The project’s main challenge involved a complete overhaul of the existing playground, which required the removal of old equipment and the installation of new play structures. The surfaces had to be durable enough to endure year-round use while maintaining safety and accessibility. Additionally, the installation timeline was critical, with the project needing to be completed on schedule and within budget, all while minimising disruptions to school operations.
Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30 Solution
Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30 was chosen for the new surface due to its superior durability and minimal maintenance needs. This artificial grass ensures that the playground remains accessible throughout the year, offering a consistent, safe playing surface regardless of the weather. Its realistic look and feel create an inviting and enjoyable space for children to explore and play.
Ken Smith, Playrite’s Area Sales Manager, commented, “Nearlygrass 30 is the ideal choice for schools like Wolviston Primary. It provides a reliable, year-round surface that is both safe and cost-effective, removing the high maintenance requirements associated with natural grass.”
Ashley Spink from Newby Leisure, the installation partner, shared, “The transformation of Wolviston Primary School’s playground was an exciting project. The new play area, featuring Nearlygrass 30, offers a mix of physical activities and creative exploration, all within a low-maintenance environment.”
The Finished Playground
The revitalised playground now features new timber play structures, including an impressive timber tower, as well as areas for sand play, digging, and messy activities with bark surfacing. A decked area and a bed of Nearlygrass 30, adhered to a rubber base and enclosed by bespoke timber fencing, provide an ideal setting for safe and imaginative play.
With the installation of Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30, Wolviston Primary School now enjoys a low-maintenance, all-weather play area that supports a variety of play activities, ensuring students can engage in safe, enjoyable outdoor play throughout the year.
It was crucial that the surfaces met several key criteria. Firstly, they needed to be durable enough to endure the high levels of foot traffic and wear and tear from daily use by energetic children. This meant the material had to be resilient and long-lasting, capable of withstanding all types of weather conditions throughout the year.
Additionally, the installation process had to be meticulously planned and executed to ensure that it was completed efficiently, minimising disruption to the school’s schedule and activities. Adhering to the project timeline and budget was also a critical factor, as any delays or cost overruns could have impacted the school’s ability to fully utilise the new facilities as planned. Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30 was selected to address these needs, providing a reliable, cost-effective solution that met all these requirements.
Ken Smith, Area Sales Manager from Playrite, remarked, “Nearlygrass 30 is perfect for educational institutions like Signhills Academy. It guarantees a reliable, year-round surface that’s both safe and cost-effective, eliminating the heavy upkeep that natural grass demands.”
Ashley Spink from Newby Leisure shared, “Transforming Signhills Academy’s playground was an exciting project. The new play area, with Nearlygrass 30, offers a variety of activities for the children, from physical play to creative exploration, all within a low-maintenance setting.”
The students of Signhills Academy are now enjoying their outdoor physical education lessons more than ever. With the use of Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30, the academy benefits from a low-maintenance, all-weather surface that supports diverse play activities, ensuring students can enjoy safe and enjoyable outdoor play throughout the year. Adding a bed of artificial grass, adhered to a rubber base, and surrounded by bespoke timber fencing for safeguarding, this is the perfectly enclosed addition to the playground.
Challenges
One of the key challenges was the schoolyard’s steep terrain. Atmosphäre worked with EVOQ Architecture to create a multi-level play space that maximised the available area while ensuring safety and accessibility. Additionally, the surfaces had to be durable, provide all-weather access, and require minimal maintenance, making Playrite’s expertise crucial to the success of the project.
Solution
To address these challenges, Atmosphäre selected two of Playrite’s premium surfaces: Matchplay 2 for the multi-sports pitch and Matchwinner Velour for the main play areas.
Why Playrite Surfaces Were Chosen
Chris Pickles, Sales Manager from Playrite, explained, “The Matchplay 2 surface offers unmatched versatility and resilience, making it the ideal choice for a multi-sport environment like l’Accueil. Meanwhile, Matchwinner Velour provides the perfect balance of safety, durability, and vibrant aesthetics for creative playgrounds.
Marie-France Turgeon, from EVOQ Architecture, added, “We were inspired by the school’s request for both physical and non-physical play areas. These surfaces provided the perfect foundation for our vision, supporting imaginative play while maintaining safety and accessibility all year round.
The Result
The new schoolyard is now a dynamic, multi-level space that inspires both physical and imaginative play. The sports fi eld sees regular use by students and teachers alike, and the colourful park area offers endless opportunities for creative games.
With its durable and permeable surfaces, the space is designed to endure heavy use while maintaining its vibrant appearance, much to the delight of the school’s staff and students.
