Optimising wastewater energy usage for UK caravan and camping sites
As a result of the COVID19 pandemic and consequent travel restrictions that have been imposed over the past 18+ months, British residents have been spending more time and more money on domestic vacations. This year was one of the busiest for camping and caravan parks, with sites hosting millions of visitors from all four corners of the UK. Specifically, the Caravan and Motorhome Club states that its membership increased by 14% in 2020 and this growth is to continue in 2021 (ref.: Guardian, May’ 21). This growth has led to the expansion and development of camping and caravan assets to accommodate increased demand. From an environmental perspective, this naturally means that there is also an increase in pollution originating from human activity, raising the demand for water and wastewater treatment systems at sites in rural locations (off-mains). As with any additional asset, or upgrade of an asset, this comes at a cost, which although some believe is fixed, in Premier Tech Water and Environment, we shout…it is not! The cost of wastewater treatment is mainly related to the aeration expenses (cost of supplying oxygen to the wastewater to promote biological treatment); however, our sensors (Dissolved Oxygen (D.O.) probes) in our larger sewage treatment plants sense the oxygen in the aeration chamber regulating the supply when O2-abundance is present. As a result, the treatment system (particularly in our submerged aerated filters, sequencing batch reactors and moving bed biofilm reactors) do not blindly use energy, especially when occupancy is low (i.e. weekdays or bad weather days). This not only reduces the power consumption and therefore the running cost of the sewage treatment plant itself, it also minimises the overall carbon footprint of the asset. For camping sites and caravan park operators that place site preservation and sustainability at the forefront of their companies’ vision, Premier Tech Water and Environment also offer an option that requires zero energy to operate. Our Ecoflo wastewater treatment system operates using a natural compound (coconut husk), and follows the natural principles of gravity, filtration and absorption to deliver wastewater treatment, hence no energy requirement. The absence of electromechanical equipment also ensures that any maintenance is kept to an absolute minimum, providing park operators with a long-lasting wastewater treatment solution and total peace of mind. In addition to contributing to circular economy due to being an agricultural byproduct, the coconut husk we use as the all-natural filtering medium within Ecoflo can also contribute to the renewable energy sector. This is down to the lifecycle of the husk itself, as after its years of wastewater treatment are over it can be organically digested and converted to natural gas, further promoting sustainability in both the water industry, as well as in the camping and caravan sector. Premier Tech are a thought leader in the industry and have been providing off-mains wastewater treatment, rainwater harvesting, stormwater management and liquid storage solutions to the camping and caravanning sector for over 50 years. To find out more, To find out more visit our website https://www.premiertechaqua.com/en-gb Author: Dr Evangelos Petropoulos, Premier Tech Water and Environment
Harrison flagpoles launches Harrison Eco Flag product range as it gears up for sustainable growth
Harrison Flagpoles has launched a new Harrison Eco™ range of products and services as part of its sustainable growth strategy. The flag, flagpole and display manufacturer’s eco-friendly range comprises a suite of sustainable products including the Eco Flag™, Eco Banner, Eco Heras Mesh, Eco Display Fabric and Bravura Display Range. Harrison Flagpoles was a pioneer of the Eco Flag™, first introducing the product to the market in 2018. Eco Flag™ is printed using 100 per cent recycled material made from recycled plastic waste including single-use PET plastic bottles. On average there are 29 recycled plastic bottles in every Eco Flag™ the business prints. All Harrison Eco™ products are free from PVC – one of the most environmentally damaging plastics – and are fully recyclable. The business has expanded and trademarked its Harrison Eco™ range to become a leading manufacturer of eco-friendly display and signage products. The move will allow Harrison Flagpoles to meet rising demand from businesses and charities across the country placing a greater focus on their environmental impact. Anthony Leonard, sales and marketing director at Harrison Flagpoles, said: “Sustainability is a crucial consideration for our holiday park clients and across other sectors too, with many proactively implementing policies to reduce their impact on the environment. “Improving the sustainability of the products they specify and procure is one of the ways holiday parks can achieve this. That is why we have created an extensive range of eco-friendly products, which allow businesses to move away from products made from virgin polyester and PVC to more sustainable alternatives. “The launch of our Harrison Eco™ range is a key part of our sustainable growth strategy and we’re looking forward to announcing more details on how we’ll be further enhancing the sustainability of our operations soon.” In addition to its Harrison Eco™ range, the business has launched a UK-first fabric upcycling scheme. The scheme enables caravan and holiday park clients to return unused flags to the business, which upcycles the material to create new products such as shopping bags, tote bags and even dog toys, which the business donates to dog re-homing charity FLOOF. Find out more about our Harrison Eco™ range, including how we can meet any bespoke flag or display requirements you have, here. https://weareharrisons.co.uk
