In the world of sports and physical education, the demand for versatile and adaptable facilities has never been higher. Multi-Sport Surfaces, commonly known as MUGAs, have emerged as a game-changer for sports facilities and schools. These all-in-one surfaces offer numerous advantages that make them a top choice for a wide range of sports and activities.
Advantages of MUGA Surfaces:
Number of Surfaces and Cost:
The number of surfaces that can be accommodated in a MUGA depends on its size and design. It’s common to have one large surface that can host multiple sports. However, larger facilities may opt for multiple MUGAs to cater to different sports simultaneously.
As for the cost, it varies based on factors like the size of the MUGA, the type of sports markings required, and any additional customisations. Generally, MUGAs offer cost savings in the long term due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.
In terms of cost-effectiveness, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of MUGAs. Their versatility and durability ensure that they continue to serve a wide range of sports and activities over many years, making them a wise investment for sports facilities and schools.
Join the revolution….
Multi-Sport Surfaces (MUGAs) have revolutionised the way sports facilities and schools approach sports and physical activities. Their versatility, durability, safety features, and customisation options make them an ideal choice. The ability to host multiple sports on a single surface maximises space and resources while providing a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.
For sports facilities and schools looking to enhance their offerings and promote physical activity, MUGAs are a versatile and cost-effective solution that can cater to a wide range of sports and activities. They are the key to unlocking the full potential of sports and recreation spaces.
Investing in a MUGA is not just about creating a sports surface; it’s about creating a hub of activity, engagement, and inclusivity. As the world of sports and education continues to evolve, MUGAs stand as a testament to innovation and adaptability in meeting the diverse needs of our communities.
Find out more about MUGA surfaces here.
St. Joseph’s Primary School, recently undertook a project to rejuvenate their outdoor play area. Recognising the need for a safe and top-quality play space, the school turned to Playrite, a brand name synonymous with multi-sport surfaces, to replace the old existing synthetic turf with a new 15mm in situ pad and Playrite’s versatile Multi Sports Surface (MUGA).
St. Joseph’s Primary School faced a challenge with an aging synthetic turf that had seen better days. It was crucial to replace it to ensure pupil safety. The project commenced with the removal of the old surface and pad, making way for a fresh start. The school’s decision to install a 15mm in situ pad combined with Playrite’s Multi Sports MUGA Surface proved to be a wise one for several reasons. Playrite’s Multi Sports MUGA Surface is renowned for its versatility. It’s perfect for various sports and activities, making it an ideal choice for a school play area. Students at St. Joseph’s Primary School would be able to enjoy playing a variety of sports from football, hockey, and tennis, on the same surface.
One of the key benefits of choosing a Multi Sports MUGA Surface is its ability to withstand heavy use, ensuring its longevity and reducing the need for frequent maintenance. This not only saves the school money but also guarantees a consistent, high-quality playing surface for years to come.
With outdoor surfaces, a primary concern for any school becomes the safety of the users and the level of shock absorption that can be achieved. Playrite’s Multi Sports MUGA Surface offers exceptional shock properties and impact protection, minimising the risk of injuries during play.
Chris Pickles, Sales Director for Playrite, discusses why Playrite’s Multi Sports MUGA Surface was chosen for St. Joseph’s Primary School: “Playrite’s MUGA Surface was a no-brainer for this project. Its reputation for quality and performance in the industry is well-deserved. This surface not only meets the demands of a busy school play area but also offers a range of benefits that set it apart. With a new artificial sports surface that is significantly more durable and versatile, it will serve the school and its students exceptionally well for years to come.”
St. Joseph’s Primary School’s dedication to providing a safe and engaging outdoor play area for their students has been effectively realised through Playrite’s Multi Sports MUGA Surface installation. The school now boasts a durable, versatile, and low-maintenance sports surface, ensuring the well-being and enjoyment of the students. This project exemplifies the positive impact that high-quality multi-sport surfaces can have on the educational environment, making it a remarkable success.
In the pursuit of creating playgrounds that celebrate diversity and inclusion, every design choice matters. One crucial decision that significantly impacts playground design is the choice of surface material. While options like rubber or wood-based surfaces have been popular in the past, artificial surfaces are emerging as the forefront of inclusive playground design. Discover why artificial surfaces are increasingly becoming the go-to choice and why they surpass their conventional counterparts in promoting an all-encompassing playground experience.
