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Celebrating the industry’s finest at the 2025 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards
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SPN incorporating Pool & Spa Industry is the official trade magazine for the UK wet leisure markets and is the only trade publication that invests in the industry it serves.
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challenges. The event once again saw a superb effort from in excess of a hundred exhibitors that showcased some very professional stands, and we’ve more on the show in our review later in this issue.
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Since the last issue, the UK’s weather has been a bit of a mixture, at least temperature wise, but one thing that struck me when reported, was how little rain there had been – a marked change from this time last year. This combined with some sunny spells and greatly improved warmer days since the start of spring has been great news for our industry, with many companies reporting being busy, and that’s despite the many economic uncertainties that the UK, and arguably the world, is facing. I hate to say it, weather, however much we may want to minimise its effect, still plays a huge role in the success of our industry and this year’s Wet Leisure Survey, conducted by Golden Coast, appears to fully back that up. So let’s keep our collective fingers crossed that this year contains a decent spring, plus a long and warm summer – as not only are we due one, but it should also go some way to offset some of the other challenging circumstances that exist. Increasing costs are just one of those circumstances – both in terms of actual products and services but also, wages, energy… in fact, quite simply, everything is getting dearer. Therefore, minimising or better still, reducing running costs is going to play a big part in our industry for the foreseeable future in both commercial and domestic settings. Unsurprising, energy costs and making savings were once again hot topics at this year’s SPATEX exhibition which took place at the start of February at the Coventry Building Society Arena.
As sponsors of the new products on show, SPN were once again pleased to be at the three-day event and chat with both exhibitors and visitors about new products, services, initiatives and of course the industry’s
Held during SPATEX, the annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards hosted by SPATA and BISHTA returned with their evening event which celebrated some of the best wet leisure projects from across the industry. Inside, we’ve coverage on all the Gold Award winners from this year’s event along with a write-up on the Industry Gala Evening itself. As ever, I would just like to say congratulations to all who entered and the companies who picked up any kind of Award during the evening. Also in this issue, we take a look at what’s new in the world of one-piece and fibreglass swimming pools, a sector that’s enjoyed continued success due to providing a relatively stress-free installation experience and one that has new entrants to it again this year. We’ve an in depth look at the latest automatic pool cover systems for the domestic sector too. Offering owners convenience and so much more at the touch of a button, it’s no surprise these products have become ‘must have’ options for many private pool owners. In addition, we’ve the latest in pool liners and systems for new build and refurbishment projects, both big and small in two separate features, plus we put hot tub water treatments under the spotlight in a round up of the latest options to add to spa water.
If that wasn’t enough, we report on SCP UK’s well-attended Showcase day held at the end of January, a piece on the latest innovation from moving floor specialists Twinscape Group, some valuable content on the subject of water testing from the STA, and ISPE’s Luke Griffiths provides some food for thought on the subject of encouraging more women to get into swimming pool engineering.
There’s also useful information from the BSPF, SPATA and BISHTA plus we’ve also got our round up of all the latest industry, product, eco, people and wellness news from both here in the UK and abroad too.
Aqua Publishing Ltd accepts no liability for any insert, display or classified advertisement included in Swimming Pool News. While every reasonable care is taken to ensure that all advertisers are reliable and reputable, Swimming Pool News can give no assurance they will fulfil their obligations under all circumstances. The views expressed in the articles in Swimming Pool News are the contributors’ own. All rights reserved. Copyright for all materials published in SPN remains with the publishers. Material contained in this publication is not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior permission of Aqua Publishing Ltd. Aqua Publishing also publishes: What Pool & Hot Tub magazine – our sister publication – is the only consumer magazine in the UK that provides
Wow, that’s quite a lot. I hope you find the time to enjoy reading it all!
PS – If you are involved within the industry and have some relevant news that you would like to appear within SPN, please do get in touch.
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Above-ground and wooden pools
Tiling and mosaics
Lighting
Heat pumps
Wellness – cold therapy • Events round up – what’s on in the next 12 months
much, much more!
Info, Products and Gossip From the UK Pool and Spa Industry and Beyond
A Mapei tile installation system has been used by J H Lidstone to complete an extensive project at the iconic St Moritz Hotel & Cowshed Spa in Cornwall. The installation, which featured a variety of N&C Nicobond mosaics and tiles, spanned the indoor pool area, hydro pool, sauna and steam room, experience showers and changing rooms. The Mapei specification included a waterproofing, preparation and installation system.
The project was completed for Luscombe Construction and the interior designed by 3idog.
During preparation of the swimming pool, wellness areas, showers and changing rooms, Mapei Planitop Fast 330 quick-setting, fibrereinforced, cementitious levelling mortar was applied to surfaces, incorporating Topcem special fast drying hydraulic screed binder. Surfaces were then tanked with Mapelastic Zero flexible cementitious waterproofing mortar and Mapeband 120mm – an alkali-resistant rubber and felt tape for corners and adjacent walls – to create an impermeable waterproof barrier.
The tile installation was completed with three Mapei adhesives: Keraflex Maxi S1 deformable standard setting cementitious adhesive, Keraquick XL Fibrelite fibre reinforced cement based rapid setting adhesive and Keraquick S1 Zero quick-setting adhesive. Tiles were then grouted with Ultracolor Plus anti-efflorescence, quick-setting and drying polymer-modified grout, also from the Zero Line, and within the pools and showers with Kerapoxy Easy design – a decorative, acidresistant epoxy grout. The grouts, adhesives and Planitop also feature EMICODE: EC1 Plus formulations, with very low VOCs.
The N&C Nicobond tile specification included a range of mosaics – including Bali Stone, Textura Copper, Snow & Ice St Moritz and Seychelles Silver Grey mosaics – Del Conca floor tiles, Synchro Grey and Obi tiles, Conca Preformed 100mm skirtings and pool edge tiles.
Mapei UK
0121 508 6970 www.mapei.co.uk
Celebrating its 45th anniversary this year, Heatstar is hugely proud to remain a UK manufacturer and are rightly proud of their British heritage. For Heatstar, the marque of ‘British made’ is a true stamp of quality, innovation and industry-leading technical advances. And for the UK swimming pool trade, choosing a British made product such as Heatstar goes hand-in-hand with this vision.
From modest beginnings in 1980 Heatstar has established itself as one of the leaders in the design and manufacture of innovative, energy efficient, high quality swimming pool environmental control systems, all of which are designed, built and tested at their factory on the Isle of Wight.
It is worth noting that to this day Heatstar remain an
independent, family owned and operated business with a company culture to reflect this. Even in the corporate world of acquisitions and mergers, this family owned setup allows the company to have total selfgovernance in continuing to provide the best and most energy efficient systems available on the market.
With 45 years of experience passed
through generations, family values are at the core of what Heatstar do. Much has changed over the years with the company’s product range being developed significantly to encompass the latest technologies. However, the family values and ethos that have made Heatstar successful are still there.
In addition to Heatstar’s success in the UK, Heatstar export their products to customers all around the world including Europe, USA, the Far East and a multitude of other significant regions. Heatstar products can be found in some of the leading hotels and leisure facilities, internationally renowned spas and luxury developments around the globe.
Heatstar 01983 521465 www.heatstar.com
• HDPE Corrosion Resistant UV Chamber
• NSF50 approved
• Versatile to suit all types of Pools and Pool usage
• Medium Pressure lamps
• Minimum of 10,000-hour lamp life
• Power Stepping
• Manual or Automatic wiper
• BUS connection option
• Temperature Sensor
• Connections can be amended to suit pipework
Aquaservice UV, designed and supplied for Pools
for electrochlorination, Gaffey’s Adaptive Response Technology allows Hyprolyser® to adjust to changing environmental and site conditions to ensure continued effective chlorine generation.
Coventry City Council successfully secured National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Swimming Pool Support Fund (SPSF) to enhance sustainability efforts at three leisure centres in the city.
Almost £750k was awarded to The Alan Higgs Centre, Centre AT7 and Xcel Leisure Centre, all of which are operated by CV Life.
A capital grant of £250,000 was awarded to install solar panels at The Alan Higgs Centre, whilst Centre AT7 received £270k for the installation of solar panels and the replacement of fluorescent lighting with LED lighting.
Xcel Leisure Centre also saw the installation of LED lighting as well as an upgrade to its building management system which was covered by a £220k grant.
The installation of PV panels will contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability, ensuring long-term benefits for the facility and the local community.
Funding was awarded based on a selection of sites serving areas with the highest need. The allocation of funding aligned with Sport England’s national funding scheme aimed at supporting public leisure centres with swimming pools across the country.
A new £30m leisure centre has been opened by Cheshire’s Halton Borough Council. Halton Leisure Centre in Widnes was built to replace Kingsway Leisure Centre, which closed earlier this year after serving the local community for more than 40 years.
The new facility includes a 25m swimming pool, fitness studios, squash court, steam room and sauna, plus community rooms.
Marc Jones, Facilities Manager at Halton Borough Council, said the new centre had been built to make leisure activities more widely available for residents in the area.
For many pool owners, extending the swimming season while maintaining the beauty of their outdoor space are key priorities. This was precisely the case for a homeowner in Uckfield, East Sussex, who had enjoyed his swimming pool for several years but sought a solution to maximise its use throughout the year. His goal was to retain warmth, shield the pool from wind and bad weather, all whilst ensuring an uninterrupted garden view.
After careful consideration, the client selected Alukov’s Imperia low pool enclosure, a sleek and modern design that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Featuring 4mm thick, UV-stable clear polycarbonate, the enclosure provides excellent protection while maintaining a light and airy aesthetic.
The installation process was swift, with the enclosure fully assembled and operational within just a few hours. One of the standout features that particularly impressed the homeowner was the extended leading rails, allowing the enclosure to slide fully behind the pool. This feature offers complete flexibility – on warm days, the enclosure can be fully retracted for an open-air swimming experience, while in cooler days or in windy conditions, the pool remains protected under the shelter of the enclosure.
Following the installation, the customer expressed his satisfaction with both the efficiency of the process and the aesthetics of the final result. Delighted with the seamless integration of the enclosure into his garden, he eagerly anticipates a much longer and more enjoyable
swimming season, thanks to his new Alukov enclosure.
Alukov UK
0118 909 9844
www.alukov.co.uk
Ocea UK have been gradually expanding their product offering over recent years and for 2025, the company have taken a much bigger step forward and added even more choice to their ranges. UK stock is readily available thanks to the opening of their new office and warehouse space in Witney, Oxfordshire.
Located on a new estate at Windrush Park, and found just a couple of miles from the company’s existing facility (the site where it manufactures its popular automatic slatted cover systems – and will continue to do so), the new premises also houses a training centre which allows installers and retailers a chance of an up close and personal look at all of the company’s exclusive and handpicked products, many of
which can be demonstrated, whilst also learning about the numerous features and benefits they provide. Their last open days were held towards the end of 2024 and proved highly successful – guests got to see the new pool pumps in action
and meet representatives from the suppliers. New dates for 2025 Open Days will be revealed soon, so keep an eye out to secure a place!
Ocea UK are launching a brand new catalogue in April 2025, this is called ‘The Collection’ and features an exclusive array of pool products, carefully selected for the UK market. Each product has been selected for its advances in technology, efficiency and energy saving properties as well as offering many other benefits in a bid to outshine the competition. There will also be catalogues featuring their Ocea automatic covers, plus DEL covers and liners.
Ocea UK 01993 707910 www.oceauk.com
The much-anticipated Whitchurch Pool & Fitness Centre officially opened in March, marking a significant milestone for the community.
The state-of-the-art facility, developed in partnership with Alliance Leisure and procured through the UK Leisure Framework (UKLF) for Shropshire Council, replaces the former facility, which was closed in 2020 due to structural issues.
The new centre, which boasts a 25-metre, six-lane community pool with a movable floor, aims to provide vital services to the community, attract visitors from nearby regions, boost economic growth and create new opportunities for local businesses. Additionally, five local primary schools will benefit from access to the stateof-the-art facilities at the site.
The building has also implemented a vast range of sustainability initiatives in order to reduce its impact on the environment and be designed to BREEAM Excellent standards.
Plans for a new leisure centre on the former Purley Pool site in Croydon have been approved by the town’s Planning Committee.
Croydon Council received an application from developers Polaska, the long-term leaseholders, to redevelop the High Street site. Amongst other new facilities for the area, their proposals included a new leisure centre, which will feature a 25 metre six-lane main pool plus a training pool.
The proposal was approved at the end of February. It will next go to the Greater London Authority for consideration, as a referable application, before a decision on the application is formally issued.
Executive Mayor Jason Perry has made returning a swimming pool to the heart of Purley a priority, following the closure of the former pool in March 2020.
On 24 November 2024, Storm Bert’s flood waters hit Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, home to Lido Ponty, the National Lido of Wales, submerging critical infrastructure in the basement plant room. For Lido Ponty, no stranger to storm damage after a year-long closure post Storm Dennis in 2020, the threat was all too familiar. While the upgraded flood defences spared most of the plant room – the Hyprolyser Compact electrochlorination system was damaged beyond repair.
With Boxing Day and New Year’s Day swims just weeks away, the Lido and Corporate Estate staff immediately rallied round and turned to their long-standing water partner Sterling Hydrotech.
“The filters were contaminated and required a deep clean and the Compact, which had taken the brunt of the storm, needed replacing,” recalled Lyn Phillips, National Sales Manager at Sterling Hydrotech.
“We got in touch with Gaffey who sent us their next generation Hyprolyser iSEC®-3 to replace the Compact. Generating 1000g/h chlorine, it was perfect to meet the demands of the pool; a simple plug-andplay in-situ chlorine generator that’s easy to install and generates non-hazardous <1%sodium hypochlorite.
“The new iSEC®-3 retains the Compact’s benefits but added game-changing features like Adaptive Response Technology.
“Gaffey’s technical support was
second to none, with delivery, installation and commissioning in just ten days,” added Lyn.
The Lido, Corporate Estates, Sterling Hydrotech and the team from Gaffey had the pool ready in an amazing 31 days. “It was a brilliant collaborative effort,” Lyn emphasised. The Lido reopened on schedule, safeguarding Lido Ponty’s festive swim tradition and demonstrated the power of resolve, innovation and partnership.
Gaffey 01254 350180 www.gaffeytechnology.com
Wiltshire Council has announced its construction partner, Pellikaan Construction, for the new Trowbridge Leisure Centre, which is being delivered by the Council’s development partner Alliance Leisure.
Pellikaan Construction are well known to the council, having previously delivered the highly regarded Melksham Community Campus, which opened in 2022.
Throughout the project, Alliance Leisure and the council have worked closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure the quality and relevancy of the new facility through public
consultation, project-specific websites and stakeholder surveys.
On the wet leisure side, the new facility is expected to include a six-lane, 25m swimming pool plus a 7m x 13m learner pool.
The new leisure centre will feature highquality materials, including glazed façades and a prominent entrance to greet visitors. Its modern, industrial design will reflect Trowbridge’s heritage, while accessibility will be central to the interior layout. To align with the council’s carbon-neutral goal for 2030, the building will be energyefficient, utilising a fabric-first approach, and solar panels will help power the all-electric facility.
efficient, utilising a fabric-first approach, and solar to fruition. This collaboration ensures an end-to-
Wiltshire Council has partnered with Alliance Leisure, the delivery partner for the UK Leisure Framework (UKLF), which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, to bring the project to fruition. This collaboration ensures an end-toend solution, covering the design, procurement and construction of a sustainable leisure centre for the local community. The expert project team also boasts Roberts Limbrick architects and Hadron Consulting.
Hydrotherapy is a vital rehabilitation service for those recovering from major surgery or a serious injury, not to mention the elderly and the very young. The vulnerability of this group makes it absolutely essential for hydrotherapy pools to be free from potentially harmful bacteria.
On weekdays, the hydrotherapy pool at Leicester Hospital is filled with patients and staff, while on the weekends it is used by mothers and their babies. It’s little wonder that this high turnover of users combined with an unsuitable filtration system led to frequent closures of the pool due to problems with water quality.
To solve this pressing issue quickly, Hydrospec, one of the UK’s premier contractors to the commercial swimming pool sector, recommended Waterco’s Glass Pearl Media to bring the water quality up to a superior standard.
“The best filtration media needed to be used in this installation, as this is considered a high risk pool,” explained Hydrospec’s Managing Director, John Cheek.
“The filtration rate is 22 m³/h/m², while backwashing requires only 16 m³/h/m², effectively fluidising the bed,” commented John. Additionally, the use of Glass Pearls reduces head loss across the filter bed compared to other filter media, further enhancing energy efficiency.
Currently, the backwashing process is automated and runs for less than four minutes, which has reduced the water used for the backwashing process which, in turn, saves heated and chemically treated water.
“Microbiological tests are carried out every week in-house. No problems have arisen since the installation, and the client is very happy with it,” added John.
“Waterco Glass Pearls were used because independent tests confirmed that Waterco Glass Pearls will filter down to below 3 microns. As a result, they provide far superior filtration compared to other available media, including sand and crushed glass.”
Glass Pearl media also simplifies maintenance, as its spherical design allows for quicker and easier fluidisation of the media bed. This results in significant water and energy savings.
Hydrospec 01277 225416 www.hydrospec.co.uk
Waterco Europe 01795 521733 www.waterco.eu
Porchester Centre, built in the 1920s and housing London’s oldest spa has undergone a major £3m refurbishment to greatly improve its facilities and to allow more residents and visitors to enjoy the centre.
An iconic Grade 2* listed building which is operated by Westminster Council’s leisure partner Everyone Active, Porchester Centre houses a 30m swimming pool, two workout studios hosting a number of classes, a main gym across three levels, and now a new women-only gym. Plus, all the spa facilities which include two steam rooms, a sauna, cold showers and three different Turkish baths. In the main swimming pool, a new heat retaining pool cover has been installed to improve the building’s energy efficiency, the ceiling has been strengthened to future proof it for years to come, and the walls and ceilings as part of the balcony area have been repainted – still in keeping with the style of the 1920s built pool. The significant energy conservation measures including installing an air source heat pump will result in 60% carbon dioxide savings each year.