This project sets a new benchmark for schoolyard design, offering a space where children can explore, play, and grow in a safe and stimulating environment.
Ark Charters School, located in a vibrant community, recognises the pivotal role sports play in shaping young minds. However, the lack of adequate outdoor playing surfaces posed a challenge to realising the school’s vision of comprehensive sports engagement. Installing a large-scale pitch was crucial, but it came with its set of challenges, including weather resilience, maintenance costs, and maximising usability.
One of the primary challenges faced was the installation of a large-scale pitch that could withstand varying weather conditions while offering year-round access. Additionally, minimising maintenance costs without compromising on quality was a key consideration. The school needed a solution that could accommodate multiple sports activities, including football and tennis, within the limited space available.
Playrite’s Matchplay 2 emerged as the optimal solution for Ark Charters School’s sports facility upgrade. With its all-weather durability and low maintenance requirements, Matchplay 2 offered the perfect balance of quality and cost-effectiveness. Its versatility allowed for the creation of multiple playing zones within the same pitch, accommodating both football and tennis courts seamlessly.
Matchplay 2’s ability to provide year-round access to outdoor pitches was a game-changer for Ark Charters School. Its robust construction ensures longevity, making it a sustainable investment for the future. Moreover, its low maintenance costs align with the school’s budgetary constraints, allowing resources to be allocated to other areas of need.
The installation of Playrite’s Matchplay 2 has transformed Ark Charters School’s sports facilities, providing students with a dynamic and inclusive environment for sports participation. The newly marked full-size pitch now accommodates two 5-a-side football pitches and three tennis courts, catering to a wide range of sporting interests.
At the time of installation, contractors Blakedown Sport & Play commented on how the product’s quality and versatility had exceeded expectations, and seeing the transformation it brought to the school’s sports facilities was truly satisfying. Matchplay 2’s durability and low maintenance requirements make it an ideal choice for educational institutions looking to enhance their sports infrastructure.
The collaboration between Ark Charters School, Blakedown Sport & Play and Playrite underscores the importance of investing in high-quality sports surfaces to foster student engagement and well-being. With Matchplay 2, the school is poised to continue its legacy of excellence in sports education, empowering students to lead active and healthy lives
Ready to transform your school’s sports facilities like Ark Charters School? Discover the benefits of Playrite’s Matchplay 2 and give your students the best in sports surfaces.
Contact us now at 📞 01924 412488 or 📧 info@playrite.co.uk to learn more!
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.
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
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.
The main objective of choosing a MUGA surface was simple: to give students a place to play sports all year round, with a focus on football, both 7-a-side and 5-a-side. With the unpredictable British weather, having a dependable surface means the fun doesn’t stop, come rain or shine. In collaboration with a nearby contractor, the college was recommended to explore several potential options, ultimately opting for Playrite’s Matchplay 2 due to its outstanding features that met the college’s needs.
Ken smith, Area Sales Manager from Playrite commented “With the college looking to cover such an expansive area, it was imperative that a multi-sport surface would deliver a solution that accommodated all of their needs. We worked with the Design Team to establish what their long term objectives were for the overall sports facilities, to ensure the surface they chose would more than meet them”.
The college selected Playrite’s Matchplay 2 in a green shade to seamlessly integrate with the pitch’s surroundings. This particular MUGA surface allows students to use outdoor pitches throughout the year, enabling sports and recreational activities in any weather conditions. Additionally, its cost- effective maintenance ensures the college can allocate resources effectively for long-term sustainability.
Taking charge of the main installation was Smith Construction (Heckington) Ltd, a trusted name in installations. They were tasked with installing Matchplay 2 surface, covering an impressive 2000 square metres. Sophie Spencer, Contracts Coordinator & Health and Safety Manager at Smith Construction (Heckington) Ltd comments, “Working on the Sir Harry Smith Community College project was a real pleasure. We take pride in our work, knowing it makes a difference in the community. We’re confi dent this new facility will be enjoyed by many for years to come.”
With the new MUGA surface in place, students can expect to enjoy a boost in their outdoor sports activities. Whether it’s a casual kickabout or a competitive match, the improved facilities are encouraging more students to get active. And it’s not just the students who will benefi t – the whole community stands to gain from having access to better sports facilities.
Ken Smith, further commented “We’re thrilled to have been part of this project. Our aim with the Matchplay 2 MUGA surface was to provide a reliable, high-performance solution for sports enthusiasts. We hope it inspires students to stay active and pursue their passions.”
If you are looking to update your sport facilities and would like further information about Playrite’s surfaces, please do not hesitate to contact the team.