Whether you’re a holidaymaker or not, having a great internet connection is a must
Holiday home owners and holidaymakers demand high-quality, reliable Wi-Fi and internet connectivity and a home away from home experience. The availability of fast, secure and dependable internet is vital for doing remote work or Zoom meetings, and, of course, accessing entertainment such as Netflix and catch up TV, as well as allowing owners and guests to connect smart gadgets such as Alexa and Google Home. Camping Connect is deeply experienced with technical expertise in designing and installing, fully managed, secure guest internet and Wi-Fi networks to the quality and performance levels your guests demand. Your guests are supported byour 7-day helpdesk dedicated to assisting guests directly if they have any queries and keeping your network running smoothly. All installations come with a 3-year warranty and legislatively compliant family-friendly web filters to protect your younger guests and your business from cyber security risks. We are with you every step of the way, providing the very best in wired and wireless technology built directly into the fabric of your park providing benefits to guests and owners alike. 5* Touring Sites By using the latest computer modelling software, we guarantee exceptional coverage before any work begins on site For peace of mind, we only use the best enterprise-graded equipment with a 3-year warranty Time-limited free access provides users with the confidence to purchase longer length packages Advanced roaming features allow guests to roam through the site and venues while remaining connected Green Field Development Our experts will work with you every step of the way to build the necessary infrastructure directly into the fabric of the development No more waiting months for Openreach – provide your guests with an ultra-high -speed network from the day they move in Future proof the connectivity on-site with fibre direct to the pitch Full network integration with smart building technologies Resort Park Superfast WiFi inside every room maximises guest satisfaction Full coverage throughout the whole complex including gardens, terraces and even car parks with seamless roaming in between Venue WiFi capable of securely connecting thousands of guests whilst simultaneously running secure staff and PDQ networks Multiple connection options – including pay as you go, free and try before you buy Holiday Home Park Just like home WiFi – direct to accommodation WiFi is fast, secure and easy to use A personal router delivers flawless signal throughout, allowing the easy connection of smart tv’s and other devices Support staff are on hand 7 days a week for any network or guest issues Wireless links capable of delivering 1Gbps connect individual caravans – no groundwork necessary For more information sales@campingconnect.co.uk 01792 277 233
HAGS Play and Outdoor Equipment
HAGS understands how to design play spaces that attract customers to your destination and keep them there longer. While parents explore your “grown-up” environment, the children can stay occupied on our fun play solutions that stimulate their imagination and challenge them physically. As any commercial operator will tell you, happy entertained children mean happy and relaxed parents! An exciting and challenging play area gives children somewhere to let off steam and make new friends. Investing in new or existing play equipment is a great way to show customers that your commercial establishment caters for families with young children who want to be entertained and have fun. Whatever type of play area you want to create, however big or small, HAGS can assist you through the process. From designing to manufacturing the equipment right through to installation and aftercare. HAGS provides a fully comprehensive solution to ensure your satisfaction. The story behind the name HAGS is European with Scandinavian roots and was born in 1948 when a small Swedish engineering company took an order for a swing frame from a local community. When it was installed people started talking about it and the owners saw an opportunity to refocus the company in the production of playground structures. Working with you HAGS’ philosophy is to inspire all generations by creating exciting play areas that: attract customers to your site, improve your customers experience, increase dwell time and increase your foot traffic providing you with a great return on investment. The HAGS approach HAGS provides a full service from design through to installation. We start by creating fresh exciting designs based on consultations with project managers, designers, architects and site managers. We listen and involve you throughout the process, whilst also drawing on our industry experience. Increasing your ROI Tailored to fit HAGS’ considered designs and proposals are tailored with you and your clients in mind. The HAGS team works with your site and budget to ensure your investment works for all concerned. Your site is unique, and whether you are considering a whole development, or a single unit offering many areas of play value, HAGS will work with you to achieve the right solution and ensure your project delivers. The importance of an external Play Area In an increasingly ‘more is more’ world, businesses are starting to realise the benefits of developing their sites to provide more than just a one-off experience. These days, we are seeing more and more business owners begin to invest in a well-designed play area to