NATURAL TURF
The Design and Construction
of Natural Sportsturf
We talk to the chair of SAPCA’s Natural Sportsturf Division, Billy Martin, about
issues related to the specification, construction and maintenance of sportsturf
Why is it important to seek proper advice before What are the necessary considerations before
deciding to construct a natural sportsturf facility? employing a company to build or upgrade a facility?
It’s essential to speak with someone who fully understands the A conscientious contractor will thoroughly talk through what
processes involved. I would suggest taking professional advice the client will get for their money, together with the wear and
from a recognised sportsturf consultant to provide the neces- tear the surface can be expected to cope with and any implica-
sary guidance throughout the whole process. Just speaking to tions this will have on the required maintenance and its costs.
a variety of contractors could be confusing, as each one may But beware, in some instances where non-specialist con-
offer a different solution to the same problem, with conse- sultants or contractors have been involved, clients have been
quent variations in specification and cost. delivered facilities that are either under- or over-specified
in relation to the quality of surface they need or are capable
What does the specification process entail? of maintaining. If the client does not have the resources or
expertise to undertake the necessary maintenance the sports
There are many pre-contract procedures that need investiga- turf system could fail.
tion before a specification can be drawn up. Site investigation,
which includes topography, investigative dig, survey of How do turf considerations relate to different climatic
levels pre- and post-construction and soil analysis; planning conditions around the country?
permissions; quantifying scope of works; liaising with the
client to ascertain their requirements; understanding and It’s all a question of balance. For instance, it could be argued
drawing up specifications; Bills of Quantities; overseeing and that if you allow for drainage, you should also allow for irriga-
monitoring construction quality; managing the project tion. A well-drained sports field will dry out very quickly in the
finance; evaluating tenders; certifying and carrying out summer if there is a lack of rain or irrigation, which can lead to
valuations and ensuring post-tender maintenance is carried the aggregate in the drainage trenches collapsing. This then
out correctly – to name a few. leads to an uneven and potentially dangerous surface.
Suitable independent specialists with extensive experience Poorly specified pitches can also fail in the wetter parts of
and knowledge of natural turf can be found within the mem- the country. Pitches that are drained into heavy soils can suffer
bership of SAPCA’s Professional Services Division. from worm casts, which smear over the drain lines – leading
26 Read Sports Management online
sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009
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