British Gypsum ceiling and plasterboard systems have been used in the construction of a new build sports development in Plymouth. In order to meet the practical demands of the busy sports and leisure environment, a range of solutions were specified including Gyptone Quattro 41, Gyproc Fireline MR, and Gyproc Moisture Resistant board.

The Plymouth Life Centre, operated by Everyone Active on behalf of Plymouth City Council, is home to facilities including a ten-lane swimming pool, climbing wall and a twelve-court sports hall. It required partition solutions throughout to meet specific acoustic, fire and performance requirements.

Fit-out contractor, Diespeker Interiors, which installed the solutions, specified Gyproc Moisture Resistant board for use above ceilings and in areas of the changing rooms and pool stores for protection against water vapour damage. The gypsum plasterboard contains water-repellent additives in its core, designed to withstand intermittent moisture applications, and is lined with durable paper for an easy to decorate, smooth finish.

Peter Niblett, Contracts Manager at Diespeker, said: “We chose British Gypsum products for their ease of installation. We needed a drylining solution that required minimal labour, without compromising on quality and, importantly, Building Regulations compliance. The Gyproc Moisture Resistant board was ideal for use in the changing rooms in particular, as it provides resistance for areas prone to splash backs and condensation.”

Gyptone Quattro 41 board was used in parts of the main foyer, in the multi-purpose room and in the bowls area for its sound absorption properties. Featuring a special sound absorbent tissue backing, the product provides an ideal acoustic ceiling system, achieving up to Class C absorption. The product was also specified for its ease of application. The system is easy to install, simple to maintain, and robust enough to withstand the kinds of impact that could be expected in a sports hall.

Peter continued: “For a busy and noisy environment like a sports centre, it’s important that the acoustics are just right. Each room needed maximum sound absorption, and Gyptone Quattro 41 offered a great acoustic performance and was so easy to use.”

To achieve the centre’s required level of fire performance, Gyproc Fireline MR was used on partitioning walls up to the roof level. Created with a glass fibre water-repellent gypsum core, the material is bonded with durable paper liners, and complies with EN 520-Type F, H1, with a thermal conductivity of 0.24 W/mK.

Peter added: “As a multi-purpose environment, Plymouth Life Centre has a whole host of demands and needs. With a variety of high performing specialist solutions, we were able to meet these requirements, and stayed under budget.”