Glued laminated timber (glulam) has a high strength to weight ratio ideal for spanning large distances such as swimming pools without the need for columns. Five 34m long, 9 tonne spruce beams will support the roof of the new leisure centre, with a further eight larch columns as a feature of the main entrance canopy.
Transporting the beams from the Eastern Docks Ferry Terminal to the site of the new leisure centre in Whitfield is a major logistical exercise that has taken many months of planning. The abnormal load is expected to leave the port around midnight and will take several hours to reach Whitfield. Motorists are advised to avoid the route of the convoy which will be accompanied by escort vehicles.
Cllr Trevor Bartlett, portfolio holder for property management, said: "The delivery of the roof beams is another exciting phase in the construction of the district’s new leisure centre. The use of PEFC certified glulam beams is a great example of how we’re striving towards a very good BREEAM rating for the building by using sustainable materials."