Cabinet Member for Communities, Councillor Cara Sanquest, said: “Porchester Centre is an iconic piece of Westminster, and this major refurbishment will provide more facilities and opportunities for residents from all our communities to become and stay active.”
Released to coincide with SPATEX in February, this was the fourteenth year of the Wet Leisure Industry Survey.
The original concept of an industry wide survey came from Golden Coast and was simply this –other industries and markets have facts, figures and statistics that are available to help people make better decisions and grow better businesses – and the wet leisure industry should be the same.
Towards the end of October every business in the wet leisure industry is invited to take part in the survey. The invitation comes in
the form of an email, social media or in industry magazines and publications. People who choose to take the survey can do so by filling in an online questionnaire or, previously, returning a paper response. Every response, either digital or paper, is anonymous.
The survey generally stays open until mid-January at which point all the responses are collated and the final report is written and shared with the whole industry.
However, this was the first time that the survey has been purely digital and that appears to have
had an effect on the number of responses, however there are still insights to be gleaned and knowledge to be shared.
This year’s complete results – as well as those from all previous years – can be viewed at, and downloaded from, the Wet Leisure Industry Survey website.
Please remember to take part in the next survey when it comes out in October.
Wet Leisure Industry Survey 01271 378100 www.wetleisure.com
Belgium-based Carropools BV, a leading manufacturer of high-end, custommade swimming and wellness pools for both private and commercial use, has announced the appointment of Allard de Graaf as a new member of its international sales force.
Allard brings a decade of expertise in the international pool business, having previously served as a key account manager at the Netherlands-based EVA Optic, where he played a pivotal role in expanding their business on a global scale. His proven track record of success in the pool industry, coupled with his technical knowledge and B2B sales experience, will significantly enhance Carropools’ sales efforts.
“Allard’s addition to our team is a major step forward as we continue to expand our presence in the global market,” said Thomas Apers, CEO of Carropools BV. “With his wealth of
experience and technical background, we are confident he will be instrumental in strengthening our client relationships and driving our growth.”
Carropools BV has been known for its dedication to delivering top-tier, tailormade swimming and wellness pools, and Allard’s expertise aligns perfectly with the company’s mission to provide the best possible service to dealers in Europe.
Allard de Graaf expressed his excitement about joining Carropools and said: “I’m excited to be part of a dynamic company like Carropools, known for its innovation and dedication to quality. I look forward to contributing to the company’s continued success and expanding its reach in the international market.”
Carropools BV +32 3296 3205 www.carropools.com
The STA announced the launch of a brand-new podcast at the end of January, an initiative that will offer expert advice and insights on everything related to aquatics, both in and out of the pool.
Over the coming months, industry leaders, experts and experienced professionals will join the podcast to share their knowledge on topics ranging from business tips to lesson planning and much more.
The first episode, aired on 29 January 2025, featured Kaylë Brightwell, STA’s Director of Education, and Jodie Davis, STA’s Aquatics Development Officer, discussing the importance of swimming and what makes it great.
At the time of writing, there were four episodes available with the latest being ‘Keeping Our Pools Clean’ with Chris Bateman, STA’s Pool Plant Technical Advisor.
STA’s plan is to release two episodes each month on every other Wednesday covering all things swimming, lifesaving, first aid and leisure operations, and each one will be accessible through all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more.
“We’re thrilled to bring these conversations to a wider audience,” said Dave Candler, STA’s CEO.
“This podcast will not only celebrate the world of aquatics but will also provide the practical advice and guidance that professionals in the industry need to succeed.
Our aim is to educate, inspire and support everyone involved in the teaching and managing of grassroots swimming.”
STA 01922 645097
www.sta.co.uk
STA’s CEO, Dave Candler, and STA’s President Ali Beckman have both been granted Chartered Manager Fellow status by CIMSPA, the professional development body for the UK’s sport and physical activity sector.
Chartered status is the pinnacle of professional recognition awarded by CIMSPA. It is a nationally recognised hallmark of a qualified professional who has demonstrated excellence and impact in their field. With over 25 years of experience in teaching swimming and leisure management, Dave became the CEO of STA in 2016. Since taking on the role, he has strategically enhanced STA’s positioning, more than doubled membership and played a pivotal role in building valuable partnerships that
have strengthened the industry; including more recently, signing the historic MoU with Swim England to help positively shape the future of grassroots swimming.
Under Dave’s leadership, STA became a CIMSPA Education Partner and was awarded the prestigious title of Supplier of the Year by ukactive in 2019. His noted team-driven efforts to support the leisure industry throughout the pandemic also contributed to STA being awarded ‘Education Provider of the Year’ by ukactive in 2022.
Speaking about their joint success, Dave commented: “Every day, it’s a privilege to work alongside Ali, as we both share a genuine passion for STA and are committed to advocating for and representing the best
interests of everyone involved in grassroots swimming – neither of us are afraid to challenge the status quo and stand up and be heard! This is why we both independently chose to complete the challenging six-month accreditation process with CIMSPA, as it allowed us to undertake a roots-and-branch review of our strategies and demonstrate our own personal commitment to continuous professional development.”
STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk
Offering quick and easy installation, the mobile POOLDECK from Alukov combines sleek elegance with robust functionality. When not in use, this walkable pool cover reduces maintenance by shielding a swimming pool or in-ground spa pool from debris, rain and snow while ensuring safety for children and pets by preventing accidental falls. With POOLDECK, the area over any pool or spa seamlessly transforms into a stylish and secure terrace, blending sophistication with practicality.
With a snow load of 150200kg/m2 and even more available on request, Alukov claim it is the most stable aluminium product of its type on the market. Its sturdy design easily supports outdoor furniture and offers a perfect area for relaxation. Standard POOLDECK features include:
• Welded supporting aluminum construction made of reinforced profiles, including substructure for fixing the cladding made of 50 x 30 x 3mm profiles
• Protective panels against rain and dirt, also work as water
drainage and insulation – twinwall polycarbonate thickness 10mm
• Protective rubber seal around the entire structure
• Stable aluminum leading lines, height 18 mm, silver anodised, on both sides or on one side only – walkable and embedded
• Electromagnetic end sensors in both outside positions (for electrical movement only) / lock against movement (for manual movement only).
Ideal for smaller gardens, and also suitable for saltwater pools, POOLDECK is a space-saving custom-made, dual function solution. With simple and comfortable operation (manual or automatic options), choose from a variety of materials, including exotic woods and WPC decking, to personalise the design and complement any garden’s aesthetic.
Alukov UK 0118 909 9844 www.alukov.co.uk
Engineered in Germany by SPECK Pumpen, BADU swim jet systems deliver a seamless, turn-free swimming experience and three of their premium models are now available in the UK from both Certikin and AstralPool. Thanks to advanced propellor technology, they create a smooth, splash-free flow that mimics the sensation of swimming in open water. The large propellor which draws water directly from the pool, eliminates the need for pumps and pipes, meaning a much simpler installation with no plumbing required. With fully adjustable current settings, a BADU counter-current unit is ideal for everyone – from families and hobby swimmers to competitive athletes.
At the top of the range is the Turbo Pro with a pump flow rate of 150 - 350 m3/h and flow velocity of 1.80 - 4.10m/s; next is the Turbo that has all the benefits of the former but in a smaller, more manageable package, with a pump flow of 125 - 245 m3/h and flow velocity of 1.50 - 3.00m/s, whilst the Turbo Light features a pump flow of 90 - 200m3/h and flow velocity of 1.10 - 2.40m/s.
All BADU swim jets have a large anti-entrapment cover that on the Turbo Pro is made of durable marine grade 316 stainless steel. The units are driven by an efficient permanent magnet motor which allows for an extremely quiet operation. All panels have piezo buttons that can be used to control the power directly on the swim units, thus additional installation work is no longer necessary. The buttons light up in colour corresponding to the selected power, so users can identify the current setting out of seven power levels. The Turbo and Turbo Pro can also be controlled via the BADUConnect app and for the Turbo Light, a remote control is available as an option.
Certikin
01993 777200
www.certikin.co.uk
AstralPool UK, a leader in pool and wellness solutions, has introduced the LumiPlus Connect, a state-of-the-art lighting system designed to enhance the swimming pool experience through advanced technology and energy efficiency.
The LumiPlus Connect system offers seamless integration with the Fluidra Pool® ecosystems for centralised control of the pool through the Fluidra Pool® app, no matter where users are. This connectivity provides flexibility in creating captivating pool ambiance with colour customisation, setting schedules, or choosing colours or sequences with ease.
Incorporating energy-efficient LED
technology, the LumiPlus Connect significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional lighting systems. Easily schedule the on and off times of the lights and take control of the light level with the dimming feature. This eco-friendly approach aligns with the growing demand for sustainable pool solutions, offering both environmental benefits and cost savings for pool owners.
The LumiPlus Connect
is designed for user convenience, offering an easy installation process that works with different pool types. Built for durability, it ensures long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance, providing a dependable lighting solution for years to come. It is available in two wattages and is designed to adapt to every space and pool size, providing the perfect lighting solution.
AstralPool UK 01329 514000
www.astralpool.com/en
• Above ground and immersed Automatic Slatted covers
• Handmade in the UK
• Manufactured in a controlled environment
• Delivery in as little as 4 weeks
• Above ground and immersed Automatic Slatted covers
• Bubble covers
• Bar covers
• Winter covers
• Debris covers
Discover advanced residential pool heating with Elecro Engineering’s innovative AvantGarde heat pump – a product designed for optimal thermal comfort, energy efficiency and cost-effective performance. Utilising patented AI algorithms, it adjusts dynamically to pool and user needs, optimising energy use and reducing monthly costs.
Designed in collaboration with renowned Italian architect and designer Simone Micheli and marrying cutting-edge technology with his iconic aesthetic vision, the AvantGarde redefines heating and cooling systems’ look, feel and functionality… now, efficient pool temperature control is as stylish as it is sustainable!
Fully inverter-controlled for adaptable power usage, the Avant-Garde has options for single-phase and three-phase configurations, and being Smart Grid (SG) ready, it automatically
adjusts to local grid demands. The Avant-Garde features multiple operating modes: AI, Heating, Cooling, Auto, Away, Silent and Boost – all of which are selectable via an easy to navigate and intuitive user interface or users can utilise voice control compatibility with virtual assistance (Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant). For users on the go, a Smart app enables remote monitoring and management and cloudbased storage is used to track operational performance and energy use.
Enhanced safety features, including active leak detection are incorporated into this innovative heat pump too, and with a wide model selection available, with capacities up to 35 kW, plus ultraquiet operation for minimal disturbance, the Avant-Garde is suitable for indoor pools and even in outdoor climates as low as -25°C.
Due for release later this year, the Avant-Garde heat pump is one of a number of new products that the Hertfordshirebased company will be releasing this year.
Elecro Engineering 01438 749474
www.elecro.co.uk www.elecro.co.uk Scotmas
Scotmas Group, a global leader in chlorine dioxide water disinfection solutions, is delighted to announce an exclusive partnership with Hydro Finesse Ltd (www.hydrofinesse.com) to distribute Scotmas chlorine dioxide products into the recreational water sector.
This strategic agreement, which commenced at the start of March, significantly expands Scotmas’ market presence, bringing its proven water treatment expertise to swimming pools, hot tubs and wellness facilities.
Under the partnership, Hydro Finesse will introduce the Hydro Dioxide brand, designed to enhance awareness of chlorine dioxide’s superior water treatment capabilities in the leisure industry. The launch of Hydro Dioxide will provide recreational water operators with a reliable, effective and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional water disinfection methods.
James Lee, Managing Director at Hydro Finesse, expressed his enthusiasm for the new collaboration: “We are very proud and excited about this appointment. The launch of Hydro Dioxide will elevate the profile and benefits of chlorine dioxide water treatment, ensuring safer and cleaner water for swimming pools, hot tubs and wellness facilities.”
Scotmas’ Commercial Director, Nicola Cameron, commented: “At Scotmas, we are committed to delivering innovative and sustainable water treatment solutions that ensure safety, efficiency and environmental responsibility. We are delighted to collaborate with Hydro Finesse and look forward to setting new standards in water treatment for the leisure sector.”
Scotmas and Hydro Finesse will jointly promote this initiative to highlight the benefits of chlorine dioxide in recreational water disinfection.
Scotmas Group 01573 226901 www.scotmas.com
Transforming a swimming pool into a luxurious retreat for relaxation is effortless with Ledge pool and outdoor furniture, now exclusively distributed in the UK by Certikin.
Constructed from UV20 rated resin, Ledge furniture is guaranteed for 20,000 hours of direct sunlight without fading, warping, or deteriorating. It can be used in both chlorine and saltwater pools as well as being safe for all types of pool surfaces. The range, which includes loungers, stools and side tables are designed with a unique filling system, which gives the furniture enough weight so it does
not float, whilst ensuring easy mobility when needed.
There are stylish accessories available to complement the furniture including sun canopies and pillows which are made with marine grade fabrics that offer exceptional
durability and resistance to sun, water and chemicals. The range is further enhanced with the inclusion of Ledge’s Laze Pillows which let users unwind anywhere they like, on the lawn or in the pool. Made from the strongest, mold, mildew and fade-resistant materials, they are pre-filled with buoyant foam beads, there’s no need to inflate this float.
Certikin
01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk
With better weather arriving and with many domestic pools across the country starting to open up, SCP have a wide range of equipment maintenance and water treatment options from numerous leading chemical brands that will assist owners, ensuring that both the pool equipment and the water within the pool are in the best condition possible both at the start and throughout the season.
To touch on just a few, firstly, there’s Acti Expert’s pH Minus, pH Plus and Alkalinity Increaser products that will ensure the pH of the water is correct and stabilised. They’re part of a wide range of products that are an exclusive to SCP in the UK.
Davey Water Products Revolutionises Remote Pool Management with Professional Portal for Davey ProMatic Lifeguard™
Waterco-owned Davey Water Products has announced the launch of an innovative portal dedicated to pool professionals. Designed to optimise the management and monitoring of Davey ProMatic Lifeguard™ systems, this portal marks a key step in the digitalisation of pool equipment. This new portal offers professionals a centralised platform to:
incorporates advanced features that ensure optimal water chemistry management:
• High-performance salt chlorinator for efficient and environmentally friendly disinfection;
• Automatic regulation of chlorine and pH, ensuring crystal clear water in all seasons;
There’s also numerous options covering a wide range of uses from the HTH brand, these cover both pools and spas. For example, with its double action waterline cleaning, HTH’s Borkler Gel will descale and degrease, dissolving fatty deposits (sunscreen oils) and eliminates encrusted scale. If a shock solution is needed, the brand’s Shock Granules, which are available in three sizes, are convenient to handle and use, and will shock treat pool water and rapidly recover an appropriate level of free chlorine.
Lo-Chlor is another brand that features heavily in the SCP range and new for the 2025 season, are two new maintenance products. Firstly there’s Lo-Chlor’s Vinyl, Stone & Tile Cleaner – a non-acidic cleaning formula designed to remove deposits of debris, oil, body fats and dirt and is suitable for all types of pool surfaces and surrounds. Then there’s the Slatted Cover Cleaner that has been specifically formulated for the quick and effective removal of calcium scale and staining from slatted pool covers and swimming pool surrounds. This fast-acting formula cleans stubborn scale in under ten minutes!
SCP UK
01268 273040
www.scpeurope.com
• Monitor water chemistry parameters (chlorine level, pH, temperature, salt level);
• Remotely intervene on the settings of the ProMatic Lifeguard box to adjust the parameters in real time, thus guaranteeing impeccable water quality;
• Geolocate all facilities on an interactive map for quick access and simplified management of the park;
• Plan and track on site interventions using a complete history of maintenance and adjustments carried out.
This portal offers valuable time savings and optimal visibility on installations, thus strengthening operational efficiency and customer service for professional pool contractors.
Davey ProMatic Lifeguard™
• Intuitive remote user interface for the individual thanks to the Wi-Fi application, simplifying settings and data monitoring.
Thanks to this solution, the ProMatic Lifeguard™ has established itself as an essential ally for private swimming pools, guaranteeing comfort and peace of mind to users.
With this portal, Davey Water Products pushes the boundaries of traditional pool management. This new tool, designed to integrate seamlessly with ProMatic Lifeguard™ systems, reflects Davey’s commitment to innovation and support for industry professionals.
Waterco Europe 01795 521733
www.waterco.eu
Two British entrepreneurs have launched the tech gadget every swimming pool owner has been dreaming of. Smartpool Ecosmart 400 takes those tedious pool management jobs we all hate and makes them simple. More importantly, it has a revolutionary eco-timer feature to help owners heat and run their pools more efficiently, cost effectively and sustainably. It also incorporates several safety features which will save time and potentially money. Quite possibly the best thing… it’s simple to install, easy to set up and effortless to use. Within an hour, users will be operating the system on their smartphones and wondering how they ever coped without it!
Ecosmart 400 works from a main hub, installed in a pool house, which links to Wi-Fi. Once set up, controlling and managing the pool will become a job that is actually enjoyed. Users will be able to control features such as lights, electronic covers,
fountains and more. Unique eco-timers can be linked to local weather forecasts or to solar panels, and the system set to run at the sunniest/ hottest part of the day – heating the pool becomes super-efficient, saving owners money and protecting the environment. In the winter, the auto ‘freeze protect’ feature will ensure that pool pipes never freeze, saving pool owners from ´potentially costly repairs. No more stumbling around in a dark pool house, trying to find a specific switch. Want to turn on the pump? No problem. Enjoy fingertip control via the app or opt for voice commands and ask Alexa to kindly turn on the pool fountain –easy and done!
Smartpool Systems 01255 768902 www.smartpoolsystems.co.uk
Coming soon, the all-new Jacuzzi® J-19DT™ Dual Temperature swim spas will allow users to swim, soak and unwind – all in one place –providing the ultimate versatility for any wellness journey.
