Matching the tile colour to the local area, was the key reason why 170,000 Marley Eternit Hawkins clay plain tiles in Staffordshire Blue were used at Barton Marina, a unique canal side retail and leisure development which has transformed the local area. The tile is based on traditional colours used in the region and is one of 24 colours available in Marley Eternit’s clay plain tile range.
The canal side marina complex, located in Barton under Needwood, Staffordshire houses a pub and several retail outlets all of which were tiled with the Hawkins clay plain tile. Clay Valley tiles and Arris Hip tiles were also used to complete the considerable 2,800 square metre roof.
Tony Rawlinson, senior branch manager at Bracknell Roofing, the roofing contractors on the project, comments: “The architect originally specified reclaimed red tiles but further to our advice it was decided that the Hawkins tile was the most suitable and affordable option, whilst at the same time being easy to install.
“Attractions like this only work in a local community if they are completed sympathetically and to a high standard. The Staffordshire Blue colour tile has really helped to do this.”
Diana Bullock, campaign manager at Marley Eternit, adds: “The Hawkins tile is the oldest Marley Eternit clay tile, having been manufactured and installed on roofs for over 150 years so, we were delighted when it was chosen for use on such a project. The use of a regional colour like Staffordshire Blue shows the importance of being able to match the tile colour to the local area, particularly to help meet planning requirements.
“Advances in our clay technology means we can offer the largest range of affordable clay plain tiles in the UK which also have excellent environmental credentials. An A+ rating from the Building Research Establishment’s ‘Green Guide to Specification’ can be achieved when using Marley Eternit’s clay plain tiles making them a real option for any roofing project.”