One of the main challenges faced during the renovation was managing the removal and replacement of the old playground structures while ensuring the safety and minimal disruption for the students. Additionally, the project required a durable and low-maintenance surface solution that could withstand the wear and tear of active children and the varying UK weather conditions.
To address these challenges, Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30 was selected for its exceptional durability and low maintenance requirements. Nearlygrass 30 provides all-year-round access to the outdoor playground, ensuring that the children can enjoy the space regardless of weather conditions. Its realistic look and feel make it an ideal choice for creating a safe and inviting play environment.
Ken Smith from Playrite emphasised the benefits, noting, “Nearlygrass 30 offers a versatile and robust solution for playgrounds, ensuring that children have a safe, enjoyable space to play throughout the year without the heavy maintenance burden associated with natural grass.”
Ashley Spink from Newby Leisure added, “Returning to Manor Leas Infants was a fantastic experience. Seeing the children’s excitement as we transformed their playground was incredibly rewarding. The new play area, featuring Nearlygrass 30, provides diverse play opportunities, from water and messy play to physical and sand play.”
The playground renovation at Manor Leas Infant School successfully transformed the outdoor play space into a vibrant and engaging area for the children. With the use of Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30, the school now enjoys a low-maintenance, all-weather play area that supports various types of play and educational activities, ensuring the students can learn and play safely and enjoyably year-round.
Click here to find out more about Playrite’s artificial surfaces or contact the team on +44(0)1924 412488 | info@playrite.co.uk for more information.
1. Safety First
A high-quality safety surface is vital for protecting children during falls. Artificial grass surfaces provide excellent shock absorption, making them ideal for school playgrounds and outdoor play areas in nurseries where safety is a priority. This feature helps create a safer playground environment for all types of play.
2. Durable in All Weather Conditions
Artificial grass and rubber surfaces can withstand a range of weather conditions, ensuring the type of surfacing remains safe and durable throughout the year. Unlike natural grass surfaces, artificial options don’t become slippery or uneven, making them a cost-effective solution for high-traffic playgrounds.
3. Promoting Learning Through Play
With a variety of surface options to suit different playground needs, shock-absorbing surfaces encourage learning through play. By offering a consistent, cushioned feel, these surfaces support different types of play, enhancing both physical safety and cognitive development in a natural-feeling environment.
Looking to upgrade your playground with high-quality, shock-absorbing surfaces? Playrite offers top-tier playground surfacing options designed for safety and durability, perfect for schools, nurseries, and public spaces. Whether you need artificial grass or versatile rubber surfaces, Playrite has surface options to suit any environment and types of play. Ensure a safer playground environment while fostering learning through play.
Discover Playrite’s Playground Surfaces and get in touch for a cost-effective solution to transform your outdoor space.
When it comes to selecting the right materials for a school sports surface, several factors come into play, such as durability, maintenance requirements, and suitability for a range of sports. For Birkwood Primary School, the choice was clear. Darren Akeroyd, Director of Axo Leisure, explained, “We chose the materials because they are suitable for multi-sports and relatively low maintenance. This allows the school to host a variety of activities without needing to worry about excessive wear or frequent upkeep.”
Ken Smith, Area Sales Manager from Playrite, also emphasised the advantages of the chosen products. “The combination of the Matchpad shockpad and Tournament Elite surface offers an optimal balance of comfort, safety, and performance. This makes it an ideal solution for schools looking to maximise their sports facilities while minimising long-term costs.”
Product Overview: Matchpad 1500gsm and Tournament Elite
The Matchpad 1500gsm shockpad is a 10mm thick underlay designed to provide enhanced shock absorption, ensuring a safer and more comfortable playing experience. This is particularly important in a school setting, where young children are prone to slips and falls. The shockpad’s density and thickness help reduce the impact on joints, making it ideal for a variety of sports, from football and hockey to general physical education activities.
On top of the shockpad sits the Tournament Elite surface, one of Playrite’s most advanced multi-sport surfaces. The Tournament Elite surface is known for its durability, excellent ball bounce characteristics, and low maintenance requirements. It is designed to withstand heavy use, making it perfect for schools that host multiple sports activities on the same field.
The surface’s unique construction also contributes to its versatility. It provides excellent traction for sports like football, while also offering a smooth, consistent surface for hockey and other games that require a fast, flat pitch. Moreover, its UV-stabilised yarns ensure that the vibrant colours and performance characteristics are retained over time, even with constant exposure to the elements.