Featuring separate swim (28°C) and massage (38°C) zones, the two J-19DT™ options provide the perfect temperature for every activity. The double lounger design ensures unparalleled relaxation in the spa end while the newly redesigned swim area offers maximum space for an exceptional swimming experience.
Improved swim system plumbing, ten swim settings with the Gecko control system, and the standard swimbar on all PowerActive™ and PowerPro™ models take performance to the next level. Plus, upgraded hydromassage plumbing delivers powerful, uncompromised relaxation.
The new J-19DT PowerPro™ is a dual-zone masterpiece that redefines versatility and according to Jacuzzi®, features the industry’s most advanced swim system. Fully adjustable
PowerPro™ PX swim jets deliver a robust current tailored to swimmers of all levels, from beginners to elite athletes – as demonstrated by British Olympic Champion Adam Peaty, OBE.
Inspired by the award-winning Jacuzzi® J-435™ hot tub design, the spa zone includes two ergonomic loungers, revolutionary infrared technology and advanced full-body hydrotherapy.
The new J-19DT PowerActive™ creates the ultimate family wellness retreat.
Patented PowerActive™ AX swim jets produce a smooth and spacious current, perfect for lowimpact workouts, fitness routines and recreational swimming. As with the PowerPro™ model, the spa zone features two ergonomically designed loungers, advanced hydromassage options, and groundbreaking infrared technology, delivering an unrivalled hydrotherapy experience.
Jacuzzi UK 0113 272 7430 www.jacuzzi.co.uk
SCP UK have introduced a number of new saunas to their wellness range for 2025, including a model from Czech manufacturer Hanscraft.
For users who prefer an outdoor setting in which to enjoy their sauna, the attractive 2-4 person QUADRA X sauna, with its glass door and front panels, offers a unique sauna experience. With its unusual shape and perfect design, it will become an ornament in any garden or outside setting.
With external measurements of 2200 x 2115 x 1880mm (height x width x depth), the QUADRA X features 40mm thick wall made from Thermo Pine. Thermo Aspen is used for both sauna benches and the floor material. Thermowood is a type of modified wood that has been heat treated to improve its durability and stability, and thanks to its use in the construction, there’s no resin leaks, plus the sauna is highly resistant to rot, damp, fungi, insects, weathering and warping. These attributes, combined with included roof shingles mean that the QUADRA X is suitable for outdoor use without the need for additional treatments.
As standard, the model benefits from an 8mm thick, fully glazed front, LED light strip and ventilation.
If further visibility is required to enjoy the external landscape, a half panorama rear wall window model is also available.
The QUADRA X comes with a two-year warranty and SCP UK guarantee permanent stock of this attractive outdoor sauna option.
SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com
As a leading producer of premium hot tubs, Master Spas is excited to launch its smart saltwater system – an innovation that reimagines water care.
Designed to elevate the hot tub experience, this advanced system addresses one of the top concerns for owners – water care. Featuring automated technology, the system continuously monitors water quality and generates the optimum level of sanitiser. The Master Clear Salt System helps maintain consistently clean, clear water with fewer added chemicals.
“At Master Spas, we’re always looking for ways to elevate the hot tub experience,” said Kevin Richards, President of Master Spas. “This new saltwater system makes it easier to put relaxation first and water care second for a stress-less soaking experience
for our customers.”
The Master Clear Salt System represents a new era in saltwater technology, built on extensive research and development to elevate water care. While traditional salt systems offered a solution, they still had limitations – over-chlorination, potential component damage, and the need for constant maintenance. Master Spas recognised these
challenges and refined the system to meet the evolving needs of hot tub owners. The result? A solution that optimises water quality, simplifies maintenance, and enhances the overall soaking experience. With improved efficiency and extended water life, the Master Clear Salt System reflects an ongoing commitment to innovation and to making hot tub ownership more enjoyable and stress-free.
The new saltwater system is being introduced first on all 2025 Michael Phelps Legend Series and Twilight Spas. The company also plans to unveil it as an aftermarket option on its other hot tub lines as well as previous years’ models.
Master Spas +1 260 436 9100 www.masterspas.com
We are proud to introduce the NEW AquaSPArkle range, bringing modern simplicity, enhanced usability, and the same trusted quality that hot tub owners across the UK have relied on since 2007.
Our refreshed design makes hot tub and swim spa care easier, clearer, and more accessible than ever before.
• New products: Expanded range to offer even more solutions
• Simplified instructions: Clearer guidance for effortless water treatment
• Sleek new design: A premium metallic finish that stands out in any showroom
• Updated marketing: New brochures, POS and merchandise
• QR Codes: Scan for instant access to step-by-step how-to videos
• Industry approved: Now WhatSpa? and WhatSwimSpa? approved! Discover
Following a busy events season, Superior Wellness proudly hosted their own 2025 Annual Partner Awards night on 27 February 2025 at the prestigious Hotel Pestana de Freixo in Porto, Portugal. This special evening was dedicated to honouring the incredible dedication, hard work, and achievements of the company’s extensive network of an incredible 500+ partners from around the globe.
A total of 19 awards were presented across various categories, recognising excellence in sales, marketing, installations and showroom performance, with the Chesterfield-based business congratulating all of the award recipients, whose commitment continues to set new standards in the industry.
Among the highlights of the evening, the UK’s Concept Spa, which operates multiple showrooms in the North West
and North Wales, led the way and received three awards, showcasing their exceptional performance across multiple categories. Other notable winners included British businesses Better Living Outdoors and Advanced Hot Tubs, plus Poland’s Superspas and Portugal’s Balness Spa, with each company taking home multiple awards for their contributions to the industry.
The night was filled with great conversations, celebrations and dancing, and Superior Wellness would like to thank all of their partners for making this event a resounding success and are looking forward to another year of partnership, collaboration and continued growth and achievement!
Superior Wellness 01246 559071
www.superiorwellness.co.uk
Germany-based system monitoring specialist CM Technologies (CMT) is advising super yacht managers to carry out more frequent testing of potable waters onboard their craft following a spate of outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease on passenger ships.
Recent incidents have highlighted the dangers of neglecting water system maintenance and testing on super yachts, with spas and pools being flagged up as particular areas of concern.
“Hot tubs are a real problem,” explained CMT’s Managing Director David Fuhlbruegge. “Most yachts have them these days, with operating water temperatures of between 37°C and 40°C which is the ideal environment for both bathers and Legionella bacteria.”
He explained that while the pathogen survives in temperatures between 20°C to 45°C, the smaller volumes of water used in hot tubs can increase the risk of Legionella growth, which can be spread more rapidly with aeration and water mist.
Advocating more frequent testing than the regular testing mandated by regulations, Fuhlbruegge explained that traditional water testing methods are problematic in that they usually require sending samples to shore-based labs for analysis, which can take weeks before the results are returned, by which time there could be a serious outbreak and therefore too late to take preventative measures.
CMT’s new Legionella Test Kit is deemed a breakthrough technology for the rapid detection of Legionella bacteria in marine potable water systems, as it delivers test results in minutes instead of days.
Optimised for use with hot and cold-water systems, the simpleto-use kit contains everything crews need to perform tests onboard, delivering results within 25 minutes and without having to send samples to labs shoreside.
CM Technologies +49 4124 504 430 www.cmtechnologies.de
Harvia proudly celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2025, marking decades of dedication to sharing the healing heat of sauna with the world. What began in 1950, when Tapani Harvia founded a small Finnish workshop producing wood-burning sauna heaters, has grown into a global leader in sauna solutions, offering relaxation and natural wellbeing in nearly 100 countries. This milestone year will feature a series of celebrations and product launches, starting with the Harvia Cilindro wood-burning heater – the first highlight of many anniversary activities to come.
“Over the decades, we have evolved from a Finnish heater company into a global provider of complete sauna solutions,” said Matias Järnefelt, CEO of Harvia Group. “Innovation and long-term strong partnerships have always been at the heart
of our journey. This success would not have been possible without the dedication of our employees, the trust of our partners, and the collaboration with our customers. To all of you, we extend our heartfelt thanks. Together, we look forward to continuing to shape the global sauna market so that everyone has a reason to experience sauna.”
From its Finnish origins, Harvia has embraced a global perspective, expanding its
expertise to reflect the rich diversity of sauna cultures and types worldwide. Harvia’s growth has been fuelled by both organic development and strategic acquisitions, strengthening its capabilities and broadening its offering to meet the needs of a global market.
Today, Harvia’s portfolio spans traditional, infrared and steam saunas, as well as hot tubs and cold plunges, providing comprehensive solutions for a variety of sauna experiences. With a focus on great user experience and innovation, Harvia invests in areas such as digitalisation and energy efficiency while introducing exciting advancements across all sauna types.
Harvia Plc
+358 207 464 000 www.harviagroup.com
Part of the Quality of Life Strategy 2033, Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky is a stunning project that will bring together Dubai’s ambition to advance its landscape and become an urban oasis with Therme Group’s leadership in wellbeing-driven infrastructure.
With around seven months to go before the opening of aquanale, the event reported outstanding interim results in mid-February. They showed almost all of the important market players had already applied and more than 80% of the exhibition area was already booked up.
A total of around 320 exhibiting companies from more than 25 countries are expected in Cologne. The trade fair is especially pleased at strong growth this year from Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Poland, Finland, Austria, Switzerland, Spain and the Czech Republic. aquanale will take place in Cologne from 28 to 31 October 2025 parallel with FSB, the International Trade Fair for Public Space, Sports and Leisure Facilities.
“We are very pleased at having already received so many applications at the present time from international exhibitors. It is not only a clear commitment on the part of the industry to aquanale, but also reinforces its position as one of the world’s
leading trade fairs for the future-oriented swimming pool, sauna and wellness market,” said Matthias Pollmann, Vice President Trade Fair Management Koelnmesse.
In 2025, aquanale will once again be located in exhibition halls 7 and 8 of Koelnmesse – clearly divided into the six familiar theme worlds. Trends for private swimming pool and wellness facilities with saunas and spas as well as innovations and management concepts for operators of public swimming pools, water parks and thermal baths will be shown here.
In addition to a comprehensive overview of innovative products and designs, aquanale 2025 offers the usual high quality programme, formulated together with the German association for swimming pools and wellness (bsw) as industry sponsor and the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS).
aquanale
+49 1806 603 500 www.aquanale.com
Designed by renowned architects Diller Scofidio + Renfro, Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky will be located in Zabeel Park, beside the Royal Palace in the heart of Dubai. Blurring nature and city living, the landmark will span 500,000 square feet with a 100m tall structure and is designed to welcome 1.7 million visitors annually, setting a new standard for holistic and daily wellbeing.
“Elevated high above the concerns of everyday urban life, Therme Dubai is an oasis in the sky. It emerges from the lake of a revitalised Zabeel Park as a series of botanical islands stacked into a tower. Each island is a platform for thermal pools, decks and verdant indoor and outdoor vegetation; each offers a distinctive atmosphere; and each is oriented toward the dramatic view of the Dubai skyline. Guests are immersed in unique environments – warm and cool, wet and dry, the intense heat of saunas and steam rooms and the ambient temperature of thermal pools and cool mineral pools. By day, the atmosphere is contemplative and relaxing. By night, the spaces come alive with music, artistic performances and events. DS+R is thrilled to take part in the convergence of Therme’s innovative approach to the tradition of public baths and Dubai’s legacy for landmark architecture,” said Elizabeth Diller, Founding Partner of Diller Scofidio + Renfro.
With construction set to begin in 2026 and completion anticipated by 2028, Therme Dubai – Islands in the Sky is both an architectural feat and a step toward a new era, where cities are designed to serve the wellbeing of all who live in and visit them.
Fluidra continues to shape the future of aquatic experiences through cutting-edge innovation and technology. Through Fluidra Ventures, its investment fund, the company has invested in Lynxight, the market leader in AI-powered safety solutions for commercial pools.
The company believes that pools should be a sanctuary of wellbeing, joy and safety and therefore investing in the next-generation of safety systems is a fundamental part of that vision. Lynxight’s AI-driven monitoring platform transforms standard pool cameras into intelligent lifeguards, enhancing realtime swimmer detection, movement analysis and drowning prevention capabilities.
Public and commercial pools welcome thousands of swimmers daily – families, athletes and communities seeking health, fun and relaxation. With Lynxight’s AI technology, facility managers and lifeguards gain new levels of insight and control, ensuring faster response times, proactive risk detection and an overall safer environment.
By integrating AI into Fluidra’s extensive ecosystem of commercial pool solutions, the company is enhancing the future of aquatic safety. This ensures pools are not only places of leisure but also spaces of trust and protection.
“With this investment, Fluidra will benefit from state-of-the-art technology, thus expanding its digital services for commercial pools. Our partnership with Lynxight is a major step forward in ensuring that every swimmer can enjoy water with confidence and security,” said David Tapias, Director of Innovation at Fluidra.
With Fluidra Ventures, the company continues to invest in solutions that transform how people interact with water –making every pool a safer, smarter and more sustainable place for all.
Reflecting on this year’s SPATEX, it was another fantastic event for the industry. It is so important to bring exhibitors and visitors together in one place. The time savings for people meeting under one roof in Coventry cannot be underestimated, especially for companies that may not have as many sales staff available to meet their customers. It is a must-see event with a mixture of exhibition, education and entertainment. This year, there was even a chance to watch Coventry City in action against Leeds United in a Championship football match!
SPATEX is the perfect location to host the Industry Gala Evening. Congratulations to the SPATA and BISHTA members who won awards at the 2025 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards and to the 2024 ISPE Awards winners for being re-presented with their trophies. It always gives me a great sense of pride to see the hard work of my colleagues in the Andover office come to fruition, with guests enjoying themselves at the Gala Evening. The industry can also acknowledge the vital work contributed by BSPF President Dyfed Thompson-Smith, BISHTA Chair Dorian Davies and SPATA Chair Jon Herbert, and thank Mark Ramsden, PIP Chair and Howard Gosling, SPATEX Chair.
The event relies on the generosity of our award sponsors, who are listed below. Thank you for supporting the event.
In this issue, BSPF Managing Director Chris Hayes highlights the importance of industry events as well as some of the changes taking place now. He also provides some updates that are on the horizon for the trade’s associations
The Awards provide great PR for the industry, which will keep Sallie LeslieGolding (on behalf of PIP) busy over the coming months. The PR does not stop there, as for some of the British Pool & Hot Tub Award winners, there is a chance to be short-listed for the 2025 EUSA Awards. The winners will be announced at one European pool show later this year.
This will be an especially busy year for Sallie, as BISHTA and SPATA will be updating their respective logos (as part of a wider brand refresh). The timescale is planned to be by the autumn conference in October (date still being finalised). Members will be given further communications in the respective e-newsletters about the progress of these changes. Once the rebrand is achieved, the websites will also be revamped and this will give greater exposure to members of the wider trade and the end users.
SPATA members have also begun to hear about whether proposed changes to the regional boundaries will provide better representation to ensure that the trade association can be responsive to businesses’ changing needs. There is no longer a reliance on face-to-face meetings to share ideas, but where an in-person event is requested (rather than an online/ digital update), SPATA will be there to provide it.
Onto some very tragic news now and I am sad to report that not long after SPATEX had finished, we received some terrible news from Pete Grinnall (BSPF Immediate Past
The time savings for people meeting under one roof in Coventry cannot be underestimated, especially for companies that may not have as many sales staff available to meet their customers”
President), who informed us of the tragic death of his partner, Hayley Keene, in a sub-aqua diving incident. These life events remind us of the importance of being with family and friends while juggling our business commitments. Our condolences have been shared with Pete and we look forward to playing our part in helping him where he needs it.
Finally, for this issue, I have one more very important message before I sign off: to thank and acknowledge the fantastic work that Jan Hardy has undertaken on behalf of the BSPF over the last sixteen and a half years. Jan is stepping down from her role as Office and Member Services Manager. She has been a fantastic key team member throughout her time in Andover. Jan has shaped so many aspects of the business to help members and she has also poured her heart and soul into the industry events, especially the Gala Evening and the President’s Weekend. We will all miss her presence in the office, but we wish her well in the next chapter of her life.
Have a great year.
15 May SPATA National Council, WebEx
21 May BISHTA Committee, WebEx BISHTA Technical Committee, WebEx
22 May SPATA Technical Committee, WebEx
5 Jun PIP Committee, WebEx
3 Sep BISHTA Committee, WebEx BISHTA Technical Committee, WebEx
5 – 7 Sep BSPF President’s Weekend, Portsmouth
11 Sep SPATA National Council, WebEx
17 Sep SPATA Technical Committee, WebEx
7 Oct Liner course, Witney
With liner pools still a popular choice for many owners and operators around the UK, SPATA takes a closer look at the process and benefits offered by on-site pool liners, plus look at whether these
should be fitted by pool builders or via specialist third party companies
If you’re the owner or manager of a growing and increasingly busy pool company, have you ever looked for ways to free up your time while maintaining healthy profit margins? One such way is to re-evaluate how you line or reline your customers’ pools.
The traditional method of using factorymade bag liners has been relied upon for decades and it remains an efficient and effective way to line pools. However, this approach ties up staff for several days, and the company bears full responsibility for ensuring a proper fit. Precise site measurements must also be provided to the liner manufacturer.
In contrast, opting for site-lined pools eliminates many of the challenges associated with ordering and installing pre-tailored liners, freeing up valuable time for more profitable work. There is no need for precise site measurements – the lining company handles
this. Additionally, the lining company installs the underlay, conducts the final pool sweeping, and assumes responsibility for the fit and any potential damage during installation. This also removes the costs and disruptions associated with fitting liners in low temperatures or experiencing delays due to wet weather. Several key factors must be evaluated when deciding whether a pool company’s own team should undertake the work. Beyond the technical aspects, considerations include the necessary skills, availability of trained personnel, required tools and equipment, time constraints and material availability. Project complexity, safety regulations, costeffectiveness and potential risks should also be assessed. It’s also important to consider whether outsourcing might improve efficiency or quality. Evaluating these elements thoroughly will help ensure the job is completed successfully, on time, and within budget.
