Burley Oaks Primary School recently upgraded its outdoor sports facilities with the installation of a high-performance multi-use games area (MUGA) and surrounding running track. The project was designed to maximise versatility, durability, and inclusivity, creating a space that supports a wide variety of sports and activities for pupils.
The Facility Design
At the centre of the facility is the Tournament EL artificial grass surface, supplied by Playrite, designed to deliver consistent performance across a wide range of sports. The green surface features inlaid line markings in red, yellow, and white, clearly defining different activity zones and making it easy for staff and pupils to use the space effectively.
A key feature of the design is the blue running track installed around the perimeter of the MUGA. This bespoke addition allows for multiple activities to take place at once, making the most of the available space while encouraging both structured sport and general fitness.
Performance and Safety
Durable and suitable for year-round use, Tournament EL meets recognised International Hockey Federation (FIH) standards and is backed by a 5-year warranty, providing long-term confidence in its performance.
To further enhance comfort, safety, and longevity, the system includes Matchpad, a shockpad underlay manufactured using recycled fibres. End-of-batch materials that would otherwise go to landfill are blended with selected denier fibres to produce our 10mm and 15mm shockpads, which are designed for maximum drainage. With no secondary backing or latex applied, rainfall flows freely, helping protect both players and the surface while keeping the pitch playable in all conditions.
Collaborative Installation
Installation was expertly managed by Axo Leisure Ltd, led by director Darren Ackroyd, who described the project as “exceptional from start to finish.” Playrite worked closely with Axo Leisure during the design phase to ensure the right specification was achieved.
Darren highlighted this support, noting:
“Playrite’s team was incredibly helpful during the design stage, offering expert advice that ensured we had the right specification for the site’s needs. They were also instrumental in creating the custom running track, helping to ensure an efficient installation process with minimal waste.”
Delivery and Logistics
The project was completed on schedule, aligning perfectly with the school’s requirements. Coordination around site logistics was handled smoothly, with deliveries arranged to suit the contractor’s programme.
“The project was delivered exactly on schedule, which was vital for the school’s timeline,” Darren explained. He added that Playrite were “very accommodating with delivery times, working around our logistical requirements without any fuss.”
The Result
The completed facility provides a modern, multifunctional space that will support sport and physical activity for years to come. Summing up the experience, Darren said: “It’s refreshing to work with a supplier that combines high-quality products with such a proactive, helpful attitude.”
The World Indoor Bowls Championships 2026, the biggest event in the bowls calendar, are currently taking place at Potters Resorts, Hopton-on-Sea. The tournament began on Friday 9 January and will conclude with the open singles final on Sunday 25 January, with coverage broadcast on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer from Monday 19 January through to the end of the championships.
The championships feature the world’s top indoor bowls players, and the quality of the playing surface is critical to the competition. Playrite Sports Surfaces’ Pro Weave artificial bowling surface has been installed throughout the World Bowls Tour Indoor Championship Events, providing consistent ball roll and green speed to meet the demands of elite-level play.
The installation was carried out by Dales Sports, the official installers of the World Bowls Tour Indoor Championship bowls floor. They provided the famous “Blue” Pro Weave rink, which has been featured prominently on television during the championships, highlighting Playrite’s reputation for precision and performance at the highest level.
As a global leader in artificial bowling surfaces, Playrite has manufactured over 70% of synthetic bowling greens worldwide. Its surfaces offer a durable, cost-effective alternative to natural greens, delivering a consistent day’s play while meeting the requirements of both indoor and outdoor facilities. All Playrite surfaces form part of a World Bowls approved system, trusted by clubs and tournaments across the world.
With its surfaces performing on one of the sport’s biggest stages, Playrite continues to demonstrate why it is the choice of elite players and championship venues worldwide. Those considering the installation of an artificial bowling green can take inspiration from the World Bowls Tour and explore Playrite’s solutions for their own facilities.
