas that will be receiving the AquaFly art.

An internal pool survey is also involved in the first consultation.

AquaFly will take submerged photographs of the pool, allowing the Company to produce a digital representation of how the artwork will look. It will also allow AquaFly to make decisions on colours needed, tonal values and precise areas of interest.

A second consultation will then be undertaken with the client to consider artwork and imagery. The Company will work with the clients viewing artwork and photographic images to

determine what direction the client would like to head in.

Utilising its list of fine art photographers and illustrators, the Company can offer an endless amount of images to consider.

The ‘Signature Range’ of artwork will be unique and the agreed terms allow no reproduction of the image. Clients will then receive a quote for the project with variations of cost included for use of licence of imagery.

After contracts are signed and a deposit is made, AquaFly will liaise with each client’s current swimming pool maintenance team to organise the evacuation of the water from the pool, and if a maintenance team isn’t used, the Company can organise this.

Tiles will be delivered to the address on the day before installation, and installation times will vary on size and intricacy of work to be completed.

After the pool is re-filled, a second underwater survey will take place to inspect all elements of the AquaFly product are performing as expected.

The minimum size for murals is one metre, and it is half a metre for tiled panels, and AquaFly works on murals and tiled panels to any size subject to the quality of the artwork. At the most, projects last six weeks, subject to

the availability of chosen tiles and size of the project.

Samples of critical areas will be prepared if a client requests it.

This will usually take areas of important colour or design detail, and involve proofing a section at actual project size for approval.

Tiles provided are slip resistant, but extra protection is available in the form of anti-skid coatings. Independent test certificates can be provided at extra cost to give assurance to the resistance levels of any given tile. Specially fully vitrified tiles can also be offered for exterior use including swimming pools and patios.

In addition, tiles can be frost-proof if specified on order. Fully vitrified tiles are preferred, together with appropriate adhesive and grout.

Customers can either send the images they want to be used, or AquaFly can source these. Given a brief, the design team can assist in finding suitable images, many of which involve licence fees or specific design commissioning at additional costs.

Prices vary dependent upon size of pool and installation work needed. AquaFly is available now to provide quotations and offer consultations.

W: www.aquaflytiles.com E: info@aquaflytiles.com

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UK Pool & Spa Expo 2014 Organisers of the UK Pool & Spa Expo 2014 are on track to deliver the largest dedicated pool, spa, sauna and wellness event in the UK and only in its second year Talking exclusively to SwimCONSTRUCT, Rob Saunders, Director for NEW Events Ltd, explained more about the goals, ambitions and strategy for the UK Pool & Spa Expo this year.

Rob said: “When we launched UK Pool & Spa Expo we wanted to create something that had not existed in the UK previously and this was a completely independent event for the UK industry with a strong emphasis on showcasing International new technologies.

“In providing this the goal was that those businesses and individuals involved in the procurement and production of wet leisure facilities would have an annual single event where they could genuinely gain knowledge on some of the latest technologies and practises available globally for this market.

As with any new event it takes some time to get the whole industry involved, however, we were amazed with the number of companies that supported our first show and now that we are in our second year it is growing from strength to strength.”

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Rob continued: “For our visitors we want to make sure that a day spent at the NEC in February is worthwhile and I can confidently say that our 2014 show will not disappoint. If you are involved in

the design, production, installation or maintenance of any type of wet leisure area whether it be a public facility, health club or hotel, private or household installation then the UK Pool & Spa Expo will offer you everything you need to stay ahead of your competition.

“Architects and designers looking for innovative solutions and ways to maximise space and investment will find a whole host of award winning suppliers that can help them deliver the ultimate wellness area/facility. Those involved in delivering and installing these amazing projects will be able to view the latest technologies from our International exhibitors and individuals involved in the maintenance of wet leisure facilities will be able to find solutions for supplying the ultimate experience.

“If you are looking to deliver something different in your new projects or developments then UK Pool & Spa Expo is a must attend event for you, not only will you see a wealth of new and dynamic products from UK and international companies, there are cost saving ideas, safety products, things to improve the environment and more – this event offers you the opportunity to pick and choose the ideal product for your clients or final build.

“Not only that you can also find educational opportunities including for the first time ever in the UK the internationally acclaimed NSPF

Pool and Spa Certification programme offering a two-day web based course with an on site course final at UK Pool & Spa Expo.”

Silvia Uribe, Course Coordinator, said: “The NSPF course cost will be £350 per delegate and will provide a qualification which will be valid for five years and will cover subjects such as clarity/bacteriological and chemical water quality, breakpoint chlorination, effects of corrosive and alkaline water, calculating levels of disinfectant in mpl, calculation of saturation index, protection against diseases in pool water and many other aspects of pool maintenance.

“The course will be of particular interest to hoteliers, pool builders, maintenance staff, water treatment companies, health officers or anyone who has interaction with a wet leisure facility.

The course will comprise online training which can be tailored to fit with a student’s daily work and will finish with on site practical training at the UK Pool & Spa Expo 2014 event.”

Additionally, and new to the event this year, will be features such as the show pool, which will provide real handson training opportunities and the chance to see products actually being demonstrated within a live environment.

The UK Pool & Spa Expo 2014 is taking place at the NEC,

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Birmingham from 20–22 February 2014 within the Pavilion Hall. Trade visitors to the event will be able to benefit also from free entry, free on site parking in the dedicated car park, free Wi-Fi, free tea and coffee throughout the day, a host of free seminars and on site demonstrations.

In addition to the event there is also the opportunity to attend the exclusive UK Pool & Spa Industry Awards ceremony hosted by Pool and Spa Scene Magazine on the first night of the exhibition; this will run at the host hotel The Crowne Plaza NEC (where preferential room rates have been secured) on Thursday 20th February.

The NEC is arguably the UK’s most accessible venue with easy access by road and rail as well as direct international flights with Birmingham International Airport within walking distance of the show venue, and the cost of parking has been covered too.

Rob concluded: “We are creating a truly international event for the UK wet leisure industry, which is something that has never happened before and UK Pool & Spa Expo will showcase the world leaders in the supply of pool, spa, sauna and wellness equipment, and we hope that with the continued support of the UK industry we will grow the event to rival comparable shows across Europe.”

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To find out more about the exhibitors that will be participating and information on the courses and seminars please keep visiting the event website at www.ukpoolspa-expo.co.uk, which will be constantly updated with the latest news. Alternatively contact one of the team by either emailing info@neweventsltd.com or calling +44 (0)1483 420229.

For a complete range of Pool & Spa chemicals that will keep you in the pink!

See Us There! 20th - 22nd February 2014 on Stand

t: +44(0) 1526 322214

474

NEC Birmingham UK

www.jakwater.co.uk

SC NEWS

England’s top football clubs get the Hanovia UV treatment

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Hydrotherapy pools using UV to keep water pure and athletes healthy Some of England’s most famous football clubs are using Hanovia’s UV disinfection technology to purify their hydrotherapy pools. Water of exceptionally high quality is required as the clubs cannot afford for their players to fall ill as a result of water-borne pathogens like Cryptosporidium or Giardia.

English football is a multi-million pound business with a huge global audience.

The key focus is centred on the success of the football clubs and their players. For every club it is essential their stars remain fit throughout the long, demanding season, so no expense is spared in providing world class facilities to make sure they perform at optimum levels.

This includes the use of state-of-the-art hydrotherapy facilities to treat muscle injuries and accelerate recovery times.

James Hadley, Hanovia’s UK Sales Manager, says: “Bacteria like Cryptosporidium are highly resistant to chlorine and can’t be eliminated by using the chemical on its own – an additional step is required to ensure their complete removal. UV is now one of

the most popular methods of destroying them. In addition, chloramines – the unpleasant by-products of chlorination – can be effectively removed with UV. “UV technology is an extremely important part of the water treatment system for many top English clubs’ hydrotherapy pools” “UV technology is therefore becoming an extremely important part of the water treatment system for many top English clubs’ hydrotherapy pools. By being effective against chlorine resistant micro-organisms and by controlling chloramines, UV is a double-edged sword that has led to Hanovia’s UV systems being installed in many hydrotherapy and swimming pools across the world.

“Not only that, UV is much cheaper and safer than the other non-chlorine treatment method, ozonation. The Victoria Park Swimming Pool Complex in Hong Kong has installed over 20 of our UV systems and they report that, compared to ozone treatment, UV is up to five times cheaper to maintain and takes up only 1/10 of the space.

“Running costs are being scrutinized much more by football clubs, as all of them are trying to maximize their profits and minimise unnecessary wastage. By adding UV to their water treatment regimes, clubs are not only getting rid of harmful chlorine by-products, they are also saving money and reducing the amount of chlorine used,” concluded James.

Hanovia UV installations outside the footballing world

Hanovia’s UV systems are already widely used in pools and spas around the globe, from the UK to Australia. One of the most prominent UK installations is Nirvana Spa in Berkshire. Widely regarded as one of the UK’s most prestigious spa facilities, Nirvana has nine pools, each filled with pure spring water drawn from over 200 metres beneath the ground. Each pool is treated with a Hanovia UV system, including the “Celestial” floatation pool, the UK’s largest hydrotherapy pool containing salt imported from Israel’s Dead Sea.

PrimeLab makes 2nd place of 72 at Piscina Barcelona’s innovational award The newly launched “PrimeLab 1.0 Multitest” photometer of Pool-i.d. (Germany and UK), which is the only photometer with just one sensor and one LED to cover 400 different wavelengths simultaneously, received the award by the committee of the Piscina Barcelona fair in October 2013.

The Commendation was given for reaching 2nd place of 72 different products which have been originally registered.

The device connects automatically and quickly with a Windows PC to synchronise test data with the PrimeLab software, which also allows the user to activate additional parameters on the device by entering a code.

One key feature of the software is that the user can enter their own water treatment chemicals for the software then to calculate dosage recommendations, based on those chemicals and the test results synchronised before.

Test results and dosage recommendations can be printed then exported to PDF, Word or Excel.

The PrimeLab and reagents are all made in Germany and the UK and guarantee for reliable and accurate water testing.

Currently, more than 80 different test methods are implemented on the PrimeLab with more to follow and easily added by entering a code.

Manufactured by German based Pooli.d. GmbH, developing and producing water testing equipment and reagents for more than a decade, the PrimeLab stands for the latest technology and high tech made in Germany.

FT Leisure installs Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre Pool “Kirkcaldy’s new multi-million pound leisure centre is a facility that local people can be proud of.” That was the verdict of Ed Watson, Chief Executive of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, who said that the new complex overlooking the Firth of Forth will revolutionise the way that people in the town think about health and fitness. Fife Council has invested £15.3M into the new, state-of-the-art facility, which will replace Kirkcaldy’s 1970s-built swimming pool.