• Fitting Process: Flat sheets of material are cut from a roll and shaped before being laid onto the floor. These sheets are joined together using a heat welding process to create a water-tight seal. The floor section is then fixed around the perimeter and, if necessary, at the tops of sloped areas to secure it in place.
A liner lock track or profile, akin to a thin foil lining, is used to fix the liner along the top of the wall face surface. Strips of material with a thicker beading element welded to one edge are shaped on-site to match the wall profile. They are hung in place and sealed to the floor and each other.
A gap is intentionally left between the bottom of the liner wall section and the pool wall to allow water pressure to evenly tension both elements when the pool is filled. The use of underlay, such as felt for walls and floors, or foam for rough blockwork, depends on the pool shell’s surface finish.
• Joining and Sealing Methods: In addition to heat welding using hot air or a hot wedge machine – special situations may call for solvent and PVC adhesives to join materials. Regardless of the method, all joins are sealed with a hand-applied liquid PVC bead along the upper join line.
• Use In Balance Tanks: While ‘pre-tailored’ liner material may pose fixing challenges in balance tanks due to wall movement, on-site liner material can typically be fixed more securely to the wall.
• Guarantees: The guarantee for on-site liners, which can be used in both domestic and some public pools, is generally longer and more comprehensive compared to pretailored liners. Guarantees may vary based on usage, so early communication with the liner supplier is crucial.
Liners usually carry a full guarantee in swimming pools with a running temperature of 32°C or less. The guarantee may be reduced for spas or hydrotherapy pools operating up to 35°C, while temperatures exceeding 35°C can further shorten the liner’s life expectancy.
With all this in mind, one pool company owner commented: “I have considered training my own staff for this type of work, but with only
a few lining jobs each year, maintaining their skill level and efficiency would be impossible. Also, I can put them to better use while someone else takes care of it!”
Another issue with performing occasional lining jobs is material batch continuity. Leftover partial rolls of expensive material can significantly cut into profit margins if not used promptly. This challenge is minimal for professional installation companies that consistently move from one job to another, efficiently utilising these materials.
Mastering the skills needed for site lining a swimming pool is critical to success. It takes years of hands-on experience to handle anything beyond a basic rectangular pool. Features such as steps, intricate angles, curves, bowls, ledges and cover pits demand precise vinyl application, secure welded joints and a flawless aesthetic – qualities only a highly skilled installer can achieve. Choosing the right installation partner is essential. A reputable installer not only represents a pool business professionally, but also ensures accountability, returning to address any issues if needed.
Because on-site swimming pool lining requires a specialised skill set, it is best left to professionals who perform these tasks routinely throughout the year. Continuous practice and refinement can achieve a true ‘expert installation’. It is also beneficial to partner with a company that is a member of the SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association), as SPATA members commit to industry standards and adhere to a Code of Ethics.
The most persuasive arguments in favour of site lining a swimming pool are the financial ones. Take the example of a typical 12’ x 24’ pool with a hopper figuration. Assuming ordinary conditions and using very approximate costing criteria, the pool company might spend at least two, and probably three days on-site fitting the liner – this would include a final sweep of the pool, clipping and vacuuming the liner into place, cutting out all the fittings and then supervising the filling which would almost always involve subsequent visits over the next day or two. For example:
• Let’s assume that the liner will cost £900,
and being generous, say that this will have taken up three days on-site at a total cost of £400 per day. This gives a theoretical cost of £2,100. If the pool company doubles this, it can charge, say, £4,200.
• In comparison-site lining the same pool. The cost of the installed liner would be about £5,000 and involve, at the most, one day on-site. So, the total cost would be £5,400.
• Typically, the percentage margin on a sitelined pool is less than a liner pool, so by adding 50%, we get to a selling price of £8,100. This gives the pool company a return of £2,700 for one day’s work on-site compared to a return of £2,100 for the bag liner with three days on-site. Furthermore, the time saved can be put to better and more profitable use elsewhere.
The installation must be executed correctly to capitalise fully on these financial benefits. A poorly installed liner can result in costly return visits and delayed payments, quickly eroding profits. A highly experienced lining partner makes all the difference. Choosing a company with recognised installation accreditations ensures high-quality work and reduces liability. Both systems offer cost-effective solutions, but site-lined pools come with significant advantages:
• Extended guarantees
• The lining company assumes responsibility for measurements and fit
• Reduced risk from weather-related delays
• No need for the pool company to be present during installation
• Less liability and higher profits with fewer resources invested.
The best way to determine what’s right for any business is to make an informed decision. To support pool companies, SPATA offers a Liner Course covering essential topics such as:
• How liners are manufactured
• Surveying and preparing the pool
• Installation techniques
• Proper maintenance
• Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
The course also includes a short test to ensure an understanding of key concepts. Training
By leveraging professional installation teams, pool companies can streamline operations, enhance efficiency and boost profitability”
is crucial for recognising the complexities of liner installation and understanding when to rely on specialist liner partners. Even with general knowledge of liner manufacturing and installation, occasional site-lining can lead to errors in complex shapes, welded joints and material management.
To summarise, when executed correctly, site-lined swimming pools present a more efficient and profitable alternative to pretailored liners. This approach eliminates the need for precise measurements, reduces weather-related delays, and shifts the installation company’s responsibility for fit and material use. Professional liner specialists bring the expertise needed to handle intricate pool designs and maintain material consistency, ensuring superior results. Financially, site-lined pools provide higher returns with less on-site labour.
By leveraging professional installation teams, pool companies can streamline operations, enhance efficiency and boost profitability. This allows them to focus on their core business while leaving liner installation to their skilled expert partners.
Lastly, SPATA would like to thank the contributors of this article: Neil Dalziel and Brad Armstrong from Aquaflex (www.aquaflex.co.uk), Neil Stephenson and Mark Adams from Certikin (www.certikin.co.uk) and Will Dando and Patrick Devaney from Plastica (www.plasticapools.net).
SPATA 01264 356210 www.spata.co.uk
Secure a place for the next training opportunity on liners by attending a SPATA Liner Course, which also provides 5 CPD points for attendees.
SPATA Liner Course
Date: Tuesday 7 October 2025
Time: 9.45am – 3.45pm
Venue: Certikin, Unit 4, Tungsten Park, Colletts Way, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX29 0AX
Cost: £35 + VAT (or £25 + VAT for SPATA members)
Please make bookings via the SPATA Office – call 01264 356210 or email: admin@spata.co.uk
As the sector’s biggest social event, the annual Industry Gala Evening – held during SPATEX in Coventry – brought together the UK’s most skilled wet leisure companies for a night of celebration, networking and camaraderie
The Wet Leisure Industry Gala Evening, a highly anticipated event, took place on the first night of SPATEX, 4 February 2025, at the Coventry Building Society Arena. Hosted by the British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF), the evening provided an invaluable opportunity for industry professionals, exhibitors and peers to come together for an unforgettable night of dining, celebration and entertainment.
The Oscar-esque evening began with a drinks reception generously sponsored by Heatstar. This gave guests the perfect setting to relax, reconnect with old friends, and forge new professional relationships. Attendees then made their way to their seats, and each table was gifted two bottles of wine, courtesy of Recotherm, in celebration of its 40th anniversary. Before dinner was served, industry stalwart John Asher (BSPF Past President, 1983–1984) led grace, setting the tone for a delicious three-course meal, expertly delivered by the CBS Arena hospitality team.
Following the exquisite dining experience,
the evening progressed into the prestigious Award ceremonies. Bob Judd, ISPE President, oversaw the re-presentation of the 2024 ISPE Awards. This was followed by the 2025 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards, celebrating industry excellence with accolades from SPATA and BISHTA. The Awards were compered by event host Phil Oldershaw, alongside Dyfed Thompson-Smith (BSPF President), Jon Herbert (SPATA Chair), and Dorian Davies (BISHTA Chair), with esteemed Toastmaster Tony Rance ensuring the evening went smoothly.
Adding to the grandeur of the ceremony, the Guest of Honour was Ollie Morgan, a five-time British Champion swimmer, 100m Backstroke British record holder and finalist at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, who took the stage to present awards throughout the evening.
The annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards is a prestigious event that celebrates leading companies and professionals in the pool and hot tub industry and showcases the latest innovations in products and services.
The annual British Pool & Hot Tub Awards is a prestigious event that celebrates leading companies and professionals in the pool and hot tub industry and showcases the latest innovations in products and services”
Recognising excellence across various categories, the Awards honour businesses that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to British and European standards while setting new benchmarks for quality and ethical practices in the sector.
The evening is not complete without entertainment, and this year, Apollo Soul provided an excellent musical performance that kept diners dancing and enthralled. This was followed by a disco.
This exceptional evening would not have been possible without the generous support of industry sponsors and partners highlighted at the bottom of the page. Their contributions underscore the collaborative spirit that propels the wet leisure community toward greater heights.
As the industry looks forward to another year of growth and innovation, the 2025 Industry Gala Evening served as a testament to the strength and camaraderie within the sector. Finally, good luck to any of the award winners that are shortlisted for the 2025 EUSA European Pool and Spa Awards.
BISHTA
01264 356211 www.bishta.co.uk
SPATA 01264 356210 www.spata.co.uk
Honouring outstanding achievements, technical excellence and sustainable innovations within the wet leisure sector, the 2025 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards were held in February and here, we highlight all the winners from the Industry’s largest annual Awards event
The British Pool & Hot Tub Awards 2025 celebrated the pinnacle of achievement in the wet leisure industry, spotlighting the dedication of UK (and some overseas) members in delivering high-quality products, services and solutions. Organised by SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trade Association) and BISHTA (British and Irish Spa and Hot
Tub Association), this annual event serves as a benchmark for excellence across the swimming pool, spa, hot tub and wellness sectors.
This year’s awards ceremony was held on 4 February 2025 as part of the Industry Gala Evening at the Coventry Building Society Arena. The event is renowned for gathering the best and brightest in the pool and hot tub sector and showcasing innovative products, services, and industry advancements. The Awards honoured achievements across various categories, recognising businesses that
have consistently upheld rigorous British and European standards, while setting benchmarks for quality and ethical practices in the industry.
Managing Director of SPATA and BISHTA Chris Hayes commended the winners: “The 2025 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards reflect the exceptional talent and innovation thriving in our industry. These companies exemplify excellence in skill, quality, and business ethics, inspiring trust and admiration across the sector.”
The 2025 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards celebrated the winners and the dedication of countless professionals who contribute to
The 2025 British Pool & Hot Tub Awards reflect the exceptional talent and innovation thriving in our industry. These companies exemplify excellence in skill, quality and business ethics, inspiring trust and admiration across the sector”
making wet leisure a thriving, vibrant industry.
A range of winning companies celebrated throughout the evening, but arguably the two biggest awards on the night went to the team
at Centurion Leisure who were crowned ‘Pool Contractor of the Year’ with Whitewaters collecting the ‘Outstanding Pool Of The Year’ award.
SPATA WINNERS:
RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR LINER POOLS UNDER £80,000
Winner: Centurion Leisure
RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR LINER POOLS £80,000 AND OVER
Winner: Cresta Leisure
Silver: Cresta Leisure
Silver: CB Pools
RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR ONE-PIECE POOLS
Winner: XL Pools
Gold: XL Pools
RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR CONCRETE POOLS UNDER £130,000
Winner: Mermaid Pools
Gold: Albatross Pools & Spas
Gold: Albatross Pools & Spas
Gold: Centurion Leisure
Gold: Centurion Leisure
Gold: Falcon Pools
Silver: Falcon Pools
Silver: Lagoon Pools
Construction
Silver: Tanby Pools
RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR CONCRETE POOLS
£130,000 AND OVER
Winner: Lagoon Pools
Construction
Gold: A19 Pools & Spas
Gold: Centurion Leisure
Gold: Cresta Leisure
Gold: Tanby Pools
Gold: XL Pools
Silver: A19 Pools & Spas
Silver: Lagoon Pools
Construction
Silver: Tanby Pools
RESIDENTIAL OUTDOOR POOLS WITH AN ENCLOSURE
Winner: Centurion Leisure
Silver: Alukov UK
Silver: Centurion Leisure
RESIDENTIAL INDOOR
FREEBOARD POOLS
UNDER £160,000
Winner: Origin Leisure
Gold: Centurion Leisure
Gold: Cresta Leisure
Gold: Origin Leisure
Gold: XL Pools
Silver: A19 Pools & Spas
Silver: Blue Cube Pools
RESIDENTIAL INDOOR FREEBOARD POOLS
£160,000 AND OVER
Winner: Origin Leisure
Gold: Centurion Leisure
Gold: Origin Leisure
Gold: Tanby Pools
RESIDENTIAL INDOOR OVERFLOW POOLS
UNDER £200,000
Winner: Tanby Pools
Winner: Whitewaters
RESIDENTIAL INDOOR OVERFLOW POOLS
£200,000 AND OVER
Winner: CB Pools
Gold: Whitewaters
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT POOL OF THE YEAR
Winner: Cresta Leisure
Gold: Origin Leisure
Gold: Whitewaters
Silver: Centurion Leisure
COMMERCIAL POOLS
Winner: Cresta Leisure
OVERSEAS RESIDENTIAL POOL OF THE YEAR
Winner: Exterior Experience
Landscaping
Gold: Exterior Experience
Landscaping
Gold: Niveko
Silver: Niveko
REFURBISHMENT POOL OF THE YEAR
Winner: Centurion Leisure
Gold: A19 Pools & Spas
Gold: Centurion Leisure
Gold: Cresta Leisure
Gold: Cresta Leisure
Gold: Mermaid Pools
Gold: Tanby Pools
Gold: Tanby Pools
Silver: Mermaid Pools
IN-GROUND SPAS
Winner: Cresta Leisure
Gold: Centurion Leisure
Gold: Tanby Pools
Gold: Tanby Pools
Gold: Whitewaters
Gold: XL Pools
Silver: Centurion Leisure
Silver: Cresta Leisure
Silver: XL Pools
WELLNESS
Winner: Centurion Leisure
Silver: Cresta Leisure
Silver: Cresta Leisure
SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
Winner: Cresta Leisure
Winner: Whitewaters
LIFESTYLE IMAGE OF THE YEAR
Winner: Albatross Pools & Spas
Finalist: Centurion Leisure
Finalist: XL Pools
PAUL KITE AWARD FOR ‘POOL / SPA STAR OF THE YEAR’
Winner: Patrick Edwards of Concept Spa
Finalist: Bradley Lee of Centurion Leisure
Finalist: James Metcalfe of SpaFlo
Finalist: Jordan Henry of Tanby Pools
PETER GEEKIE AWARD FOR RETAIL
Winner: 1 Stop Spas
Finalist: Hydropool Devon
Finalist: Wensum Pools
OUTSTANDING POOL OF THE YEAR
Winner: Whitewaters
DICK MILLWARD TROPHY FOR ‘POOL CONTRACTOR OF
Winner: Centurion Leisure
BISHTA WINNERS:
RESIDENTIAL HOT TUBS
BELOW £8,000
Winner: Concept Spa
Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers
Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers
Silver: Hydropool Devon
Bronze: North Outdoor Living
RESIDENTIAL HOT TUBS
£8,000 TO £15,000
Winner: USSPA
Gold: 1 Stop Spas
Silver: Concept Spa
Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers
Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers
Silver: Hydropool Devon
Silver: Hydropool Devon
RESIDENTIAL HOT TUBS
£15,000 AND OVER
Winner: USSPA Gold: SpaFlo
Silver: 1 Stop Spas
Silver: North Outdoor Living
Silver: North Outdoor Living
SWIM / EXERCISE SPAS
Winner: USSPA
Silver: Concept Spa
Silver: Hydropool Devon
Silver: USSPA
HOT TUBS IN A BUSINESS SETTING
Winner: Hydropool Devon
Silver: 1 Stop Spas
Silver: Concept Spa
Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers
Silver: Hot Tub Suppliers
Silver: Hydropool Devon
Bronze: North Outdoor Living
HOT TUBS CHANGE LIVES
Winner: Hot Tub Suppliers
Finalist: Hot Tub Suppliers
HOT TUB HAPPINESS
Winner: Cornish Hot Tubs
Finalist: Hot Tub Suppliers
BEST USE OF DIGITAL MEDIA
Winner: Hot Tub Suppliers
Winner: SpaFlo
Everyone would agree that water is a vital component in any pool, and maintaining good water quality is essential. In this article, Chris Bateman, STA’s Technical Advisor for Pool Plant answers some common questions about water testing
Swimming pool water must be treated with a disinfectant to keep it hygienically safe, but effective treatment requires knowing the current levels of key parameters. Regular water testing ensures there is sufficient treatment in place, keeps the water safe and comfortable for bathers, maintains the pool plant and equipment, and ensures compliance with guidelines and operational procedures.
A professional test kit is necessary, either a coloured disk-based comparator system or an electronic photometer. To obtain accurate readings, the equipment must be spotlessly clean, the correct reagents used, and manufacturer’s instructions followed carefully. Photometers should also be calibrated annually.
COMPARATOR VS. PHOTOMETER: WHICH IS BEST?
Both systems are acceptable, and the final choice depends on user preference. Photometers provide more precise readings, such as down to 0.01 mg/l for chlorine, but can drift out of calibration over time. Comparators have fixed colours, though plastic-based comparator discs fade over time and aren’t suitable for users that are colour blind.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD A PHOTOMETER BE CALIBRATED?
All photometers should be checked regularly against known standards. Most professional systems offer reference kits that enable quick and easy on site checks. For continued accuracy, it is recommended that photometers be factory checked annually.
WHAT PARAMETERS SHOULD BE TESTED AND HOW OFTEN?