not only attract customers, but retain them for longer providing them with a greater return on investment Attract families to your site Research has shown that children’s play facilities influence customer’s decisions on where to visit, dine out or holiday. Installing a well-designed play area illustrates how businesses are working to improve the customer experience. Increase dwell time Parents often use the promise of visiting a play area as a motivation to visit somewhere more frequently. As the play areas are safe and secure it gives families peace of mind to allow their children to play. It’s also an inexpensive option to entertain the children, whatever the occasion. Higher foot traffic Parents often use the promise of visiting a play area as a motivation to visit somewhere more frequently. As the play areas are safe and secure it gives families peace of mind to allow their children to play. It’s also an inexpensive option to entertain the children, whatever the occasion. 87% of families are more likely to visit a holiday park, pub or visitor attraction with their children because of the play facilities on offer. 95% of families are more likely to return to a site if their children have been entertained and happy playing in a safe play area. 97% of families feel that having facilities to entertain children while at a public house, holiday park or leisure facility is vitally important to them. HAGS currently has some great offers for commercial providers on a range of their high quality products. For example: UniPlay Metis Junior Multi-Play Unit – Supply, Delivery & Install with Grass Matting: £6,999* Viper Rope Swing Supply, Delivery & Install with Grass Matting: £6,999* Arena Philadelphia Multi-Use Games Area Supply, Delivery & Install (excluding surfacing): £4,499* To see the full range, visit: www.hags.co.uk/cipo
Elite Dynamics partners with SIGA Solutions to take products global
Elite Dynamics, a leading provider of software solutions to the Holiday Park industry, has partnered with renowned business software consultancy, SIGA Solutions, to help facilitate the expansion of its award-winning solutions to a worldwide audience. SIGA Solutions will be working with Elite Dynamics to accredit and approve their market leading EliteParks solution for use on the Microsoft AppSource – the global app store for Microsoft business products. This will mean anyone in the Holiday Park industry; from the New Forest to New Zealand, will be able to download and use the business solution – the only complete park management solution on the marketplace with a fully integrated finance solution – at the click of a button. Elite Dynamics is able to take the next step to market its products on the Microsoft AppSource as a result of moving to a SaaS (Software as a Service) model in 2021. By having the EliteParks solution available via the SaaS model, holiday park industry customers have full access to software on demand via a cloud-based system without having to worry about any extra burden of infrastructure or hardware costs. It also means those Elite Dynamics customers on the SaaS model benefit from instant access to the very latest Microsoft updates and subscriptions available and will always be at the forefront of technical advancements and one step ahead of competitors. Jamaine Campbell, Managing Director at Elite Dynamics, said: “This year really has the potential to be a game-changer for us. Having our software solutions available on the Microsoft AppSource is a massive global shop window but it’s not easy to achieve, which is why we need the support of SIGA Solutions to help us get there and get it right. “Customers will be able to download a free trial of our software and, with the support of our new online blended training platform – EliteAcademy – work through our solutions training programme in 45 languages and dialects. There’s no restrictions on size of holiday parks – you can be a single park operator or a multi-park operator – everyone can benefit from the power and technological expertise of plugging into the Microsoft eco-system.” SIGA Solutions have also been working with the entire 19-strong Elite Dynamics team to create training programmes that will further develop and enhance their technical skills to support customers, and the development of future solutions. Wendy Glanfield, Founder of SIGA Solutions, added: “Making the transition from an on-premises to a SaaS-based business model introduces both challenges and opportunities. As a trusted advisor, SIGA Solutions will help Elite Dynamics with transforming their flagship products into a fully-fledged SaaS offering as well as reshaping their underlying business model to enable continued growth.” Jamaine continued: “This is the biggest investment we’ve ever made as a company. Its organisational-wide investment to get both us and our customers to the cloud where we can leverage everything that’s available to us. We’ll be the first to give our customers access to the latest technology, improve functionality, customise both the user experience and customer journey, and guarantee seamless, efficient integration with the rest of the Microsoft solutions. Ultimately, it’s going to be just as simple and easy as when you download an app on your smartphone. Why wouldn’t you?” Elite Dynamics is the only park management applications provider to have its solution officially accredited by Microsoft Dynamics and is a top tier Microsoft Gold partner. For more information on Elite Dynamics or to arrange a demo of the market leading Microsoft powered software solutions, visit https://www.elitedynamics.co.uk. Elite Dynamics SaaS solutions will be available from late spring 2021.