Benefits of a Multi-Use Surface
One of the primary reasons Birkwood Primary School opted for this specific combination of Playrite products was the need for a multi-use sports surface. A multi-use surface offers several benefits, particularly for schools with limited space and resources.
Firstly, it allows for a wide range of sports to be played on the same surface without compromising the quality of play. This is crucial in a school setting, where the sports curriculum can be diverse, and the same area might be used for football, hockey, netball, and other activities. The versatility of the Tournament Elite surface means that students can enjoy a high-quality playing experience regardless of the sport.
Secondly, multi-use surfaces like the one installed at Birkwood Primary School are cost-effective. Instead of investing in separate surfaces for different sports, the school can rely on one surface to meet all their needs. This not only reduces the initial installation costs but also minimises ongoing maintenance expenses. As Ken Smith noted, “A multi-use surface is a smart investment for any school. It provides the flexibility to accommodate various sports while keeping maintenance requirements and costs low.”
Finally, multi-use surfaces contribute to better space utilisation. Schools often have limited outdoor space, and having a surface that can accommodate different sports ensures that the available area is used efficiently. This allows more students to engage in physical activities simultaneously, promoting a more active and healthy school environment.
The installation of Playrite’s Tournament Elite playing surface at Birkwood Primary School marks a significant upgrade to the school’s sports facilities. The new surface not only enhances the safety and comfort of students but also provides a versatile and durable platform for various sports. With its low maintenance requirements and long-lasting performance, the school is set to benefit from this investment for years to come.
Darren Akeroyd from Axo Leisure summed it up well: “We’re confident that Birkwood Primary School now has a sports surface that will serve its students well across a wide range of activities. It’s a practical, high-quality solution that meets all the school’s needs.”
Ken Smith from Playrite added, “We’re proud to have contributed to this project, providing a surface that will help nurture the next generation of athletes and active individuals.”
In choosing Playrite, Birkwood Primary School has ensured that its students have access to a top-tier sports surface that supports both their safety and their athletic development.
Playrite’s Matchplay 2 was chosen for its outstanding reputation in providing high-quality surfaces that balance performance and comfort. This artificial surface is designed to offer optimal ball bounce and speed, which is crucial for the fast-paced nature of padel. The installation process was seamless, and the courts were ready for play well ahead of the opening event.
During the opening event, players from various skill levels had the opportunity to experience the new courts firsthand. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the comfort and consistent ball bounce provided by the Matchplay 2 surface. Players noted that the surface enhanced their overall gameplay, making matches more enjoyable and competitive.
In addition to the “Magnificent Seven,” the facility also introduced two single padel courts, catering to those who prefer one-on-one matches. These courts offer an intense and focused playing experience, ideal for honing skills. Furthermore, the introduction of two pickleball courts expands the facility’s appeal, attracting a broader audience looking for diverse sporting challenges.
Padel Nederland’s new facility is not just about the courts; it is a comprehensive sporting venue ideal for corporate events, team-building activities, and family outings. With modern meeting rooms, extensive catering options, and professional introductory lessons, the facility is set to become a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts and event organisers alike.
The successful installation of Playrite’s Matchplay 2 surface at Padel Nederland’s new courts in Den Haag has elevated the playing experience for all visitors. The combination of high-quality surfaces, diverse court options, and top-notch facilities positions Padel Nederland as a premier destination for padel and other racquet sports in the region.
To find out more about Playrite Padel Court surfaces, visit www.playrite.co.uk or contact the team +44(0)1924 412488 | info@playrite.co.uk
Pickleball has surged in popularity across various age groups, particularly among older adults seeking a fun, social, and active lifestyle. When it comes to selecting the right surface for a pickleball court, the decision can have significant implications for the safety, comfort, and performance of the players. Among the available options, artificial surfaces stand out as particularly advantageous for older players. These surfaces not only offer enhanced traction and bounce compared to natural grass but are also easier to maintain than other surfaces such as concrete or vinyl flooring surfaces. Most importantly, as a pickleball surface, they provide better protection against injuries, which is crucial for players in this age group.
For older players, stability on the court is paramount. As we age, our balance can become less reliable, and a slip or fall can lead to serious injuries. This is where a high quality artificial surface, such as Playrite’s Matchplay 2, comes into play. This type of surface is designed with materials that provide superior traction, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls. The surface grip is especially important during quick movements or sudden stops, which are common in pickleball.
