SmartPly’s coated OSB (oriented strand board) product, SiteProtect, has been specified as the site hoarding for a brand new development at Bluewater, Europe's largest and most innovative retail and leisure destination.
In February 2010, Bluewater unveiled the next milestone in its evolution – the development of a 5,200m2 purpose built, flexible events and exhibition venue. Once complete, the venue will be the UK’s focal point for retail and leisure events such as fashion, food and lifestyle shows and exhibitions that will complement Bluewater’s retail offer. £60 million is being invested in this major project which will commence in spring 2010 with the first events taking place late in 2011. This innovative development, lead by main contractor BAM, will provide a whole new dimension for the 28 million guests who visit the centre every year.
Bluewater is committed to the continual improvement of their social, economic and environmental sustainability performance and implements sustainability best practice in both management of the centre and in any future enhancement work. With sustainability such a core principle, Bluewater expects high levels of quality on their sites. Blenheim Int. Ltd’s choice of durable coated SmartPly SiteProtect, supplied by Montague L Meyer in Barking was a trusted choice as it is made close to its key markets and is energy-efficient; working towards a lower carbon footprint. Without exception, SmartPly SiteProtect carries certification by the Forest Stewardship Council.
Blenheim have used over 300 sheets of SmartPly SiteProtect on their new seamless interlocking Hoarding system, which has been hand painted in ‘Bluewater blue’ gloss paint. Mr. S. Murphy, director at Blenheim, said, “SmartPly’s SiteProtect fits the bill for this project in many ways. It is FSC certified, which is a scheme supported by Greenpeace and WWF, it satisfies all the UK Government requirements for sustainable and legal timber, and is manufactured using zero added formaldehyde. The coating is a great surface for displaying essential health and safety information - which can then be re-used on other sites - or with the boards joined together it can be used to tell a story of advertising to infinitum”.
Andrew Macdonald, Coillte Panel Product’s sales director sees SiteProtect as a sustainable solution for high quality hoarding. He said, “Construction projects, particularly those in town and city centres, can sometimes disturb the appearance of the surrounding areas, especially where poor quality hoarding has attracted graffiti and fly posters. SiteProtect was developed and introduced as a quality, durable and sustainable solution to these issues. While Bluewater undergoes its evolution, the quality, ease of maintenance and durability of SiteProtect will keep the site protected, and looking good!”.
SmartPly SiteProtect was created specifically for use in applications from temporary site hoarding through to a range of security installations. The smooth heavy-duty exterior cross-linked polymer coating provides an excellent surface for artwork, advertisements, company logos and painting. The substrate of SiteProtect - SmartPly OSB3 - is a totally natural product produced without added formaldehyde making the panel suitable for both exterior and interior application.
SmartPly SiteProtect is supplied in standard dimensions of 2440 mm x 1220 mm x 18 mm for interior and exterior use. SmartPly OSB is part of the panel products division of Coillte, the Irish forestry and forest products company.
For more information, visit www.smartply.com/siteprotect.
15 April 2010