The new leisure centre will offer both swimming and dryside facilities.

Features will include a 25-metre x sixlane swimming pool with and a 16.67m training pool with movable floor. FT Leisure was appointed to design, supply and install the filtration systems and the

moveable floor in the training pool.

FT Leisure specialises in the provision of innovative products and professional technical services to the commercial, municipal and private swimming pool industries. Their range of services includes the design, manufacture, installation, commissioning and/or refurbishment and maintenance of water treatment and filtration systems, moveable floors, booms and disabled access platforms, ozone and UV sterilisation, wave machines and leisure water features.

Other recently completed FT Leisure projects include Dundee Olympia, Michael Woods Leisure Centre, and Tollcross Aquatic Centre.

Shropshire Pools & Spas unveiled as new dealer

Shrewsbury pool and spa company are latest to join the growing fold to discuss all options. We’re big believers that people buy from people and Tony and Carole were on hand to answer all of our questions and show us the products first hand and right from the beginning were very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable.

After long discussions we decided that we would become Spa Crest dealers, just because that option suits us better in our area. Tony [Welsby] helped and advised us every step of the way and even managed to supply us with two spas within days so we had some on display during our transition. We are thrilled with our choice of brand; they look good, reputable equipment, great choices available within the three ranges and, importantly for us, they are not priced so high that the general public can’t afford them.

We are looking forward to being part of the Spa Crest team and bringing the brand name to this area of the country, it’s long overdue!”

Spa Crest and Brand2Go dealerships are still available in selected areas of the UK. If you’d like to find out which opportunities may still be open in your locale, Tony Welsby says to give him a call on 0844 871 8730 or email at tony@spacrest-europe.com for details.

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Spa Crest Europe, manufacturers of the world’s only carbon-fibre reinforced hot tubs, have announced the appointment of Shropshire Pools & Spas of Shrewsbury as their exclusive dealer for the area. The family business, based on Shrewsbury’s well-known Percy Thrower’s Garden Centre and owned by husband and wife team Tony and Tracy Roberts, will offer all three lines: Spa Crest, Coastal and Vision from their showroom.

Tony Welsby, Spa Crest Europe’s Managing Director, told us of the appointment: “It’s excellent news! Shropshire Pools & Spas has a great name and reputation in their area, and is already a veteran of many, many local spa sales, so we’re confident the Spa Crest brand is in safe hands and will be incredibly well represented by Tony and Tracy, and they will deliver exemplary service to new Spa Crest owners.”

Tracy Roberts added: “We felt unable to achieve our goals with our previous spa supplier so started to investigate further to find the right brand and supplier to help us reach them. Some months of looking passed then we saw an advert for Brand2Go which interested us so we made contact with Tony [Welsby] and subsequently spent a lovely day in Wigan

SC NEWS

By land or sea, Crestron’s UFO waterproof remote control serves many needs

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Outdoor entertainment is making a splash with the introduction of the Crestron UFO waterproof remote control. Relaxing in the hot tub or taking a dip in the pool is even more fun when you can turn on the TV or listen to music at the same time. The buoyant saucer-shaped remote gives users the convenience of controlling entertainment systems, lighting, thermostats, security systems, and other connected devices without worrying about water damage. UFO is ideal for indoor and outdoor use in or around pools, hot tubs, bathtubs, spas, and on yachts. It has even found a place in hospital operating rooms.

“Crestron UFO provides all the benefits of an extended wireless coverage remote without the worries of water damage. There are all sorts of uses for a waterproof remote that floats,” explains Robin van Meeuwen, Crestron VP of Sales and Marketing. “In addition to obvious applications such as hot tubs, pools and yachts, it’s very popular in hospital operating rooms because everything in an operating room must be sterilised. UFO can be submerged in sanitising liquid without being affected.”

The intuitive user interface features customisable menus with full-colour icons, making it easy to select room location, music or video source, choose a radio station, TV channel, or media title and access lighting controls and other functions. Moulded in a rugged, rubberised outer skin, UFO is resistant to damage from chlorine, salt water, and sterilisation solutions. The rugged construction of the remote provides an added level of protection against life’s elements.

With the tap of a finger, UFO provides extended wireless coverage and twoway feedback from a bright 2.8” activematrix colour LCD display. UFO works like an IR remote with instant response, with all the benefits of 2-way RF. Using Crestron 2.4 GHz RF wireless technology allows extended coverage performance up to 200 feet indoors, and 1000 feet outdoors using the optional Extended Range RF Wireless Gateway.

Additionally, UFO extends battery life up to one week by slipping into a virtual sleep mode within seconds when idle. InstantWaking® revives UFO instantly with the

press of any button, and button commands can be sent immediately without the connection delays common with Wi-Fi® remotes. The included indoor docking station provides a convenient means for charging the remote’s internal battery.

An optional outdoor docking station provides a weatherproof charging solution and an ideal wall mount dock for both outdoor and indoor applications.

For more information about the exciting new Crestron remote control, visit www.crestron.eu

National Leisure launches new consumer site Leisure industry group go live with new consumer facing online presence to educate, inform and showcase exclusive product range National Leisure, the UK’s largest consortium of independent pool and spa professionals, has launched a new website to showcase its own range of products manufactured under its ‘Portland Pool Products’ brand.

The new site is consumer facing and is designed to provide a central information source for all the products within the expanding Portland Pool Products range, which currently encompasses pool safety covers, heat pumps, water treatment chemicals and a range of sand filters. Each product has dedicated pages providing comprehensive information on the benefits of buying that particular product and relevant specifications, as well as real-life case studies from members of the public highlighting their experiences buying the products, and a useful list of outlets across the UK where the consumer can buy from.

Ross Morris, Chairman of National Leisure, says: “We’ve now built up a portfolio of products which have been specially selected for inclusion in the Portland Pool Products range, and we needed a website which would be there for consumers to find out as much information as possible on the products, and the benefits of buying

them, as well as providing useful links to dealers across the country so they can easily find out who their local supplier is”.

The job of building the new site was awarded to Doric Marketing, run by wellknown industry marketing authority, Dorian Davies. Ross says of the decision: “It’s something we’d planned to do for a while and spoken with a number of companies.

Dorian conveyed the importance that whilst the site’s principal focus should rightly be to inform and give value to a potential buyer, it should also be a productive marketing tool for National Leisure and its members, so that the consumer is encouraged to seek further information which then allows them to get into a relationship with a member and, hopefully, lead to a sale. We’re sure that it will be a great tool for current and future National Leisure members. The added bonus we had with Dorian was that because of his huge industry experience, we didn’t have to explain to him what a sand filter or a heat pump was, and he was quickly able to focus on the unique benefits and write the copy from there”.

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Desco sheds light on innovative new techniques in swimming pool design at ASA Conference This year’s ASA Aquatics Conference in Daventry proved a resounding success for leading mechanical and electrical engineering consultancy, Desco, as it led a thoughtprovoking seminar for industry insiders, on innovative new energy-saving techniques for the leisure sector.

The event, which was attended by hundreds of delegates from the industry, aimed to inspire and engage aquatics clubs for the future, with a forward-thinking and fresh look at best practice in the sector. As part of the conference, Desco Director David Wright, spoke to architects, contractors and key leisure sector insiders, on the latest state-of-the-art technology and new techniques in MEP design which are paving the way for more efficient and effective leisure facilities across the country.

The focus for the seminar was a case study on Redditch-based Abbey Stadium and the utilisation of waste heat from the nearby crematorium, a project and UK-first which Desco played a fundamental role in. David’s talk drew on this example and covered how the special technology installed at Redditch Crematorium is helping to save large quantities of money and significantly reduce energy use, transferring waste heat from crematorium emissions to support the heating of the stadium’s swimming pool. By reducing emissions that previously went straight into the atmosphere, the pool’s new heating system is harnessing waste energy in what has become an innovative, green and efficient project.

Commenting after the event, David Wright said: “I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to speak at the prestigious ASA Conference; this was the first time Desco has led a seminar at the event and it proved to be a real success. My seminar was greeted with some great feedback – it’s wonderful to see this topic providing such an interesting talking point, opening people’s eyes to the many possibilities for the future of swimming pool design.

“The Abbey Stadium project is an example of how thinking outside of the box and making use of the resources available to you, can have huge benefits both financially and to the environment. Shifting your mindset and tackling a project from a fresh and innovative standpoint can lead to a low carbon solution and the best possible outcome for all concerned and this was certainly the case with the Abbey Stadium project.

“Desco is committed to low carbon, energy efficient design across all of the initiatives we work on. We approach every new project in the same way to ensure our client ends up with the most cost effective and energy efficient system available to them. I hope this seminar has helped showcase some of the ways in which this can be done.”

With his strong background in the leisure sector and swimming pool design, David Wright has been involved in a wide range of forward-thinking projects, which capitalise on the most cutting edge technology available in the MEP sector. His project portfolio includes more than 40 pool projects throughout the UK including aquatic

centres with swimming pools and leisure waters, training facilities for professional sports players, sports science facilities, school sports and swimming pools, hydrotherapy pools, hotel and luxury health spa developments and bespoke swimming pools within individual residential properties. David’s role includes designing pool filtration, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, hot and cold water systems within a variety of building projects from small refurbishment schemes to major new multi-million pound developments.

The ASA Aquatics Conference is one of the leading events in the calendar for the leisure sector, where a wide range of educational workshops examining current industry standards and best practice, also took place.

For more information, also visit Desco’s website, www.desco.uk.com

Abbey Stadium exterior and swimming pool

DESIGN & BUILD | PROJECT MANAGEMENT | REFURBISHMENT SPRAYED CONCRETE SHELLS | RENDERING AND SCREED STRUCTURAL WATERPROOFING | TILING & FINISHES FILTRATION & PLANT | SPAS, SAUNA & STEAM

APS Pool Contracting is a professional swimming pool company based in Glastonbury in Somerset . The company offers the Leisure, Public & Private sectors a high quality, first class service, specialising in all aspects of swimming pool design, construction, maintenance, project management & finishing throughout the U.K. One of the U.K’s leading commercial pool refurbishment specialists, having over 30 years experience in the civil & mechanical engineering disciplines, and a highly skilled, fully qualified engineering and construction team, our work is carried out to the highest standards and complies with the latest legislation, Codes of Practice and Health & Safety Regulations.

APS

POOL CONTRACTING

clients ensuring that they are kept up to date at every stage of the project until completion.

We pride ourselves on the high standards of workmanship that we adhere to and we operate a process of continual evaluation to ensure that, as a company, we offer the highest standards available. We are very proud of our association with Government, Community and Nationally recognised bodies.