As part of Westminster City Council’s commitment to improving access to physical activity in undeserved neighbourhoods , the Kennet House Multi-Use-Games-Area (MUGA), located just off Church Street, has undergone a major refurbishment. Delivered through the Active Westminster Programme, the project was led by MSC Consultants, with Playrite’s Matchplay 2 surface playing a key role in delivering a durable, low maintenance, and high-performance facility.
According to public procurement documentation from Westminster City Council, the Kennet House MUGA was described as “not used much” and in need of upgrades to ensure it was safe and appealing for children, young people, and families. The council also identified the surrounding area as facing health inequalities and low levels of physical activity, making the MUGA refurbishment a priority community investment.
This investment aimed to transform the MUGA into a safe and accessible environment, helping to meet the local need for accessible spaces that support movement, play and social connection.
Installed by Play Innovation as part of the full site refurbishment, Matchplay 2 is a needle-punch synthetic turf system designed for high-traffic, multi-sport environments. Chosen for its performance and resilience, the surface delivers:
Manufactured in the UK, Matchplay 2 complies with Sport England guidance and EN safety standards, making it a future-proof surface solution for community-led sport and recreation projects.
Refurbishment works began in mid-August 2025 and were completed within an 8-week construction programme, on-time and to specification.
The MUGA was officially reopened in October 2025 during a community celebration attended by Councillor Aicha Less, alongside local families, young People, and community groups. The event marked the return of a safe, revitalised space for play and activity and highlighted the importance of investing in local infrastructure to address health disparities and social isolation.
While Playrite’s role focused on supplying the surface system, the wider refurbishment also delivered essential improvements, including:
These features were designed to support informal, skills-based play across age groups, ensuring the facility appeals to a broad and diverse community.
The upgraded MUGA is already delivering tangible benefits for the local community:
“We’re very pleased with the performance and finish of the Matchplay 2 surface by Playrite” said MSC Consultants. “It’s robust, weather-resistant, and ideal for community-level usage. The vibrant colour options also helped us bring energy and character into the court design.”
Matchplay 2 continues to be a trusted choice for councils, schools, and contractors looking for resilient, low-maintenance multi-sport surfaces. Manufactured in the UK, it offers a cost-effective and future-ready investment, helping public bodies deliver inclusive, safe and vibrant community sports facilities.
To learn more about Matchplay 2 or explore surface options for your next project, contact the Playrite team today.
Greenwood Park Lawn Tennis Club (LTC), based in Chiswell Green, continues to enhance its offering to the local community with the successful completion of a significant court resurfacing project. Known for its inclusive ethos and wide-ranging tennis programmes, from mini tennis for young children to competitive Herts County League fixtures, the club welcomes players of all ages and skill levels.
Recently, Greenwood Park LTC officially unveiled three newly resurfaced courts, completed in collaboration with ETC Sports Surfaces, using Playrite’s Matchplay 2 XL surface. The occasion was marked by a well-attended Grand Opening event, underscoring the club’s commitment to providing high-quality, accessible facilities for its members and the wider community.
Prior to the resurfacing, the courts were beginning to show visible signs of wear. Surface inconsistencies and reduced grip were starting to affect both play quality and user satisfaction. Recognising the need for a long-term solution that could withstand heavy use and varied weather conditions, the club sought a solution that would combine performance, durability, and low maintenance.
Matchplay 2, part of Playrite’s advanced needle-punch range, was selected for its strong track record at club level. Designed for its high-performance play, the surface combines exceptional durability with a unique dimpled profile that enhances grip and ball control. With a medium ITF pace rating (3) and excellent porosity, it provides consistent ball bounce and year-round playability, ideal for community clubs with busy schedules and diverse user groups.
The new courts provide a resilient, low-maintenance solution suited to both recreational and competitive tennis. The Grand Opening reflected the club’s inclusive vision, with strong outreach to local schools, community organisations, and neighbouring clubs. More than 100 attendees joined the celebration, including the Mayor of St Albans, Jamie Day, and former Mayor and High Sheriff, Annie Brewster, who performed the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
Throughout the event, attendees participated in a range of tennis activities tailored to all ages. From toddlers as young as three to seasoned adult players, the coaching team ensured that everyone had the opportunity to try the new surface. Rackets were available to borrow, making the event welcoming even for those new to the sport.