While many parameters can be measured in pool water, the five most important, assuming chlorine-based disinfection, are chlorine (free, total and combined), pH, total alkalinity, calcium hardness and total dissolved solids
(TDS). Chlorine and pH should be tested frequently throughout the day according to risk assessment and operating procedures (but a minimum of three times per day), while total alkalinity, calcium hardness and TDS should be checked weekly or more often if issues arise.
pH is not only important for bather comfort and to prevent scale formation or corrosion, but it also affects chlorine efficiency. As pH increases, the amount of free chlorine available as hypochlorous acid decreases. If pH rises above 7.8, chlorine efficiency declines significantly, making the pool unsafe even if free chlorine levels appear within range. Therefore, these two parameters should always be tested together. The recommended pH parameter is 7.0-7.4 but ideally 7.0-7.2 as the lower the pH, the more effective the chlorine works.
TDS, or Total Dissolved Solids, represents the total weight of soluble compounds in the water. Normal drinking water contains around 200600 mg/l (depending where in the UK you are based), brackish water around 3,000 mg/l, and seawater typically 35,000 mg/l. In pools, TDS levels rise due to added chemicals and contaminants from bathers. High TDS impairs disinfectant performance and other treatments. Since TDS cannot be removed by filtration, it must be controlled through dilution, with ideal levels not exceeding 1,000 mg/l above the incoming water level.
Turbidity measures the cloudiness of water and is expressed in Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU). In the UK, drinking water regulations require a maximum of 4 NTU, with an average of 0.5 NTU. Pool water should not exceed 0.5 NTU, as high turbidity reduces visibility, poses
safety risks, indicates poor water chemistry or filtration, and affects the performance of underwater cameras and UV systems.
Since pool water testing involves measuring small quantities, accuracy is crucial. Following manufacturer instructions, using the correct testing tablets, allowing the required reaction time, and keeping equipment clean and dry are essential. Staining on equipment will give inaccurate results as it will contaminate the test. Hands should be washed and dried before testing, and tablets should never be handled directly. Photometers should be checked and calibrated regularly, and those performing tests must be trained and understand their importance.
Tests should be conducted as soon as possible after collecting the sample, and sample tubes should be inspected and replaced if scratched or dirty. Pool tests must always be taken from the pool (where the bathers are) furthest from the inlets (usually the deep end) and at a depth of 100-300mm deep.
STA offers a regulated four-hour Swimming Pool Water Testing qualification, ideal for those responsible for routine pool water testing. Many lifeguards and pool hirers are required to test pool water as part of their job, and this qualification provides them with the essential knowledge and skills to accurately test swimming pool and spa water. It also ensures they understand the significance of the test results, the recommended parameters and their implications for pool safety and maintenance.
In summary, maintaining high water quality in pools is essential to ensure safety, comfort and compliance with regulations. By following best practices for water testing and using reliable testing equipment, pool operators can uphold the highest water safety standards.
For more information visit the STA website, where you can also listen to Chris talking about pool plant safety and water testing on STA’s Podcast.
STA 01922 645097
www.sta.co.uk
With the introduction of their pre-engineered Hydrofloors-StreamLine® movable pool floor product, the Twinscape Group aim to make their products available to a wider range of clients across both the UK and beyond! Here, we take a closer look at the Suffolk-based businesses’ latest innovation
After over a decade of designing, manufacturing and installing Hydrofloors DreamLine Movable pool floors, the Twinscape Group have now added the Hydrofloors StreamLine product range to their portfolio of products. They wanted to make their products available to a wider client base, so they have now introduced a ‘more affordable’ movable pool floor line: the Hydrofloors-StreamLine®.
The pre-engineered, standard-sized Hydrofloors-StreamLine® variable depth swimming pool floors provide the ideal fusion of form and function.
The introduction of this innovative product offers a unique solution for pool design, bringing unmatched flexibility and adaptability. Its ability to quickly convert between a pool and a flat floor that can be used for non-swimming activities makes it an attractive choice for residential, commercial and high-end resort projects – especially when space is at a premium. Twinscape believes that this product is the future of the swimming pool industry, and as a company that is focused on offering cutting-edge pool solutions, they are now establishing partnerships with pool builders across the UK. Featuring the same dependable buoyant technology found in their custom, made to measure Hydrofloors-DreamLine® product range, the Hydrofloors-StreamLine® is delivered in a standard-sized, cost-effective offering. Incorporating scissor lift technology with water-based hydraulics (that can be operated without water in the pool), an indoor or outdoor swimming pool can instantly serve as a child-friendly shallow depth pool, middepth pool for hydrotherapy/exercise, or have a full lap swimming depth.
When no longer required for swimming, the area will transform seamlessly from a sleek
rectangle pool, to a terrace, exercise studio, dining room, or dance floor.
Twinscape is the world’s pre-eminent designer and manufacturer of Hydrofloors® Transforming Pool Floor Systems – delivering unprecedented safety and versatility to any aquatic space. At the touch of a button and within minutes, this incredible aquatic technology transforms a pool area into habitable dry deck space.
The company combines dependable technology and innovative engineering that will complement a design vision – providing unfathomed space and versatility to any residential, multi-family, or hospitality space.
All designs and production take place in Suffolk, England, and Twinscape’s UK-based installation technicians will install all Hydrofloors® pool floor systems in close collaboration with each pool construction company. Cost-effective and brilliant in their simplicity, fit a transforming pool floor into almost any project budget with HydrofloorsStreamLine®. Benefit from:
• Pre-engineered elegance
• A dependable design
• Straightforward construction specifications
• Speedy modular installation
• Fast ordering and delivery.
A pool that can grow with the family!
Hydrofloor’s variable depth technology can seamlessly transform from a completely closed and safe patio/terrace to a playful ‘toddler pool’ that comfortably adjusts as the children grow and gain confidence.
Conversely, bathers with limited mobility will appreciate how easy it is to enter the pool as they softly and securely descend into the water upon the Hydrofloor®
When the Hydrofloor® is up and closed, the pool is completely secured and safe, offering great peace of mind.
Twinscape also offer unparalleled product knowledge and training as well as ongoing support with the sales process, marketing materials, great pricing and terms, plus exclusive territories. Together they can help businesses succeed in bringing this technology to many more customers, ensuring pool builders and designers can offer something unique and enhance the options available to customers. What’s more, there is no other company more experienced in this technology than the Twinscape Group as they are one of the original pioneers of the movable floor swimming pool.
Twinscape is expanding its authorised Hydrofloors dealer network throughout the UK, Europe, USA and the Middle East. To be a part of this successful team and become an authorised Hydrofloors dealer, please contact r.plompen@twinscapegroup.com for further information.
Twinscape Group 01473 938689 www.twinscapegroup.com
Taking place in West Sussex at the end of January, in this issue we highlight SCP UK’s 2025 Showcase event, a well organised and very well attended day which presented numerous brands and their products to enthusiastic attendees drawn from right across the wet leisure sector
By Jon Wadeson
Taking place just a few days prior to the annual SPATEX exhibition, wet leisure distributor SCP UK hosted their own Showcase event on 30 January at East Grinstead’s Crowne Plaza Hotel – a venue located just a 15 minute drive from the company’s Crawley-based head office and distribution centre.
This single-day event focused on new products and innovation from a selection of SCP UK’s suppliers, and allowed the distributor a large and dedicated area in which they were able to display numerous products and create the opportunity for a face-to-face event to update and prepare their guests for what will hopefully be a busy and fruitful 2025 season.
The event greatly expanded on what the company displayed on their stand at SPATEX, making it an incredibly important day for the SCP UK team, as it allows them to demonstrate the company’s diverse range of products, not only in the private pool domain, but also in the commercial pool, water treatment, hot tub and wellness sectors too.
Having prepared for what Simon Cook and rest of the SCP UK team expected to be a busy day, the event didn’t disappoint. From the moment visitors pulled into the spacious car park of the Crowne Plaza venue, with numerous company vehicles displaying livery that indicated their pool and spa heritage, it
was clear the trade were keen to discover more about the company’s latest product ranges.
Guests arriving early were treated to muchneeded breakfast baps and refreshments, and for those arriving later, a stand up buffet was provided at lunchtime. Throughout the day, a steady stream of Showcase attendees were invited to peruse a wide range of vendor stands and to network with professionals from across the pool and spa industry. This year, SCP UK had the pleasure of welcoming a number of UK-based and international teams to the Showcase. Just some of the companies and brands at the venue included: Abatec, Aquachek, Avady, Davey, Elecro Engineering, Emaux, Griffon, Haogenplast, Hanscraft, Hayward, HTH, Intopool, Latham, Lovibond, Pentair, Total Water Products, Waterco, Week End Spas/Wellis… well, the list goes on, and actually, was a pretty impressive one. A number of these brands were existing suppliers but some were completely new to SCP UK too. One such brand was Aquafinesse and their representative was kept busy talking through
the company’s range of water treatment products.
With so many companies, brands and products on display, the event was in effect its own mini exhibition and the gathering of some of the industry’s heavy hitters, combined with smaller, more niche brands that covered all sectors that span the wider wet leisure industry ensured an engaging time for all who made the journey to the West Sussex venue.
Catching up with Simon Cook, Ian Pratt and other members of the SCP UK team on the day, all were clearly delighted with the attendance levels and see the annual event as an essential part of the company’s sales success.
A number of products from the Showcase are included within this issue of SPN and many more will continue to be covered throughout the rest of the year.
SCP UK 01293 546126 www.scpeurope.com
Throughout the day, a steady stream of Showcase attendees were invited to peruse a wide range of vendor stands and to network with professionals from across the pool and spa industry”
Certikin has access to their full portfolio of products, so whether it be the smallest of spares or largest of filters, contact our Pools or Commercial Teams for your Waterco product requirements.
Some of the most reliable and popular domestic bobbin wound filters on the market. Using the latest in fibreglass winding technology, they are available in top and side mount versions, the latter of which comes with the patented 10" lid, making servicing quick and easy.
This Commercial Pump has been designed to provide a substantially quieter operation and higher flow rates than the MK3 version. A new reshaped design has optimised the hydraulic efficiency of the pump. Available in 4.0, 5.5 and 7.0HP.
All models feature a heavy duty IP55 weatherproof motor with a 431 stainless steel shaft as well as an enclosed glass filled Noryl impeller for long lasting reliability.
The Commercial MultiCyclone 70XL contains 70 cyclones, which remove sediment from the water prior to the main filter. This reduces the amount of debris reaching the media filter decreasing the frequency and duration of backwashing - saving you time, money, water and energy.
The effect of deep media bed improves the filtration efficiency over standard high-rate filters by providing enhanced in-depth filtration and increased dirt capacity. In addition, the greater bed depth permits efficient use of mixed bed filter media and water treatment media such as granular activated carbon. The 1000mm bed of the SMD range and 1200m bed of the SMDD range ensure that finer dirt particles and colloidal substances are retained to a far greater level than a filter with a shallower bed depth.
An industry favourite, which is available exclusively from Certikin. As well as a modern look, the latest model has an upgraded motor which is manufactured using the latest technology to provide an efficient and powerful pump.
The water leisure industry from the UK and further afield arrived at the Coventry Building Society Arena at the start of February for the annual threeday SPATEX exhibition. Celebrating its 29th edition as a live event, and with more than just products and stands on offer, there was plenty for visitors to see and do once again at the Midlands venue
By Jon Wadeson
As the UK’s only dedicated wet leisure exhibition and the first international showcase of water leisure in the calendar year, SPATEX has firmly established itself as the must-attend event for anyone involved in the sector in the UK. The threeday exhibition held annually at the Coventry Building Society Arena attracts a wide range of visitors involved in the provision and operation of swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, saunas and wellness facilities… in short, anything that involves recreational water. Installers, retailers, leisure operators, local authorities, hoteliers, designers, architects… it’s a lengthy list, but all that arrive at the Midlands venue know the value that the event offers.
Following a record show in 2024, this year’s event had a lot to live up to, especially with a 30th anniversary following in 2026, but once again the SPATEX team delivered with visitors being treated to a display of the very latest models, innovations and trends from over a hundred leading companies drawn from around the world.
Whether it’s walking the show floor, attending the seminars or just networking, SPATEX has firmly established itself as a must-attend event
An impressive 1,535 visitors from 24 countries made their way into the Arena across the three days and it was gratifying for the SPATEX organisers that many exhibitors remarked on the steady flow of people in the hall and onto their stands, especially on the first two days of the event.
There was so much to see, with the 111 exhibiting companies filling their impressive looking and well thought out stands with a lot of products, many of which were new, plus plenty of innovation and cost saving technologies.
As SPATEX’s main provider of education and training, the ISPE workshop programme always dovetails well with the exhibition’s ability to showcase products and services, and this year was no exception. A diverse number of topics made up the informative ISPE workshop programme in Arena 1 and, likewise, that of the varied seminar programme held within Arena 2. The two seminar arenas recorded a total of 598 attendees which proves that there is a industry-wide thirst for not only products, but the expansion of knowledge too.
There’s plenty of hot tub and spa components to be seen at the show thanks to exhibitors such as Balboa
The traditional SPATEX networking party on the Wednesday evening of the show was well attended, with the free SPATEX beanie hats handed out to all party attendees proving popular.
With these aspects alone, it’s easy to see why the show has gone from strength to strength. However, add in the BSPF hosted Gala Evening and its Awards which are held on the first night of SPATEX (both of which are covered earlier on in this issue), plus the social and
An impressive 1,535 visitors from 24 countries made their way into the Arena across the three days and it was gratifying for the SPATEX organisers that many exhibitors remarked on the steady flow of people in the hall and onto their stands”
overall networking opportunity which the event provides, and you can see that the Coventry venue plays host to an all encompassing event making SPATEX, an annual one-stop shop for everything wet leisure in the UK, and therefore, one which should always feature within the diaries of anyone involved in the sector.
A representative from the team of FT Leisure employees that attended summed up the views of many who visited: “Spent the day visiting SPATEX. Great to catch up with suppliers, customers and competitors alike. Always good to see what’s new to the market and share experiences.”
New to the Coventry experience, Joe Harper of Elite Sports UK: “My first time attending, and it did not disappoint. A huge thanks to SPATEX for hosting such a valuable event.”
As is always the case, it’s impossible to provide more details for the workshops or even the products that stood out in Coventry – but as new product sponsor for SPATEX, some of the innovations on show and topics discussed have once again been included throughout this issue either as news or within our features. More of them will follow in subsequent issues throughout the year and of course, some we have already featured in previous issues in the run up to the event.
It should go without saying that for exhibitors, first and foremost, SPATEX is an exhibition and provides a unique platform to showcase products and/or services directly to personnel operating within or at least working with the wet leisure sector. So feedback from exhibitors, be it good or bad, is always key and an important measure of the event’s strengths and can highlight any weaknesses too. But given the numbers of visitors, it’s no real surprise that the overwhelming majority of views and feedback SPN has independently received has been positive too. An example being SPATEX regulars Heatstar, with Marketing & Media Manager Mark Osman who commented: “We had a really good volume of visitors coming through our stand across all three days and we all noted how busy it had been.”
Paul Webb of Fairlocks Pool Products echoed that sentiment and said: “Now the hard work starts, following up all the leads and enquires we generated.”
New or returning exhibitors rarely pull any punches, and it seems the event left an overwhelmingly positive impression with them too. “It was fantastic to bring Paragon back to SPATEX this year. After a ten-year hiatus, it was long overdue, and I’m so glad we made the return,” commented a representative from Paragon Pools who
displayed a number of pool cover solutions.
“What an incredible experience. It was our first time exhibiting, and we are beyond thrilled with the response,” said a representative from ShadeZone who supply and install awnings, retractable canopies, louvered canopies and pergolas across the UK.
After what was undoubtedly a successful event, and one to remember for all that attended, Organiser, Michele Bridle said: “A big thank you to all our wonderful exhibitors and visitors for making this 29th show such a resounding success. It is a great prelude to our milestone 30th anniversary edition, 3 to 5 February 2026, which marks three decades of SPATEX proudly serving and showcasing the water leisure industry.”
If you’ve never visited SPATEX or perhaps haven’t been for several years, it’s an event that should be on your radar and in your diary – so save the dates above – and SPN will hopefully see you at the Coventry Building Society Arena next year for SPATEX’s milestone event.
SPATEX
01264 358558
www.spatex.co.uk
With various products available to add to the water found within spas, here, we take a look at a selection of the dedicated hot tub water treatments and systems that are currently assisting owners and any factory-installed sanitisation equipment with the job of keeping water clean, safe and in the best possible condition
By Jon Wadeson
When it comes to hot tubs, spas and swim spas, there’s a lot more to consider than just whether it’s chlorine or bromine that is used as the sanitiser.
As with the water found in swimming pools, keeping hot tub water topped up with the correct chemicals is key in making sure that any chosen sanitiser actually works efficiently and the product’s equipment, including any built-in sanitiser systems, actually performs as expected. With the correct routine in place and chemicals used, the water and overall environment stays clean, is hygienic, and is ultimately safe for any users.
The right water treatment regime will not only provide a hygienic environment, but it will also reduce both maintenance time and therefore costs, plus more often than not, will extend the life of equipment – in some cases substantially too! So cutting corners is not only potentially dangerous, but it’s also clearly false economy, both in the short and long term.
With numerous products and brands available within the UK, in this issue, we take a closer look at just a handful of the water additives that are helping to ensure the safe use and longevity of hot tubs and spas this year and beyond.
Maintaining pristine water quality in a hot tub is essential for both the longevity of your equipment and the health of its users. SPAfresh is Certikin’s own brand of chemicals designed for use in hot tubs. The comprehensive range features sanitisers, shock, water balance and speciality
chemicals to maintain a top-quality hot tub. The range is aimed at the more budget conscious customer, however without any compromise on quality. The products, of course, come with the assurance that they are backed by the high standards of service and sales advice that all customers of Certikin have come to expect. Like its sister brand of pool chemicals, SWIMfresh, SPAfresh offers an economical, no-nonsense approach offering all the chemical products required to keep hot tub water sanitised and the filter and shell clean while providing the pool company with a compact and intelligent range.