We are confident our customers can have total peace of mind that projects we undertake will be of the highest quality, delivered on budget and on time.

From Pool design through project management services to complete build and refurbishment, we work closely with our

We have the professionalism, the expertise and technical knowledge to provide the complete swimming pool service.

Unit 11, Dyehouse Lane, Glastonbury, Somerset, BA6 9LZ

Tel: 01458 833661 Fax: 01458 834331 Email: info@apspoolcontracting.co.uk

www.apspoolcontracting.co.uk

01480 410211 dryair@munters.co.uk www.munters.co.uk/pools-uk

Munters reduces maintenance and energy costs at Manchester Aquatics Centre Munters, a global leader in energy efficient air treatment, has recently refurbished three Munters MX series desiccant dehumidifiers at Manchester Aquatics Centre.

The refurbishment involved replacing all major components, the old reactivation exhaust duct work and retrofitting the dehumidifiers with Munters Energy Recovery Purge (ERP) technology in order to reduce running costs by approximately 20% per year while preserving the building fabric and optimising comfort.

Maintained by Serco Leisure Ltd, Manchester Aquatics Centre comprises of a 50m swimming pool, a 25m diving pool and a leisure pool with two water flumes and is home to the City of Manchester Swim team and the GB water polo team. There is also an additional 50m training pool used by the GB disability team, which played host to teams from Australia and Brazil during the London 2012 Olympic Games.

The need to refurbish and upgrade the dehumidifiers arose during discussions around routine maintenance. Andy Dove, Munters Service Area Manager says “Ensuring humidity is maintained to

55% relative humidity (RH) helps to protect the building from costly damage and ensures a comfortable environment for swimmers.”

Accurately controlling relative humidity levels in and around the pool is essential to preventing condensation on walls, ceilings and windows, which can lead to mould growth and result in unnecessary building maintenance and repairs.

Munters engineers worked closely with Manchester Aquatics Centre to adapt the proposed solution to use polypropylene instead of stainless steel for the reactivation exhaust duct work at the customer’s request.

The refurbishment has ensured a comfortable environment for swimmers and, by retrofitting Munters Energy Recovery Purge, predicted energy costs are reduced by 20% per year compared to the previous solution. By precisely controlling relative humidity to 55% all year round, the building is protected and call outs and maintenance costs will be significantly reduced, saving thousands of pounds per year. “Without this work taking place, we would not have been able to invest in new equipment” says Paul Rogers, Technical Manager for Serco Leisure. “I was also impressed by the Munters Service team, who carried out the work faster than I expected.”

For the full case study or for more information about Munters, visit www.munters.co.uk/pools-uk

Features: · Ensure long term protection against humidity damage · Reduce running costs by 20% · Consistent control of relative humidity year round

Consultants For Leisure Ltd are passionate about Wet Leisure. Our focus is on the client, and we are proud to be completely impartial and independent – free from ties with specific manufacturers and suppliers. This allows us to design and consult objectively and accurately, making sure that the client receives the correct specification for their project.

Key Areas Swimming Pools, Plunge Pools, Spa Pools, Hot Tubs, Steam Rooms, Saunas, Gyms and Water Features

Key Services Design and Specification, Project Management, Tender Preparation, Quotation Gathering, Contractor Suitability Studies, Consultancy, Water Treatment and Hygiene, Plant Room Audits and Asset Registers, COSHH and Chemical Handling, Health and Safety Audits.

Design, Specification and Consultancy Services Architects design leisure facilities, contractors build them, but what happens in between? Consultants For Leisure aim to bridge the gap between conception and realisation by offering impartial, independent design, specification and consultancy services. With over 12 years industry experience, and having managed projects for some of the most prestigious clients in the leisure arena, we are the obvious choice for Architects and Designers when presented with high end leisure facility project requirements. Our three main client packages offer maximum flexibility.

TQ Service As per the DS Package but also tender preparation, gather 3 quotes from local, reputable leisure installers including trade references. Consultation with developer/end user to offer advice and council on final contractor selection.

Full Project Management As per the TQ Service but also full Project Management including contractor liaison, trade timings, phase management, on-site contractor liaison.

DS Package Flow, Dynamics and Plant Design including, but not limited to, pool fittings, pipework and sizing, circulation, filtration, heating and chemical dosing.

Includes a full written report with engineering diagrams, product specification and written working / calculations.

Head Office Fort Horsted Business Centre, Primrose Close, Chatham, Kent, ME4 6HZ

Tel – 01622 370 878 Email – info@cfleisure.com www.facebook.com/ConsultantsForLeisure

@CFLeisure

www.cfleisure.com

Alliance Leisure Services Ltd Helping authorities create leisure facilities of the highest standards

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Alliance Leisure Services Ltd was established nearly 15 years ago, specifically to meet the changing development needs of the public sector, education and growing Leisure Trust Market.

The Company’s core business is the provision of facility development and support for local authorities, educational establishments and trusts that want to improve or expand the leisure products and services they offer.

The design, build and contract structure at Alliance Leisure Services Ltd enables development to be achieved without the need for capital expenditure.

Requirements are rentalised with payments made affordable from revenue created by the new facilities. The principal advantages are in risk management supported by a proven track record in delivering quality developments.

Facilities are delivered, fitted out and ready to operate before any payment commences. Development and payment costs are fixed, reducing financial exposure and eliminating cost overruns.

Alliance’s project management capability has been created in response to market demand for operators that do not need capital finance but still require the skills that development projects involve.

The Company can deliver a project from concept to completion, quickly and cost effectively, which accelerates income growth enabling a client to concentrate on its core business.

All projects are executed within a strong teamwork environment, with Alliance Leisure using professionals with a proven track record in delivering quality on a consistent basis, ensuring projects are completed to a high standard within an agreed, fixed budget.

Project management includes the whole package of project

requirements such as market analysis, feasibility reports and business planning, use of construction professionals, overall management and coordination responsibility, risk management, a planning supervisor role, equipment procurement, quality control, partnership and operational support, advice and guidance on specifications, contracting issues and facility management, and planning, costing, and design and build.

The Company has been involved in many significant developments, such as the £4M extension and refurbishment of Ramsgate Leisure Centre, in partnership with Your Leisure and Thanet District Council.

Representing an enhanced replacement of an aging swimming pool that was getting towards its shelf life, construction focused on the addition of a new build to the council’s dry sports centre – now home to a 25-metre swimming pool, learner pool, day spa, group cycling studio and a toning suite – as well as the upgrade of CV equipment in the on site gym.

Alliance Leisure raised the required funding from the city against Your Leisure’s commitment to pay back the investment over 20 years, using surplus revenues generated by the new facilities.

The Company works in the swimming pool and leisure arena, who can fund and deliver the projects or if the councils have the budget, Alliance can just deliver the projects.

If a bit of council money and private money is combined, the Company can provide the top up funding and deliver the project.

Many councils have been slimmed down and don’t have the resources they previously had to manage developments, therefore they cannot buy specifically in for a project and it becomes a turnkey project to them.

With leisure being a non-statutory service it is always vulnerable to being cut, so councils find themselves with aging facilities that are not usable in today’s market, under a huge amount of pressure to reduce operating costs but don’t want to close them down because of the politics involved.

Alliance can look at what they have got in terms of facilities and provide something for the social outcomes, improving the financial viability of the facility.

A good example is the regeneration of Deeside Leisure Centre, which has resulted in the largest refurbishment project of its kind in Wales with enhanced leisure provision, increased revenue and greater customer usage and satisfaction.

All of this has been achieved with no capital outlay by the authority.

Deeside had a disused ice rink that had been used for five-a-side football and street hockey. Alliance adapted this to an extreme sports hall and it now has more than 600 junior members paying a £20 monthly fee.

Getting young people engaged in this centre is not difficult so Alliance has ticked all the social boxes as well as making the scheme economically viable.

Creation of six five-a-side football pitches was part of Phase I of the project. Phase II saw development of a health and fitness facility and toning suite, with the first six months seeing the 80-station gym attract 1,500 live members and the toning suite sign more than 190 new members.

Both facilities generate a combined income of £350,000 per month and the total income since opening has increased by a massive 92%.

Phase III saw the opening of the first Welsh public day spa. The

self-sustaining facility, comprising four treatment rooms and a large heat experience, includes a herb sauna, crystal steam room, foot spas, a spa pool, heated loungers and a relaxation area.

The centre also launched the UK’s largest Extreme Centre, which attracts customers from up to 80 miles away.

It caters for climbers, BMX, skateboarders, scooters and inline skaters.

The project was delivered on time and within budget by Alliance Leisure, who has also helped with the recent growth in public luxury day spas in England following the completion of the Inside Spa facility in Pendle back in June 2007.

This area is known for a high level of deprivation and Pendle Care Trust had some regeneration funding with which to do some work. This was topped up by Alliance Leisure in order to incorporate new business and to put a day spa in there.

The £3M development was so popular and successful that a £220,000 extension was added to provide further relaxation, pampering and treatment rooms to the masses.

This extension comprises a relaxation room for large groups and clients waiting between spa use and treatments. A further four treatment rooms have been built and a large reception area is home to a manicure and pedicure bar.

Alliance’s success within this sector means it is and will continue to be committed into putting a lot of effort into what is happening in the market, supporting the operator in driving the revenue streams.

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Telescopic Pool Enclosures Builders of bespoke swimming pool buildings and enclosures

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Telescopic Pool Enclosures is a leading developer of bespoke swimming pool enclosures and can boast the only retractable enclosure in the UK from Austria that has a proper glazing system.

As such, it is the only retractable enclosure that can have all of the glazing easily replaced.

The Company has exclusive rights for the RORAL retractable or fixed swimming pool enclosure for the UK, EIRE and the Channel Islands, and can call upon the expertise of David Lawrence who has been involved with Telescopic Pool Enclosures since 1991 when he helped establish Eureka International as they started in the UK. The enclosures are the only retractable enclosure designed for glass of either six millimetres safety or 16mm sealed units and they are the only retractable enclosure in the UK using as standard 16mm triple walled polycarbonate, which makes them the most insulated enclosures that offer all year use without any additional heating other than the pool water.

Since 2006, the Company has also offered another complete range of retractable enclosures that offer a different price option, with low to medium height and high enclosures for smaller enclosures. These are not glass, but glazed with either eight or ten millimetres of twin walled polycarbonate or clear or bronze solid four millimetre transparent polycarbonate. So they are able to offer something for all pool and spa owners.

Also they have a range of retractable garden rooms for patio’s and even retractable car ports. Other applications that are catered for are restaurant extensions to allow an open or closed building weather permitting.

