SALTEX 2026 Unveils Most Comprehensive Learning LIVE Programme Yet

Taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 11-12 November, Learning LIVE will bring together expert voices from elite sport, science, sustainability, water management, technology, landscaping, amenity management, artificial surfaces, and grassroots sport across three dedicated stages.

The programme has been developed to provide practical solutions to real-world challenges affecting facilities of every size, from Premier League stadiums and major event venues to schools, local authorities, racecourses, golf courses, public green spaces, landscape contractors and volunteer-run community clubs. Topics span climate resilience, water management, workforce development, surface performance, integrated pest management, landscaping standards, hybrid and synthetic surfaces, machinery funding and maintaining high-quality playing environments with limited resources.

Visitors will gain insight from some of the most respected names in grounds management and sports turf. Main Stage highlights include a review of the UEFA club season and preparations for EURO 2028, a behind-the-scenes look at delivering exceptional surfaces for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and a panel featuring award-winning professionals from Lord’s Cricket Club, the All-England Lawn Tennis Club, Leicester City FC and the University of Leeds discussing how strong team cultures drive success.

With extreme weather and water availability continuing to rise up the agenda, sustainability, water management and climate resilience feature heavily throughout the programme. Sessions will explore alternative irrigation systems, water resilience planning, drainage solutions and practical approaches to securing sustainable water supplies, with contributions from specialists representing the Environment Agency, Anglian Water, Eton College, Brighton & Hove Albion FC, and the UK Golf Federation.

Technology and innovation will also take centre stage. Delegates will hear from experts at Agrii, STRI, Raw Stadia, Propitch and the European Turfgrass Society on how data, research and emerging technologies can support better decision-making, improve resource efficiency, and enhance playing surface performance. Sessions will cover everything from integrated turf management and pitch data analysis to the latest scientific research shaping the future of grounds management.

Artificial and hybrid surface management forms another major strand of the programme. SAPCA-led sessions will explore end-of-life synthetic turf recycling, player-surface interaction research and the latest developments in performance standards, while specialist panels will provide practical guidance on planning, installing, and maintaining hybrid pitches to maximise long-term returns.

Learning LIVE also features dedicated content for amenity and landscaping professionals. The Amenity Forum will lead discussions on integrated pest, weed and disease management, amenity protection and sustainable maintenance practices, while the Association of Professional Landscapers will deliver sessions focused on business protection, professionalism and raising standards across the landscaping sector.

Racecourse management is another key area of focus. Experts from York Racecourse, the British Horseracing Authority and Tim O’Hare Associates will examine how racing venues can adapt to changing environmental conditions, manage natural resources more effectively and build resilience against the long-term impacts of climate change.

For grassroots clubs and volunteers, the Community Sport Stage offers targeted advice on securing funding, applying for machinery grants, improving drainage, protecting equipment from theft, reducing weather-related match cancellations, and developing sustainable long-term operating models. These practical sessions are designed to help clubs maximise limited resources while improving playing experiences for their communities.

Workforce development is also a significant focus, with sessions covering apprenticeships, education pathways, career progression and CPD opportunities. Attendees will hear from GMA Award winners, education providers, industry leaders and GMA NextGen members on how to attract, develop and retain talent while creating positive workplace cultures that support long-term career success.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association, said: “Learning LIVE is about giving grounds people practical solutions to the challenges they face every day. Whether it’s extreme weather, water availability, staffing pressures, sustainability requirements, securing funding or improving surface performance, visitors will leave SALTEX with knowledge, ideas, and actionable insights they can immediately take back to their facilities.

“As we celebrate the 80th edition of SALTEX, we’re proud to offer our strongest education programme yet, bringing together some of the most respected experts from across the industry whilst providing visitors with valuable CPD opportunities that support their ongoing professional development.”

Learning LIVE is included free with visitor registration and provides access to more than 30 hours of CPD-accredited education, alongside technical workshops, networking meet-ups and practical sessions covering sports turf, landscaping, amenity management, artificial surfaces, sustainability, technology, workforce development and community sport.

SALTEX takes place at the NEC Birmingham on 11-12 November 2026. Register free today and start building your personalised Learning LIVE agenda.

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