1. Accessibility
Artificial surfaces, particularly those designed with inclusivity in mind, offer unparalleled accessibility. Unlike wood chips or rubber, artificial surfaces provide a smooth, even, and unobstructed terrain that caters to all abilities. With the absence of uneven surfaces, children with mobility devices can navigate freely, promoting independence and ensuring that no child is left struggling to participate in the fun.
2. Safety
Safety is paramount in any playground. Artificial surfaces, in particular Playrite’s Matchwinner Velour surface, is designed with impact-absorbing technology, effectively reducing the risk of injuries from falls. With surfaces offering consistent shock absorption across an entire play area, it provides a safer environment for children to explore and engage in physical activities. This safety-enhancing feature is especially critical for children with limited motor control or sensory sensitivities.
3. Durability and Maintenance
Artificial surfaces are engineered to withstand the rigours of all-weather play. Unlike wood chips that can degrade over time or rubber surfaces that can become slippery when wet, artificial surfaces maintain their integrity regardless of weather conditions. The low-maintenance nature of artificial surfaces makes them a practical choice for schools and communities aiming to provide a reliable and safe play space year-round.
4. Universal Play
One of the hallmarks of inclusive playground design is enabling a wide range of activities that cater to diverse interests and abilities. Artificial surfaces offer the versatility needed for various activities, including sports, games, and imaginative play. Unlike rubber or wood-based surfaces that might limit certain activities, artificial surfaces allow children to engage in a full spectrum of play, promoting social interaction and skill development.
5. Vibrant Variety of Colours
Traditional artificial surfaces resemble a natural grass surface, however, synthetic surfaces are also available in a wide range of vibrant colours allowing designers a range of possibilities. This aspect adds an exciting dimension to playground design, allowing for customisation and visual appeal that resonates with children of all ages and backgrounds. The colourful surfaces not only enhance the aesthetic but also contribute to an engaging and stimulating environment that encourages imaginative play.
Conclusion
In the dynamic world of inclusive playground design, artificial surfaces have swiftly risen as the preferred option for creating modern play spaces. With exceptional accessibility, safety features, durability, versatile play options, and vibrant colour choices, artificial surfaces embody the spirit of inclusivity. These surfaces allow the needs of all children regardless of ability, to be met and ensure they have the freedom to engage and enjoy play, as part of their daily routine.
In the pursuit of creating playgrounds that celebrate diversity and inclusion, every design choice matters. One crucial decision that significantly impacts playground design is the choice of surface material. While options like rubber or wood-based surfaces have been popular in the past, artificial surfaces are emerging as the forefront of inclusive playground design. Discover why artificial surfaces are increasingly becoming the go-to choice and why they surpass their conventional counterparts in promoting an all-encompassing playground experience.
As the seasons start to transition and winter approaches, the autumn months provide a crucial window to undertake maintenance ensuring the longevity and resilience of your artificial surface.
The following steps are essential maintenance tasks for your artificial surface to be tackled during autumn, ensuring a seamless transition into the winter wonderland.
1. Deep Cleaning and Debris Removal
Autumn brings falling leaves and debris that can accumulate on the play surface. A thorough deep cleaning removes these elements, preventing potential issues during the winter months. Cleaning not only enhances the surface’s appearance but also ensures a safe and clean play environment.
2. Inspection for Wear and Tear
Before winter’s harshness arrives, a full inspection is needed to identify any areas of wear and tear that require repairing. Patching worn spots, fixing seams, and addressing any localised damage ensures that the surface is ready to withstand the upcoming challenges.
3. Addressing Drainage Concerns
Autumn often brings increased rainfall. Ensuring that the drainage systems are functioning optimally is crucial to prevent water accumulation on the surface. Proper drainage prevents puddles and icy patches from forming during winter, guaranteeing a safe play area.
4. Adjusting Infill Levels
The colder temperatures of winter can impact the infill levels of artificial surfaces. Fine-tuning the infill to maintain the desired consistency is essential for proper shock absorption and cushioning. This adjustment ensures that the surface remains safe and performs optimally.
