This facility will be the first county standard, eight lane competition swimming pool in Kent. It is due to open to the public in early 2019. Costing £26m, this long awaited, high profile construction project was an exciting development for the county.

The waterproofing challenge

Due to the tight construction schedule, this project demanded an expeditious waterproofing solution.

Complicated procedures, or multiple processes, would jeopardise holding up other areas of the swimming pool build. Furthermore, with a “topping out” ceremony programmed for just nine months after the ground breaking in October 2017, efficiency was essential.

The Xypex solution

Xypex does not restrict pour sizes or require a certain aspect ratio. Consequently, this ensures that bigger pours can be achieved, cutting time and costs. These qualities were exactly what the project required to keep it on track and on budget.

A combination of Xypex products were specified to waterproof the two swimming pools. The main pool, an 8 lane x 25m county-standard competition pool and a learner pool, 15m x 8.5m with moveable floor. In addition, Xypex was used for the bases for two squash courts, balance tanks and lift pits.

Xypex Admix C Series – Two swimming pools, squash courts, tanks and lift pits

Xypex Concentrate – All joints

Hydroswell Bentostrip – All joints

The results

The successful pressure testing of the pools ensured the final finishes were applied to the pool surfaces on schedule. This therefore allowed the remaining construction to be completed within the tight timescale required. As a result, Xypex played a major role in ensuring the facilities can open to the public as planned.