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New report reveals how sports clubs could deliver modern facilities through relocation

New report reveals how sports clubs could deliver modern facilities through relocation

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New report reveals how sports clubs could deliver modern facilities through relocation

A new report has revealed how sports clubs with limited space in built-up areas could use relocation to deliver modern facilities and widen community access.

New report reveals how sports clubs could deliver modern facilities through relocation

New report reveals how sports clubs could deliver modern facilities through relocation

Planning for Sport: Relocation, Relocation, Relocation?, produced by national planning and development consultancy Lichfields, says a move to a larger site can also help clubs broaden their offer and improve long-term finances.

The report has been published at a time when more than 30 million people in England do at least 150 minutes of sport and physical activity each week, while attendance at UK sports events reached more than 77 million in 2024.

For clubs whose existing grounds can no longer meet the needs and demands of participants, supporters and local communities, the report finds that moves to larger greenfield or Green Belt sites could provide new pitches, clubhouses, changing facilities, spectator areas, parking and community space.

It also looks at how the sale or redevelopment of former sites can help fund new, expanded or more varied facilities while creating opportunities for wider objectives such as supporting local needs and delivering new homes in sustainable locations.

Rob Murphy, Associate Director at Lichfields, said: “Many sports clubs are trying to meet modern expectations from sites that were never designed for the way sport is played, watched and supported today.

“Some clubs can improve what they already have, but others simply do not have the space.Relocation can provide a route to better facilities, stronger finances and a broader community offer, but the case must be made carefully in order to capture the opportunities that we have identified within the planning system.

“When considered in this context, relocation has not only the potential to revitalise clubs, but in certain cases, ensure their survival, securing their future for generations to come.”

Sport England research also shows that every £1 spent on community sport and physical activity generates £4.38 in return, strengthening the case for better facilities as part of wider efforts to support healthier, more active communities.

The report is intended to help sports clubs, local authorities and landowners across the UK understand the site selection, planning and community issues that can influence relocation projects.

At Bolton Wyresdale Amateur Football Club, Lichfields supported Westchurch Homes in securing planning permission for 94 homes alongside four new outdoor sports pitches, a clubhouse and parking on Green Belt land.

The club’s former pitches suffered from poor drainage and had no clubhouse or parking for players and visitors. The football club now has two new sports pitches, built in accordance with Football Association standards, to replace their original pitches. It also benefits from a new clubhouse with separate changing rooms to foster a more inclusive environment, which it is hoped will encourage more women and girls into sport, as well as those with mixed abilities.

In Bristol, Lichfields advised on the relocation of Dings Crusaders RFC from Lockleaze Recreation Ground to Shaftesbury Park in the South Gloucestershire Green Belt, alongside the redevelopment of the former site for 152 homes, including 52 affordable homes. Since the move, registered junior boys have increased from 40 to 314, junior girls from zero to 96, adult female players from zero to 45 and adult male players from 50 to 130.

Helen Ashby-Ridgway, Planning Director at Lichfields, added: “The strongest projects are not just about finding a larger site. They need clear evidence of why the existing ground no longer works, why the proposed site is suitable and what benefits the move will deliver for the club, the local community and the council.

“Green Belt and countryside sites can be difficult, but they are not closed off to sports and leisure uses. For clubs, councils and landowners, relocation can create options that might not be available on an existing ground, but it needs a clear case behind it.

“That means dealing with the hard questions early, from accessibility and proximity to nearby residents, to biodiversity, flood risk, site choice and the wider benefits a new facility would bring.”

The full report is available to download here.

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Farleigh Golf Club Employs EcoBunker Expertise

Farleigh Golf Club Employs EcoBunker Expertise

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Farleigh Golf Club Employs EcoBunker Expertise

Faced with bunker liners reaching the end of their lifecycle and difficulties with sand blow out and wash down, Farleigh golf club have invested in a technical solution following consultation with bunker specialists EcoBunker.

Farleigh Golf Club Employs EcoBunker Expertise

Farleigh Golf Club Employs EcoBunker Expertise

With 27 holes across three loops of nine, Farleigh decided on a full replacement of all 17 greenside bunkers on the Yellow loop. With specific maintenance challenges in mind, EcoBunker visited the site to advise on the most appropriate solution for the course.

“We had issues with sand blow out and wash down, stones had started to come through the old liner, and clubs were getting damaged when they made impact,” said course manager Will Christie. “I looked at the experience of various local courses and it was clear the EcoBunker had the products and expertise that could work for us.”

“As soon as Richard (Allen, CEO of EcoBunker) came out, you could see how the EcoTec™ liner held the sand on our steep sided bunkers and how the noodle texture would be forgiving if clubs ever made impact. We discussed sand options and settled on a switch to China Clay as it would interact and lock into the EcoTec™ in a way that works really well for our conditions. Richard offered a wealth of knowledge and we’re delighted with the results.”

