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Overview
The former Bradford Odeon Cinema, saved from demolition by a local campaign, has been transformed into an exciting music venue, newly named “Bradford Live”. Built in 1930, the cinema hosted famous acts like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones in the 1960s before being left derelict for 23 years.
The venue will feature a main auditorium, smaller spaces for corporate events, weddings, and graduations, and will host business conferences, awards ceremonies, comedy shows, and family entertainment.
Construction started in 2021, with many original features, such as the ballroom’s art deco ceiling, being restored.
Delta Registered Installers, Timberwise (UK) Ltd having worked with the main contractor previously, were called upon to give assistance on a dry rot outbreak and to design a custom, robust waterproofing solution for the large underground basement.
The scope of the project was to provide a Grade 3 environment to a large existing large basement which will feature multiple bars, toilets, seating areas along with further excavation for lift pits, etc.
This complex project required a specialist to provide an efficient, compliant, and future proof approach.
Methodology
Timberwise (UK) Ltd collaborated with architects and the project team to provide a straightforward, effective approach. Their waterproofing design ensured a robust and suitable system that integrated seamlessly with the structure, adhering to BS 8102:2022 standards, Approved Documents, and industry Best Practice Guidance. This design emphasised continuity, proper sequencing and installation, and future maintenance and serviceability.
Timberwise (UK) Ltd specified a Delta Type C system. A Type C waterproofing system, or cavity drain membrane system (CDM), effectively manages water ingress by creating a drainage cavity within the structure, directing water to a sump and pump or external drain. Key benefits include flexibility for both new and existing properties, a ‘failsafe’ design that doesn’t rely on external barriers, and reversible installation suitable for historic buildings. The system’s discreet internal finishing and under-cover installation allow work to proceed regardless of weather conditions and reduce susceptibility to minor installation defects compared to surface barriers.
Before installation of the Delta Type C system, all existing walls and new concrete slab were treated with Koster Polysil TG 500 anti-lime inhibiter to seal the surfaces and reduce the leaching of ‘free lime’ which could cause blockages behind the membranes.
Attention was given to all wall/floor junctions and fillet seals were created. Angles are potential stress points for waterproofing systems. These crack endangered areas require special attention.
Delta PT, a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) cavity drain membrane which features a plastic mesh welded to its dimpled surface, serves as an impermeable damp proofing base for plaster or shotcrete, and functions as a water control and drainage membrane. Delta PT was securely fixed to the internal walls using specialist fixing plugs, with Delta MS20 installed to floors.
Below the floor membrane perimeter drainage channels were sited within rebates allowing for suitable drainage of any future water ingress and this being diverted to suitable discharge point (on this occasion a mechanical pump system).
To ensure the Type C system was fully maintainable, inspection ports were located at every major change of direction.
The basement drainage system features four Dual Delta Pumping Stations, each with an individual high level water alarm (HLA) and battery backup systems to keep pumps running in event of mains power outage.
All floors and drainage elements were tested to ensure these would drain as the system was designed and BS 8102:2022 requirements were met.
A new lift pit waterproofing detail has been integrated into the elevator system, featuring a preformed liner sandwiched between concrete, enabling lift engineers to drill internally without compromising the waterproofing system.
The need to service and maintain the drainage elements of type C waterproofing systems is paramount to long-term success. Timberwise (UK) Ltd, incorporated inspection ports in the perimeter channel and installed the sump pump in a location that allows easy access for periodic servicing.
After the Type C System was installed the all-important final integrity testing was undertaken to exercise the waterproofing system in worst case scenario.
Products Used
- Delta PT
- Delta MS 20
- Koster Polysil TG 500
- Delta Tape/Cornerstrip
- Delta Drainage Channel
- Delta Packaged Pumping Stations
- High Level Alarms
- Battery Backups
Case Study Results
The former Bradford Odeon Cinema has been transformed from an unused derelict building back to its former glory for many theatrical and musical performances to be enjoyed once again.
The project was delivered on time and to budget.
The client was delighted with Timberwise (UK) Ltd’s ability to collaborate throughout the build process, adapting to phasing and sequencing to provide a robust waterproofing solution.