CertiChem Product Manager, Craig Williamson said: “SPAfresh is the ideal range for maintaining a hot tub, by offering quality products at competitive prices. From balancing pH levels to preventing scale build-up, SPAfresh provides targeted treatments that address common water quality challenges. This all-encompassing approach ensures that spa owners can rely
on a single, trusted source for their water treatment needs. This is also backed up by Certikin’s service and extensive range of spa accessories including filters and cleaning equipment to offer a one stop shop for maintaining a hot tub.”
As the UK’s most extensive range of speciality products, AquaSPArkle from Complete Pool Controls (CPC) is a trusted and innovative range of easy-to-use products, specifically designed to keep hot tub water healthy, clean and crystal clear.
In short, AquaSPArkle makes maintaining safe, inviting water effortless. The range even offers convenient one-treatment sachets that are pre-measured for filter cleaning, oxidising and conditioning, plus comprehensive hot tub care kits, including non-chlorine and traditional sanitiser-based kits for routine maintenance.
Building on the product’s success, for 2025, CPC are proud to introduce the new AquaSPArkle range, bringing modern simplicity, enhanced usability, and the same trusted quality that hot tub owners across the UK have relied on since 2007.
AquaSPArkle’s refreshed design makes hot tub and swim spa care easier, clearer and more accessible than ever before. So what’s new exactly?:
• New products: Expanded range to offer even more solutions. Target common water problems like foam, scale and water clarity with these expert solutions.
• Sleek new design: A premium metallic finish that stands out in any showroom.
• Simplified User Instructions: AquaSPArkle’s updated labels feature clear, concise guidance, making maintenance easier than ever.
• New QR Codes: Every product now includes a QR code linking to step-by-step how-to videos.
• Updated marketing: New brochures, POS and merchandise.
In addition, CPC also offer a range of products in an ‘own label’ format – get in touch for further details.
Available through Lighthouse, SpaTime by BAYROL is a specialised product line designed for the trouble-free maintenance of spas and spa water. It is attractively packaged and offers a range of easy-to-use and harmonised care products to ensure that spa water remains clear, fresh and hygienic. SpaTime products address various needs, including water balance, disinfection and specific issues like foaming or turbidity. They are compatible with all spa types and provide solutions for maintaining optimal water quality, ensuring a relaxing and comfortable spa experience.
As well as chlorine and bromine sanitisers, there’s BAYROL SpaTime Active Oxygen for those who would like to operate a chlorine free system. Used together with SpaTime Active Oxygen Activator, this system is designed to disinfect spa water in a gentle way leaving the water more natural and pleasant, odourless and gentle to skin and hair.
Achieving good filtration is key in all water systems and hot tubs are no exception. Filtration works hand in hand with water treatment moving the dosed water around the system. The cartridge filter can be kept in optimum condition by regular cleaning using SpaTime Filter Cleaner and to further increase the performance of the filter,
SpaTime Clarifier can be added to ensure that the smallest dirt particles can be filtered out leaving the water with an attractive sparkle. Regular drainage and refilling with fresh water is an important part of spa care, as over time the water will become enriched with minerals, chemicals and other substances. Use SpaTime Pipework Cleaner to give the pipework and hard to reach areas a thorough clean prior to draining down, then follow up with good clean of the spa shell using SpaTime Surface Cleaner so that on refill with fresh water the hot tub is clean, shiny and ready for disinfection.
Plastica, known for its innovative water treatment solutions, offers a range of products in their Relax Spa collection, designed to maintain the cleanliness and safety of hot tub water. Effective water treatment is essential for keeping water free from contaminants and bacteria ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Plastica offers the Relax Filter Cartridge range, compatible with most major hot tub filter brands. These filters remove debris and larger particles, supporting proper water circulation and reducing the need for excessive chemical treatments. Regular filter maintenance extends the life of both the filter and the hot tub.
The company also provides a full range of water treatments to balance and sanitise water, including chlorine or bromine granules and tablets to kill harmful bacteria. These sanitisers are skin-friendly while offering effective water sterilisation. To prevent bacterial build up and cloudy water, Plastica offers non-chlorine shock, and pH balancers help stabilise water chemistry, preventing skin irritation and equipment corrosion.
Scale build-up is another common issue due to the high heat and mineral content in hot tubs. Plastica’s anti-scale treatments help prevent this, prolonging the lifespan of hot tub components.
Plastica recommends using water testing kits regularly to ensure proper chemical
With the correct routine in place and chemicals used, the water and overall environment stays clean, is hygienic, and is ultimately safe for any users”
balance, allowing users to adjust levels for safe and comfortable water. They also provide eco-friendly options, like the Natural Clarifier, which clears cloudy water, enhances filter performance, and prevents scum deposits from cosmetics and oils.
For new hot tub owners, the Relax Essential Spa Kit is a perfect up-sell and contains: Stabilised Chlorine or Bromine, pH Adjusters, No Foam, Energizer sachets, measuring spoons, a Spa Care Guide and Test Strips.
Plastica’s expertise, high-quality products, and convenient solutions make it the ideal choice for hot tub owners, offering reliable water treatment that ensures clean and safe water for everyday use.
thoroughly cleans the spa, including the piping, thus guaranteeing a clean spa with crystal clear water.
• Tonic - A mineral-based dual-action water conditioner that keeps your hot tub water fresh.
Over recent years, AquaFinesse has established itself as a brand that is wellknown for its treatment of hot tub and spa water, and for 2025, the company’s range of products are now available through SCP UK. AquaFinesse’s solution uses revolutionary technology and a patented formula to provide clean, clear and odour-free water with only one dose per week! AquaFinesse treatment will gently loosen algae and microbiological substances, (known as bio-film) and calcium from surfaces.
Found within the AquaFinesse Hot Tub and Spa Water Care Box, and capable of treating hot tubs to last between 3-6 months, the product not only makes life easier for hot tub and spa owners, but it protects their investment, extending the lifetime of a hot tub up to three times longer than with the use of traditional sanitisers!
For owners who would like to switch to this water maintenance system, but think the step to the Hot Tub Water and Spa Care Box is too big, then the AquaFinesse Switch Kit is the ideal solution. This kit has everything for making a new start with AquaFinesse and for testing the product for four to six weeks. In addition, the box also contains two AquaFinesse Filter Cleaner tablets to clean the filter and an AquaFinesse SpaClean tablet which
The AquaFinesse Switch Kit is one of a number of products from the brand that
Other products within the range include a Swim Spa Box, an Inflatable Spa Water Care Box, a SpaClean tablet, plus their ‘The Dead Sea Experience’ – a special mix of salts and minerals well known for its therapeutic effects.
This year, a new, innovative and unique product has been launched that will revolutionise the way consumers care for and maintain their hot tubs. What’s more, it’s as simple as one, two, three – with everything needed wrapped up in one elegant box.
Hydro Balance is, according to its manufacturers, the most comprehensive spa kit on the market, providing a simple and effective three-step formula for cleaner and longer-lasting spa water.
Developed by the team at Total Water Products in Baglan, South Wales, the home of Lo-Chlor Chemicals Europe, Hydro Balance has three main components:
• Cleanse - A deep cleaning solution that removes body fats and other unwanted harboured waste from the internal pipework of hot tubs.
• Revive - A formula that provides ultimate clarity by harnessing the power of natural ingredients that ensure water stays clear and radiant.
Each Hydro Balance kit contains a bottle of Cleanse, Tonic and Revive. A basic, three-step process that produces crystal clear hot tub water which is kind to a user’s skin and wallet.
Following over two years of development, Hydro Balance received its product launch at Piscine Global 2024 in Lyon in November last year and had its official UK launch at SPATEX in February.
Sam Grunhut, Business Development Manager at Total Water Products said: “Following our product reveal at Piscine Global 2024, we were delighted with the appetite for the product across Europe and we cannot wait to introduce it to the UK market this year.” SPN
Certikin 01993 777200 www.certikin.co.uk
Complete Pool Controls 01242 662700 www.cpc-chemicals.co.uk
Lighthouse 01752 253525 www.lighthousepools.co.uk Plastica Pools 01424 857857 www.plasticapools.net
SCP UK 01268 273040 www.scpeurope.com
Total Water Products 01639 823233
www.totalwaterproducts.co.uk
With liner pools being a popular choice in the UK, there will always be demand for a variety of pool lining solutions for both new build and refurbishment projects of any size and in any location. Thankfully, the days of limited lining choices are a distant memory thanks to an ever-expanding offering of the latest on-trend, high quality and durable solutions, many of which are now texturised. So what’s available this year? Here we examine just some of the options
By Jon Wadeson
There are a variety of ways to transform a dated looking swimming pool that has clearly seen better days, but when it comes to indoor or outdoor liner pools, both in commercial and domestic settings, one of the simplest, most effective and visually impressive ways is a complete refresh of the pool interior – and that means some form of new lining.
With manufacturers keeping a close eye on both owner and operator needs and the latest trends, the quality and depth of ranges has greatly increased over the last decade, with new designs, colours, patterns and textures all being made available. As a result, pool owners who wish to transform their pools and bring them up to date, can do so fairly quickly and at a relatively low cost too.
“Whether it’s a factory made ‘bag’ liner, or a heavy-duty site applied liner, the range and quality of swimming pool vinyl linings has come on in leaps and bounds in recent years,” said Certikin Product Manager, Mark Adams. “The strength and durability of pool vinyl has increased enormously, thanks to the application of improved protective lacquers which, when combined with high quality inks and colourings, improves stain and abrasion resistance, reduces plasticiser migration and helps combat UV degradation.”
With the latest liners now being at the cutting edge in the trend stakes, numerous pool owners are jumping at the chance to modernise their pools, and in doing so, bring them in line with the latest contemporary styles. Of course, that’s not to say that traditional options and colours don’t still have a place, but the variety of choice on offer today has become quite impressive when compared to just ten years ago, and meant companies in the sector remain as busy as ever as owners realise the value of a liner revamp due to wear and tear or to simply facilitate a refresh and change in appearance. Clearly suitable for new projects, replacement linings really come into their
own when refurbishing existing and pools, as the visual contrasts from old and tired to new and stunning are much more striking. Whether designed and produced in a factory or applied on site, a new liner for a pool of any size or shape has the ability to give a visually unwelcoming installation a new lease of life and the chance to once again impress as a focal point of any setting.
Regardless of pool size, style or the aesthetic requirement, there’s sure to be a liner or lining solution that ticks all the necessary boxes and in this latest issue, we take a look at just some of the available lining options and companies that are providing them for 2025.
Aquaflex is proud to provide the swimming pool industry with site lining teams to cover the ever growing commercial and domestic
Coming soon from
swimming pool market around the UK and into Europe.
Site lining is the perfect solution for non-uniform shaped pools and offers a costeffective solution compared to other finishes such as ceramic tiles.
With an expanding range of 1.5 and 2.0mm site lining patterns, customers have a variety of choices ranging from natural and ceramic embossed designs to conventional standard patterns used widely in the commercial market.
Added to their range in 2023 was Alkorplan’s TILE – a product that simulates large format tiles. Perfectly combining elegance and functionality, the two colours in the range, Quartz (grey) and Jade (green), give the pool a sober and elegant look and both are very versatile in any environment. Featuring an embossed structure and optimum anti-slip resistance, with a thickness of 2mm, TILE is a very resistant and robust option.
Last year, the Alkorplan range was further extended with the introduction of the three stylish textured options in the 1.65mm ALIVE collection, Prana (green), Dhyana (blue) and Chandra (grey).
For 2025, and coming soon, is a new range of 0.9mm, Class C non-slip 3D embossed Alkorplan liners. The EXO collection will consist of five colour options: White, Ventura Ivory, Ventura Grey, Ventura Dark Grey and Ventura Green and feature a lacquered surface that protects against dirt and discolouration.
In addition to the very popular Renolit Alkorplan ranges that are on offer, Aquaflex also supply a number of CGT Aquasense options. Recent inclusions to this range in 2023 were Brown Basalt which creates an enduring look and feel of natural stone creating warm teal blue waters, whilst Fidji Green is a beautiful stone design inspired directly from Indonesia – a design that brings a peaceful and quiet atmosphere to a swimming pool.
Both feature an exclusive Aquasense finish for full embossed texture and have been engineered with added chemical resistance and industry leading UV protection.
As one of the UK’s leading liner suppliers and installers, Certikin offers a comprehensive portfolio of stylish, high quality, durable options and their line up continues to expand. Drawing from the extensive portfolios of two main suppliers: Renolit and CGT, Certikin offers customers an unrivalled range of colours and patterns.
2025 sees the introduction of new materials from both suppliers. The Aquadecor series from CGT is a collection of exceptional printed pool liner material which are inspired by the latest décor trends and styles.
There are three new ranges from Renolit adding to the extensive number of materials already available from Certikin. Designed to simulate large format tiles, the TILE range is the ultimate expression of elegance combining both design and functionality. The ALIVE range is available in three colours, each allowing the transformation of the garden landscape into a picturesque oasis. Finally, the Renolit RELIEF range is available in eight different unicolour
textured designs. This multi-purpose, slipresistant and lacquered membrane will match any architectural design for new pools or renovations.
The site applied lining option is increasingly popular with domestic owners due to its durability. Certikin’s Infinite On-site Lining range uses a 1.5mm – 2mm three ply product compared to the traditional single ply 0.75mm vinyl used for factory made liners. The service is quick and efficient – taking around four working days for an average sized domestic hopper pool with steps and there is no curing or standing period. It’s suitable for both new and old pools of domestic and commercial size and can accommodate complex shapes, steps, ledges and pits. The longevity of the product, when compared to thinner linings or paints, is a major advantage, particularly for commercial pools. It comes with a 15-year pro rata warranty, but the life expectancy can be double this in a well-maintained pool.
As part of the French / German CF Group, Ocea UK are proud partners and are able to supply a premium choice selection of DEL liner options for the UK market.
This fully customisable range allows the mixing and matching of liner choices for floor, walls and stairs thanks to the IDLiner facility, plus there’s a selection of tile bands available to finish off and add an extra detail.
Three options are offered within the range: Protect 33, Evolution and Tradition.
Available in six plain colours and a further five printed patterns, the Protect 33 is a high-tech liner that defies time and environmental aggression. Offering high quality custom-made manufacture and a high temperature resistance up to 33°C, the Protect 33’s specific formulation requires a selection of pigments which guarantees a high resistance to discolouration. The PVC resin has been selected to limit the liner’s absorption of water and the formation of creases whilst its chemical composition protects the liner from stains and algae.
Next there’s the Evolution – a responsible liner range that incorporates 100% phthalate-free plasticisers. Available in four plain colours, Evolution also offers high resistance to ageing and stains and is suitable for pools with water up to a maximum temperature up to 32°C.
Lastly, there’s the Tradition liner. This value-for-money choice is available in eight plain colours and six printed options.
Featuring a price-controlled formulation, liners in this range are suitable for pool waters with maximum temperatures up to 28°C.
All these DEL liners are designed to defy time and be resilient to environmental aggression, and are a great solution for new build pools or a makeover for an existing pool.
With easy to calculate pricing, pool builders and designers can work out the costs for customers quickly and easily, with the Ocea UK team on hand to provide guidance through the ordering process.
According to South Yorkshire-based specialists On-site Pool Linings, it’s an exciting time for the pool industry with all the leading manufacturers producing fantastic new options for customers to choose from. There are designs and colours to suit all tastes, from the traditional swimming pool linings to more modern, contemporary looking ranges which often have some unique finishes.
The experienced team at On-site Pool Linings are able to install the full range of materials – from all leading manufacturers – giving their customers the widest possible choice in swimming pool liners. They are the only company that offers this benefit to their customers and they are able to install liners into domestic pools, commercial pools,
The new UNIDRIVE 505 from Leister is ideal for swimming pool builders who want to achieve almost invisible butt weld seams, even when using increasingly popular and durable 2mm reinforced, embossed, textured or digitally printed membranes.
Butt welding is employed on pool floors to enhance the visual appeal of the finish, resulting in a smooth, easy-to-clean surface with nearly invisible weld seams.
Traditional hand butt welding requires a high level of skill and is often a labourintensive process, which can lead to issues like smeared prints and open joint edges that trap dirt and bacteria. The new UNIDRIVE 505 is the solution to these problems.
The product features an innovative T-shaped hot air nozzle that swivels in, allowing for a 3-in-1 simultaneous welding process. This design effectively welds under
schools, hydrotherapy pools, holiday parks, health clubs, ponds and natural swimming pools.
As a specialist company, their business focuses solely on on-site lining, so they are able to concentrate on this specific area, giving their customers excellent service before, during and after any installation.
On-site liners are suitable for both new and existing pools, allowing the ability to design, build or change the pool into something any customer has always dreamed of. They have a quick installation time, low maintenance and are tailored for an exact fit to any size, shape or design of the pool.
With a team of professional installers who have in excess of 60 years of experience between them, they offer a free quotation service with advice at each stage of the process – from quote to installation through to after care – their friendly and professional staff are always happy to help!
and between membranes, producing a nearly invisible seam and a smooth, even surface.
The UNIDRIVE 505 offers precise device guidance thanks to a clearly visible field of vision and the capability to weld with a constant pressure on one of the two defined
Plastica offers a premium solution for refreshing swimming pools with expertly crafted, custom-designed liners. With years of industry experience, the company specialises in precise surveying and custom manufacturing, using advanced CAD software and a cutting-edge plotter cutter for a perfect fit. Choose from a variety of finishes, including plain, patterned, and the new 3D options. Each liner is designed for durability and aesthetic appeal.
This season, the new 3D range comes in Granite Grey and Black Slate, both with a realistic embossed texture for a sophisticated, high-end look.
Fraser McCallough, Business Development Director, commented: “Our domestic bag liners are known for their exceptional fit and consistent quality. We’re excited to
handles at the rear of the device. This makes it quicker and more consistent than traditional hand butt welding. Additionally, the UNIDRIVE 505 is designed for ease of use featuring straightforward user instructions and operation via its display, thereby eliminating the necessity for highly skilled and qualified hand butt welders. It stands out with its ergonomic design and user-friendly operation, providing a safer welding experience thanks to its 3-point support system. Additionally, its efficiency in comparison to manual butt welding makes the UNIDRIVE 505 a cost-effective option, as users can work continuously without frequent breaks.