Telescopic Pool Enclosures also give customers peace of mind by offering full swimming pool enclosure warranty and after-sales service on the hundreds of buildings supplied and installed throughout the UK, EIRE and the Channel Islands.

Over the last 15 years, the Company has installed hundreds of telescopic pool buildings, all of which have been individually tailored to meet each client’s needs.

This quality is in no small part due to the diligence and commitment to the highest quality of David Lawrence and a highly skilled factory team that designs and manufactures both domestic telescopic pool enclosures and commercial swimming pool buildings, including a range of fixed pool buildings.

The swimming pool buildings are made to measure, which means

there is no standard price list, but the Company undertakes projects that cost between £18,500 - £30,000 for the ROLAL enclosures, and as little as £45,000 for the IPC products installed.

This includes VAT, and high domestic buildings cost anywhere between £18,000 to more than £100,000. Enclosures that are installed are constructed on site with their own skilled fitters and are done so usually within a two or three-week period. Larger enclosures can take longer, especially when using glulam beams to allow incorporation of walls, chalets and other buildings.

This approach differs from other companies that import completed enclosures into sections assembled on site within one day.

This can lead to difficulties and in comparison, the approach taken by Telescopic Pool Enclosures allows for any problems that may surface during installation, and results in a higher quality of product, increasing the Company’s reputation.

Its retractable enclosures are the only ones available with a glazing system. Others have glazing material held within a trench in their aluminium extrusion, some without gasket that allows for much flexing of the glazing material.

Some glazing is plexiglass – most common as it is cheaper than clear solid polycarbonate – but is not hailstone resistant, will often discolour and may become brittle and break.

When this happens, it is not easy to replace the whole enclosure and it may need to be scrapped. This is something that is not an issue with Telescopic Pool Enclosures and its double glazed retractable building product.

Roof glazing can be solar reflective to reduce heat gain. Also the glass maybe self-cleaning and is easily cleaned unlike plastic that will mark and is difficult to clean and can be affected by bird droppings.

Uniquely, the Company can also add sections to the ROLAL enclosures to a six-section enclosure at a later date may have another section or two added for a gym or hottub, making the enclosure seven or eight sections.

With work on a variety of commercial and domestic buildings, the success of Telescopic Pool Enclosures is sure to continue.

The retractable enclosures are tracked, offered in any RAL colour for no extra charge and have no problem with difficult access or sites.

Telescopic Pool Enclosures in the trading name of Extensions in Glass Ltd and will undertake on behalf of clients all planning and building regulations as and when applicable.

Telescopic Pool Enclosures

Bespoke Swimming Pool Enclosure Design & Build

Use Your Swimming Pool, Hot Tub or Patio ALL YEAR Telescopic Pool Enclosures Fixed or Retractable Buildings Any Colour - Multiple Designs - Planning & Building Regulations undertaken - 30 years experience - Best Retractable Enclosure in UK being constructed on site - Affordable.

Reduced Heating Costs - Reduced Chemical & Maintenance - Safety Increased with Security and many more advantages

100’s of installations throughout the UK - Only Bespoke Retractable enclosure in UK with proper glazing system designed for glass - Single or Double Glazed - Domestic or Commercial - Restaurant Hotel & Pub Retractable extensions also Fixed Buildings and Contemporary Glass

Extensions in Glass Ltd Unit 1 The Malvern's Cherry Orchard Lane Salisbury Wilts SP2 7JG

Telephone: David Lawrence 01722 323460 or 07718180511 Email: telescopicpoolenclosures@yahoo.co.uk www.telescopicpoolenclosures.com - www.extensionsinglass.co.uk www.swimmingpoolbuildings.com

Model Aquatic Health Code Set to Reduce Outbreaks of Cryptosporidiosis

For further information, please contact atg UV Technology on +44(0)1942 216161, email info@atguv.com or visit www.atguv.com

T:+44(0)1942 216161

www.atguv.com

atg UV Technology - ECL & SX Range the clear market leader for swimming pool disinfection & chloramine reduction

FT Leisure FT Leisure specialises in the provision of innovative products and professional technical services to the commercial, municipal and private swimming pool industries. The range of services includes the design, manufacture, installation, commissioning and/or refurbishment and maintenance of water treatment and filtration systems, moveable floors, booms and disabled access platforms, ozone and UV sterilisation, wave machines, luxury spa facilities and leisure water features.

FT Leisure’s dominance of the municipal swimming industry is reflected in the large number of high profile projects that the Company has secured in recent months including Coventry’s AT7 Centre, Northampton Boys School, the Elephant & Castle Leisure Centre and Kensington Leisure Centre.

The services being provided on these projects include water treatment and filtration systems (on all projects), moveable floors and booms, disabled access systems and various leisure water feature.

Dundee Olympia

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One recently completed FT Leisure project, the new £31M Olympia Sports Centre, is making waves around Dundee’s waterfront boasting four flumes and a 50-metre six lane FINA standard competition pool complete with a four metre deep diving section, a large free-form wave pool and a separate toddlers’ pool. The complex also houses a gym and a cafe.

The Olympia’s pool has a 15.4-metre x 11.3-metre moveable floor system which can be raised or lowered for training sessions or aqua-fitness classes. There is separate seating for

competitors and spectators and the pool can also be split into two via a traversable boom system; a submersible boom can section off the diving pit; and there are two disabled access platform systems to assist bathers with mobility impairment.

There are four exhilarating GRP tubular water flumes ranging in diameter and resultant ride speeds; three of these terminate within poolside aqua-catches but the fourth, nicknamed ‘The Cannonball’, terminates at 3.5-metres above the diving section of the main competition pool. This was designed to replicate the slide in the original Dundee Olympia built in the 1960s.

To enhance the flumes, there are a number of sensations including crystal clear tube sections, daylight rings and a ‘Splash Encounters’ system which projects 3D images onto a mist within the tube; users choose an image that will appear in front of them as they descend - one of the options is a shark’s wide open mouth! This technology is unique in the UK. The wave pool contains a pneumatically operated wave machine providing a number of exciting wave patterns which run to the beach area of the pool. In addition, this pool contains a river ride system and various water features such as base geysers, water cannon and sprays.

The toddler pool has been designed with a large play structure with multiple interactive sprays, jets, a small tubular slide and a large tipping bucket. There are also a number of additional water attractions to keep the children busy!

FT Leisure was responsible for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of all the water treatment and filtration systems, the water supplies to all features and flumes, the

wave machine, the river ride, the moveable floor system, the traversable and submersible booms, the disabled access platforms and the innovative control systems.

Each of the pools has dedicated water treatment and filtration systems located in the expansive basement plant rooms. The filtration system is based on traditional medium rate pressure sand filtration; water treatment is via sodium hypochlorite solution and hydrochloric acid, which are separately injected into the pool water return-lines before final delivery to the various inlets. The hypochlorite maintains a minimum chlorine residual and the hydrochloric acid corrects the pH levels. There is also provision for adding an ancillary chemical if needed, such as sodium bicarbonate for alkalinity correction. Poly aluminium chloride solution is also injected pre-filtration to provide a flocculant on top of the filter bed; this solution aids the removal of fine colloidal matter and suspended solids.

The controls philosophy, which operates all of these systems, is probably the most advanced for any pool in Europe. There is a central SCADA panel which monitors and operates every component including a fully automated backwashing system.

To provide this level of automation, all of the filter frontal valves and backwash valves are pneumatically actuated. The SCADA system contains full 3D rendered images of all the pool plant so that operators can easily identify components. The control system is networked with the building management system and any faults or system readings can be accessed remotely using the SCADA system IP address. Reports on faults can also be emailed direct from the filtration control system.

New Website

The Dundee Olympia project and many more can be seen on FT Leisure’s new website. The website, which has been completely redesigned, includes an expanded and restructured products and services section, a comprehensive projects area with a wealth of new content and images and ‘people’ pages so people can put faces to the names they know.

Visit the site - www.ftleisure.co.uk - for more information or phone 0161 494 5785

Recent Projects

Wakefield Leisure Centre Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre Glenrothes Leisure Centre The Dundee Olympia Tipton Leisure Centre Hayes Station Road Chase Leisure Centre Tollcross Aquatic Centre Snitterton Hall Bulgari Hotel & Residences York Sports Village

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From being a family run business, Alpha Wellness Sensations has now become one of the world market leaders in the sauna, wellness and spa industry.

Our portfolio of products grew steadily every year, and it comprises more than 100 standard models of traditional and infrared saunas, sunbeds, steam baths and garden furniture. We develop functional and qualitative products that correspond to the modern tendencies of the world we live in. All our products are manufactured in Europe using the best raw materials, responsibly-sourced wood and last generation technologies.

We implement everything, from the small private dream sauna to the luxury hotel spa.

Creating your personal wellness product with Alpha Wellness Sensations is a unique experience, an opportunity both to express yourself through the skills of our experienced team and to create an item of extraordinary beauty and lasting quality for your residential or public wellness area. Every custom-made product is a challenge for our team; we will find the path to bring it into being.

Doing something well is the first step on the path to wellness. Choose a reliable partner for your wellness projects, choose Alpha Wellness Sensations.

Alpha Wellness Sensations Stadsheide 27 Hasselt, Belgium

info@alpha-wellness-sensations.eu www.alpha-wellness-sensations.eu +32 11 301380

in association with

Swimming Pool Finish Sole European distributor for EcoFinish ® and aquaBRIGHT® For many years swimming pools have been finished with vinyl liners, mosaics and more recently various types of pool plaster.

Plaster has issues, in the form of a long and complicated start up procedure, staining, shrinking and cracking, etc. The problems with vinyl liners are fading, staining from sun tan lotions which cannot be cleaned, bleaching from pool chemicals and poorly maintained pH levels cause creasing in a short period of time. Not forgetting pool paint that will chip and need re-coating every year.

Swimming pool liners, pool plasters and mosaics are only water resistant. This means that using aquaBRIGHT®, our high quality thermal powder coating system will give a far superior finish and long lasting solution to your pool shell problems.

The benefits of aquaBRIGHT®

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••Flexible and durable ••Watertight ••10-year guarantee ••Two-three day application ••Can be filled immediately or whenever you choose ••pH neutral ••UV stable ••Temperatures can be from –30 to +50 degrees ••Can be applied to concrete/masonry, fibreglass, aluminium and steel ••Environmentally friendly ••An anti-slip texture can be applied to entry/exit area’s ••Colour on colour can be applied for a unique design, race lanes, edge definition, etc.

••No mess application ••Little to no waste ••Cost effective aquaBRIGHT® comes in a choice of eight colours, with specific colours available on request (subject to factory approval and surcharges). Your swimming pool can be finished in more than one colour should you required race lanes, edge definition or an anti-slip coating on access areas. aquaBRIGHT® is the perfect solution for commercial swimming pools and spas as their finish becomes affected quickly due to the high temperature to which they are subjected to. Spas are typically drained every two weeks and acid washed and cleaned.