5. Anti-Fungal Treatment
Autumn’s dampness can create favourable conditions for the growth of mould and mildew. Applying an anti-fungal treatment prevents these issues, preserving the surface’s integrity and maintaining a hygienic play environment.
6. Preparing for Snow and Ice
As winter approaches, it’s wise to prepare for potential snow and ice. Ensuring that the surface is properly maintained before the first frost sets in helps prevent freeze-thaw damage. Applying protective measures now saves time and effort later.
Conclusion
Autumn presents a golden opportunity to ready our artificial surfaces for the challenges of winter. By focusing on deep cleaning, inspections, drainage, infill adjustments, anti-fungal treatments, and preparing for winter conditions, we ensure that our play spaces remain safe, durable, and enjoyable even in the coldest months.
Macaulay Primary School, situated in Grimsby, experienced a remarkable metamorphosis of its outdoor play area, thanks to the imaginative and innovative design expertise of Newby Leisure, a trusted specialist in playground design. Guided by the school’s core values and motto, “Today’s learners, Tomorrow’s leaders,” both the staff and students exemplified a “can do” attitude, emphasising their commitment to offering equal opportunities to all children, irrespective of their backgrounds.
In addition to ensuring practicality and safety, the school sought to create a secure and inspiring space that catered to various purposes, including learning, imaginative exploration, and physical play. To achieve this, they enlisted the expertise of Newby Leisure, resulting in the design of a versatile playground.
Recognising the need for year-round accessibility, the recommendation was made to utilise an artificial grass surface within the design. Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30, renowned for its durability and safety, was chosen to enable the pupils to engage in play regardless of the weather conditions.
Chris Pickles, Sales Manager for Playrite mentioned “”We have collaborated with Newby Leisure on numerous projects, and it’s wonderful to witness their seamless teamwork in creating a space that brings joy to the entire school.”
Ashley Spinks, Marketing Manager for Newby Leisure, remarked, “By implementing Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30, Macaulay Primary School has significantly improved its outdoor areas. The robust and secure artificial turf provided a consistent and reliable surface for the students, promoting physical activity and outdoor play throughout the year.”
Overall, the collaboration between Macaulay Primary School, Playrite, and Newby Leisure resulted in a highly successful transformation of the school’s outdoor spaces. The introduction of Nearlygrass 30 created a vibrant and easily accessible environment for students, and nurturing their physical development, engagement, and enjoyment of outdoor activities
In the dynamic world of sports and leisure, innovation and technology continue to shape the way we play, compete, and enjoy our leisure time. One such beacon of innovation is Playrite, a leading name in the artificial sports surface industry. This year, Playrite is all set to present their product portfolio at FSB Cologne 2023, one of the world’s most anticipated trade fairs for the sports and leisure industry.
FSB Cologne, a global platform for industry professionals, enthusiasts, and experts, offers a glimpse into the future of sports and recreational activities. Playrite, a UK based pioneer in manufacturing high-performance outdoor needlepunch sports surfaces, is gearing up to showcase its latest surface innovations for both sports and playgrounds.
Playrite’s presence at FSB Cologne 2023 promises to display an exciting array of outdoor needlepunch products designed to enhance player experiences, improve safety, and elevate performance. Whether it’s for tennis, cricket, or multi-use game areas, Playrite’s surfaces are engineered for optimum playability and durability. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every meticulously crafted surface.
Among Playrite’s remarkable innovations, the Matchplay 2 collection takes centre stage. Engineered to replicate the feel of natural grass tennis courts, the Matchplay 2 collection offers players an authentic playing experience while retaining the resilience of synthetic turf. Anticipate consistent ball bounce, precise ball response, and unparalleled playability that transcends traditional surfaces.
Also on show will be Playrite’s, Matchclay Surface, a unique innovation that caters to clay-court enthusiasts. Players can relish the unique challenges and gameplay of clay courts, all while benefiting from the durability and reliability of Playrite’s artificial surface technology.
And then there’s the remarkable Matchwinner Velour—a true testament to Playrite’s dedication to quality and innovation. This specialized surface is designed to enhance player comfort and agility, featuring a velour texture that ensures a smooth and enjoyable sporting experience. From intense matches to leisurely games, the Matchwinner Velour introduces a new level of excellence to the world of sports surfaces.
