Gradus Stair Edgings on Cue for the Crucible Theatre

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Contract interiors specialist Gradus has supplied aluminium stair edgings from its extensive range for the redevelopment of the famous Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, helping to create a safe and stylish environment for visitors to the renowned entertainment venue.

Home of the World Snooker Championship, the Crucible Theatre is undergoing a £15.3 million redevelopment, which includes the complete transformation of the theatre’s façade and main auditorium, regeneration of the front of house area, a new roof and the reinforcement of the building’s foundations. Due for full completion in November 2009, the first phase was completed in time for a temporary opening, which allowed the centre to host the World Snooker Championship, as well as a series of preview shows.

Gradus CT712 aluminium stair edgings were installed on the staircases in the reception area and main auditorium, which has now been awarded Grade II listed status. Snowdrift (white) inserts were used to define the step edge by providing a suitable colour contrast with the red carpet, in line with BS8300:2009 and Approved Document M of The Building Regulations 2000.

Designed to reduce the risk of trip and slip accidents on staircases, double channel stair edgings were used to increase the surface area of the slip resistant material, whilst also providing a stair edging durable enough for use in heavily pedestrianised areas.

Denise Hobart of the Crucible Theatre, comments: “We are expecting around 45,000 visitors in the three month test period, so it is crucial that any installed products can not only withstand frequent foot traffic but will also improve the safety of the theatre for all building users.

“The stair edgings from Gradus not only complement the new interior design but are a proven method of reducing the risk of accidents on staircases, which is increasingly important in places of public interest.”

Suitable for use in interior and exterior environments and available in a choice of options including Xtra-grip for enhanced slip-resistance in interior wet conditions, the CT range has profile designs available to accommodate most stair shapes.

Caroline Davies, Accessories Product Manager for Gradus, adds: “We are pleased to be involved in such a prestigious project and the redevelopment of the Crucible has brought a lot of work to the Sheffield area. The stair edgings chosen are fit for purpose and also help the Crucible to deliver a more inclusive environment that is safe for both staff and customers.”

For further information on Gradus stair edgings, contact Gradus Customer Support on 01625 428 922 or visit  HYPERLINK “http://www.gradusworld.com” www.gradusworld.com.