Welwyn Tool Group 0800 856 0057 www.welwyntoolgroup.com
continue collaborating with our pool trade partners this season, and we’ll also be offering training courses in 2025 to support this commitment.”
Like all Plastica liners, the new 3D designs offer enhanced chemical resistance and toptier UV protection, making them ideal for pool water temperatures up to 29°C. These liners are anti-slip certified and come in a durable 37-thou thickness for both safety and performance. Every liner is custommade in Plastica’s UK facility, backed by a five-year pro-rata warranty, and enriched with algaecide to prolong its life. Patterned liners have an extra protective lacquer coating to preserve colour vibrancy and prevent waterline staining. Plastica also offers a variety of beading colours, extruded in-house, to complement any liner.
Plastica’s EXTREME Onsite Lining System now includes new CGT ranges, offering yearround installation for both new and existing pools. With over 35 years of on site lining expertise, the EXTREME system is perfect for commercial applications, holiday park, and high-traffic pools. Installed by trained specialists, EXTREME liners are made from flexible, reinforced PVC (1.5mm-2mm thick) and tailored on site for a precise fit. For independent installations, EXTREME material is also available to order by the roll.
Available from SCP UK, the Latham UltraSeam 30 Gauge Vinyl Liner offering was greatly refreshed in 2023 with nine new design options added to the patterned liner range which now consists of 23 designs. In addition to these, there are 19 All Print options plus a further five options in their Pearlscape offering.
With seven installation teams available, SCP’s on site lining options have been boosted further with the introduction of new Haogenplast options. The Stonetile 3D premium pool lining range is now available
...companies in the sector remain as busy as ever as owners realise the value of a liner revamp due to wear and tear or to simply facilitate a refresh and change in appearance”
in six designs: Stonetile Golden, Stonetile Elegance, Stonetile Grey and Stonetile Emerald, plus the latest additions of Stonetile Marine and Stonetile Tropic. With a genuine stone appearance and feel, this lining option provides the following benefits:
• Ultimate long term waterproofing solution
• Intense chlorine and other stains resistance
• Strong resistance to UV damage
• Slip resistance – standard C
• The asymmetric configuration makes the 1.70mm products easier to cut and adjust during installation.
Suitable for both domestic and public pools, Stonetile options come with a 15-year waterproofing warranty and are NF EN 15836-2 compliant.
There’s a new addition in the Stoneflex 3D premium non-slip range too with Stoneflex Forest bringing the total collection up to eight.
Certified for use in public pools with water temperatures up to 35ºC, these also come with a 15-year waterproofing warranty and NF EN 15836-2 compliance.
These new colours expand on what was
already an extensive range of 3D products offered by SCP UK and with their addition, along with plain and full pattern lacquered options available too, thankfully there is an app that allows all the options within the Haogenplast collection to be seen in stunning images and breathtaking video clips, plus there’s even a virtual reality mode to see what a specific pool will look like too!
With installation times that can be measured in days and weeks rather than weeks and months, combined with quality materials and finishes, one-piece pools are the perfect solution for a convenient and hassle-free pool build experience. Add in some impressive warranties, plus more options than ever before, and it’s easy to see why they are such a success and increasingly chosen by both the trade and customers alike. In this issue, we discover what’s available this year
By Jon Wadeson
With demand for swimming pools proving to be surprisingly resilient given the economic backdrop, one-piece and fibreglass pools have remained as some of the leading options for pool projects due to their ticking of many of the boxes for both consumers and the trade.
The promise of convenience is arguably their biggest draw. Whether it is the initial choosing of one, the promised delivery times, their relatively straightforward and speedy installation or the fact that a lot of the fittings and equipment are in place and ready to go direct from the factory – pools of this type definitely provide a quick, more straightforward and lower stress pool build solution that also results in minimal disruption too.
Add in a wide range of options, stunning modern looks, competitive pricing, low ongoing maintenance costs, peace of mind warranties… the list goes on and for a large percentage of clients who have the need for a swimming pool, there’s a suitable one-piece option on offer.
So, as a complete package, for most aspiring owners and of course, for pool installers too, it’s no great surprise that they have being widely welcomed and are increasingly embraced.
There’s now such a wide range of models, colours, access options and finishing choices that pools can be customised to meet the needs of even the most demanding of customers.
Putting aside requirements for a really specific, unusual design or unique shape, it’s difficult to identify any real downsides to the proposition of a one-piece pool, a swimming solution suitable for a wide range of environments.
Even installation sites with access challenges are rarely an issue thanks to an array of creative delivery methods, plus further options to split some pools and join them together once on site.
In short, one-piece pools provide an impressive and hard to ignore list of benefits versus other more traditional pool options and
for many, they are a tempting option that is just too hard to ignore.
Here, we take a closer look at some of what’s on offer in the UK for the 2025 season and beyond.
AstralPool are already well known for their modular pools, with them being the undisputed world leader in those made of galvanised and stainless steel pools. However, their offering is extended further with the addition of a range of one-piece pools manufactured from high quality polymer. Known as ‘The Hampshire’, the range is available is three sizes; 6m x 3m, 7m x 3m and 8m x 3m (all with a constant depth of 1.5m).
The design of The Hampshire creates a minimalist transition between the pool wall and the water run off whilst maintaining the maximum water level. This is achieved thanks to the uniquely designed skimmer which sits
at the rear of the pool.
With the pool fully prefabricated, a onepiece pool is one of the quickest and easiest ways to construct a pool. The Hampshire range comes complete with all the required AstralPool fittings, as well as LED lighting and built in steps for easy access to and from the pool. To complete the package, the seat bench houses an automatic slatted cover which is available with a choice of slats and colours (slats are an additional cost to the pool package).
Choosing ‘The Hampshire’ one-piece pool option comes with peace of mind, as AstralPool UK can also provide dedicated project management services to ensure seamless supply, transport and positioning of the pool.
Kent-based Aqua Technics Pools UK used last year’s SPATEX exhibition to officially launch the Aqua Technics Pools range of onepiece composite swimming pools to the
UK trade. Manufactured in Australia, these pools are renowned for their unparalleled quality, high-tech construction materials, unique selling features and exceptional design.
Australia is the home of the swimming pool, boasting more domestic pools per-capita than any other country in the world, and Aqua Technics Pools have been at the forefront of the market for almost 50 years, with the founding family still at the helm today.
Plentiful stocks of the most popular models in the most requested colours are held in stock at the Aqua Technics Ashford distribution centre, meaning very rapid delivery and installation times for UK and Irish dealers can be achieved.
Their commitment to customer satisfaction doesn’t stop at stocking these exceptional pools in the UK. Pools are fitted out in customer options in Kent and tested before being shipped out. Similarly, prefabricated
plant rooms are manufactured and comprehensively tested and shipped out on the same truck as the pool, meaning a dealer’s engineers merely have to run an electricity supply to the plant room and connect pipe runs between the pool and plant room when it’s installed.
Dorian Davies, Dealer Network Manager at Aqua Technics UK commented: “We’ve now got most of our dealership network in place since launching at SPATEX in 2024, and our dealer support programme is arming them with the tools and skills necessary to make their dealership a success and this is reflected in the interest, quotes and orders in the pipeline. Our dealership works on a territorially exclusive basis where, when we assign dealership to a company, we agree to not put another dealer within a defined area, which in turn gives them the confidence and reassurance they need to invest in their marketing locally.”
Having exhibited for the last few years at SPATEX, Belgium-based Carropools are looking to make their mark on the UK market.
The company uses reliable Belgian craftsmanship to produce unique, prefab swimming pools with premium and sustainable materials.
At Carropools, the ideal combination of flexibility, eye for design and the application of the right materials and equipment always results in a unique swimming pool in which every last detail has been considered. Their 100% custom-made pools can be designed and manufactured in any imaginable shape: rectangular, L-shaped, round, angled, etc and in skimmer, underflow, overflow and infinity options (and combinations thereof), meaning there’s an option to suit most requirements.
From 4m wide to a maximum of 30m long as a single piece (if the project location and transport permit), their pools are made of 10 or 20mm thick, solid-colour polypropylene copolymer (PPC) which makes them frost, impact, chemical and osmosis resistant.
Carropools’ materials and production methods comply with the ISO and DIN standards and their welding techniques are secure and undergo quality inspection. Panel materials and welding joints come with a 30-year and ten-year warranty, respectively.
Carropools can be produced in various design colours and the company can incorporate any filters, overflow systems and edge finish that is desired. Complete the pool with built-in steps of the client’s choice, an integrated cover, a lounge area, lighting, jets, etc.
Whichever options are chosen, the brand’s swimming pools always have a sleek design and are available in three configuration and price ranges: Exclusive, Silver and Basic lines.
In addition to their custom-made swimming pools, the company also produce bespoke wellness pools and swimming pond options which are made using the same quality materials.
In 2023, one-piece pool pioneers Waterstream, the home of Compass Pools in the UK, launched EVi Pools, an exclusive range of complete pool packages for the trade.
The move followed the company receiving numerous enquiries from trade professionals who were keen to gain access to the wet leisure industry and offer their clients a highend installation experience.
Waterstream understand that the installation of a one-piece pool should be a swift and straightforward process, requiring no retaining walls enabling quick installation with minimal disruption and long lasting results.
To simplify this process further, the company are able to provide guidance and support throughout the installation process, ensuring that the groundworks team has all the technical information required to prepare for delivery day, when they also provide assistance with the movement and placement of the pool, connecting the pool plumbing to the Pool Pod cabinet (plant room), ensuring a safe, high-quality result every time.
All of the EVi Pools base packages include a pre-fitted shell with lights, a pre-plumbed and wired Pool Pod complete with air source heat pump, pump and filtration equipment and any additional equipment required by the client such as counter-current turbine or safety cover.
By offering a complete pool package, EVi Pools can help trade professionals gain access to the one-piece market quickly and easily, providing a simple installation solution that will give their clients premium results every time. This new range offers
trade professionals a simple, stress free process, that includes everything the trade professional needs to create a stunning, high quality pool for their client regardless of their requirements or budget.
With over 55 years of experience and innovating design of one-piece pools, the LPW pool range is available exclusively throughout the UK from Fairlocks Pool Products. The pools are manufactured as a single, complete one-piece pool shell that can be lowered into a pre-prepared
...pools of this type definitely provide a quick, more straightforward and lower stress pool build solution that also results in minimal disruption too”
hole in the ground. A strictly controlled construction process ensures the pools are built to the highest quality. With an insulating honeycomb structure forming the core on which there are six layers of vinyl ester resin with further glass fibre reinforcing. The reinforced structure provides strength and rigidity as well a high degree of insulation. This gives LPW the confidence to offer the only Lifetime guarantee available in the market today – how is that for peace of mind!
The unique design has the added advantage for the pools to be fitted with the market leading Covrex Automatic Slatted Cover system. This combination minimises energy consumption and improves pool safety as well as security.
Competitively priced, Fairlocks have an extensive installer partner network throughout the UK, all of whom have access to the unique online lead generating system as well as training opportunities at the Belgium factory.
Built in the factory and installed in a matter of weeks with far less disruption than more conventional builds, all combined with a lifetime warranty, LPW one-piece pools are a vision of the future.
Also available from Fairlocks is the Flexline range of one-piece pools. Flexline
LPW offers over 55 years of experience and innovating design of one-piece swimming pools
Systems provide a fully bespoke, high-end, custom-made one-piece pool made from solid polypropylene copolymer (PPC). Available in four striking colours, these pools are resistant to UV, frost, osmosis and chemicals, the 10mm thick panels used in construction comply with strict and high ISO and DIN standards and are 100% recyclable.
Choose from skimmer, overflow and infinity edge options, each of which incorporates a hidden automatic cover.
With over 30 years of experience in the sector, the NIVEKO brand is best described by one word – quality – and the High-Tech Polymer material from which their pools are made is a key part of this. Manufactured in Germany, the specially modified material brings several advantages including guaranteed resistance to UV rays and the negative effects of chlorine, both on the colour and on the material itself.
The wide range of pool configurations NIVEKO offer allows every customer to turn their vision into reality. Whether it is the pool types, the colour options, the different types of stones, entrances to the pool or premium stainless steel parts.
The current main NIVEKO line up contains four types of pools: skimmer invisible, overflow advance, overflow evolution and overflow infinity. Skimmer invisible is a unique type created on the basis of many years of experience and technical innovations. The Skimmer invisible model allows for maximum water surface height while maintaining the advantages typical of skimmer pools. Exceptional, eye-catching, distinctive – this is the overflow advance.
The strong lines of dark natural granite leave a strong impression and perfectly complement architecturally distinctive buildings. The overlow evolution, on the other hand, is the definition of minimalism – the thin overflow edge is a timeless choice that
brings out the beauty of the clear water surface. NIVEKO’s portfolio also includes the well-known overflow Infinity pool type, which transforms an ordinary pool view into an enchanting spectacle in the distance.
In addition to the above, the company also offer the NIVEKO Pool Plus fully customisable pools with unlimited possibilities to choose the type of pool, size, shape, built-ins and more, meaning customers can choose the pool according to their own expectations down to the last detail.
Available through Ocea UK, Starline Monoblock luxury one-piece pools have gone from strength to strength over the last
few years.
Starline have been manufacturing for over 50 years and the swimming pools are 100% ‘Dutch’ design and have a minimalist look.
With a range of nine pool types spanning from 4.5m to 12m in length, there’s an option on offer to suit the requirements of the vast majority of customers and various budgets too.
The brand’s one-piece pools are manufactured using only the very best materials, with high quality composite and a very sustainable, double-walled insulated structure.
Each pool can be completely personalised with entrance steps, various options and chic accessories plus all are available in a range of different colours – choose from a palette of seven across the majority of the range.
A Starline swimming pool is a clean
swimming pool, with the top layer of the walls being UV-resistant, scratch-proof and indestructible. The material is extremely hard and very smooth, making it both antibacterial and soft to the touch too.
When it comes to safety, the company have given this a lot of thought. Various pools come with a standing ledge and a safety rim for the Roldeck cover, meaning children can safely play around the swimming pool.
Starline offer guarantees for all their products. This includes a 100% satisfaction guarantee on their swimming pools, as well as lifetime guarantees on the water tightness of the vinyl ester top layer and the tub. As the company’s swimming pools are completely fitted in the factory, any pool will be ready to use in a home or garden within one week.
When it comes to durable, high-quality swimming pools, Diamant’s PPline onepiece polypropylene pools offer an excellent combination of flexibility, longevity and easy installation. Now available in the UK exclusively through Plastica, and designed and assembled in the Diamant factory, these luxury pools are delivered in a single piece, allowing for quick and straightforward placement into the ground with minimal on site work.
Diamant’s polypropylene pools are
made from a single-layer material that is fully UV and colour-resistant, ensuring they maintain their aesthetic appeal for years. Unlike traditional pools, they are resistant to osmosis, a common issue in fibreglass pools, which can cause structural degradation over time.
The smooth, non-porous surface of polypropylene prevents the accumulation of dirt, algae and bacteria, making it easy to clean and maintain. This ensures a high level of hygiene, reducing the need for excessive chemical treatments.
PP pools offer remarkable design flexibility, allowing for various dimensions, shapes and integrated features such as built-in stairs, relaxation areas, integrated slatted covers and massage systems. With material thicknesses ranging from 5 to 12 mm, these pools provide excellent strength while maintaining adaptability.
Polypropylene pools are capable of withstanding extreme temperatures too –from -30°C to 70°C – ensuring year-round usability and resilience in varying climates.
Delivered as a fully assembled, one-piece structure, PPline pools eliminate the need for on site welding or complex construction, allowing for quick and efficient installation. This reduces labour costs and minimises disruption to a client’s outdoor space.
With their modern design, durable materials and practical advantages,
...for most aspiring owners and of course, for pool installers too, it’s no great surprise that they have being widely welcomed and are increasingly embraced”
Diamant’s PPline pools offer a high-end solution for both residential and commercial projects. Their effortless maintenance and quick installation make them an attractive investment for anyone looking for a premium, long-lasting swimming pool.
Golden Coast offers you, as a professional in the wet leisure industry, a comprehensive range of pool components. From filters, pumps, and heat pumps to maintenance products, cleaners and covers. Golden Coast is your trusted partner at every stage of your project.
Explore THE EDGE, our brand new Top Mount Cover System for automated slatted covers. With its sleek design, LED lighting and availability in black, silver or umbra gray, THE EDGE fits perfectly in any garden. THE EDGE is compatible with the Aquadeck slats or the budget-friendly entry-level models of the new ‘Discover’ range. THE EDGE is easy to install and widely applicable. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information. We go ‘to the edge’ for you!
The installation of a cover on a swimming pool is an obvious and logical step to make domestic pool ownership ‘greener’ and reduce running costs. Automatic pool covers go a step further by providing an effortless and stylish solution with the additional benefits of safety built in. With further innovations and numerous brands in the sector, there’s now more choice than ever and we take a closer look at what’s on offer in 2025
With so many companies now operating within the sector, when it comes to automatic covers for domestic pools, there’s a wide selection of brands, materials and colours to choose from, meaning even the most discerning of clients will find their perfect solution.
Automatic options are a great choice for both indoor and outdoor domestic pools. In addition to enhancing safety, they will save their owners both time and effort in terms of maintenance, plus of course, assist with energy savings too.
Convenience is key to their appeal and these powered options make opening and closing the pool as simple as turning a key, pushing a button or increasingly, even tapping on a smartphone app.
In short, these covers are as varied as they are dependable and manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to improve their offerings both in terms of quality, appearance, performance and operation.
With plenty of options on offer, this issue, we take a look at some of the stylish coverups that are available for the domestic pool market this season.
