Center Parcs, Whinfell Forest - Sika Limited

Project Overview 
This project focuses on the comprehensive refurbishment of a 28-year-old Sika® Sarnafil® roofing system over a sub-tropical swimming pool at holiday resort. The roof, originally designed to resemble a curved leaf, covers the pool area, which is open to visitors daily from 9am to 9pm. The renovation aimed to address issues of water ingress, heat retention from the pool below, and general deterioration due to wear and tear. 
 
The new roofing installation was carried out around the clock, with 24-hour onsite delivery and management. Roof installation also included the replacement of thirteen-barrel roof lights and incorporated modern, factory-made corner detailing for enhanced durability and improved energy efficiency. The project was successfully completed by the end of November 2024. 
 
High Degree of Complexity 
This unique project presented a range of challenges, starting with the long, curved roof structure that rises from a height of 6 metres to 27 metres over a span of 71 metres. 
 
Safety: was a major concern due to the height, curve, and exposure to high winds, which necessitated innovative protective measures including fall protection around the perimeter, debris sheeting, and a crash deck installation. 
 

Management: The roof’s 24-degree incline and exposed position make it vulnerable to extreme weather conditions which affected the delivery programme. During the project there were many days of 30mph winds and a day of wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph. Following NFRC guidance on Working Safely in High Winds, roofing worked was postponed when the wind gusts increased over 23mph. 
 
Highly Sensitive Environment: The main challenge was working over and protecting a live swimming pool. Central’s roofing operatives worked by day, coordinating all work with the specialist rope access technicians who worked at night. Technicians installed safety netting with an attached debris sheet. This provided roofing operatives with a new working platform each morning. Rope Access technicians used a “bunny hop” system to shift work platforms each day. 
 
Cooperative Problem Solving 
Given the roof’s unique curvature and resort users accessibility, significant problem-solving strategies were implemented. To manage high wind speeds and ensure worker safety, custom fall protection systems were installed along the roof’s lowest points, while white safety netting conceals maintenance work from public view. Nightly checks ensured no debris entered the pool area, maintaining a safe environment for visitors. Rope access technicians worked overnight to reposition the platforms for each day, and tools were carefully managed to prevent any objects from falling into the pool. These adaptive strategies showcase the team’s dedication to overcoming the complex challenges of this high-profile project. 
The project required a significant level of value-added services, communication, and skill from the Central team. Leading the contract was Central Director, Scott Goodwin, Blake Jones provided project supervision as the Senior Contract Manager, and Harry Henderson had oversight of all safety aspects. Important to project success was clarity and open communication between Central as principal contractor, and Sika, Center Parcs and the supply chain. With many project interdependencies, effective cooperation, control, and relationship management was critical.

Workmanship 
Central installed a series of 5.3-metre-long Youngman staging boards. These created a stable working platform. Thee rope access technicians would wait until 9pm when the pool was closed to carefully manoeuvre these platforms, allowing daily operations to continue without interruption. This provided the day work team (roofing operatives) with a safe stable working platform which was a sufficient measure to prevent no falls. 
Exceptional workmanship has been required for the intricate installation and refurbishment process. The team has used advanced safety measures and precise installation techniques, including debris sheets under the roof lights. Every morning at 6.30am before anyone entered or works began, the team inspected all walkways, and the entire swimming pool to ensure no debris has fallen. 
Roofing Operatives installed 6m – 15m of rooflights a day. In total there were 13 Marvault Brett Martin Rooflights ranging from 13m to 61m in length. Despite challenging weather conditions, the team maintained strict standards for secure and efficient installation, ensuring both public safety and a seamless upgrade to modern roofing standards. 

Workmanship 
Central installed a series of 5.3-metre-long Youngman staging boards. These created a stable working platform. Thee rope access technicians would wait until 9pm when the pool was closed to carefully manoeuvre these platforms, allowing daily operations to continue without interruption. This provided the day work team (roofing operatives) with a safe stable working platform which was a sufficient measure to prevent no falls. 

Exceptional workmanship has been required for the intricate installation and refurbishment process. The team has used advanced safety measures and precise installation techniques, including debris sheets under the roof lights. Every morning at 6.30am before anyone entered or works began, the team inspected all walkways, and the entire swimming pool to ensure no debris has fallen. 
Roofing Operatives installed 6m – 15m of rooflights a day. In total there were 13 Marvault Brett Martin Rooflights ranging from 13m to 61m in length. Despite challenging weather conditions, the team maintained strict standards for secure and efficient installation, ensuring both public safety and a seamless upgrade to modern roofing standards.