Calthorpe Academy, located in the heart of Birmingham, serves as a beacon of education and community engagement. With a commitment to holistic development, the academy sought to enhance its outdoor facilities to provide students with versatile spaces for physical activity and recreation.
Understanding the signifi cance of a well-equipped outdoor environment, Calthorpe Academy embarked on a project to install a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) within its premises.
The project encountered several challenges typical of outdoor installations. Birmingham’s climate, with its unpredictable weather patterns, posed a signifi cant obstacle, requiring a solution that could withstand varying conditions without compromising performance. Additionally, the academy aimed to balance durability and aesthetics while adhering to budget constraints.
To address these challenges, Calthorpe Academy collaborated with dbdplay, led by Sales Manager Georgia Webb, and Playrite, represented by Sales Director Chris Pickles.
The selected solution was Playrite’s Matchwinner Velour MUGA, featuring vibrant blue, yellow, and green colors to invigorate the outdoor space.
The decision to opt for Playrite’s Matchwinner Velour MUGA was driven by its exceptional qualities perfectly aligned with the academy’s requirements. Firstly, the surface offers all-year round access to outdoor pitches, ensuring students can engage in sports and recreational activities regardless of weather conditions. Moreover, its low maintenance costs provide long-term sustainability, allowing the academy to allocate resources efficiently.
Georgia Webb, Sales Manager at dbdplay, expressed confidence in the choice of Playrite’s Matchwinner Velour, stating, “We selected Playrite’s solution for its durability and performance, essential factors for an educational institution like Calthorpe Academy.”
The installation of Playrite’s Matchwinner Velour MUGA at Calthorpe Academy has transformed the outdoor environment into a dynamic hub for student engagement and physical activity. The vibrant colors not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also inspire a sense of vitality and energy among students. With allyear- round access and minimal maintenance requirements, the MUGA ensures that students can enjoy outdoor activities safely and conveniently.
Chris Pickles, Sales Director at Playrite, commented on the successful completion of the project, stating, “We are delighted to have provided dbdplay and Calthorpe Academy with a solution that meets their requirements for durability, performance, and aesthetics. Playrite remains committed to supporting educational institutions in creating engaging outdoor spaces for students.”
The partnership between Calthorpe Academy, dbdplay, and Playrite has resulted in the successful installation of a high-quality MUGA, enriching the educational experience and promoting physical well-being among students.
Lighthouse School, nestled in the heart of Leeds, is dedicated to providing a nurturing educational environment for its students. Recognising the importance of outdoor activities in child development, the school was keen on upgrading an existing outdoor sports court to offer a durable and vibrant surfacing solution that could withstand heavy foot traffic and provide a stimulating area for play and sports activities. Enter Playrite’s Matchplay 2, a high-quality synthetic sports surface known for its resilience and performance.
Playrite’s Matchplay 2 emerged as the ideal solution for Lighthouse School’s playground revitalisation project. The vibrant purple color not only added an element of excitement to the space but also provided a visually stimulating backdrop for various activities. Moreover, Matchplay 2’s durability and low-maintenance characteristics made it a practical choice for the school’s long-term investment in its infrastructure.
Mark Bucknall, Director of EB Sports, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “Working with Playrite’s Matchplay 2 at Lighthouse School has been a fulfilling experience. The product’s quality and ease of installation have allowed us to deliver a premium surface that meets both aesthetic and functional requirements.”
Chris Pickles, Playrite’s Sales Director, emphasised the significance of the project in enhancing outdoor play experiences for children. He remarked, “At Playrite, we are committed to creating spaces that inspire and empower communities. The transformation of Lighthouse School’s playground exemplifies our dedication to delivering innovative surfacing solutions that promote physical activity and well-being. We are delighted to have played a part in enriching the lives of the students at Lighthouse School.”
The installation of Playrite’s Matchplay 2 at Lighthouse School has yielded positive outcomes for both students and faculty alike. The vibrant purple surface has become a focal point of the school’s outdoor court, encouraging children to engage in active play and sports activities. Furthermore, the durability and low-maintenance nature of Matchplay 2 have provided peace of mind to the school administration, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for years to come.
The collaboration between Lighthouse School, EB Sports, contractors Flexit Solutions and Playrite has resulted in the successful transformation of a mundane playground into a dynamic space for learning and recreation. Through the installation of Matchplay 2, the project has not only enhanced the physical environment but has also contributed to the overall well-being and development of the students. Lighthouse School stands as a shining example of the positive impact of investing in quality outdoor infrastructure for educational institutions.