This regiment is very destructive to traditional pool finishes.

However, aquaBRIGHT® eliminates these pool shortcomings.

In addition, aquaBRIGHT® cannot be damaged by acid washing, so if your pool or spa has lost its lustre, aquaBRIGHT® will make it shine like new again.

Having worked within the swimming pool industry for more than 20 years, Glenn Burbridge, Managing Director, saw the major benefits that aquaBRIGHT® has to offer and therefore brought it into the UK and Europe to solve many of the common problems that other finishes have.

As a fully qualified ISPE (Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers), Glenn has been involved in the construction of pools ranging from children’s play pools to commercial and designer leisure facilities.

Primarily dealing with the trade and commercial markets, Swimming Pool Finish offer training and support to those wishing to apply their products to a wide variety of surfaces.

There is such a thing as a worry free finish

in association with

AquaBright is watertight, pH neutral, UV stable and chemical resistant; It can be used on fibreglass, concrete, aluminium and steel swimming pools; No need to change existing pool fittings; 8 colours to choose from. Unlike pool plaster, it can be used out of the water for fountains, waterfalls/water-features, diving boards, slides etc. Typical domestic standard size pool can be completed within 2 days. AquaBright can have an anti-slip texture to entry/exit areas suitable for domestic and commercial applications.

For new and existing swimming pools / projects

Through our network of professional installers we are able to offer the following services:Repair, Maintenance and Refurbishment of Existing Pools and Spas.

Complete Design and Build Service.

Re-Coat Spas, Pools, Hand Rails, Diving Boards, Copings and much more.

Free Quotation and Consultation for New Builds, Refurbishments and Repairs

Unit 1, Littleworth Business Park, Bexley, Greater London, DA5 2AW European Sales and Admin:+44 (0) 1322 551 476 - Out of hours Service:+44 (0) 7772 391 557 Email: glenn.burbridge@ecofinish.co.uk - www.swimmingpoolfinishes.co.uk

Swimfin

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When I was first introduced to the Swimfin in our last issue of SwimCONSTRUCT, I was intrigued with the concept but rather sceptical of whether it would work, its usability and whether children would actually enjoy wearing it.

The following weekend I took my toddler to our local pool, she is quite young and not ready for lessons yet, but she has always enjoyed splashing and floating around the pool since she was very little.

This time her confidence has grown so much she was pushing mummy and daddy away, not wanting them to help her – although her body still needs the support, every time she got away she was sinking. She obviously wanted to ‘swim’ even though she’s not quite capable on her own yet and not of an age to take instructions at lessons. Having booked a holiday in Scotland for September – we were prepared to spend quite some time in the resort’s pool and I decided we need some sort of swimming aid for her to let her confidence in the water grow.

Looking around the pool, it was then that I realised the Swimfin would probably be quite useful, even at this very young age. I watched the other children with their various buoyancy aids; arm bands were quite restrictive and still require the child to be able to support their own body; float noodles/tubes require the child to hold onto the float and are quite unwieldy; swim jackets/vests required the addition of floats and were too large for my rather small toddler; baby seated floats were too young for her now; old school floats that I used when learning to swim, again required her to hold on and as I recall soon became quite tatty and ‘mouse-eaten’.

Still with some doubts, I spoke to the Swimfin people and they happily agreed to send me a Swimfin to try out for myself and see what we thought.

When it arrived I was quite impressed with the product, it seemed well made and unlikely to look worn as it was finished very well.

I took it home to my daughter and it was with some reservation that she allowed me to chase her round the room to get the Velcro straps around her. However, once she saw herself in the mirror and stopped trying to pull the fin off, she loved it and happily spent the evening running round the room with the fin strapped to her back – it even had to join us for bathtime.

We spent a week or so getting her used to the Swimfin, letting her run around with it on until she was more used to the idea of wearing it and less likely to try pulling it off once we got in the pool.

Once on holiday, the Swimfin was a revelation. My toddler adored wearing it and once in the pool she was happily splashing around with little supervision needed. The Swimfin helped keep her whole body level rather than just her arms, as armbands may have done, and we had a hard time getting her out of the pool!

Following our holiday we took some time out to visit family and while there we visited their local pool. The Swimfin was shared between my toddler and my niece, who has recently started school. My niece is further along in her swimming competence than my daughter and she is already swimming on her own with aids, however the Swimfin was a fantastic addition for her as it really boosted her confidence with lone swimming.

Both my daughter and her cousin loved the style of the Swimfin once it was on and the product was stable enough to not only survive the battling between them to wear it, but to bring home and use time and time again. It seemed to do the job perfectly and is a brilliant addition to the pool changing bag.

Vicky Lee Editor, SwimCONSTRUCT For more information about Swimfin please visit: www.swimfin.co.uk/ or email: info@swimfin.co.uk

The new standard in commercial pool chlorination

Eliminates the delivery & handling of hazardous chemicals No chemical injector maintenance No pressurised chemical feed lines Manufactured in the UK Installation, service & support from approved partners throughout the UK

Find out more about the benefits of Hyprolyser on-site electrochlorination at www.hyprolyser.com or call us on 01254 350180 Gaffey Technical Services Ltd Unit 3a Newhouse Road, Huncoat Business Park, Accrington, Lancashire BB5 6NT t. 01254 350180 e. info@gaffey.co.uk www.hyprolyser.com

Pollet Pool Group Pollet Pool Group UK (PPG UK) is an operating division of Kennet Water Components Ltd

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Kennet Water Components Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Pollet Group, which is a family owned business, based in Belgium founded in 1969. The Group has over 40 companies from Ireland across to Turkey and down to Angola.

Two of the Group’s key business areas are water treatment and swimming pools, where they operate distribution based businesses that offer high levels of customer service and technical back up. They are stock holding distributors and expect to ship a very high percentage of orders, from stock, within 24 hours of order receipt. Their aim, wherever possible, is to distribute high quality products, preferably of market leading brands and forge strong relationships with their suppliers and customers.

When PPG UK was formed in 2004, Peter Evans (MD) realised the value of joining SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association) as a Trade Supplier member. PPG was quick to embrace their membership, attending regional meetings and helping their customers with advice that met SPATA standards.

PPG attended its first SPATEX (The Annual UK Trade Exhibition) in 2004; 2013 was the Group’s tenth consecutive year as an exhibitor at the exhibition. Carl Porter, who joined PPG last year as the Divisional Manager, said: “SPATEX is very important for us because it gives us the opportunity to showcase our products to customers and contribute to the success of the show where profits are used for the benefit of the industry”.

SPATEX 2014 takes place at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry on 2-4 February 2014.

Carl is a past President of the BSPF (British Swimming Pool

Federation) and previous SPATA committee member so the enthusiasm for the organisation continues within PPG. “Recent seminars, regional meetings and networking opportunities have proved invaluable for PPG as we move forward,” he said.

PPG believe the industry needs to get ahead of current challenges in the market. Carl said: “We should utilise existing customers more – making them aware of new technologies and products and the opportunities for upgrades is essential.”

Promoting key products and offering training is a fundamental ethos for the Group in the UK. The exclusive Heat Perfector heat pump range is a product that PPG is proud of and training days are often held for key products.

All Heat Perfector warranty work is undertaken through PPG in the UK and the same applies to the Group’s other mechanical products within the catalogue portfolio.

With the recent appointment as Distributor for the Bayrol Chemical brand in the UK, PPG will be undertaking ongoing training and a series of seminars will be announced for the 2014 season.

SPATEX will be the platform for the group to update dealers about the partnership and the whole team will be on hand to discuss the future opportunities.

During the SPATEX weekend, PPG will be supporting the annual SPATA Swimming Pool Design Awards by sponsoring two award categories.

The Group look forward to welcoming enquiries from new prospective customers and moving forward into an exciting and positive 2014 in the UK pool and spa industry.

Commercial Leisure Supplies for Commercial Leisure Professionals www.cfleisuredirect.com

Head Office Fort Horsted Business Centre, Primrose Close, Chatham, Kent, ME4 6HZ

Tel – 01622 370 878 Email – info@cfleisure.com www.facebook.com/ConsultantsForLeisure

@CFLeisure

www.cfleisuredirect.com

Craig Bragdy Design

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Providing the world’s most spectacular swimming pool ceramics Based in Denbigh, North Wales, Craig Bragdy Design is a highly specialised and innovative company producing the world’s most exciting and spectacular swimming pool designs and handmade mosaics for luxury swimming pools. The Company has also produced highly decorative mosaics and ceramics for more than 50 years.

At the heart of the Company are three people – Jean, Nick and Shon Powell. Jean started the business with her husband Rhys in the 1950s and 20 years later had built up an outstanding track record, with orders received from all over the world. Shon and Nick have an active role in their family business and have helped to cultivate it into the world-class company that it is today.

Craig Bragdy Design can call upon an excellent team

of skilled artists, designers and factory workers all working in complete harmony to create the clients’ vision of their own spectacular swimming pool.

Hard working individuals are employed, primarily with an artistic background; all of who possess the creative flair necessary. The Practice also employs trainees who are taught in the traditional techniques of clay work and hand glazing to produce the handmade tiles and mosaics.

Each member of staff is given a three-month trial period to get up to speed with mainstream production and senior staff ensure the smooth running of every project so it is completed to the highest possible standard.

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All of the Practice’s products are tailored to the needs of each individual client, taking into account specific ideas and requirements. Services are aimed at residential homes and for large-scale commercial projects.

One example of the quality work provided by Craig Bragdy Design was for a private pool in the USA called Charging Renaissance Horses.

Completed in 2011, the project came about through a recommendation from the client’s architect, which shows just how popular Craig Bragdy Design is and the reputation it has gained within the industry.

As with most projects of the Practice, it started with a clean sheet of paper. The client and architect had initial thoughts that inspired the first designs before the focus became firmly routed on ‘equestrianising’ the base of the swimming pool.

The rustic style of the client’s villa was considered and the colourful Hispanic culture featured in some early sketches.

The Practice’s designers then worked up detailed visuals that stay true to this vision while incorporating the rich characteristics of handmade ceramics.

As discussions developed it became clear that a principle was being established – to complement rather than mimic the client’s exterior architectural style – an elegant home of classical and generous proportions.

Bold Italian renaissance sculpture pieces became the favoured inspiration, which satisfied the client’s request for a sympathetic and appropriate connection with their passion for horses, without disrupting the formal and elegant atmosphere planned for the property.

