TECHNAL’s GEODE MX 52 Curtain Walling, installed by Dortech, has been used for the impressive glass extension on the pre-existing Great Sankey Leisure Centre building in Warrington. Part of a multiple phase, £16 million development for LiveWire, the project has transformed the existing centre into a state-of-the-art leisure, health and culture facility.

Started in November 2015, the latest stage - the centre itself - was recently opened to the public, with work on the final phase recently completed. BAM Construction was the main the contractor on the scheme, with architects Mersey Design Group as part of their team. Dortech was the specialist curtain walling sub-contractor.

The transformational two-storey glass façade extension was built using 4300m2 of TECHNAL’s Visible Grid and Trame GEODE Vertical MX 52 curtain walling at double height; incorporating both glass and spandrel panels.

TECHNAL GEODE MX 52 is a visually consistent curtain walling system with slim sightlines and excellent thermal performance that can be engineered to meet individual project requirements. Concealed vents can be incorporated and shaped caps are on offer for further design flexibility. The system is available in a wide range of options including Visible Grid, SG and Trame for horizontal or vertical emphasis.

The TECHNAL system was incorporated on the recommendation of Dortech. With a long-standing relationship, Dortech has tried and tested Technal products on a wide range of projects over the past 20 years. James Sutherland, Managing Director of Dortech, praised the partnership: “All previous projects we have worked on with Technal products were all completed without issue and to an exceptionally high quality. Our people know and trust the Technal systems and have a great relationship with the Technal team.”

With regards to the Great Sankey Leisure Centre in particular, James continued: “The project looks great and whilst challenging in some areas, particularly with regards to the sharp angles of the structure, the overall end result is positive. As ever, it was a pleasure working with our customers, BAM and our suppliers, including TECHNAL to bring this scheme to life.”

Nick Prole, Associate Architect with Mersey Design Group commented: “The overall look of the glass façade is very pleasing. We had not worked with Technal products before but were impressed with the result and have continued to incorporate the system into the final phase of the project, which encompass a Garden Spa and healthcare accommodation.”

Now known as the Great Sankey Neighbourhood Hub, the centre plays host to a wealth of facilities including swimming pools, tennis courts, a sports hall, 3G football pitch, dance studios, café, spa, library and even a GP surgery. The entire site has been designed to be dementia friendly and over 700 locals were consulted over the plans for the site to ensure everyone’s needs were met.