Elite Dynamics becomes a new Microsoft Gold partner
Elite Dynamics, a leading provider of software solutions to the Holiday Parks industry, has become the latest Microsoft Gold partner in the UK. The UK- based technology specialists have joined the elite top tier of Microsoft partners demonstrating proven expertise in delivering quality solutions within one or more specialised areas of business. In Elite Dynamics case, within the global holiday park sector. To achieve Gold membership, the team successfully completed a range of core competencies designed to prepare them to meet customers’ needs, as well as attracting new customers looking for Microsoft-certified solution providers. The competencies demonstrate the Elite Dynamics teams’ expertise in business and technology, covering everything from cloud business applications and platforms to enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM). Jamaine Campbell, co-founder and Managing Director at Elite Dynamics, said: “We’re immensely proud to be regarded as one of Microsoft’s highly accredited partners and it’s all down to the consistent efforts of our professional team. Gold partner status is the highest level a Microsoft partner can reach and it opens new doors for our customers, not only by adopting evolving solutions, but also by benefitting from our access and insight to exclusive Microsoft Partner advanced training and technical support. “Attaining Microsoft Gold partner status rubber stamps our commitment to excellence in Microsoft technologies and our dedication to providing first class software solutions to transform the Holiday Parks industry. We’re delighted to be at the cutting edge of some really exciting digital transformation.” Phil Gibbins, Partner Success Manager at QBS Group who support Microsoft Dynamics partners, said: “Elite Dynamics have been a QBS partner for almost five years and in this time we have seen them grow from strength to strength with developing their solution around the tourism industry. Achieving the Microsoft Gold partner accreditation validates the investments they have made to becoming the UK’s leading provider for holiday park solutions”. Elite Dynamics has been providing market leading, award winning software solutions to holiday park companies since 2015 and has more than 200 holiday parks adopting its systems across five countries. They are the only IT provider in the Holiday Parks industry to be officially accredited by Microsoft. For more information on Elite Dynamics or to arrange a demo of the market leading Microsoft powered software solutions, visit https://www.elitedynamics.co.uk
safe and environmentally friendly maintenance of your septic tank
Septic Tank maintenance is a necessity that is sometimes overlooked with the result of blockages and the need for expensive pump outs. With regular use of Aquarius SC you will discover that blockages and pump-outs can be virtually eliminated. Description Aquarius SC is a dry, multi-culture preparation specifically designed to liquefy and consume organic wastes and almost all factions of animal fats and vegetable oils found in sewage/septic tank systems, drains and grease traps. The microbial cultures found in Aquarius SC continue enzyme production to consume the organic wastes and grease, restoring and maintaining the bacterial balance required for effective operation. Aquarius SC is non-toxic, non-caustic, non-corrosive, non-pathogenic (harmless) and is biodegradable. Septic Tanks and Drainage Systems The performance and efficiency of septic tanks, drainage and sewage systems depends entirely upon the type of waste throughput and the amounts and strength of the bacterial agents present therein. The bacteria lives and multiplies by feeding on the waste matter within the septic tank and as such causes decomposition of the soluble waste into less harmful and inoffensive effluent, which may then be safely dispersed through the system. The increasing use of household detergents, bleaches and cleansers destroys the very bacteria required to digest the sewage in the purification system. Should the waste materials not be activated and transformed into liquids, they will ultimately build up and cause a blockage in the system, which will in itself cease to function effectively. The result will be that the system will begin to emit foul and offensive odours and may be in need of costly repairs or pumping. Prevention as well as the cure Aquarius SC is supplied in a soluble sachet, as a pre-measured treatment of 1 x sachet per month for standard size domestic tank, to be simply entered into the drainage, septic tank and sewage system either through the sink waste or flushed down the toilet. Aquarius SC will assist in breaking down the waste build-up within the drains and will reactivate the sewage system with its high concentrate of microbial cultures and enzymes, restoring the bacterial balance required for effective operation. Doses can be varied dependent on specific applications and also used to assist in breakdown of fatty build ups in grease traps. Keeping Septic Tanks clean for over 65 years – visit our website www.aquarius4u.com for more information and place orders – Aquarius Agriculture (A division of Morgan Hope Industries Ltd)
