
News Our Archive: Our 2009 Time-lapse of the Construction of Sealife
In this series of articles, we take a look back at some of the past projects we have been entrusted to capture. One such project is the 2009 construction of Sharkbait Reef at Alton Towers which offers a fascinating insight into the effort and precision involved in creating this underwater-themed attraction. Capturing months of work compressed into a few minutes, the video demonstrates the logistical planning, skilled craftsmanship, and teamwork required to bring the project to life. Here, our team used a range of filming work and time-lapse photography to inform excited attendees about the construction and installation process of this exciting attraction.

The project began with the preparation of the site. The initial stages involved clearing the designated area and laying the groundwork. This was a critical phase, as it established the foundation for the entire structure. Heavy machinery was brought in to excavate and level the ground, ensuring the site was ready for the next steps. Workers carefully measured and marked the space, aligning it with the detailed plans created during the design phase.
Once the groundwork was complete, the construction team moved on to assembling the framework of the building. Steel beams and structural supports were erected, forming the skeleton of what would become the main enclosure. This stage required precision, as the structure needed to be sturdy enough to hold large water tanks, filtration systems, and other key components. The time-lapse captures workers welding, bolting, and securing these materials, showcasing the collaborative effort of the team. Our team also incorporated this time-lapse video with interviews with various members of the construction team who helped to explain the building process.
Following the structural work, attention turned to the installation of the aquarium tanks. These were transported to the site in sections and carefully assembled on-site. The tanks were made of reinforced materials to withstand the pressure of the water and provide clear visibility for visitors. Once in place, the tanks were meticulously sealed to prevent any leaks.
With the tanks installed, the focus shifted to the internal systems required to maintain the aquatic environment. This included plumbing, filtration, and climate control systems. Engineers and technicians worked to ensure that the water quality would meet the specific needs of the marine life that would inhabit the aquarium. Pipes, filters, and pumps were installed and tested to confirm their functionality. This phase was vital to the success of the attraction, as these systems would play a crucial role in keeping the aquatic life healthy.

Once the technical systems were in place, the team began adding the thematic elements that would transform the space into Sharkbait Reef. Artificial rocks, coral, and other underwater features were installed to create an immersive environment. These elements were designed to mimic the natural habitats of the marine species, providing both a visually engaging experience for visitors and a comfortable home for the creatures. The time-lapse captures the gradual transformation of the space, as bare tanks and structures were turned into a vibrant underwater world.
The final stages of construction involved stocking the tanks with marine life and conducting thorough testing to ensure the systems were operating correctly. Marine biologists and aquarists worked alongside the construction team to introduce fish, sharks, and other creatures into their new environment. The time-lapse captures moments of these introductions, providing a glimpse into the collaborative effort between scientists and builders. Additionally, our team interviewed the Sharkbait Reef team who discussed the difficult process of acclimatising the animals to the tanks, ensuring their health and safety.
Once the animals were settled, the team conducted final inspections and made any necessary adjustments. This included testing the lighting, sound effects, and other interactive features designed to enhance the visitor experience. The attraction was then cleaned and prepared for its opening, with finishing touches added to ensure it met Alton Towers’ high standards.
The completed time-lapse of Sharkbait Reef’s construction serves as a testament to the expertise and dedication of everyone involved in the project. From the initial groundwork to the finishing details, the video captures the entire process, highlighting the complexity of building an attraction of this scale. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the teamwork, innovation, and attention to detail required to create a memorable experience for visitors. Sharkbait Reef stands as a successful example of what can be achieved through careful planning and collaboration.
At Time-Lapse Systems we have a special relationship with Alton Towers who have used our services to document a vast range of their projects over the years including special events and concerts, the construction of rides such as Th13teen, Nemesis Reborn and Smiler as-well as the decommissioning of the Corkscrew.
If you would like to hear more about our services, please get in touch.