This type of success has helped Craig Bragdy Design grow from a modest family business that makes small tile panels for exhibitions to distributing and fitting swimming pool designs as part of a world-class company.

Moving forward, the Company’s sales have increased by 25% in the past year and with an order book full until next summer, success will continue.

Harris Pools & Leisure Ltd Multi-award winning company celebrating 30 years in business

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Harris Pools & Leisure Ltd was established in 1983 by Mike Harris and has built a strong reputation in building, maintaining, servicing and supplying pools, hot tubs and wet leisure equipment.

Based in Torquay, the Company has five full-time members of staff including two directors and three engineers.

What is all the more impressive about the recent success of Harris Pools is that it has been achieved against a backdrop of the worst economic conditions in the UK since the 1930s.

Mike Harris reveals the key reasons as to why the Company has been so successful. He said: “We deliver an attention to detail and a meticulous personal service which other companies simply cannot offer.

“We have a fantastic team of industry qualified engineers and showroom staff who have worked tirelessly over the years to make Harris Pools synonymous with excellence in service and customer care. Perhaps this is why so much of our work comes to us via customer recommendations and referrals.”

This anniversary has also coincided with the retirement of Mike, who has passed over the reins to Kris German and Glen Gardiner. Mike said: “I am delighted that the business is going forward in the very safe hands of Kris and Glen.

“They have many, many years of combined experience in the industry and are held in enormous affection and respect by all our customers.”

The Company’s continuing quality was recognised at last month’s inaugural European Pool and Spa Awards (EUSA) in Cologne, where Kris and Glen were presented with the silver award in the Domestic Spas and Hot Tubs category.

Their entry impressed EUSA judges, who described the winning installation as: “Set in the beautiful rolling hills of the British countryside, this hot tub sets off its integrated infinity pool wonderfully. Curved lines and radiating timber boards make a strong and positive contribution to the stunning

landscape, encapsulating tranquillity and outdoor living.”

Kris and Glen collected their award, supported by Chris Hayes, British Swimming Pool Federation Managing Director. Chris comments: “We were thrilled by this year’s results, proving incredibly popular and creating tough decisions for the judges, with a shortlist of 71 entries across three categories.

“The excellent work displayed by our members defines the industry and celebrates the exceptional standards of our members and their professionalisms.

“I am sure that consumers across the UK and Ireland can be secure in the knowledge that a company with SPATA/BISHTA approval are a business of trust and superior standards.”

This award was for the Kingswear Hot Tub, after the customer expressed an interest in having a tub in keeping with the shape of the pool and the house.

The development has provided the hot tub, electrics, block and rendered step around the tub, and bespoke slabs around the tub.

Harris Pools constantly has open dialogue with customers so the plans and targets for the pool were all discussed, as were customer requirements and timescales, ensuring the correct tub was provided for the job.

A pit to a perfect circle had to be built with 50mm around the perimeter. This had to be sunk, which required some drainage work too.

Costing less than £10,000, it has resulted in a hot tub shell that is sustainable and therefore guaranteed to last for 25 years, and Harris Pools was rightly commended for such a high quality project.

Moving forward, the future is certainly bright for Harris Pools, with a larger client base being created further afield and with the launch of its online store and Facebook page, the Company is sure to be delighting customers for the next 30 years in the same way as the last 30.

Holding extensive stock of quality water leisure products.

With over 30 years of experience in the industry.

TRADE ONLY WHOLESALERS Talk to the UK team today to ďŹ nd out how we can make a difference to your sales this summer. www.ppgeurope.com

E: sales@polletpoolgroup.co.uk

T: +44 (0)1635 234038

West Bromwich Leisure Centre Important regeneration for the residents of Sandwell

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Work is well on track on the new West Bromwich Leisure Centre on the corner of Barton Street and Moore Street.

After a lengthy tender process, DC Leisure and building partner Pellikaan Construction Ltd were awarded the contract to design, build, operate and maintain the new centre, which is due to open next summer.

Pellikaan, the building contractor, has been involved from the tender stage, working closely with DC Leisure and Roberts Limbrick to develop this high quality and feasible design and build sports complex, which will be completed in summer 2014.

Facilities in the new centre will include a 25m pool, learner pool, sauna and steam room, four-court sports hall, 100-station fitness suite, two dance studios/activity rooms, indoor children’s adventure play centre and café.

It is located on a sloping site in an area comprising of housing, shops, primary healthcare and police station, near to West Bromwich town centre.

Local involvement and regeneration are important factors for the project, stimulated by the enthusiasm and support from Sandwell Council.

The centre has benefitted Future Skills Sandwell students by providing training and employment opportunities and at least ten local students are involved in the construction.

Designed by Roberts Limbrick Ltd, the building will be two-storeys and benefit from glulam beams. It is a steel frame, composite steel structure with a concrete floor.

A special time capsule was buried on the site when work first started, containing a snapshot of life in 2013 and was buried by two Future Skills Sandwell apprentices.

The capsule contained West Bromwich Albion memorabilia, local newspapers, information about the area’s regeneration and even an Argos catalogue to show future generations the gadgets and gizmos available in 2013.

Sandwell deputy leader Councillor Steve Eling said: “With doom and gloom in the headlines, coming into West Bromwich and seeing fantastic regeneration and redevelopment

work underway creates a really positive feeling.

“We are proud of the new opportunities planned for our young people and are confident that we are helping to grow a skilled and employable workforce.”

All parts of the centre are linked by a central main street/ concourse. The circulation concourse will be filled with natural light and exposed glulam beams, while main facilities will be accessed with a lift and feature stairs.

The first floor sports hall will be linked to the studio and the main pool will have exposed glulam beams and spectator seating.

A soft play area will be incorporated within a feature drum with coloured glazing and glazed screens to the café area and there will be a central welcoming reception accessed through automatic bi-parting glazed doors.

Facilities for the disabled will include accessible toilets and changing facilities as well as disabled parking and the centre will be secured through CCTV and fire alarms throughout the facility.

Hard and soft landscaping will both be included at the centre as well as car parking.

It is challenging working on a site close to a residential area because work has to be organised at the best times to avoid noise pollution, but this is something all involved in the scheme are committed to achieving.

Councillor Paul Moor, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “This is just one of a whole host of new leisure centres Sandwell Council is building. We are investing in the future to make sure people have modern, high quality leisure facilities.”

Tom Watson MP for West Bromwich East said: “The new leisure centre will be another great boost to West Bromwich, alongside the many improvements taking place in the town, including the recently opened New Square development. ”For years, the people of West Bromwich have demanded a brand new swimming pool to replace the Gala Baths and now the council is delivering such a facility. I am sure the leisure centre will be well used by the community when it opens next year.”

Most energy efficient swimming pool in The Netherlands Two 25-metre pools, one of which with diving boards and a moveable floor; a leisure pool with current, air seats and a slide; a toddler’s pool and a training pool. Added up, the Local Authority Swimming Pool in Zwolle, The Netherlands, offers approximately 1,575sq m of water surface. In addition, there is a restaurant, spectator seating and several areas for clubs and fitness.

International sports and leisure construction specialist, Pellikaan, won the tender for this project based on design, maintenance and operation criteria.

Minimise use of water and energy

Zwolle Council wanted to focus on energy efficiency and asked Pellikaan to take this into account in the design and build process. Within the theme of sustainability, energy efficiency has priority at Pellikaan: minimising the use of water and energy is a highly effective way to protect the environment and to save costs.

Swimming pools are energy consuming buildings by nature, and a lot can be gained by efficient design of the construction, as well as the installations.

Having designed and built hundreds of swimming pools in The Netherlands, the UK, Germany and Belgium, Pellikaan learned from practice and the Company continuously ensures that the international experience is translated to each new project.

For the Zwolle pool, the Company worked in a design and engineering team to develop a package of measures which save energy, water and maintenance costs.

Examples include an optimum location facing the sun, high insulation values, the indoor instead of outdoor slide, low-pressure pool filters, highly efficient motors in the air handling units, heat recovery from water and condensation, grey-water circuit and LED lighting.

In addition to minimising use of water and energy, renewable energy is available due to the use of a biomass installation, solar boiler and 2,550sq m of photovoltaic panels.

Zwolle now has one of the most energy efficient swimming pools that can be realised at this time.

The experience of more than 900 leisure centres

For more inspiration visit www.pellikaan.co.uk or call us on 0208 392 93 55

SCS Exhibitions Ltd Organising UK group participations at overseas events and trade shows since 1989

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Having started the business in 1987 this family run company initially organised events in the UK within the electronics industry and then in 1989 started organising UK pavilions at overseas shows. The first event was held in Japan, followed soon after with events in China, Germany and the USA. SCS Exhibitions still organise UK events today with shows in the film and broadcast sector and the semiconductor industry. However, it’s their knowledge and expertise in the export industry and global exhibitions that has really defined the Company’s structure in recent years.

The first event which SCS became involved with the wet leisure sector was Piscina Barcelona in 2001, since that time the Company has been arranging UK groups and UK company participations at events such as Piscine in Lyon, Middle East Pool & Spa Expo Dubai, Piscine Abu Dhabi, Splash Singapore, Waves Expo India and of course Piscina Barcelona. During the past 12 years involvement within the wet leisure industry, SCS has supported and helped more than 100 UK wet leisure industry companies reach export markets with the contribution of UKTI funding assisting towards the costs of UK companies exhibiting overseas.

SCS Exhibitions pride themselves on offering a personal and professional service by coordinating the participation for UK companies at these global events through securing prime space, arranging stand build from simple shell scheme to complex custom builds, assisting with logistics, accommodation, translation and interpreters, marketing and a host of other services including the opportunity for UK companies to access grants and funding through UK Trade & Investment. In addition to the individual services offered to each company participating, the SCS hospitality lounge has become a tradition now at many of these international shows and offers a place not only where exhibiting companies can relax, network and entertain customers, but also a location where visiting UK companies can also conduct business.

The recent Piscina Barcelona event in October was the 4th event this year where SCS have coordinated a UK presence and following the event we caught up with event Directors Rob and Bert Saunders to get their view on the success of this event and others which they have attended this year.

Rob Saunders commented: “Over the years we have been very continued page 44 >

Experts in UV Treatment The use of UV disinfection for aquatics is growing fast.

From small swimming pools, to large municipal leisure centres and water theme parks, the inclusion of UV treatment is now becoming standard practise for many aquatic facilities worldwide.

The aquatics industry has been seeking alternative ways of disinfecting water, protecting against chlorine resistant microorganisms and reducing the organic loading of water.

As an independent UK manufacturer, atg UV Technology Strives to define the market with innovative designs and related technologies.