Remote site toilets
The arrival of the pandemic has brought increased opportunity for British caravanning, camping and glamping with staycationing becoming the new preferred and often necessary means of a break for many of us. This year NatSol have seen many enquiries from landowners interested in setting up an area for people to stay and looking for toilet solutions. With 15 years’ experience in provision of waterless toilets for remote sites NatSol can provide a solution for most such sites. Camping sites are often open to the public, many of whom will not be familiar with dry toilets. It is important to take this into account when choosing a toilet solution so as to make the use and management of facilities as simple as possible. For those sites which have access for a slurry tanker the NatSol Zero Discharge toilet (ZD) is the lowest maintenance system. It is the company’s most recently introduced product and is proving popular for busy public sites where a number of toilets are required in a facilities block. The National Trust and The Royal Parks are amongst our customers for this model of toilet. We will soon have available a smaller version of this which will be easier and cheaper to install where single toilets are required. The ZD is also good for sites where discharge to ground is undesirable or difficult, such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Some campsite owners may prefer to opt for the NatSol Full Access Composter (FAC). This is a urine separating toilet (urine is sent to a soakaway) and it can cater for around 6 campers as a daily average spread across a year. It will absorb peaks and troughs in use and, like the ZD, is conveniently free from freezing risks over the winter. The running costs are very low and it will provide a reliable solution on sites where users are respectful of facilities. Both the ZD and the FAC are waterless toilets which can operate without mains connections. They can both function with a passive venting system to eliminate odours. For more information visit www.natsol.co.uk or call Ellen on 01686 412653, or email her at ellen@natsol.co.uk.
Huck’s play equipment couldn’t get more spectacular!
Creating play equipment that provides play enjoyment coupled with reliable and safe materials is always Huck’s ambition. As such, they are always looking for new and exciting ways to entertain and stimulate children’s imagination. Together with one of their customers – The LeisureWay, a young team of architects from Spain – they have developed a completely new series of innovative and modern play equipment – the ‘Glasses Frame’ is one of them. YOU ARE IN FOR A PLEASANT SURPRISE! To most of us the Glasses Frame is simply a visual aid, for Huck it is their most original and diverse piece of play equipment. It is an object which we come across often in our daily lives or is something we have constantly with us. Except for the arms it is a static object. As soon as eyes are added the frame is given motion and individuality. Exactly what Huck realised with their adaptation to play equipment. The Glasses are a new double swing frame for the playground. Each is bespoke. By adding various climbing elements of Huck’s rope play such as climbing nets, rope ladders, hammocks, swings or their original Bird’s nest which is in use across the world, there is suddenly an innovative and exciting new piece of play equipment which will turn eyes! To see Huck’s full range of innovative play equipment, visit www.hucknet.co.uk Huck also offer a full design, installation and maintenance service for new and existing outdoor and indoor play areas. Their team can work with you to completely refurbish or redesign your play area or simply replace or repair worn-out netting and/or equipment. To discuss in more detail or to find out more information about Huck’s supporting design and installation services call 01308 425100 or email sarah.reynolds@hucknetting.co.uk.
