SAPCA

Welland Park Academy in Market Harborough, Leicestershire, has undergone an impressive renovation with the resurfacing of its existing synthetic turf pitch. The project, designed by Notts Sport and constructed by Cleveland Land Services, included the installation of a new surface by Lano, the S-Tec Integration Xperience. The new surface offers a versatile playing area that can accommodate various sports such as netball, hockey, football, tennis, and even athletics. This multi-sport capability provides the school with a fantastic resource for promoting physical activity and allowing students to participate in a wide range of sports. Sam Blades, PE Teacher at Welland Park Academy, said, “The pitch is fantastic. It is going to greatly improve the quality and range of PE lessons and extra-curricular sport we can provide. The students are really excited to start using the new facility!” The S-Tec Integration Xperience surface is designed to deliver high performance, durability, and safety for the players. In addition, synthetic turf pitches are known for their consistent playing surface, all-weather usability, and reduced maintenance requirements compared to natural grass fields. Julie McBrearty - Principal of Welland Park Academy, said, "We have appreciated the support of Notts Sports throughout this work. They have been integral to the progress of realising our vision for facilities development at every level. They have engineered a site development to enhance opportunities for our students and community. We look forward to working with them again!" The project also included the supply of the UKs very first electric maintenance machine for the carpet pile maintenance. This demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. By opting for an electric machine instead of a traditional gas-powered one, the Academy promotes cleaner and greener practices, whilst also keeping noise levels to a minimum. The maintenance machine for carpet pile typically performs tasks like vacuuming and brushing to ensure the carpet fibres stay in good condition. Regular maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of the carpet, keeping it looking fresh and minimising wear and tear. By employing an electric maintenance machine, the project not only prioritizes environmental responsibility but also ensures efficient and effective carpet maintenance. By investing in such a facility, @wpa_pe has created a valuable asset that can support the development of sporting talents and encourage an active lifestyle among students. It's commendable to see schools prioritising the creation of sports infrastructure that fosters inclusivity and offers opportunities for various activities. Martin Towers, the Finance & Operations Director said “Notts Sport have taken a lot of project management stress out of the project both Duncan & Matt have communicated throughout the process very well. They supported with the tender process and had a brilliant relationship with the contractor – CLS. The project was completed on time and to a very high standard . I think the facility is amazing and will make a huge difference to both students and the community. I am excited to see the surface change with different sports with the use of semi-permanent paint!”