The resurfacing project has not only revitalised the club’s facilities but has also helped strengthen community engagement and encourage greater participation in tennis. Manufactured in the UK by Playrite, Matchplay 2 features UV-stable fibres and a construction method proven to drain faster than traditional tufted surfaces. With a minimum five-year warranty, it presents a reliable, future-proof investment for tennis clubs prioritising performance and reliability.
Greenwood Park LTC’s latest upgrade underscores the value of investing in high-performance, multi-season surfaces. As part of a broader effort to promote healthy, active lifestyles and expand access to sport, the new courts represent a meaningful step forward for both the club and the wider St Albans community.
To learn more about Matchplay 2 or explore surface options for your facility, contact Playrite’s surface specialists today.
Christ Church New Malden School recently underwent a remarkable transformation of its outdoor play area, replacing a tired asphalt surface with Playrite’s high-quality Matchplay 2 artificial grass surface.
The project, completed in partnership with ETC Sports Surfaces Limited, has provided the school with a safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing multi-use games area (MUGA), ideal for a range of sports and general play. Working closely with parents and the wider community, the school is dedicated to fostering high achievement through a varied and engaging curriculum that nurtures essential skills and celebrates diversity. With the support of government funding, they seized the opportunity to enhance their sports provision, ensuring that students have fi t-for-purpose outdoor PE and recreational spaces.
Their long-term vision is to develop a sustainable programme that not only promotes active and healthy lifestyles among pupils but also provides valuable green space for the broader community.
However, before the renovation, the school’s outdoor area was far from ideal. The aging asphalt surface suffered from poor drainage, worn-out markings, and a hard, unforgiving texture that limited safe play.
Recognising the need for a safer, more adaptable surface, the school sought a durable solution for year-round sports and play. To address these challenges, ETC Sports Surfaces Limited prepared the ground to ensure a fully porous foundation, preventing waterlogging and improving long-term durability. The installation of Matchplay 2 delivered a high-performance sports surface suitable for a variety of activities.
Nick Drake, Sales & Project Manager at ETC Sports Surfaces Limited, emphasised the importance of providing safe, high-quality sports facilities for schools. “The transformation at Christ Church New Malden has created a durable, multi-purpose area that will support students’ physical activity for years to come. Playrite’s Matchplay 2 surface delivers excellent playability, comfort, and safety for young athletes.”
Now, the school enjoys a vibrant and functional MUGA that seamlessly integrates with its existing playground and equipment. The surface caters to multiple sports, including netball, football, and general play, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students, including wheelchair users. With minimal upkeep, Matchplay 2 ensures lasting durability and a consistently high-quality finish. Importantly, its porous nature prevents water accumulation, keeping the space usable even after heavy rainfall.
Chris Pickles, Sales Director at Playrite, highlighted the practical advantages of the new installation, stating: “Matchplay 2 provides a fantastic, long-lasting play surface that ensures both safety and performance, whilst delivering a low-maintenance solution for schools.”
The revamp of Christ Church New Malden School’s outdoor play area is a testament to the importance of investing in high-quality sports surfaces. By selecting Playrite’s Matchplay 2, the school has created a safe, inclusive, and versatile facility that will benefit students for years to come, supporting both structured PE lessons and free play opportunities.
In 2019, a school in Bukovany, a municipality in the Hodonín District of the South Moravian Region in the Czech Republic, sought to upgrade its outdoor sports facilities with a durable and versatile surface. The objective was to create a multipurpose school playground that could accommodate various sports while also being accessible to the public. Playrite’s Matchplay 2 was selected as the ideal solution for the project due to its outstanding durability, low maintenance requirements, and suitability for multiple sporting activities.
The school needed a surface that could withstand high usage levels from students and community members while maintaining performance and safety standards. The goal was to provide a facility suitable for a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and tennis, while ensuring year-round usability with minimal upkeep. Additionally, the school wanted to create an inclusive space that would be accessible to both students and the wider community, offering a long-lasting, cost effective solution.
