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10 steps to a successful sports facility project
Looking to develop a sports facility? Here’s a useful, 10-point checklist compiled by Neil McHugh, chair of the Professional Services Group at the Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA).
1. Use appropriate professional advice Consultants can help navigate a project from the start, but it’s important to ensure they have the relevant experience. Do they understand the facility requirements set out by sporting national governing bodies? Can they help you with funding? There are also Construction, Design &
Management Regulations (CDM) to consider, which have been designed to improve site safety. Depending on the scale and the length of time to build, you might have to notify the Health and Safety Executive and appoint a CDM co-ordinator.
2. Investigate the site The old adage of ‘if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail’ rings true in facility projects. Knowing everything you need to about the location of your project is paramount in order to avoid nasty surprises. Depending on the complexity of the project,
your site investigation might include any of the following: trial pits and boreholes, soil investigations, percolation tests, a topographical survey and the charting of existing records of services, underground workings and flood risks. Other issues to consider include whether the
location was a tip site, or if there are drainage outlets, environmental restraints or access constraints – especially those relating to disability access.
3. Get the design right The wide range of playing surfaces, design solutions and facility infrastructure options – such as fencing, lighting, security and equipment – means that it is now possible to create bespoke facilities down to the smallest of details. It is important, however, to make sure the
bigger picture is clear. What size should the playing surface or facility be? Which sports are to be played at the facility and is there a primary sport? What level of user will the facility target? What is the usage pattern? What level of income is expected and will the facility need to be supervised? How will the maintenance be managed and what is the useful life expectancy?
The more defined the facility’s requirements
are, the easier it will be to navigate the plethora of choices.
4. Tendering There are two forms of tendering – traditional procurement and design and build – and a professional advisor can explain the different options available to you. Depending on funding, there may also be a framework procurement route you will have to take in order to get your funding. For all methods, it can be beneficial to study
other, similar installations, when coming up with a specification for the design, build and performance requirements. Once there is a clear understanding of who the facility will cater for and what the requirements are, it’s important to communicate the requirements to those delivering the project.
5. Use an appropriate form of contract Paperwork is often overlooked in projects. Ensure contracts are simple, but include all the relevant information – this could include contractors’ conditions, performance specification and, where appropriate, testing of the playing surface.
6. Select the right contractor When selecting contractors, it’s a good idea to look at other projects the candidates have completed. If possible, speak to their previous clients.
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