Moreover, Matchwinner Velour isn’t limited to sports alone. It goes beyond, offering a range of striking colours and doubling as an ideal alternative playground surface. It’s inviting texture and vibrant hues transform ordinary play spaces into extraordinary realms of imagination and fun.
Playrite’s dedication also extends to cricket with the revolutionary Practice Weave innovation. Produced on our Wilton woven looms, Practice Weave is designed to elevate cricket training, ensuring consistent ball bounce, natural footwork, and dependable ball response. This innovation enhances players’ skills and prepares them for peak performance.
Playrite’s presence at FSB Cologne 2023 is poised to be a highlight of the event, showcasing the brand’s dedication to innovation and excellence in sports surface design. As the world of sports and leisure continues to evolve, Playrite remains a steadfast trailblazer, paving the way for more enjoyable play spaces.
Playrite will be located in Hall 2, Aisle H, NR 51
To find out more about FSB Cologne, click here.
Upton Meadows Primary School, is a unique school with extensive grounds from gardens, wild area, ball court, large playground and fields. They take great care in their students and aim to create the “Superstars of the future” From their aim to “establish a sporting culture which helps to improve all pupils’ physical wellbeing” they decided to update their old tarmac pitches so that students could participate all year round on a more forgiving and versatile surface.
Working with installation partners, Bradley Surfacing Systems, converting the old tarmac pitches into a more suitable surface was a straightforward process. Having previously installed Playrite surfaces on similar projects, the team opted to install Playrite’s Matchplay 2, an artificial grass surface specifically designed for multi-use game areas in schools. Renowned as Playrite’s most popular sports surface, Matchplay 2 offers exceptional versatility, accommodating a wide range of sports and activities.
The installation involved meticulous planning and precise execution to ensure that the new surface met the school’s requirements. The tarmac was prepared by thoroughly cleaning and leveling the area, providing a smooth and stable foundation for the artificial grass to be laid on top of, reducing the need for major groundwork. Any necessary repairs or adjustments were made to the underlying surface to ensure optimal performance and durability.
Once the groundwork was completed, the installation team carefully rolled out and secured the Playrite Matchplay 2 artificial grass. This process involved accurately measuring and cutting the grass to fit the designated area, ensuring a seamless and professional finish. The edges were neatly trimmed and secured to prevent any shifting or movement over time.
Playrite’s Matchplay 2 artificial grass surface provides an ideal playing environment for various sports, such as football, hockey, tennis, and more. Its durable and high-quality composition ensures excellent performance, shock absorption, and traction, allowing students to fully engage in their chosen activities while minimising the risk of injuries.
By opting for Playrite’s Matchplay 2 Upton Meadows School created a versatile and suitable surface that caters to the diverse sporting needs of their students. This installation enhances the quality of physical education and sports programs and provides a safe and enjoyable environment for students to develop their skills, foster teamwork, and embrace an active lifestyle.
As they make sure that all of their facilities are fully accessible for wheelchair users, Matchplay 2 turns out to be even more beneficial for Upton Primary school as it makes a suitable sports pitch surface for wheelchair- based sports.
Tom Bradley, Bradley Surfacing Solutions comments “We are thrilled to have been part of the transformation of Upton Meadows Primary School’s sports facilities. Playrite’s Matchplay 2 artificial grass surface provided the perfect solution for creating a versatile and durable playing area. It’s rewarding to see the positive impact our work has on the students and their ability to participate in a wide range of sports and activities throughout the year.
The adoption of artificial cricket surfaces by schools and clubs has come by due to changes and technological advancements. Installing an artificial grass pitch provides the benefit of low maintenance and reduced costs compared to the upkeep of a natural grass pitch. Investment in artificial cricket wickets becomes much more attractive, as the artificial surface is better suited to the frequent changes in British weather.
Choosing an artificial turf surface is particularly attractive to small clubs, schools and leisure centres looking for suitable facilities, but can’t justify the costs and the maintenance of natural grass pitches. There are many different options for you to choose from, with three main types of artificial pitches. Those being woven, tufted and needle punch. Below is a guide to which surface may be the most suitable for you.