“Will and his team were superb to work with,” commented Richard Allen, CEO of EcoBunker. “When a client has a technical challenge in mind we love working with them to find the right solution for their particular circumstances. We know our products are among the best in the business, but when our partners trust our expertise, it can deliver results that go beyond simple product solutions.”

“Since the installation we’ve had several very heavy downpours and the liners have performed brilliantly,” continued Will. “Where we would previously have to head out on course with our shovels after 20mm of rain, we can now focus on other areas of the course without having to worry about the impact of the weather on the bunkers.”

“The 17 bunker installation only took 2 weeks, so there was minimal impact on the membership. We now get so much great feedback on the consistency and playability of the bunkers on the yellow 9, we can’t wait to get on to our other two loops of 9 over the next two winters.”

For more information on EcoBunker please visit www.ecobunker.co.uk

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Toro expands autonomous mowing range

Toro expands autonomous mowing range

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Toro expands autonomous mowing range

Toro has expanded its autonomous mowing range with the introduction of the Turf Pro 200.

Toro expands autonomous mowing range

Toro expands autonomous mowing range

Designed for smaller, more confined areas of the course, including areas around the clubhouse, tighter landscaped spaces and other sections of turf that require regular maintenance, the Turf Pro 200 provides an autonomous mowing option for areas where larger machines may be unnecessary.

It is suitable for sports and training environments too where consistent cutting is required with limited daily input.

The launch comes as many greenskeeping teams continue to manage labour pressures alongside increasing expectations around presentation standards and site maintenance.

In response, Toro has expanded its autonomous mowing portfolio with the Turf Pro 200, delivering a new option where consistency and efficiency are key considerations.

Andrew Ihrke, Senior International Marketing Manager at The Toro Company, said: “The Turf Pro 200 delivers consistent performance in tighter spaces where maintaining presentation standards can be more labour-intensive. It is designed to integrate into existing maintenance programmes, giving greenskeeping teams a practical, autonomous option that complements their wider mowing operations.

“Combined with the wider Turf Pro range, Range Pro 100 and Greensmaster eTriflex with GeoLink Mow, it gives operators more flexibility when building an autonomous mowing approach that reflects the needs of their individual site.”

The Turf Pro 200 joins the Turf Pro 300 and Turf Pro 500 as part of Toro’s autonomous mowing range. With the 300 and 500 models addressing larger open turf areas, course managers now have the ability to match the right unit to specific site requirements and mowing frequencies.

Alongside the Turf Pro range, Toro’s GeoLink Mow system supports autonomous mowing across larger, high-use turf areas such as fairways. Together, the systems provide autonomous mowing coverage across a range of site conditions and maintenance requirements.

For operators managing ongoing staffing pressures or looking to improve maintenance efficiency, autonomous mowing can also support the redistribution of labour towards other operational tasks.

The Turf Pro range is available in the UK through distributor Reesink Turfcare. Reesink has a dedicated resource for customers adopting autonomous mowing providing support on installation, training, maintenance and parts.

To learn more about the Turf Pro 200 or discuss autonomous mowing solutions for your site, contact vour local Toro distributor or visit www.toro.com.

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Amenity Forum Appoints Ian Barnett to Board

Amenity Forum Appoints Ian Barnett to Board

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Amenity Forum Appoints Ian Barnett to Board

The Amenity Forum has appointed Ian Barnett, Regional Technical Manager (South West UK) at DLF Seeds, to its Board of Directors.

Amenity Forum Appoints Ian Barnett to Board

Amenity Forum Appoints Ian Barnett to Board

Ian brings more than 30 years’ experience in the amenity and turf sector, working with local authorities, contractors, sports facilities, turf growers and land managers across the UK. His appointment further strengthens the breadth of expertise represented on the Forum’s Board.

Ian Graham, Chair of the Amenity Forum, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Ian to the Board. He brings a wealth of technical expertise and practical experience from across the amenity sector, together with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing those responsible for managing our landscapes, sports facilities and public spaces.

As the sector responds to changing environmental expectations, regulatory developments and the need to attract and develop skilled professionals, Ian’s insight and experience will be invaluable. We look forward to working with him as the Forum continues to promote best practice, professional competence and responsible amenity management.”

Ian Barnett said:

“I am proud to join the Board of the Amenity Forum. The Forum plays an important role in bringing the sector together, promoting best practice and helping to ensure those working in amenity management are informed, connected and supported.

I look forward to working with fellow Directors and stakeholders from across the industry to help advance the Forum’s objectives and support the continued development of the sector.”

As part of our new ‘Meet the Board’ series, we spoke to Ian Barnett about the opportunities and challenges facing the amenity sector and what he hopes to achieve as a Director.

Q&A: Ian Barnett

What attracted you to the Amenity Forum and the opportunity to join its Board?