Unlike natural grass, which can become slippery when wet, or even hard courts, which may be too smooth, a carpeted type surface provides a consistent level of traction. This consistency helps players feel more secure as they move across the court, allowing them to focus more on their game and less on the potential risk of injury.
The quality of ball bounce is another critical factor in the overall playing experience. Older players often prefer a surface that offers a consistent and predictable bounce, which makes the game more enjoyable and easier on the joints. Artificial surfaces, like the Tournament MF, are engineered to deliver a uniform bounce across the entire court. This consistency ensures that the ball behaves as expected, reducing the strain on players who need to react quickly to each shot.
In contrast, natural grass courts can have uneven patches that affect the ball’s bounce, leading to unexpected movements that can catch players off guard. Concrete surfaces, while offering a firm bounce, can be harsh on the body, particularly on the joints of older players. The cushioning provided by carpeted or artificial surfaces helps absorb some of the impact, reducing the wear and tear on the body over time.
Injury prevention is a top concern for older athletes. As the body ages, recovery from injuries becomes slower and more challenging, making it essential to choose a court surface that minimises injury risks. Carpeted and artificial surfaces excel in this regard by offering a softer, more forgiving playing area compared to harder surfaces like concrete.
The cushioning effect of these surfaces not only reduces the impact on joints but also lessens the chances of stress-related injuries, such as shin splints or plantar fasciitis. Additionally, in the event of a fall, a carpeted surface is more likely to cushion the impact than a harder surface, potentially preventing more severe injuries like fractures or sprains.
Maintenance is an important consideration for any pickleball court, especially for facilities that cater to older players who may not have the time or ability to upkeep a natural grass court. Artificial surfaces are notably easier to maintain. Unlike grass, which requires regular mowing, watering, and fertilising, carpeted surfaces simply need periodic cleaning to keep them in top condition. This ease of maintenance ensures that the court remains in optimal playing condition with minimal effort, allowing players to enjoy the game without worrying about the state of the court.
Moreover, artificial surfaces are more durable and weather-resistant than natural grass. They do not suffer from wear and tear as easily, meaning they retain their quality over a longer period. This longevity makes them a cost-effective choice in the long run, particularly for community centres or clubs that serve older adults.
Beyond the practical benefits for older players, choosing an artificial surface can also have positive environmental and economic impacts. Grass courts require significant amounts of water, especially in dry climates, and the use of fertilisers can contribute to environmental pollution. In contrast, artificial surfaces eliminate the need for these resources, making them a more sustainable option.
Economically, while the initial installation cost of a carpeted or artificial surface might be higher, the reduced maintenance costs over time often make up for this. The longevity and durability of these surfaces mean fewer replacements and repairs, resulting in long-term savings.
For older players, the choice of court surface can greatly affect both their enjoyment of the game and their overall well-being. An artificial surface like Matchplay 2 and Tournament MF offer the ideal combination of traction, bounce, injury prevention, and ease of maintenance. These surfaces provide a safer, more comfortable playing environment that caters specifically to the needs of older athletes, ensuring that they can continue to enjoy pickleball for years to come. To find out more about Playrite’s pickleball court surfaces, contact the team directly either by phone 01924 412488 or email info@playrite.co.uk
Grass fields are the most common and traditional surface for field hockey. They provide a natural playing surface, offering players a traditional and authentic experience. The quality of the grass surface, including density, length, and quality, can impact the speed and control of the game. However, players must be adaptable and adjust their gameplay according to the conditions of the grass field, which given the UK’s temperamental climate can increase maintenance requirements and limit playing during the winter months.
As such, synthetic hockey surfaces have gained popularity in recent years as an alternative to grass fields as a hockey surface. Made from synthetic materials, such as plastic fibres, artificial grass is designed to mimic the feel and performance of a grass field. It offers a consistent and predictable playing surface, allowing for faster gameplay and more precise ball control. Additionally, artificial surfaces require less maintenance compared to grass fields, making it a popular choice for both professional and recreational hockey.
In addition to grass and artificial grass, field hockey pitches can also be played on other surfaces such as watered turf and indoor courts. Watered turf, which is a step up from natural grass, involves regular watering to maintain its quality. However, it still encounters weather-related issues and demands constant upkeep.