Woven
Of course, all three of our artificial cricket pitches are high quality, viable options. However, we highly recommend our woven surface, for a handful of reasons.
The first being for its amazing strength. Tests used to measure tensile strength have indicated that woven surfaces hold greater capacity to stand up to continuous usage. Meaning they are much less likely to stretch. Leading to less time worrying about maintenance and upkeep of the pitch and giving more time to use the pitch all year round. Our woven surface is also the answer for those searching for effective draining, as the natural porosity of the woven material allows for easier draining. However, all three of the surfaces that we offer come with holes punched into the back to improve overall draining.
Another advantage of our woven surface is its unmatched durability. With tests being conducted to show that woven surfaces are less than 5% likely to wear, even after 2,000 cycles. Our woven surfaces also have a great resistance to spikes. Compared to tufted surfaces, the construction of woven surfaces allows the containment of the impact of spikes. This overall reduces the likelihood of the product tearing, making our woven surface a great option for durability and strength.
Needle punch
Our Needle punch option can perform all year long. Being the best option in terms of durability and will drain quicker than alternative tufted surfaces. However, if snow is your concern with your cricket pitch, then it is not recommended to remove the snow. This is due to the surface’s ability to allow the snow to thaw out quicker than harder surfaces.
This cricket surface is also the best option if you are working with a budget. This is due to the surface’s ability to be rolled up, making it perfect for indoor and outdoor use. Due to its portability, our needle punch surface is also perfectly suited to those looking for a practice mat.
Making this a sustainable option for schools and for those looking for a training cricket surface. The shock absorbing properties of our needle punch surface allows for greater comfort for players, due to the density of the playing surface. Enhancing overall comfort and reducing the strain on player joints and muscles.
Tufted
Just like our woven and needle punch surfaces, artificial pitches are cheaper to maintain compared to natural grass pitches. Our tufted surface is another amazing option for those on a budget, offering great durability. Being able to withstand heavy usage, making our tufted surfaces ideal for practice or for matches.
One significant advantage of our tufted surface is its ability to maintain its condition regardless of weather conditions. Unlike natural grass pitches that can become waterlogged and damaged during the year, our tufted surface is able to drain well and remain playable during any time of the year.
Seeing as they do not require regular mowing or watering, maintaining a tufted cricket surface is much easier than a natural grass surface. Simply brushing and cleaning the surface will provide sufficient to keep the surface in top condition. Reduced maintenance requirements make ourtufted surface a great long-term option, contributing to lower overall expenses.
Regardless of the surface you select, we strongly advise installing a shock pad. This addition enhances the comfort of players and protects the playing surface.
Our experts are on hand to help you select the right surface for you, so contact us today for more information.
Wybourn Community Primary School approached Playrite’s installation partners Newby Leisure for help with their outdoor areas, as they were in desperate need to update the spaces to accommodate the growing needs of their pupils.
The school actively encourages pupils to embrace the outdoors with the introduction of sports from early levels, and a vital part of this is having the right environment to thrive. The staff of Wybourn wanted to make sure the children had a variety of play areas to choose from, to fit each type of play.
Recently some areas of the school’s outdoor areas had become unusable, and refurbishment was needed to bring some areas back to life. They specified that this area had to be able to offer opportunities for nonphysical play and encourage communication and imaginative play.
The benefits of the educational play area don’t only extend to the students, but to the teachers too, as our products are built to require low maintenance. Using materials such as FSC pressure treated redwood timber. Making our products robust means that maintenance costs can remain low. Saving you money and time on your purchase.
What makes this play area suitable is how accessible it is all year round. A problem schools can face is finding the space for outdoor learning for students. However, with sheltered areas installed around the playground, students can continue to enjoy their playground no matter the time of year. The play area is not just for breaktime use but can be used for outdoor learning. The chunky table and bench and planters give students the perfect opportunity to partake in group work or reading outside of the classroom environment. Showcasing the great functionality of the creative play area.
The result is a creative play area that gives students several options in the ways that they wish to learn. Whether through gardening, building in the sand, or using benches to read, Wybourn community school has allowed students the opportunity to learn and grow in a fun and innovative way. Doing so while giving life to the school through refurbishments.