ENJOY A RESPONSIVE SERVICE AND FAST TURNAROUND WITH (RE)COVER
(Re)Cover, a leading provider of slats for swimming pool covers for over ten years, and
Poolmotive (previously Blue Professional Poolware), renowned experts in in-roll motor systems, cave panels and pool equipment, offer a collaborative effort.
The market for replacement slats is bigger than the new pool market in Europe and this is why the companies have chosen to specialise in making the most perfect profiles and cover systems. Each is hand finished and checked to ensure quality and this cuttingedge product offers unparalleled durability, functionality, design and convenience.
Crafted with precision engineering and premium materials, these automatic slatted cover systems guarantee durability and efficiency and they’ve been available in the UK since 2023. The covers seamlessly integrate into new build and existing pool projects, enhancing aesthetic appeal. The beautiful colours of the (Re)Cover slats match well with contemporary gardens and traditional ones too: the green looking particularly nice against Cotswold or York stone, while providing a myriad of other benefits including what the company claim is the highest certified hail resistance on the market.
With delivery to site in just two weeks on standard size pools and quotes and questions answered within 24 hours, the service is both professional and super fast. The company hopes to gain more business with its focus on top-quality materials and responsive service, and as pool professionals are buying directly from the manufacturer, they have the control
By Jon Wadeson
over their products and schedules to ensure their customer-centric approach, which means peace of mind knowing they will respond to enquiries quickly, ensuring pool professionals can do the same with their clients.
AstralPool UK offer a number of automatic pool cover choices with both slatted and fabric options available. New for 2025 is the addition of the Grando range of slatted covers. Since their inception over 60 years ago they have been synonymous with precision craftmanship and technological advancement. Grando understands that a pool cover should not only be functional but also complement the overall design of the pool area. Their covers are available in various colours and materials, allowing customisation to suit individual preferences. Each cover is bespoke made and combines German craftsmanship with high-grade materials such as speciality plastics and stainless steel. The slats on a Grando cover are sealed individually in a special, multi coat process. This not only seals them durably over the long term, but also means that they can precisely adjust the covers to any flowing, freely designed shapes and curves.
AstralPool UK have a further seven models to cover the equipment needs of new and existing pools, with submerged, aboveground and above-ground with a bench all
available and each adheres to the rigorous French safety standard NF P90-308.
The Roussillon submerged automatic models allow for seamless integration with the pool. The roller mechanism is located in a separate sunken compartment sectioned off from the pool by a brick or PVC panel.
For existing pools, above-ground models such as Carlit, Octea, Sveltea and Ballesun feature a fastened winding shaft that integrates with the pool decking, offering convenience and practicality. There’s also Narbonne and Zenit options, both of which provide a bench that covers the mechanical installation, giving it a high-quality finish.
For those seeking fabric covers, CoverPools’ multitasking option serves as a safety and winter cover, reducing operational costs for pool owners. The Cover-Pools T4 system, known for its durability and compact design, is the only automatic pool cover system designed for stainless steel cable, a more durable cable that doesn’t stretch or shrink, like traditional rope, ensuring superior performance and longevity.
Each Roldeck is made to measure for new or existing pools with the coiling mechanism installed above- or below-ground, or in the pool itself. In an above-ground installation, the protective roller cover can be reinforced to create a bench. Touch pad type switch and remote control for easy calibration and operation, a safety lock available for new builds and the ability to interlock with the air handling system (indoor pools), are just some of its outstanding features. Rainwater will pass through the cover and not collect on the top and it, of course, minimises pool debris.
Roldeck’s standard PVC slats are supported by a five-year pro-rata warranty and come in white, blue, cream, grey, solar and transparent (with a blue tint). The solar option, with a black base, collects heat from the sun and transfers it directly into
the water, greatly reducing heating costs. The translucent slats allow under water lighting to shine through. In addition to the PVC range, there is a choice of six Eclipse® polycarbonate slats to choose from – three with solar gain, plus the crystal-clear version and all with a seven-year pro-rata warranty. The Eclipse® range includes a special layer of UV protection, plus a chamber design to help prevent algae formation.
Powered by a 24 volt In-Roller Motor system (negating the need for a separate motor pit) features Formula 1 shock absorber seal technology and built-in pressure sensor and a concealed stainless steel motor driven spindle.
The Roldeck Easy Cover is an affordable electronic automatic cover, suitable for pools up to a maximum of 12m x 6m. It is available as a solar powered or full electronic system and is ideal if space around the pool is limited, as it is supplied with slim and discreet end stands. It is easy and quick to install and is available in combination with PVC slats in the colours white, grey, cream and the full range of polycarbonate slats (PC60 and Solar Eclipse).
Cover manufacturer Dripool have been at the forefront of pool safety since the 1980s and remain the UK’s only designers and manufacturers of automatic swimming pool safety covers.
The brand operates predominantly through the trade and offer a collaborative approach from inception to completion. They choose to be involved, if possible, at planning stage, to ensure the proposed civils work in preparation for the cover installation are correct.
They offer site visits to check works and to collate measurements to ensure every pool cover is effectively bespoke, to the pool it will be operating on.
On completion, Dripool removes all responsibility from the pool builder by liaising directly with the end user with regard servicing and maintaining their new cover system and provide a full manufacturer’s warranty.
All engineers are trained in-house to manufacture, install, service and maintain every system they provide.
The two leading systems currently at the forefront of most new build installations are the Driglide and AutoSafe under coping options.
The AutoSafe is the most recent addition to Dripool’s range of products and is an under coping system that is predominantly designed to ensure safety, debris control and heat retention on new build, rectangular pools.
Whilst the AutoSafe incorporates the same unique winding technology and exacting standards as the company’s Driglide system, it has been cleverly simplified for the more budget conscious customer.
Whilst Dripool’s in-house engineers are more than happy to install the system anywhere in the UK, if required, the AutoSafe has been designed to allow shipping directly to site for self-installation, throughout the UK and beyond.
Once installed, both of these systems are easily operated via a discreet control panel simply by turning a key and pressing a button.
Designer Pool Covers UK is a trusted provider of high-quality swimming pool covers with a commitment to exceptional service for all.
With extensive experience in developing, producing, installing, maintaining and repairing automatic safety and slatted cover systems, their team of experts is dedicated to delivering reliable and effective solutions tailored to the unique needs of each customer.
DPC Slatted Covers can be installed in a number of different ways. Underwater installations ensure that the roller and motor remain out of sight and there are several types of underwater installations available depending on the characteristics of the pool. For existing pools, where it is not possible or practical to carry out construction work, DPC Slatted Covers can either be installed at the bottom of the pool or, more easily, on the deck around the pool. This type of installation is extremely simple and requires minimal preparation work. Rollers can be covered by benches to match with your pool surroundings.
DPC Automatic Safety Covers provide a reliable and convenient solution for protecting a pool when it’s not in use. These covers are made up of several components that work together seamlessly to ensure maximum safety and ease of use.
At the heart of the system is a driving mechanism with two hydraulic motors and a roller that can be installed either inside a specially designed pit or on the deck surrounding the pool. Hydraulic hoses connect the motors to a power pack, which is installed in a dry, well-ventilated area away from the pool. This power pack can be operated by a key or push-button switch, making it simple to open and close the cover as needed.
With its robust construction and easy-to-
use design, the DPC Automatic Safety Cover system provides an excellent option for pool owners who want to ensure the safety and cleanliness of their pool with minimal effort.
If an automatic slatted pool cover option is required, Fairlocks offer a unique and innovative product with their Covrex© solution.
Conceptual and intelligent, the systems consist of high-quality PVC slats specially developed for use in both indoor and outdoor pool applications which have been designed to resist UV and all elements, such as hail, frost plus a wide range of temperatures from -20°C to +35°C.
Covrex© slats are foam filled according to the ISO 1183 standard and they have huge advantages over traditional PVC slatted covers in terms of insulation properties with average thermal conductivity of = 0.0821 W/(mK) or a u value of 4.85.
The slats are co-extruded and integrally
bonded with hinges made of PUR (polyurethane). The cross-section design permits tight coiling radii making Covrex© systems extremely compact, with their space saving design meaning they are ideal for retrofitting as well as faultless initial installations.
The Covrex© design also means that old fashioned bacteria collecting endcaps are not necessary. This allows the covers to be finetuned and adapted to the finished pool on site, which guarantees precise fitting down to the last millimetre and provides choice and flexibility in pools where conventional solutions are inadequate or completely unsuitable.
Covrex© automatic pool covers are the result of more than 40 years’ experience and client feedback. They are fully compliant with stringent French safety standard NF P90-308 and come with a five-year warranty on slats –the longest on the market – and are available in five colours: Arctic Blue, Cream/White, Pebble Grey, Silex Grey and Steel Grey. When it comes to the drive systems used, all are manufactured using 316L stainless steel and the latest in roller motor technology. There is a wide range of pit system options on offer too, including Letterbox, Cave, Pool Bottom and Fibreglass Bench.
At Aquadeck®, they believe a pool cover is more than just an accessory, it’s a defining feature. With over 25 years of expertise, they craft automatic slatted pool covers that blend innovation, aesthetics and convenience. Available from Golden Coast, THE EDGE is the brand’s latest top mount cover system for automated slatted covers and has been designed for elegance, functionality and convenience. Available in black, silver and umbra grey, its sleek design and LED lighting make it a standout feature in any garden.
Enjoy:
• Seamless compatibility: Works with ten premium Aquadeck® slats or the budget-
friendly ‘Discover’ range with predefined slats and dimensions.
• Effortless control: Remote control to open and close the cover and operate lighting.
• Powerful performance: Supports pools up to 6m in width using a 120nm tubular motor.
• Easy installation: Quick, top-mount installation for new and existing pools.
An Aquadeck® cover stands for aesthetics and a great pool deserves an attractive cover. To ensure the cover blends seamlessly with both a pool and its surroundings, their polycarbonate slats are available in a selection of eight stunning colours –including three newly launched options (two of which – EMERALD AND GOLD – are limited edition and have a slightly longer delivery time):
• PC COBALT SOLAR: This slat has a deep blue chic glow and looks very natural.
• PC EMERALD SOLAR: A beautiful slat with a green shimmer that fits perfectly into any garden.
• PC GOLD SOLAR: With a touch of gold, this cover is the finishing touch for a unique pool project.
All pool builders need reliable, stylish and efficient cover solutions and at Aquadeck®, they push boundaries to deliver cutting-edge covers that add value to projects. Close… to be perfect!
As UK distributor for the patented CoverSeal covers, Lighthouse’s dedicated and knowledgeable team are able to offer training days at their Oxford facility, which factory aside, is the only CoverSeal approved installer training facility in Europe.
The CoverSeal cover comprises a unique mechanism that allows the fabric to be cleanly unrolled onto the pool whilst locking it in place in an extra-flat, extremely discreet,
In a change from the norm, CoverSeal’s cover housing is driven down the length of the area to be covered, unrolling the highquality fabric as it goes
parallel guide rail system.
In a change from the norm, the cover housing is driven down the length of the area to be covered, unrolling the high-quality fabric as it goes. This means freeform pools and pools with large surround areas incorporating spas can easily be catered for.
With a maximum width of 11m and length of 26m, even the most difficult of open spaces can now be covered and secured.
The fabric on the CoverSeal offers high UV resistance, extreme climatic conditions performance and exacting standards, including AFNOR NF P90-308.
If a slatted solution is required, Lighthouse
offer their HeatForm ‘Tidal’ and ‘Wave’ options. Designed and built in the UK, these high-end, slatted pool cover systems have been engineered to the most exacting standards and feature the highest quality components.
The Tidal in-pool system is available in four installation configurations: a shallow water beach entry system with steps, a deep water bench, a simple submerged roller option and the discreet letterbox pit system hidden behind the pool walls.
Available in Solar and Electric options, the above-ground Wave cover has an integrated LED lighting strip. There are also four choices when it comes to the colours of the end
stands – Anthracite, Light Grey, Sand and White, plus there’s a wide range of colours for the slats themselves.
As a one-stop shop, Lighthouse are also able to provide competitively priced HeatForm replacement cover slats from a UK held supply of raw slats. With a four-week lead time, most options are held in stock.
With Ocea UK being part of the giant FrenchGerman CF Group, as proud partners, they are able to supply the UK Market with the DEL brand of automatic pool covers.
This collection sits alongside their own longstanding and successful range of Ocea automatic pool covers and with its introduction, greatly increased their offering of slatted cover options. Ocea UK handpicked DEL ranges to add to their existing range and these new options offer professional, budget friendly and practical solutions for aboveground and in-ground systems.
DEL covers are available in a wide range of colours, are easy to price up and come with added options such as the new patented design Pushlock system, which is designed to attach the leading edge safety strap at the waterline. This means no more trip hazards on the edge of the pool or tricky clips to contend with and gives added peace of mind to the pool owner in the event of a child, pet or animal stepping on to the cover.
Moving on to Ocea’s own automatic covers, these have continued to be manufactured in the company’s UK facility in Oxfordshire, where the covers are handmade in a temperature controlled environment. This setting ensures the perfect preparation and drying conditions, leading to less condensation issues within the slats.
Available in a wide range of colours in both PVC and polycarbonate options, Ocea automatic covers offer premium, quality made to measure covers in as little as four weeks.
Available in the UK through SCP, Abriblue offer a wide range of automatic cover options. With in-pool, above-ground, in-ground, solar and bench versions all available, there is an efficient, sustainable and safe cover solution available that will provide owners with peace of mind as each is made to comply with the French Norm NF P90-308 standard.
Recent additions to the range include the Banc D.Sign model which was introduced in 2023. An automatic slatted cover that blends into its environment and offers built-in relaxation areas, it has a number of combinations to help it blend perfectly into its environment and fulfill an owner’s desire for swimming, sunshine and safety! Deckchairs, planters, shelves, LED lights and storage can all be incorporated into this model which is controlled as standard using a smartphone.
Introduced last season, there’s also Abriblue’s new Open D. Sign automatic slatted cover option which offers five possible versions of the stand casing thanks to the choice of side plates: anthracite aluminium (by default), brushed aluminium, imitation marbled stone, imitation wood or natural wood. Fitted with a mood lighting function users can set to their personal taste in various colours and intensity.
For maximum flexibility, five colours of PVC and six colours of polycarbonate slats are available for both these options, along with the other Abriblue slatted solutions.
Having manufactured and installed more than 134,000 slatted covers, Abriblue has acquired unrivalled experience and expertise. From the simplest to the most complicated of projects, technical and sales teams are available to assist with any project, and for total peace of mind, SCP UK also offer an installation service too.
In this issue, Luke Griffiths, ISPE General
Manager, looks at the topic of female representation on the technical side of the wet leisure industry and explores ways in which more women can benefit from the opportunities that exist in the sector
International Women’s Day was a moment to celebrate the fantastic women working in swimming pool engineering and reflect on the need for greater female representation in the industry. With less than 10% of The Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers (ISPE) membership made up of women, it’s clear that more needs to be done to encourage women into this rewarding field.
To take a positive step forward, ISPE launched a special promotion offering free enrolment and registration for women signing up for the ISPE Study Course, along with free entrance fees for new female members.
However, the disappointing reality is that we received no applications during the week-long promotion.
This confirmed what we already suspected – the barriers preventing women from entering the industry run deeper than just financial incentives. But rather than seeing this as a failure, we see it as a call to action. That’s why we’ve decided to extend the promotion until 30 June and do more to promote diversity in our industry.
THE NUMBERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES
Recent ISPE events highlight just how underrepresented women are:
• At the ISPE Exams on 18 March at the Hilton in Cobham, only 2 out of 46 candidates were female.
• At ISPE’s 133rd seminar on 19 March, only 3 out of 40 delegates were women.
EXTENDING THE OFFER – A POSITIVE STEP FORWARD
We know that more needs to be done to raise awareness and support women considering careers in pool engineering. That’s why we’re extending the offer until 30 June to encourage more women to take advantage of ISPE’s resources.
This is a great opportunity to gain an industry-recognised qualification, attain professional recognition, expand your knowledge and connect with professionals in the sector.
From speaking to some female ISPE members, having more women in leadership and training roles is crucial. When women see others succeeding in the industry, they are more likely to consider it as a career option. That’s why we want to take further action.
–
I recently connected with Gina Atwood, co-founder and Director of Purchasing at Hot Tubs / Mont Blanc Spas, who set up the Pool and Spa Industry Women’s Network on LinkedIn. Gina spoke passionately and eloquently about the opportunities within the industry for everyone and the importance of creating a more inclusive sector.
I would urge everyone in the industry to join this conversation and help drive positive change. Networks like these are vital for sharing experiences, supporting one another, and improving diversity in the wet leisure sector.
We need to ask why more women aren’t choosing careers in swimming pool engineering. Is it:
• A lack of awareness of the career opportunities?
• The perception of the industry as maledominated?
• A lack of visible female role models in the sector?
We know that more needs to be done to raise awareness and support women considering careers in pool engineering”
One of ISPE’s key roles is training and knowledge-sharing, yet we currently have very few women presenting at our seminars. If you’re a woman working in the swimming pool industry and would be interested in presenting at an ISPE seminar, please get in touch! We want to highlight the expertise and achievements of women in our industry and create more opportunities for female voices to be heard.
While the ISPE promotion will now continue until 30 June, we know that true change will take time. That’s why I want to hear from more women in the industry.
• What inspired you to join the swimming pool sector?
• What challenges have you faced as a woman in the industry?
• What changes would help make the industry more appealing to other women?
• How can ISPE better support women in their career development?
By understanding real experiences and insights, we can help remove barriers and create lasting change. Please complete the confidential survey by scanning the QR Code on this page.
If you’re a woman working in the swimming pool industry – or thinking about joining –now is the perfect time to take advantage of this offer. Whether you’re new to the sector or want to expand your expertise through ISPE training, we want to support you. This is about opening doors, creating opportunities, and building a stronger, more inclusive industry for the future. Let’s work together to make swimming pool engineering a career for everyone!
0331 630 3301
www.ispe.co.uk
