Martin-Brooks paves way for Buxton concert venue

Sheffield-based roofing specialist, Martin-Brooks, is using the latest building techniques to help a key part of Buxton’s spa heritage hit the high notes with visitors.

Martin-Brooks has installed a new ‘upside down’ flat roof on The Pump Room in Buxton, enabling it to act as an open air stage for concerts and recitals held in the Derbyshire town.

The Pump Room’s existing flat roof was replaced by Martin-Brooks with a mastic asphalt covering, finished with natural York stone paving slabs. It is referred to as an ‘upside down’ roof, as the waterproof layer is installed underneath the insulation and paving, protecting it against UV attack and increasing its resistance to wear and tear.

Commissioned by Vinci Construction, Martin-Brooks’ work on The Pump Room forms part of the first phase of a £32 million development to transform the grade I listed The Crescent into a 79-bed, five star hotel incorporating the natural baths. The project, which is backed by the Heritage Lottery Fund, will be only the second genuine spa hotel launched in the UK in a century.

Martin-Brooks director, Nick Brooks, said: “It is exciting to be involved in a project of this scale, which will have such a significant impact not only on the heritage of Buxton, but also on the wider tourism prospects of the High Peak area. The work we have undertaken to strengthen and modernise The Pump Room’s roof structure is the start of a new era for the unusual building, increasing its flexibility, longevity and architectural integrity.”

The Pump Room is now being used as a visitor interpretation centre for The Crescent development, as well as a tea room and concert venue. Presented to Buxton in 1894 by the seventh Duke of Devonshire, it gave the general public access to the town’s mineral water until the mid 1970s and reopened in 1981 as the world’s first Micrarium. Although the popular attraction was judged Museum of the Year in 1985, it closed ten years later.

For more information about Martin-Brooks’ involvement in The Crescent project and its wide range of flat roofing services, telephone (0114) 244 7720 or visit www.martin-brooks.co.uk