sapca comment


Make sure to interview each candidate and


ask questions – being comfortable with the people delivering your project will make things easier. It’s also important to check the financial stability of candidates to avoid projects ending up half-finished.


7. Agree a realistic programme Deadlines will help with the management of a project – as long as they are not unrealistic. To avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the project, proper time needs to be dedicated for finding funding, carrying out feasibility studies and planning. Even when building work comes to an end,


it doesn’t mean that a facility project is complete. The time needed for handover and snagging – and in large projects, testing – should always be factored into a project plan. With the UK climate, it’s important to also


remember that installation of certain surfaces is weather-dependent, so build in slippage to take account of weather delays.


with the UK climate, it’s important to also remember that installation of certain surfaces is weather-dependent


8. Use appropriate supervision Keeping tabs on progress will make identifying issues easier and could potentially help prevent small delays becoming major ones. Appoint your own, single point of contact – rather than multiple ones – to help with effective and consistent communication with the contractor. Ensure competent project management is in place. Log everything in writing, so you have an


accurate record of the project progress – such as possible variations in contract – and of any agreements or requests. It’s also a good idea to keep a photographic record of progress and stages of work. Be also mindful that, depending on funding


sources, you may be required to submit all tender documents and reports as part of your award of funding.


9. Comply with the conditions of contract Conditions of contract are there for the protection of all parties. Keeping up your end of the deal can range from putting instructions into writing to ensuring funding is in place to make payments.


Maintaining your sports facility will reduce the risk to players and extend the life of the facility


10. Maintain the facility to the required standard A successful development project – delivered on time and on budget – doesn’t guarantee a successful facility. To make sure a facility returns on its investment, it needs to be maintained properly. All contractors will offer guidance on the


maintenance requirements, so buy the appropriate maintenance equipment and ensure those undertaking the work are familiar with the maintenance requirements. It’s important to understand the difference


between maintenance that can be undertaken by you – such as regular cleaning – and when professional help is needed. Maintenance guidelines can be linked to warranties and NGB performance requirements.


By keeping up the maintenance and the performance, you reduce risk to players while extending the life of the facility. While regular maintenance is essential, you


can avoid damage – and unnecessary, costly repairs – by advising the users on the ‘dos and dont’s’ at the facility.


11. The extra step – help is available Within SAPCA’s Professional Services Group (PSG) there are a number of consultants with the experience and expertise to help out with any aspect of a sports facility project. If you need any assistance with a project, do not hesitate to contact us. Visit the PSG page below


www.sapca.org.uk/quick- links/professional-services


SAPCA is the recognised trade association for the sports and play construction industry in the UK. Its role is to foster excellence, professionalism and continuous improvement throughout the industry, in order to provide the high quality facilities needed at all levels of sport, physical activity, recreation and play. For details on the above stories and more visit www.sapca.org.uk


40 pactfacilities.co.uk


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