Firestone's PondGard makes a splash

Firestone Building Products’ PondGard EPDM lining is to be used in the refurbishment of the John Hope Gateway ornamental pools at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE).

Constructed to provide a biodiversity and information centre, The John Hope Gateway, named after an 18th century Regius Keeper and leading botanist, includes a ground floor exhibition space and a first floor restaurant.

Both areas overlook the three ornamental pools, which cascade down into each other, creating a prominent water feature at RBGE.

Issues with the pipework, the failure of the existing pond lining and the need to create a maintenance walkway between the pools and building have prompted the refurbishment, which will be carried out by specialist contractor, Water Gems (Alba) Ltd in a six week programme.

The project will utilise 300m2 of Firestone’s PondGard EPDM lining, supplied by distributor, Gordon Low. PondGard is specifically designed for decorative pond installations and guaranteed to be compatible with aquatic life in accordance with Water Research Centre testing reports.

Water Gems will strip out the existing pond lining and carry out repairs to the pipework to restore the cascade feature, before replacing the lining with PondGard EPDM and allowing the new lining to settle, prior to re-filling the pools.

The project will also include creation of a new walkway between the pools and the building to enable cleaning of the floor to ceiling windows, along with various soft landscaping works.

Comments Nick Benge, director at Water Gems, “The John Hope Gateway is a shining example of green construction and sustainability and this pond refurbishment scheme will enhance the views from the restaurant terrace and exhibition space and encourage biodiversity.

“With its durability and flexibility, suitability for aquatic life and excellent service life, Firestone’s PondGard is the ideal choice for a liner that will ensure this striking feature enhances the visitor experience for years to come.”