Indoor courts, typically made of wood or synthetic materials, provide a controlled environment for field hockey. These surfaces allow for fast-paced gameplay with a focus on agility and quick decision-making. The smooth and flat nature of indoor courts allows players to showcase their skills with ease. Indoor field hockey is often played during the winter months or in areas where outdoor play is limited due to weather conditions.
With such a diverse range of surfaces available, field hockey enthusiasts can choose the type of playing field that suits their preferences and challenges them to adapt their skills accordingly. Whether it’s the natural feel of grass, the consistency of artificial turf, the uniqueness of sand, or the controlled environment of indoor courts, each surface offers its own advantages and adds a new dimension to the game.
Click here to find out more about Playrite’s range of Hockey surfaces, or contact us on +44(0)1924 412488 or email info@playrite.co.uk
Physical Benefits
Playing bowls is not only a fun and enjoyable activity, but it also offers a multitude of health benefits. One of the key advantages of playing bowls is its ability to improve coordination and balance. The sport requires a high level of hand-eye coordination as players aim to roll their bowls as close as possible to the target ball, known as the jack. In addition, players often have to kneel down to deliver their bowls accurately, which helps to improve balance and stability.
Furthermore, playing bowls can also help individuals maintain a healthy weight. The physical activity involved in playing bowls, such as walking back and forth between ends and bending down to deliver bowls, can help burn calories and contribute to weight management. This is particularly beneficial for individuals looking to stay active and lead a healthy lifestyle. Overall, playing bowls is a fantastic way to not only have fun and socialise with others, but also to improve coordination, balance, and maintain a healthy weight. The accessibility of artificial grass for year-round play further enhances the benefits of this enjoyable sport.
Mental Benefits
Playing bowls can have a positive impact on mental health by lowering stress levels and anxiety, promoting relaxation, and improving cognitive abilities. The game requires concentration, mindfulness, and strategic thinking, which can stimulate the brain and delay cognitive decline. Being both indoors and outdoors, engaging in friendly competition can also improve overall happiness and social skills. Joining clubs and teams can create a sense of community and belonging, further benefiting mental wellbeing.
Benefits of an artificial bowling surface
Artificial bowling surfaces provide a consistent playing field, which enhances the quality of play. The predictable ball behavior and lane conditions enable players to improve their skills more effectively. These surfaces are designed for optimal traction and shock absorption, reducing the risk of common bowling injuries and making the game safer for players of all ages and skill levels.
Unlike natural surfaces, artificial bowling greens are unaffected by weather conditions, allowing for year-round play. This ensures regular physical activity, supporting the associated health benefits. Additionally, artificial surfaces require less maintenance, keeping lanes in top condition with minimal effort. This means more time for playing and enjoying the sport.
The durability of artificial surfaces allows them to withstand heavy use without deteriorating quickly, ensuring a high-quality playing surface for a longer period. This supports sustained physical activity and its benefits.
At Playrite, we offer weather-resistant bowling greens designed for year-round use, promoting a healthy lifestyle and enhancing your physical and mental well-being. Embrace the benefits of playing bowls on an artificial surface and enjoy a healthier, happier life!
Contact us today to find out more about our range of Bowling Surfaces.
When the school set out to create an inclusive cricket facility, it aimed to cater to students of all skill levels, from novices to potential academy prospects. The goal was to provide a comprehensive environment where both students and professionals could enhance their cricketing skills outside the traditional classroom setting. The centre boasts five distinct cricket lanes, each equipped with varied surfaces. This deliberate diversity in playing conditions transforms the centre into a dynamic testing ground, strategically designed to challenge and foster the development of students.
These varied surfaces are essential for simulating different playing conditions, helping players adapt and improve their skills. The positive impact of the new cricket centre extends beyond the school grounds. With Merchant Taylors’ close affiliation with Middlesex County Cricket Club, the benefits of these cutting-edge facilities are shared with Middlesex CC as well. This collaboration ensures that both the school and the cricket club can fully utilise this elite facility. Playrite, a prominent manufacturer of artificial sports surfaces, partnered with Durant Cricket to develop Duraweave, a woven surface specifically designed for indoor cricket facilities. Cristian Durant, Owner of Durant Cricket, stated, “We believe that the woven surface offers the best performance and durability for cricket practice. Its strength and resilience make it an ideal choice for our installations. We are confident that this surface will provide a realistic and long-lasting cricket experience.”
