Keeping Stranraer Academy’s Hydrotherapy Pool Running

Stranraer Academy, established over 175 years ago in South West Scotland, supports nearly 1,000 pupils, including those with Severe and Complex Learning Difficulties. It's AIRD Centre offers specialist facilities such as teaching areas, a multi-sensory room, and a hydrotherapy pool, crucial for supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of both pupils and private clients.

The Challenge

In summer 2022, a fault in the HVAC extraction fan rendered the hydrotherapy pool unusable. Without proper air circulation, humidity levels rose, causing condensation to form on cold tiled surfaces. With water running down the walls, the pool area had to be closed.

Repairs to the HVAC system, located in the roof void above the pump room and toilets, were complex and disruptive. Without a short-term solution, the work would have to continue during term time, impacting pupils and clients who rely on the pool.

The Solution

Following a referral from the school’s FM provider, AMEY, Polygon was brought in to assess the issue and implement an urgent temporary fix.

After a site assessment, Polygon proposed replicating the HVAC system's performance using portable climate control equipment. This included:

• Calculating thermal load from windows and water temperature

• Estimating moisture levels from evaporation and occupancy

• Selecting appropriate dehumidifiers and fans from its UK fleet

• Installing equipment in the roof void to circulate air through the existing ductwork

• Fitting bespoke protective covers to ensure child safety and HSE compliance

The Result

Within days, the hydrotherapy pool was fully operational, just in time for the new school term. This prevented disruption for pupils, avoided revenue loss from private hire cancellations, and gave the school the time needed to plan permanent HVAC repairs.

Charles Stirling, Area Director, Scotland, Climate & Digital Solutions (CDS), Polygon:
"We are very pleased to have been able to support Stranraer Academy in answering this challenge. At Polygon, we are always focused on engineering tailored climate solutions that are right the first time, but it is particularly rewarding to know that our work here has made a difference to a facility that is so important to children and families in the area."