Delamere Hydrotherapy Pool, Manchester
Delamere School provides 80 places to support local children and is one of only three dedicated SEND schools in Trafford. Our brief was to replace a 20-year-old hydrotherapy pool and refurbish the outdated changing areas that were no longer fit-for-purpose. The project was funded by Trafford Council via the Department for Education’s SEND capital funding.
The existing pool area has been remodelled to become provide a larger, more inclusive and spacious changing facility. The extension houses a new level-deck pool to replace the existing one which sat 600mm above floor level. A modern pool hoist lift has been installed to link the changing rooms with the pool, making direct entry into the water both easier and safer for those with reduced mobility. The new pool incorporates a stimulating bubble bed, colour changing/mood lighting, an audio system and image projection to enhance the sensory experience for the children. The hydrotherapy facility will prove to be a huge asset for the school as it provides a wealth of benefits for children with SEND, helping to maintain joint and muscle movement and contributing to positive wellbeing. Fixed pool side seating offers parents and carers a comfortable place to watch their loved ones.
The school plan to offer their improved and modern facilities to members of the local community, including plans for parent and baby classes. This will be scheduled around the school’s timetable and will maximise the benefit provided by this development. This will not only support the local community but also generate much needed income for the school to offset running costs and provide commercial sustainability for the facility.