The installation of the Duraweave woven wicket, manufactured exclusively for Durant Cricket, demonstrated superior strength, drainage, resistance to spikes, and durability. “The new cricket centre at Merchant Taylors’ School is a testament to their dedication to sports excellence,” said Chris Pickles, Sales Director at Playrite. “This facility is a game-changer for both the school and Middlesex County Cricket Club, providing unmatched opportunities for skill development.”
The completion of the Julian Hill Indoor Cricket Centre at Merchant Taylors’ School highlights the successful collaboration between Durant Cricket and Playrite. This state-of-the-art facility not only enhances the cricketing experience for students but also strengthens the school’s relationship with Middlesex County Cricket Club, providing mutual benefits and fostering a robust cricketing community.
For more information about Playrite’s artificial cricket surfaces, contact us today.
The key objectives were to provide better protection for all users and ensuring all-year-round access for all Tennis players. The new surface aims to replicate the playability of natural clay while offering the durability and lower maintenance of an artificial surface.
The Clayrite MF surface is designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, providing a natural clay-like appearance that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Tennis Centre.
Additionally, the surface supports the University’s sustainability initiatives by being durable and requiring less maintenance compared to natural clay courts.
The installation is expected to significantly benefit both the University and the wider community by providing a high- quality playing surface that can be used year-round. This encourages greater participation from both students and local community members.
The project involved collaboration between the University of Warwick, the contractor, and Playrite, the manufacturer of the Clayrite MF surface. This partnership ensured that the selected surface met the University’s needs and was installed to the highest standards.
Feedback from the University’s tennis clubs and members has been overwhelmingly positive. Users have praised the playability of the new surface, noting its similarity to natural clay and its suitability for various weather conditions. As Matthew Tew, Tennis Manager, noted, “We are very pleased with this surface and its playability, and initial feedback from our customers has been positive. This sand-filled artificial clay surface is a great addition to our Tennis Centre and plays just like a real clay surface. As we head into the summer season, our clubs and members are looking forward to utilising this great facility.”
Chris Pickles, Sales Director at Playrite, commented, “We are delighted to have partnered with the University of Warwick on this project. The Clayrite MF surface is an excellent choice for their Tennis Centre, offering the perfect balance of playability and durability. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the University and its community.”
Contact us today to learn more about Playrite’s tennis surfaces and how the team’s expertise can help with your next project.
Padel, a fast-paced blend of tennis and squash, has been making waves on the UK sports scene. With its accessible rules and exhilarating gameplay, padel has attracted a dedicated following, with numbers potentially even higher than reported, as noted by Stratford Padel Club, boasting over 22,000 registered players alone. Similarly, pickleball, a fusion of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has seen rapid growth, with Sport England’s figures mirroring estimates from Pickleball England, indicating a burgeoning community of players eager to embrace this exciting sport.
But what’s behind the rise of padel and pickleball, and how can sports venues, including tennis facilities, capitalise on this trend? The answer lies in the accessibility, social appeal, and adaptability of these sports. Padel and pickleball offer a welcoming environment for players of all ages and skill levels, with smaller courts and modified equipment making them easy to pick up and enjoy. Moreover, their emphasis on doubles play fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, drawing players together in a shared love of the game.
For sports venues looking to capitalise on the growing interest in padel and pickleball, investing in high-quality surfaces is key. Playrite’s surfaces, renowned for their durability and performance, provide the ideal playing environment for these fast-paced sports. By retrofitting existing tennis courts or creating dedicated padel and pickleball facilities, venues can attract new players and diversify their offerings, tapping into the burgeoning market for racket sports.
Furthermore, embracing padel and pickleball can help venues future-proof their operations, catering to evolving trends in sports participation and ensuring a steady stream of revenue. Whether it’s through league play, tournaments, or social events, there’s ample opportunity for venues to engage with the growing community of padel and pickleball enthusiasts, fostering a vibrant and inclusive sporting culture.
The rise of padel and pickleball in the UK represents a seismic shift in the recreational sports landscape. With their accessible gameplay and infectious energy, these sports are capturing the hearts and minds of players across the country. By embracing this trend and investing in top-notch facilities, sports venues can position themselves at the forefront of the padel and pickleball revolution, providing a home for enthusiasts to thrive and grow.