“We are more than pleased to be a part of this schools refurbishment, to provide the children with a play area that doubles as a learning area is something that is extremely valuable to teachers and students.”
Recently, Playrite provided Nearlygrass 30 for the Holy Family Catholic Primary School in partnership with Playsound Playgrounds. A leading UK manufacturer of artificial turf and sports surfaces, Playrite supplied one of their more popular products, Nearlygrass 30. A high-quality artificial grass designed for use in various applications, including playgrounds, sports fields, and landscaping
Holy Family Catholic Primary School is a well-known school located in the UK that provides education to children between the ages of 3 and 11 years old. The school required a new play area for its students, and they wanted a durable, low-maintenance surface that could withstand heavy use and provide a safe, comfortable surface for the children to play on.
To meet the school’s requirements, Playrite provided Nearlygrass 30, which is an ideal surface for playgrounds. The Nearlygrass 30 artificial grass provides a soft and comfortable surface for children to play on while ensuring maximum safety. The product is designed with a durable backing that prevents wear and tear, making it suitable for heavy use.
Playsound Playgrounds an experienced playground installation company, was selected to install the artificial grass. The installation team at Playsound Playgrounds worked closely with Playrite to ensure that the surface was installed to the highest standards. They used the latest installation techniques to ensure that the surface was level, and they installed the artificial grass with the correct amount of infill to provide the ideal surface for the children to play on.
The installation of the Nearlygrass 30 artificial grass was completed within the required timeframe, and the school was delighted with the finished result. The new play area provides a safe, comfortable, and low-maintenance surface for the children to play on, and the school has received positive feedback from parents and students alike.
The successful installation of Nearlygrass 30 at Holy Family Catholic Primary School demonstrates the benefits of using high-quality artificial grass in playgrounds. Playrite’s expertise in manufacturing and providing top-quality artificial turf products, combined with the installation expertise of Playsound Playgrounds, has resulted in a successful project that has met the school’s requirements and exceeded their expectations. The Nearlygrass 30 product has proven to be an ideal solution for playgrounds and other high-traffic areas, providing a durable and safe surface for children to play on for many years to come.
A Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) is an excellent addition to any educational facility, sports club or community centre. The artificial grass surface provides a versatile space for various sports activities, including football, hockey and tennis, among others. However, like any other sports facility, a Multi-Use Games Area requires regular maintenance to ensure it remains in good condition and serves its purpose effectively.
Here are some tips on how to maintain your Multi Use Games Area: 1) Regular cleaning: Multi Use Games Area surfaces should be kept clean at all times to prevent the build up of dirt, debris, and other unwanted materials. Regular sweeping or power washing is recommended, especially after heavy use or adverse weather conditions. In addition, you should remove any litter or rubbish that accumulates in and around the MUGA area.
2) Surface repairs: T Multi Use Games Area surfaces can experience wear and tear over time, especially if it’s used frequently. It’s essential to repair any damage to the surface immediately to prevent further deterioration. Small cracks or holes can be patched up using specialised repair kits, while larger damages may require professional attention.
3) Inspection: Regular inspection of Multi Use Games Area surfaces is necessary to identify any areas that require repair or maintenance. You should inspect the MUGA surface for cracks, loose seams, and other signs of wear and tear.
4) Ensure proper drainage: Proper drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging and keep the Multi Use Games Area surfaces dry. A clogged drainage system can cause water to accumulate on the surface, leading to slippery conditions and damage to the surface. Regular cleaning of the drainage system can prevent clogging and ensure proper water flow.
5) Keep the surrounding area tidy: The surrounding area surfaces should be kept tidy at all times. Overgrown vegetation or litter can cause damage to the Multi-Use Games Area surfaces and affect the overall appearance of the facility. Regular maintenance of the surrounding area can help prevent damage and maintain a clean and safe environment.
Regular maintenance should also include inspecting your surfaces for wear and tear. If any damage is found, it should be repaired as soon as possible. This can help to prevent further damage and extend the lifespan of your Multi Use Games Area surfaces.
Additionally, you should ensure that your surface is regularly checked for any loose or missing components. Any damaged components should be replaced immediately to avoid any safety hazards.
For further advice on how to maintain your Multi Use Games Area surfaces, contact our team of experts today.
