Category Archives: Latest Projects


Birkwood Primary School’s New Multi-Use Sports Surface Installation

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.

Padel Nederland

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

Merchant Taylor School

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.

University of Warwick Tennis Centre

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.

Sir Harry Smith Community College, Whittlesey

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 MUGA sports surface 2

Calthorpe Academy

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 Leeds sports surface - 1

Lighthouse School

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.

Outdoor Childrens Playground artifical surface Merstham 3

Merstham Primary School

Merstham Primary School, a proud member of the GLF group of schools, is committed to providing a nurturing environment where children grow, learn, and flourish. Located in London, the school embarked on a remarkable journey to revitalise their barren playground into a dynamic space where children could thrive.

Teaming up with Newby Leisure, approved Playrite partner, Merstham Primary School ensured that the playground design met the specific needs of their early years’ foundation team. The result was an inspiring outdoor play area featuring caves, streams, a mud kitchen, and sand areas, fostering exploration and imaginative play.

To withstand the diverse play elements, Newby Leisure recommended Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30, an artificial turf known for its durability, safety, and versatility. This choice allowed children to freely engage in sand, mud, and play in inclement weather without the inconvenience of a natural grass surface transforming into a muddy quagmire.

Headteacher Gavin Oulton commented, “The children adore their new play area, learning through play and having a blast. In fact, we now have difficulty getting them back into the classroom as they want to be outside all the time!”

The acclaim extended beyond the school, as the Mayor of Reigate and Banstead, Frank Kelly, officially inaugurated the playground, braving the snow. The children eagerly invited the mayor to return and experience the equipment firsthand.

Merstham Primary School’s commitment to providing an exceptional learning experience is evident in the transformation of their playground. Through imaginative play and exploration in this vibrant outdoor setting, students gain invaluable skills, forge lifelong memories, all while staying safe and clean thanks to the gentle cushioning of Nearlygrass 30 underfoot.

Ready to transform your playground into a dynamic space for learning and play?

Contact us today to learn more about Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30 and how it can enhance your outdoor environment.

Product Information:

Playrite’s Nearlygrass 30 is a premium artificial turf designed for durability, safety, and versatility. With its gentle cushioning underfoot, Nearlygrass 30 provides a safe and clean surface for children to explore and play in any weather condition. Whether it’s sand, mud, or grass, Nearlygrass 30 ensures a hassle-free play experience, making it the perfect choice for school playgrounds, parks, and recreational areas.

St Joseph's Outdoor MUGA Court

St Josephs Primary School

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.

Macaulay Primary School outdoor play area 2

Macaulay Primary School

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