Contact us today to find out how atg UV can exceed your expectations: Tel: +44(0)1942 216161 Web: www.atguv.com

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pleased and honoured to work with so many proactive UK manufacturers and suppliers reach out to global markets. This year alone we have been involved in four major shows within the wet leisure industry spanning from Singapore to India to Spain. Next year we have another exciting programme of events and we are anticipating organising groups again to Waves in India and Piscine in Lyon and we are hoping to add other shows such as Interbad in Stuttgart and Pool, Spa & Patio in USA. It’s evident from the past 12 years that the export market plays a very important role in the success of UK manufacturers within the wet leisure industry and with the available funding from UK Trade and Investment to exhibit at overseas shows we would like to encourage any UK company that is considering opportunities overseas to contact us.”

In addition to the support for overseas events Rob Saunders was also instrumental in establishing the UK Pool & Spa Expo through again another family business which he runs with his wife Claire called NEW Events Ltd. Rob continued: “Claire and I were actively encouraged by some of the exhibitors which we had worked with on the overseas shows

to bring a pool and spa event to the Midlands. We launched UK Pool & Spa Expo in 2013 to offer the UK industry an event which was centrally located with excellent transport links and to grow an event which would encourage more international participation both in terms of visitors and exhibitors. The launch show was a success and we are now looking forward to the 2014 event, which will take place from 20–22 February at the NEC, Birmingham.

We have some really exciting developments for the next event., not only are we growing our exhibitor base considerably with participation from companies in France, Spain, Germany, USA, Canada, Holland, Hungary, Sweden, Belgium and Austria, but we are also working with the NSPF in the USA who will be bringing their CPO certification courses to the UK for the first time ever. Plus we are co-located with the Camping & Caravan show which will bring this trade and consumer element to UK Pool & Spa Expo.”

To find out more about the UK Pavilions at any overseas event or for information on UK Pool & Spa Expo please email either rob@scs-expo.co.uk or rob@neweventsltd.com

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Exhibitor Comments

Archbond introduced a very competitively priced new cover material in Barcelona to their European professional pool cover manufacturers.

Aimed at the domestic market ECO 3D was widely appreciated as a bubble cover alternative with the added attraction of 30% better thermal efficiency than a 5mm top of the range bubble.

In addition to welcoming longstanding clients to the booth many new enquiries were received especially from Eastern Europe. The services provided by SCS make exhibiting a far less stressful experience, which is why Archbond has taken advantage of their unparalleled competence for many years.

Brian Nokes, Archbond www.archbond.com

Piscina Barcelona was an excellent opportunity for LaMotte Europe to showcase the new revolutionary SpinLab as well as the existing pool and spa product range.

The ability to meet with our established business partners as well as make many new contacts was expertly facilitated in every aspect by SCS Exhibitions in conjunction with UKTI in the UK Pavilion at the show.

SCS Exhibitions provided the platform for LaMotte Europe to enhance our European sales growth strategies in the Pool & Spa market sector.

Tim Schofield, LaMotte Europe www.lamotte-europe.com

The focus for The Canadian Spa Company was to introduce dealers to our new range of products which includes the new ‘easy to assemble’ Muskoka portable spa which comes in a box.

We also showcased the new ‘Fraser Gazebo package’ which includes a bar counter with four stools together with a choice of colour matched decking tiles (optional) to complete the package.

In addition we exhibited our extended range of covers and cover lifters.

Gordon Wright, The Canadian Spa Co. www. canadianspacompany.co.uk

Piscina Barcelona proved to be an interesting show for Thermalec Pool & Spa products this year. A smaller exhibition than in previous years but some very good, positive interest shown in all our products, in particular our Electrochlorinators, Anodes and Salt Chlorinators.

Visitors also had the opportunity to see first-hand the new colours of our Pool & Spa heaters, including the now expanded Zenith range and the new Titanium model.

Carole Dingle, Thermalec www.thermalec.co.uk

ITS Europe had a great response for our new products on display – the Pool eXact® EZ and Spa eXact® EZ that are our first consumer oriented photometers priced just under e110.

We are also proud to launch our brand new eXact® iDip™ photometer which can connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth Smart. More information on our website www.sensafe.com Maris Egle, ITS Europe www.itseurope.co.uk

Darlly Europe was generally pleased with the show, it had genuine international appeal. The exhibition gave us an opportunity to meet some new contacts and renew some old acquaintances.

Darlly are the Number One supplier of Pool & Spa filter cartridges in Europe so exhibitions like Piscina Barcelona are important to us.

Gil Gingell, Darlly Europe www.darllyeurope.com

Fantastic show, Bert and his team were extremely helpful and make sure it was a stress free experience. Everything was set up on arrival - all we had to do was to display our samples. We all look forward to working with Bert and his team again very soon.

Rochelle Solomon, Swimming Pool Finishes www. swimmingpoolfinishes.co.uk

Piscina produced excellent leads for us, from all over Europe. We were extremely pleased to receive specific enquiries, in addition to those visitors who wanted to learn more about our technology. It was a great opportunity to showcase our pool products and to meet prospective customer’s face-to-face.’

Duncan Ockendon, International Sales Manager www.atguv.com

Piscina Barcelona has been one of Triogen’s highlights of the year. It once again provided an invaluable event to meet face to face with our existing and potential business partners from across Spain and wider international leisure markets. Thank you to all who visited.

Keith Glass, Triogen www.triogen.com

SPA-ESPANA, the leading supplier of spare parts for hot tubs in Spain, found the show to be very successful.

Bill and Zoila were kept constantly busy throughout the four days by Spanish technicians and engineers, who were very interested in the products and service that SPA-ES offers – absolutely brilliant!

Bill Norris, SPA-ES www.spa-es.es

The Piscina Barcelona exhibition was a great success for us at Elecro Fluid Dynamics! It was a pleasure to catch up with familiar faces and greet new ones at our stand. Thank you for taking the time to talk to us about our products.

Electro Engineering Ltd www.elecro.co.uk.

Piscina Barcelona has been one of Aligator’s highlights of 2013. The SCS team were extremely helpful and the whole show was a stress free experience. It provided an excellent opportunity to meet face to face with clients. Thank you to all who visited.

David Dunn, Aligator www.aligator.com

Heatsavr™ - the amazing liquid pool cover When planning for the build of a swimming pool, whether it’s indoor or outdoor, a domestic pool, bespoke and aesthetically pleasing, or a full size commercial leisure facility, skimmer or deck level, it is essential to take into consideration protecting the pool from excessive heat and moisture loss, especially in today’s climate of rising energy costs.

The standard method of reducing heat and water loss is to install a traditional pool cover, but if you’ve invested in a beautiful pool, pleasingly shaped and lit, why cover it from view? And if you’re running a large, busy pool in a hotel or leisure centre that’s open 18 hours a day, covering a pool during quiet periods is impractical to say the least. Not only that, recent recommendations from PWTAG suggest that pool covers should be checked regularly for any contamination and cleaned with 10mg/litre of chlorinated water.

Heatsavr™ – Fit and Forget

Heatsavr is a means of protecting a pool from excessive heat and moisture loss. It creates a totally flexible automatic cover that works by forming a transparent monomolecular layer across the entire surface of the water which significantly reduces evaporation, a major cause of heat loss. As much as 65% of the energy used within a leisure centre will be used for pool heating and ventilation. By using Heatsavr as a pool cover, energy bills could be lowered as much as 30%. In real terms, this could result in an actual spend reduction in the region of £10,000 per annum (based on a standard 25m x 10m pool).

Lindors Hotel: “As we now use Heatsavr, for the past week we have been setting the pool air temperature back to 25oC between 9:30pm to 7:30am. This has improved the comfort of the pool hall.”

Recotherm did a calculation to compare previous and current energy costs for their pool (117m2). 30oC 24 hours a day= £12,015.44 pa.

25oC + Heatsavr = £9,090.90 pa. A saving of £2,924.54 per annum

In addition to the energy savings, Heatsavr also maintains a more pleasant environment for both bathers and staff as the humidity levels within the pool hall are suppressed and reduce throughout the day. As a result, the building is protected from accelerated moisture ingress and corrosion of equipment which could lead to considerable maintenance costs.

Heatsavr™ and the Environment

Heatsavr was shortlisted as a Finalist at the UK Environmental & Energy Awards 2013 within the category of Energy Product/Service of the Year.

The judges were very impressed with the submission which demonstrated the genuine value of a product that not only saves on water heating and consumption, it also reduces overall energy usage including dehumidification and air heating.

Since introducing the Heatsavr system in 2007, a combination of effects has helped cut running costs at Wrexham Waterworld by more than £22,000 annually.

“As far as we are concerned the benefits of using Heatsavr have greatly exceeded our initial expectations – it really is the best thing since sliced bread.”

Greg Ryan – Pool Manager, Wrexham Waterworld

A world-leading, highly regarded environmental assessment method and ratings system for buildings recommends that using Heatsavr as an environmentally sound and energy efficient option of pool covering could be used to demonstrate compliance and help gain recognition with that system.

The Carbon Trust says that using a pool cover cuts pool energy use by 10 to 30 per cent. By using Heatsavr over traditional pool covers, a facility can cut costs, improve energy efficiency and reduce its impact on the environment through lower CO2 emissions.

For further information on Heatsavr and energy saving advice for your facility, contact Peter Marshall of Brenntag UK & Ireland on 07920 589488 or email peter.marshall@brenntag.co.uk

Effortless Pool

The immediate benefit of using Heatsavr is that it starts to work as a pool cover the moment the water is calm – however, unlike traditional pool covers, Heatsavr still works when bathers are in the pool water, albeit to a lesser degree. Simple to use with virtually no capital outlay, apart from the cost of a pump kit, Heatsavr is the perfect solution for all types of commercial or domestic pools wanting to control their energy expenditure.

With a domestic pool, especially if it is designed to be pleasing to the eye, a traditional cover could potentially ruin the aesthetics of its setting and requires regular cleaning on both sides, not to mention removal before use and space for storage. Heatsavr is a means of protecting the pool without the need for installation of a pool cover, leaving the user to enjoy the beauty of their pool safe in the knowledge that they are also saving on the costs of heating, evaporation and dehumidification. One option for a domestic pool is the use of the Ecosavr™ fish as it is hassle-free – just snip the fish, place it in the pool and relax. The fish sinks to the bottom and as the pressure increases, the liquid escapes through a patented valve system. It works 24 hours a day and has the added benefit of trapping moisture within the pool, reducing top-up requirements.