To meet these needs, the school opted for Playrite’s Matchplay 2, a versatile synthetic surface specifically designed for
multi-sport environments. With its durable needlepunch construction, the surface provides excellent playability across different sports, while the sand-dressed finish enhances grip and safety. One of its standout advantages is its low maintenance requirements, reducing long-term upkeep costs. Its weather-resistant properties also ensure consistent performance, regardless of seasonal conditions.
The installation was carried out by Precol, an experienced contractor specialising in artifi cial sports surfaces. The process was completed efficiently, minimising disruption to the school’s daily operations. Since its installation, the new surface has transformed the school’s outdoor play area, enabling students to engage in a wide range of sports while also providing a valuable recreational space for the local community.
A representative from the Precol commented: “We presented Playrite’s Matchplay 2 to the school as it is suitable for multi sports and relatively low maintenance. The surface has been a great addition to the community’s outdoor area, allowing everyone to enjoy various activities in a safe and high-quality environment.”
The project has demonstrated the benefits of investing in a multi-use surface, enhancing both school sports programs and community engagement.
Armitage Park in Laurentides has recently undergone an exciting transformation. The park’s redevelopment, undertaken in collaboration with the landscape architecture firm KAP and Atmosphare, has introduced an innovative and inclusive recreational space designed to enhance play, accessibility, and outdoor experiences for the local community.
At the heart of the project is Playrite’s Matchwinner Velour, a premium playground surfacing option chosen for its durability, all-weather performance, and vibrant aesthetics. This high-quality, needlepunch synthetic surface is designed to offer superior comfort and longevity, making it ideal for school playgrounds, play areas, and multi-use sports surfaces. Unlike traditional grass or tarmac, Matchwinner Velour, when incorporated in an impact absorbency system, contributes to reducing the risk of injury and ensuring compliance with critical fall height requirements for playground safety surfacing. Beneath the carpet, 2-3 layers of shockpads (underlays) provide the necessary protection when a child falls, ensuring a safe and cushioned play environment.
One of the standout features of Matchwinner Velour is its low-maintenance design, which eliminates the need for regular watering, mowing, or reseeding. This makes it a cost-effective solution for schools and local authorities looking for a long-lasting, safe, and visually appealing playground surface. Its porous construction ensures efficient drainage, preventing waterlogging and enabling year-round play, regardless of weather conditions.
One of the most striking aspects of Armitage Park is its seamless integration with the natural landscape. The installation makes full use of the site’s existing contours, such as a slide built into a mound, blending play elements harmoniously with the environment. The synthetic surface not only enhances the park’s visual appeal with its vibrant colours but also ensures a safe and accessible play area for children of all abilities.
Despite its many benefits, the installation process presented several challenges. Adapting the surface to the park’s undulating terrain required careful planning and execution to maintain both functionality and aesthetics. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders ensured the surface remained both practical and visually appealing while adhering to strict safety standards.
Beyond its immediate visual impact, the redevelopment of Armitage Park is expected to benefit the wider community by providing a safe, engaging outdoor space for families in the Laurentides region. The addition of an Inclusive Carousel, designed for individuals with reduced mobility, underscores the project’s commitment to accessibility, ensuring that every child can participate in play without barriers.
Since its completion, feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents praising the enhanced play experience and the ability to use the space throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.
Reflecting on the project, Chris Pickles, Sales Director for Playrite, highlighted how this initiative reinforces Playrite’s dedication to delivering high-performance, safe, and inclusive playground safety surfacing solutions.
Armitage Park now stands as a model for future developments, demonstrating how collaboration and innovative surfacing solutions can create dynamic recreational spaces that benefit local communities.
If you’re looking to enhance your school playgrounds or play areas with a high-quality, durable, and safe surface, get in touch with Playrite today to learn more about our innovative solutions!
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 ???? [email protected] 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 | [email protected] for more information.