I wanted to join the Board because I believe the Amenity Forum provides an important voice for the amenity sector. Bringing together organisations from across the industry to share knowledge, promote best practice and support professional standards has never been more important. The sector faces a range of opportunities and challenges, from environmental change and biodiversity enhancement to skills and regulation, and I am keen to play a part in helping the Forum support its members and the wider industry.

Why is the work of the Amenity Forum important?

The Amenity Forum provides an important voice for the sector. Education is a huge part of that. Everything we do affects the public, so it is vital that we are both educated and able to educate others.

The Forum helps raise awareness of the work being done to create and manage habitats whilst promoting best practice and ensuring we operate legally, responsibly and professionally.

What are the biggest trends you are seeing in the amenity sector?

One of the biggest growth areas is wildflowers, particularly within the public sector. Wildflower areas can help organisations meet environmental commitments whilst creating attractive habitats that are lower maintenance and more cost effective than traditional intensively managed turf.

There is also increasing interest in sustainable planting solutions, including grasses requiring less irrigation and varieties better suited to changing environmental conditions. Alongside this, the reduction in available curative chemistry continues to drive innovation in disease-resistant grass varieties and alternative management approaches.

What do you hope to achieve as a Director?

I would like to see the Forum continue to strengthen its role as a trusted voice for the amenity sector, supporting professional competence, promoting best practice and helping the industry respond to changing environmental, regulatory and societal expectations. Bringing organisations together and encouraging collaboration will be increasingly important as the sector addresses future challenges.

The Board of Directors comprises representatives from a broad range of organisations and disciplines, reflecting the diversity of the amenity sector. Further profiles of Board members will be published over the coming months.

For further information about the Amenity Forum, visit: www.amenityforum.co.uk

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Sports Pitches Used to Capture Heat in Landmark Initiative

Sports Pitches Used to Capture Heat in Landmark Initiative

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Sports Pitches Used to Capture Heat in Landmark Initiative

A technology used in the Netherlands is seeing heat captured by synthetic turf sports pitches for the first time, with a single field able to heat up to 300 homes for a year with green energy.

Sports Pitches Used to Capture Heat in Landmark Initiative

Sports Pitches Used to Capture Heat in Landmark Initiative

The development contributes to a wider sustainability commitment from the Dutch sports sector, which aims to achieve a 95% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050, in line with the Roadmap for Improving Sustainability in Sport[1] and the wider Dutch Climate Agreement.

As part of the commitment, the Sustainable Sports Facilities team within the Knowledge Centre for Sport & Physical Activity (Kenniscentrum Sport & Bewegen) is, in collaboration with other organisations, supporting municipalities and local sports clubs to raise awareness of practical solutions, such as heat collector fields, that can help reduce carbon emissions, contribute to regional sustainability targets, and provide a benefit to the local community.

The fields function by capturing the heat from the surface of synthetic turf, and then distributing it via underground pipes below the pitch. This heat can be used directly or stored to provide a consistent source of energy throughout the year. This has the added benefit of cooling down the surface of the pitch, helping to ensure a safe and comfortable playing surface for users.

Leander Lignac, Specialist Sustainable Sports Facilities at the Knowledge Centre for Sport & Physical Activity, said: “As an independent and neutral organisation, one of our goals is making owners of sports facilities aware of the possibilities within sustainability. Turning synthetic turf sports pitches into a source of green energy is all about impact – using a single space in multiple ways to solve many challenges at once.

“Space in the Netherlands is sparse, especially in the cities – so when it’s possible to use conveniently located pitches not just for sports, but for sustainability goals too, these facilities become more future proof. While this technology is not yet widespread, it has the potential to deliver a significant reduction in carbon emissions when scaled up.

“Ultimately, the sports sector needs to be future proof, and as part of that journey, it is our job to make municipalities and local sports clubs aware of these solutions to help them be realised across the Netherlands.”

To date, heat collector fields have been installed in Eindhoven, Zaanstad, Gouda, and The Hague. The heat captured from each field is being used to supply a variety of nearby buildings – from sports facilities, homes, and swimming pools to primary schools and daycare centres.

With at least 1,250 synthetic turf football pitches across the Netherlands, the technology has the potential to cut national CO2 emissions by up to 0.45 megatons per year, with further opportunity for multi-use synthetic turf pitches. The municipalities of Amsterdam and Haarlem, together with SRO, are already targeting the renewal of more than 250 synthetic pitches as part of the Scale Up initiative. The heat collector field technology will be used in the project wherever it fits.

Stefan Diderich, Director General/CEO at EMEA Synthetic Turf Council (ESTC), said: “This technology is a prime example of the wider benefits that are being delivered through synthetic turf every day. These fields not only provide a high-quality playing surface, but a source of clean, renewable energy that communities can be built around.

“We not only hope for this technology to be scaled up across the Netherlands, but for other countries to look and learn from this, as this has the potential to deliver an extraordinary amount of good on a global scale.”

Find out more about ESTC and heat collector fields

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