The amazing Liquid Pool Cover Green Lane, Yeadon, Leeds LS19 7XX Tel: 0113 3879 200 Fax: 0113 3879 280 enquiry@brenntag.co.uk www.brenntag.co.uk www.heatsavr.com

SPATEX 2014 pools the Industry together SPATEX is the UK’s largest annual wet leisure Exhibition and it’s surfacing in February at its exciting new venue in the Jaguar Exhibition Hall at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena where it will bring swimming pools, spas, saunas, and everything in between, to life. Now in its 18th year, SPATEX is a one-stop shop and much more besides. So, don’t let your business be left high and dry, dive into the world of SPATEX 2014!

The Industry’s showcase

increased the number of Workshop sessions to 25 over the three days of the Show, of which 20 feature brand new topics and every one is free. All delegates attending the Workshops receive a Certificate of Attendance.

As the UK’s premier wet leisure Exhibition, attracting all the Industry’s experts and displaying a host of innovations for the season ahead, SPATEX is the ideal hunting ground for sourcing the best products and solutions for both domestic and commercial projects.

Dedicated day for the Commercial sector

With over 100 Exhibitors displaying everything from wet and dry safety flooring, water play features, pool enclosures to energy saving chemical control and heating and ventilation units, SPATEX 2014 is the go-to Exhibition for anyone involved in wet leisure. There’s a well-known saying in the Industry: “If it’s not at SPATEX, then you probably don’t need it” and this year, more than ever, this rings true.

Broad appeal

You’re in the hands of experts The Show’s excellent ISPE (Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers) Workshops give it a valuable technical and educational edge, which set it apart from other Exhibitions and provide tangible added value. The line-up of speakers is impressive with a roll call of many of the Industry’s most distinguished experts, all on hand to give free and impartial information. Due to their popularity, SPATEX has

Tuesday February 4th is Leisure Operators’ Day when the ISPE Workshops will be geared towards those working in the Commercial side of wet leisure, such as architects, specifiers, pool operators and managers. There will, however, be a number of sessions on the Sunday and Monday aimed at this sector too. For the full SPATEX/ISPE Workshop programme please visit www.spatex.co.uk SPATEX has a loyal following of visitors from all sectors of the Industry who return year after year. One such, Michael Cormacey of Hampshire based Design Consultancy Aqua Blue Designs (specialists in wet leisure) says: “We have been both an exhibitor and a visitor in the past and we never ever miss it – SPATEX is a red letter day for us. Nothing beats it as a forum for keeping in touch with business contacts and getting up to speed with new products.”

Aqua Blue have designed wet leisure projects in 27 countries – some in the most demanding of locations. These have included a pool and spa on the roof of an Egyptian hotel and a 70m by 30m freeform deck level pool, hundreds of miles into the Libyan desert for oil workers at El Shara Ubani. Michael adds: “Attending SPATEX is essential for our work and keeps us abreast of what is happening.”

The best for networking Rest assured, business and networking won’t end when the Exhibition closes. The Ricoh Arena offers some fantastic networking facilities, which SPATEX has capitalised on. All visitors are warmly invited on the evening of Monday February 3rd to The SPATEX Casino Experience in the Ricoh’s G-Casino (the largest and most luxurious in the UK). A bar, live entertainment, food and, of course, all the fun of the casino will be at your disposal.

SPATEX has struck a number of deals with hotels, both in and around the Ricoh Arena. So why not make a night of it - visit www.spatex.co.uk for a list of hotels.

everything. If you attend one Exhibition in 2014, make sure it is SPATEX!

Easy to get to The Show has never been easier to get to! The Ricoh Arena’s central location (Postcode CV6 6GE), just 500 yards off the M6 and within two hours commuting time of 75 per cent of the population, ensures unparalleled easy access. The Ricoh has 2,000 free on-site car parking spaces.

The train journey from Birmingham International airport to Coventry station takes 15 minutes with trains every 10 minutes and the Ricoh Arena is only 90 minutes away from Heathrow Airport.

Experience counts

Sign up for Coventry!

Book your FREE place at SPATEX 2014 from Sunday February 2nd to Tuesday February 4th 2014 at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry CV6 6GE. Visitor registration is open: go to www.spatex.co.uk, fill in the simple online form and sign up for our newsletter.

SPATEX is celebrating 18 years of success, with all profit donated back to the Industry. The team knows the Industry inside and out and the Industry knows us and, in these challenging economic times, that counts for

For further information: call Michele or Helen on +44 (0) 1264 358558 or email michele@spatex.co.uk; helen@spatex.co.uk

48

Exploiting new opportunities whilst avoiding feeling the squeeze According to HMRC, thanks to changes to taxation legislation introduced by the Chancellor in a previous budget, as of April this year 22,000 people in the UK will benefit from, in effect, an after-tax pay rise of a minimum of £17,500. Of this 22,000, a lucky 6,000 will see their take home earnings swell by a minimum of £42,500. Now, we can argue the rights and wrongs of this at a time when most mere mortals are struggling to pay basic bills, but that’s a whole different debate. The question I pose now is what are we going to do as an industry to persuade these individuals to invest their windfalls in some of the many lifeaffirming and lifestyle-enhancing products we have to offer?

We’re also told, by the same Chancellor, that the recovery is on its way, and that the dark days of the past and the banking crisis are behind us and (US government shutdowns notwithstanding!) the economy can look forward to a rosy future, at least for those best-placed to benefit from it - a great proportion of whom, at least as far as having the means to entry is concerned, can be claimed to be in a pool and spa business’s target market.

Not only that, but we have the benefit of coming off the back of one of the best summers that we’ve had for many years, so we have the feelgood factor of those balmy days in people’s recent memories to capitalise on. I highlight these points to illustrate that, even when times are tough - and lord knows they’ve been tough for the industry - there are always opportunities out there for those who look for them. And that’s the key message here, opportunities and going about looking for them and exploiting them. The autumn and winter are perfect times to put in place plans to excite your local market into the joys of pool, spa, sauna and steam ownership and to start building relationships with the ones who hold their hands up and say they’re interested; and take them gently by the hand to the point of sale.

So, how best do you capitalise on the opportunities to ensure you’re able to generate the business you need to achieve your goals, be they business, personal, or both, at the price you want? Well, before anything else one needs to understand two hugely fundamental things right at the outset.

Firstly, who are you targeting your pool or spa business at?

Because the middle class is in decline, especially so in Britain and the US. The proverbial ‘squeezed middle’ is getting crushed harder and further each day as the ‘new economy’ continues to take shape. Aside of data from the ONS, there are many articles on this subject (including a very good one in August’s Spectator by Fraser Nelson, a person I ordinarily find myself rarely in agreement with). I make this point because pre-2008 the middle class was expanding, aspirational and fuelled by easy-credit. Not-surprisingly, the pool and spa industry looked to target this growing sector.

However, the middle class is shrinking rapidly. Some are getting richer, and are becoming more demanding with it. A great many are becoming poorer. I make this point because I still see a lot of

our industry rhetoric in many companies’ marketing messages still aimed at a ‘pre-2008’ sector which is shrinking rapidly.

Many of them can no longer afford what our industry sells (or if they can, they have other priorities), whilst a few others are becoming more discerning and demanding and less price-driven.

Secondly, the ways in which you can now target and reach potential pool and spa customers - and in which these potential customers can receive and consume marketing messages - have changed hugely since 2008. And they continue to change, as my greying hair bears testament to, almost on a monthly basis.

If you are not keeping up and looking at exploiting these new and changing channels, then you’re going to get left behind.

Lastly, a controversial point to throw into the mix. We are, as you don’t need me or anyone else to tell you, a seasonal industry. A VERY seasonal industry. Yet, and I’ve spent hours trying to think of another one but failed miserably, we are the only one I can think of that doesn’t price seasonally. Just something to think on.......

Dorian Davies

The Benefits of Swim Spas Making the market work for you

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First introduced to the UK over 14 years ago; swim spas may have initially been slow starters, but with modern day life attracting a seemingly endless obsession with healthy lifestyles, swim spas are at last catching on with the Great British public.

Despite the gloomy economic challenges, swim spas are bucking the trend and enjoying increased market share. Regardless of whether you’re closing down for the winter or opening up for the summer months, the health benefits are applicable for both pools and hot tubs, which in turn translates into a consideration for construction and architectural professionals as an extremely viable and attractive product which can add weight to any portfolio.

Awareness for swim spas may still be relatively lower than for swimming pools and hot tubs, making it a niche market. But the big question is “What are the advantages of adding swim spas to your range?” - The answer is your money can be made in upselling and / or top-down selling; incorporating a swim spa into a build gives professionals a versatile product which can be incorporated into any project either; indoor, outdoor, above ground, in ground and matched to the clients’ needs and project restraints. Generally a swim spa will retail for between £10,000 and £30,000. When not in use, they are kept covered to hold in heat and prevent evaporation, saving energy and water consumption. In addition, dirt and debris stay out of the water, and fewer chemicals are needed. In terms of space, they typically only need about 4–8 metres in length and 2.5–3.5 metres in width. Since they are selfcontained, they are quicker and easier to install than most pools.

When selling swim spas to your clients, the benefits are simple; nothing compares with the calming experience of stepping into your own personal sanctuary, where you can enjoy a gently bubbling hot tub to help you unwind after a hard day at work combined with a self-contained pool where you can swim an almost infinite distance. Swim Spas are proven to treat a number of health

conditions which include; relief of Arthritis and Fibromyalgia, Orthopedic Recovery, Chronic Pain and Neuromuscular Conditions as well as offering the benefits of Paediatric Exercise, Athletic Injury Rehab and Weight Loss. With so many bonuses to this product plus the added variety of specifications available to consumers, it makes great business sense for construction and architectural professionals to partner up with companies who are members of BISHTA (British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association), promoting industry standards, making the re-sell easy and simple with helpful marketing materials and the assurance of BISHTA approval.

The decision to incorporate swim spas into your project offering can be made easier by talking to expert’s exhibiting at the 2014 SPATEX show. Now in its 18th year, SPATEX is the number one wet leisure show, where everyone involved in the industry either exhibits or visits. The show has broad appeal including, as it does, all sectors of the industry, be it pools, spas, saunas, wellness or hydrotherapy. In fact, the whole range of wet leisure, in both the domestic and commercial sectors is represented, with opportunities to speak directly to approved swim spa retailers, plus experiencing the products for yourself displayed across the 4,000sq m of exhibition space being used at the Jaguar Exhibition Hall, at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. SPATEX runs from Sunday 2nd to Tuesday 4th February 2014. Registration is now open, sign up and follow the latest news online, as this will help keep you in the loop about what is happening in terms of exhibitors, workshops and other news. And with all the profits ploughed back into the industry, SPATEX is the show that prides itself on being “By the Industry, For the Industry”. Register online today at www. spatex.co.uk . To find out more about approved British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF) recommended suppliers visit; www.bishta.co.uk or www.spata.co.uk (Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association)

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