Blyth Sports Centre

5 February 2020

The Blyth Sports Centre, located in Northumberland, has undergone a remarkable transformation thanks to a £5 million scheme funded by the Northumberland County Council. This extensive refurbishment project, consisting of three phases, was officially opened to the public on October 14, 2021, marking a significant milestone for the community.

To execute this ambitious endeavour, Brims Construction successfully secured a place on the NEPO207 Construction Framework in April 2018. Their appointment to Lots 1 & 3 granted them the opportunity to undertake building construction works in Northumberland, Tyne & Wear and Durham, with a budget of up to £5 million.

Under the framework, Brims Construction was selected as the main contractor by Active Northumberland for the Blyth Sports Centre refurbishment. The project encompassed various aspects, including the enabling works and refurbishment of the existing pool area, changing rooms and toilets, with a construction value amounting to £980,000.

With the completion of this ambitious project, the Blyth Sports Centre has been completely revitalised, promising enhanced sports and leisure facilities for the local community. Moreover, it has been transformed into a comprehensive wellness hub, embodying a fresh and modern atmosphere.

Among the notable improvements, a state-of-the-art gym, a spacious fitness area and two cutting-edge fitness studios have been created to cater to the evolving needs of fitness enthusiasts. The addition of new spa facilities and wet and dry changing rooms further complements the comprehensive upgrade. Notably, Brims Construction also established a dedicated cycling studio, enhancing the centre’s offerings, along with an improved soft play experience and an extended café. The revamped reception area, featuring a contemporary and inviting design, enhances the overall customer experience.

In a commitment to community development, the refurbishment also includes the addition of new classrooms. These classrooms, managed by the county council’s Learning & Skills Service, aim to provide a diverse range of learning opportunities for the local community. The value of the construction associated with these educational facilities amounts to £4.3 million, highlighting the council’s dedication to creating a holistic environment that fosters both physical and intellectual growth.

The funding for this transformative project at the Blyth Sports Centre has been sourced from the Northumberland County Council’s ambitious £65 million countywide investment program. This comprehensive initiative seeks to upgrade and transform sports and leisure facilities throughout the region, with a particular focus on enhancing the customer experience. In line with this vision, the council has allocated resources to construct new leisure centres in Berwick, Morpeth and Ponteland, while also making significant investments to revitalise existing centres in Newbiggin and Hexham.

Overall, the completion of the £5 million refurbishment scheme at the Blyth Sports Centre signifies a significant milestone in the council’s ongoing commitment to improving sports and leisure facilities across Northumberland. The centre now stands as a beacon of modernity and community engagement, offering an array of state-of-the-art amenities and opportunities for both physical and intellectual growth.

Blyth Sports Centre Refurbishment
Location: Sports Centre, Blyth, NE24 5BT
Client: Brims
Assignment: Builders clean & sparkle clean of phase 1, swimming pool, changing rooms & toilets and phase 3, reception area, soft play, café and cycling studio.

Brief

Blyth Sports Centre, located at NE24 5BT in Blyth, underwent an extensive refurbishment project led by Northumberland County Council. Brims, the appointed construction contractors, collaborated with Cklip Commercial Cleaning, the construction cleaning contractors, to carry out the builders clean and sparkle clean for two distinct phases of the project. Phase 1 encompassed the swimming pool, changing rooms and toilets, while Phase 3 focused on the reception area, soft play area, café and cycling studio.

The project’s design and planning were entrusted to JDDK Architects, based in Newcastle. To ensure minimal disruption and maintain accessibility for the local community, the refurbishment was divided into three distinct phases. However, the project faced significant setbacks due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in subsequent lockdowns and social distancing restrictions.

The first phase, completed prior to the pandemic, aimed to rejuvenate and modernise the swimming pool. It officially opened to the public on February 5, 2020, after essential improvement and maintenance work. The pool hall underwent extensive refurbishment, with particular attention given to the spectator area, which received new flooring and seating. Additionally, the changing rooms were modernised, featuring new windows and lighting. As part of the renovation, the outdated pool plant responsible for water purification and heating was replaced with energy-efficient and environmentally friendly equipment. The refurbished swimming pool, spectator area and modernised changing rooms received a positive response from the community, proving to be immensely popular among residents.

The second phase of the refurbishment project focused on introducing new facilities, including a gym and fitness area, two fitness studios, spa amenities such as a jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, as well as new wet and dry changing rooms. Another significant addition to the centre was the incorporation of classrooms, intended to be utilised by the County Council’s Learning & Skills Service. These classrooms would provide a diverse range of learning opportunities for the local community, emphasising the centre’s commitment to holistic development.

The third and final phase of the project was dedicated to redesigning the reception area, creating inviting and modern spaces. Furthermore, the soft play areas were expanded and the café was extended to offer enhanced amenities. Connecting corridors were strategically designed on the ground floor, providing intriguing spaces for visitors. On the first floor, a dedicated cycling studio was established, equipped with Technogym Bikes. Additionally, “party” spaces were created, with curving corridor spaces adding a unique touch to the overall design.

The Blyth Sports Centre refurbishment project exemplifies the commitment of Northumberland County Council to enhance sports and leisure facilities within the region. The collaboration between Brims and Cklip Commercial Cleaning, guided by JDDK Architects, ensured that the centre received a comprehensive overhaul, providing the local community with state-of-the-art amenities and modernised spaces to enjoy various physical activities.

Analysis: Site Visit

To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project’s requirements and scope, our diligent project manager conducted a thorough site visit to Blyth Sports Centre. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering exceptional results, they assessed the existing conditions.

