Andrew Simpson Foundation | Watersports Centre Refurbishment
Andrew Simpson Foundation
Refurbishment Live Environment Leisure

Objective

To carry out repair and improvement works to the Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre in Portsmouth. The centre offers courses in kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and sailing to the public, schools and groups. Andrew Simpson Centres are not-for-profit venues supporting the Foundation, helping to transform the lives of young people through sailing. Following an extensive survey it was decided that, in order to increase the building's lifespan and keep it operationally safe, upgrades were needed.

Solution

Mountjoy worked closely with staff at the Watersports Centre and Portsmouth City Council, who administered the contract, to deliver the works whilst the building was still occupied. One obstacle that the team faced was that events being held at the Centre meant that scaffolding had to be removed early to allow for publicity photos.

The building, which has a striking external timber frame, was restored and decorated whilst maintaining its original features. Further improvement works were carried out around walkways, entrance ramps and balconies. Mechanical and electrical refurbishments were also conducted during the health and safety repair stage. The overall upgrade of the building will now ensure that the facilities' ongoing repair costs are greatly reduced. Changing rooms within the building were also refurbished for users.

Titch Blachford from the Andrew Simpson Foundation said: "The recent upgrades will allow the busy centre to thrive whilst the foundation continues to work with the youth community in Portsmouth. Residents will now be able to benefit from the upgraded centre, whether sailing, making lasting friendships or developing new skills."