Wade Linear Drainage Channels from Alumasc Water Management Solutions (AWMS), have been installed throughout the new Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre in West Drayton, helping to deliver effective water management across one of London’s most recent and significant leisure developments.
Operated by Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL) on behalf of Hillingdon Council, the £37-million facility was designed by Hunters Architects, and officially opened its doors to the public in April this year.
The centre, which spans almost 6500 square metres, features an extensive range of amenities, including a 25-metre swimming pool, teaching pool and splash pad with flume – the first installation of its kind within the borough. Visitors can also access a health and fitness suite complete with steam and sauna facilities, alongside dedicated aerobics and spin studios. The complex also offers a soft play area, sensory room, a climbing zone boasting nine climbing walls, a large multi-purpose sports hall, a rooftop five-a-side football pitch, café and extensive visitor car park.
Specification
Wade Linear Channel Drainage was specified via the main contractor, with installation works overseen by the London Borough of Hillingdon.
Wade Linear offers one of Alumasc’s most versatile and aesthetically refined channel drainage solutions, making it suitable for both new-build and refurbishment applications. Available in a wide variety of profiles, including systems with integrated falls, the stainless steel range combines efficient drainage performance with low maintenance requirements and long-term durability.
At the Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre, Wade Linear systems in Grade 304 stainless steel were installed throughout the changing rooms and public washroom areas. The material was selected for its suitability in hygienic and wet environments, providing excellent corrosion resistance while delivering a clean, contemporary appearance. The drainage channels also help visually define wet and dry areas within the facility, contributing to both safety and aesthetics.
For the swimming pool environments, Grade 316 stainless steel was used, to provide enhanced protection against the more aggressive conditions associated with chlorinated water and continuous exposure to moisture. Its superior corrosion resistance makes it particularly well-suited to demanding aquatic applications where durability and long-term performance are essential.
Comprehensive Product Options
In addition to the stainless steel option used at the Platinum Jubilee Leisure Centre, Wade Linear gratings are also available in alternative metals to suit a range of applications.
Nickel bronze gratings offer a practical yet decorative solution for interior and exterior applications. Their warm metallic finish complements premium floor finishes including terrazzo, marble, York stone and sheet flooring, while performing well in areas subject to high pedestrian traffic.
Cast iron gratings remain the traditional choice for heavy-use service zones and plant areas, delivering exceptional strength and long-term durability. Cast iron is also widely used in refurbishment projects and heritage environments, where its robust construction and traditional appearance integrate well with older architectural features.
Wade Linear offers a range of channel configurations for different environments and volumes of water. Load classes include A15, B125, C250 and D400 depending on channel type. The channels are low maintenance and are easily cleaned by directing a jet of water along the channel towards the outlet.
The system meets the requirements of BS EN 1433 and is engineered for efficient flow management and long-term reliability. Faceted and curved channel systems offer further flexibility for designers seeking bespoke architectural solutions. Wade Linear also includes a range of custom channels designed to accommodate non-standard applications.
Client Collaboration
Logistical challenges during the early stages of the order and supply process required a flexible, proactive approach; and the Alumasc Technical Support team worked closely with the London Borough of Hillingdon to ensure open lines of communication throughout. The Platinum Jubilee project provided a rare opportunity for Alumasc to collaborate directly at client level, with all parties working together successfully to achieve the project objectives.
Wade Building Drainage sits under the AWMS umbrella together with Alumasc Rainwater Gutters & Downpipes; Skyline Architectural Aluminium; Gatic Civil Drainage & Access Covers; and Harmer Building Drainage. All five brands are well known for innovation, quality and longevity.
Download the Wade Linear brochure here
For information call 01787 475151 or visit www.alumascwms.co.uk
