Giles Leisure is one swimming pool company that won’t be in hot water despite the tough economic climate and increasingly erratic winters. Passionate about getting more people to swim and creating a weather-proof extension to the business, Giles Leisure has created a unique Hydrotherapy Centre at its pool shop in Lewes, East Sussex. The stunning 250 square metre centre features a 6 metre by 3.3 metre hydrotherapy pool, bistro-style coffee shop and an outdoor seating area which has been beautifully landscaped.

A family business, Giles Leisure has been providing swimming pools, hot tubs, saunas and pool chemicals to private and commercial clients throughout Sussex for over 25 years and the £100,000 investment in the Hydrotherapy Centre is its most ambitious development plan in its history.

Director, Alex Howell explained: “We wanted to create something that is of genuine value to the local community and also provides revenue for Giles 365 days a year. It takes real conviction to expand during a weak economy, particularly with a brand new idea. But we are convinced that a hydrotherapy pool would be a big attraction because there are so few swimming outlets in Brighton, yet a growing need for facilities across the age spectrum.

“Five years ago we handled the pool installation at the Little Dippers Centre in Brighton and learned a great deal about creating a truly consumer friendly leisure facility. Our Hydrotherapy Centre is light, airy and spacious, there is easy access from reception to the pool area, it’s fully disabled compliant including parking for all needs, and has changing rooms for mums and dads because both parents are involved with their children’s swimming.

“Maintaining water quality at peak performance is essential. We’re obviously using Zeoclere filter medium, the best means of filtering on the market for all pools, and Jolly Gel flocculent to help with filtration and maintain beautiful water clarity.  Jolly Gel creates a porous, clear membrane over the filter media and penetrates the bed to an average depth of 15cm, removing even the finest dust particles and algae spores.  It encapsulates the particles and holds them to the bed via a mild glutinous formulation that is flushed away during the backwash cycle. Jolly Gel offers multiple benefits – there is no hint of clouding or residual dust, it reduces chlorine consumption and works efficiently for up to three weeks; saving time and money on maintenance.

“We’re also using a state-of-the art Certikin automatic dosing system to manage the chlorine level – this ensures that the water is safe and gentle enough for a baby’s skin” said Alex.