MJ Abbott

Synthetic Pitch re-surface

Wast Hills Training Ground

Introduction

Synthetic Pitch re-surface

The existing synthetic football surface had served the club well over the last 12 years but had started to deteriorate and fail at the seams.

Through discussions with the club, MJ Abbott provided costings to replace the surface, and subsequently selected to carry out the work.

The club employed Charles Henderson of OBi Sports to approve the proposals and monitor construction.

The project started in July 2024.

Project challenges

The suitability of re-using the existing rubber shockpad

The suitability of re-using the existing rubber shockpad could only be determined until all the synthetic surface was removed. The removal of carpet therefore had to be carried out diligently and with extreme care, as to not affect the integrity of the retained shockpad.

Upon removal, MJ Abbott selected a test house to conduct testing where its approval was confirmed.

The project coincided with the return of academy staff and players. The challenge was to manage the health and safety requirements for mixing machinery, delivery lorries, cars, players and staff, within a very tight site whilst maintaining a suitable programme. The pitch was delivered a week ahead of schedule.

Our approach

Surface testing to achieve FIFA Quality Pro

The scope of work included:

  • Removal of the existing 3G surface, which included cutting and rolling, loading onto transport and removal off site.
  • Shockpad testing.
  • Installation of a new SIS Pitches SIS Turf Xtreme 40 carpet complete with sand and rubber infill.
  • Surface testing to achieve FIFA Quality Pro.

Outcomes

The new surface was opened ahead of schedule

The new surface was opened ahead of schedule, receiving nothing but positive feedback from coaching staff and players.

The pitch maintenance is successfully managed by head groundsman Dale Ketteridge.