During the site visit, our project manager closely examined the swimming pool, changing rooms and toilets that constituted phase 1 of the refurbishment project. They carefully inspected the condition of these areas, identifying areas in need of improvement and considering the specific requirements for the builders clean. By gaining an in-depth understanding of the current state of these facilities, our team could formulate effective strategies to ensure a successful transformation.

Additionally, our project manager focused on phase 3 of the project, encompassing the reception area, soft play area, café and cycling studio. By thoroughly assessing these spaces, they evaluated the existing layout, functionality and aesthetic elements. This detailed examination allowed our team to grasp the unique characteristics of each area and tailor the sparkle clean approach accordingly, ensuring that every aspect of the refurbishment would be carefully attended to.

By conducting a comprehensive site visit, our project manager gained valuable insights into the intricacies of the Blyth Sports Centre refurbishment project. Armed with this detailed understanding, our team could proceed with confidence, crafting effective strategies and plans to deliver outstanding results.

Planning: Site Survey

In preparation for the demanding task of carrying out the builders clean and sparkle clean at Blyth Sports Centre, our team diligently conducted a comprehensive site survey. Due to the ongoing presence of construction contractors and the additional challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, we recognised the utmost importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all operatives involved. Consequently, risk assessments and method statements were prepared to address potential hazards and establish robust health and safety protocols.

Our commitment to upholding industry standards was demonstrated by the provision of CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) and IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) cards, certifying the competence and expertise of our team members. Furthermore, we proudly showcased our CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme), Safecontractor and Constructionline Gold certifications, providing further assurance of our dedication to maintaining the highest levels of safety and professionalism.

To minimise disruption and maximise efficiency, the cleaning works were planned to be executed in two distinct phases. This strategic approach allowed us to synchronise our efforts with the ongoing construction activities and adhere to the necessary social distancing guidelines imposed by the pandemic. By coordinating our cleaning operations with the project timeline, we ensured seamless collaboration and minimised any potential conflicts.

By conducting a thorough site survey and implementing meticulous planning, we demonstrated our unwavering commitment to the safety, efficiency and successful execution of the Blyth Sports Centre refurbishment project. Through our diligent preparations and adherence to industry best practices, we were ready to embark on the builders clean and sparkle clean, confident in our ability to deliver exceptional results while prioritising the well-being of all involved.

Implementation: Works Carried Out

In line with Brims’ requirements, our skilled team at Cklip Commercial Cleaning undertook the crucial task of performing a builders clean and sparkle clean for both phase 1 and phase 3 of the Blyth Sports Centre refurbishment. This encompassed a meticulous cleaning process that left no corner untouched, ensuring the transformation of various areas within the centre.

During phase 1, our cleaning experts focused on the revitalisation of the swimming pool, natatorium, spectator area, toilets and changing rooms. This involved a comprehensive approach to cleaning, which included paying close attention to the newly refurbished areas. Our team utilised scissor lifts to reach high-level glazing and new light fittings, ensuring that sills and frames were thoroughly cleaned. We diligently removed any dust, excess paint, mortar and plaster splashes, leaving behind a pristine and welcoming environment.

The newly installed flooring received meticulous care, as we vacuumed, mopped and employed a scrubber-dryer to ensure its cleanliness. Additionally, our dedicated team removed any paint, plaster or glue residues, guaranteeing a flawless finish. Skirting boards, doors, frames, fixtures, seating, electrical sockets and switches were cleaned, leaving no surface overlooked. Tilework throughout the swimming pool, washrooms and changing rooms underwent a deep cleaning process, effectively removing grout and plaster residues. Cisterns, sinks, mirrors and showers were cleaned and polished, restoring their lustre and functionality.

Phase 3 of the refurbishment project involved the cleaning of the newly designed reception area, soft play areas, café, linking corridors, party areas and cycling studio. These spaces presented unique challenges due to their layout and specific features. Our experienced team diligently addressed these challenges, cleaning appliance and equipment exteriors with care. Every visible and accessible surface received thorough cleaning and polishing, ensuring a pristine and inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Through our implementation of the builders clean and sparkle clean, we played a vital role in bringing the vision of the refurbished Blyth Sports Centre to life. Our attention to detail, comprehensive cleaning methods and utilisation of specialised equipment ensured that every aspect of the project received the care and cleanliness it deserved.

Review: Hand Over

The completion and handover of the Blyth Sports Centre refurbishment project marked a significant milestone in the collaboration between Brims Construction, their dedicated Site Manager and our diligent team at Cklip Commercial Cleaning. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent working conditions, the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by Brims Construction made the entire process a seamless and successful endeavour.

The site operations during the pandemic were skilfully managed, adhering to all government regulations and ensuring the safety of all personnel involved. Brims Construction’s site team displayed exceptional adaptability, efficiently adjusting work practices to comply with evolving government guidelines and public health measures. By effectively navigating these unprecedented circumstances, Brims Construction minimised any potential disruptions and maintained the project’s timeline, allowing for the timely completion of the refurbishment.

Operating under the management of the charitable trust Active Northumberland, the £5 million refurbishment of the leisure centre has garnered high praise and rave reviews from the people of Blyth. The transformation of the sports centre has not only enhanced its physical infrastructure but also elevated the overall experience and satisfaction of its users. The careful attention to detail and dedication to quality displayed by both Brims Construction and Cklip Commercial Cleaning have contributed to the positive reception and appreciation of the refurbished facility.

For further information about our comprehensive builders cleaning solutions, we invite you to explore our dedicated builders cleaning page. Should you require a free site visit or wish to discuss your specific cleaning needs, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are committed to delivering exceptional service and exceeding your expectations.