Pictured below: An aerial shot of the new hockey pitch taken shortly after works were completed.
Rebuilding the 20-year old subsided hockey pitch
The pitch in Gravesend had become almost too dangerous for use. Underneath the synthetic grass surface there were significant areas of subsidence and pitch deformation, and Gravesham Sports Trust had struggled for some time to find a solution. Several prominent clubs use the facility – Gravesham & Wellcome Hockey Club play their home games here and it is also home to Gravesend Ladies Hockey Club and Meopham Ladies Hockey Club. An inability to find a solution would have meant these clubs would have been left without training grounds.
Shown below: Areas of considerable defects which made the hockey pitch dangerous to play on.
PST Base Site Survey
Prior to works commencing we carried out a complete site survey to assess the condition of the ground underneath the old carpet.
Innovation has been a huge factor in PST Sport’s success to date. Years of research and development has allowed us to develop a pioneering subbase design ensuring pitch stability for the long term making us unique in the market.
Through our continued focus on research and development perfecting pitch bases, we were able to carry out a PST Base site survey to assess the condition of the subbase formation, and the adequacy of the existing soil subgrade strength supporting the existing synthetic sports pitch. By scanning the entire surface to determine how the pitch base was constructed, we were able to formulate a cost-effective design to remedy the subbase and provide a long-lasting pitch base.
A ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey was carried out to determine the exact nature of the subbase make up. Using the data delivered from the GPR survey we could determine the extent of the affected areas and could conclude that the construction layers surrounding the 4 lighting column bases had been poorly compacted and had lost strength resulting in significant settlement over time.
“To have the ability to “see” what is under an old pitch gives PST Sport certainty in design and allows us to work closely with our clients to deliver cost certainty where previously there was risk. PST Base gives both PST Sport and our clients confidence in project design and cost.”
Kenny Abbott, General Manager UK Operations, PST Sport
Once we had a full picture of the nature of works required the next stage was the removal of the existing carpet and shock pad which were safely removed from site and sent for recycling.
Remedial works followed to resolve the subbase defects prior to resurfacing with high performance Fast Pro 18 sand dressed hockey carpet and shock pad.
Remedial works & base preparation
Using the now known information we could determine the exact solution in the defined location. Care was taken to remove the existing synthetic surfacing system and expose the base. The base was excavated to the required depth, arisings treated and stabilised, placed and compacted using recognised techniques. New kerbing was installed to required line and level and then a macadam layer was laid onto the newly treated subbase.
Approximately 500 sq/m was remediated and tested for level and strength prior to laying PST Sport synthetic playing surfacing for National Hockey.
Hockey Carpet & Shock Pad Installation
Phase 2 of works saw the installation of 5,800 sq/m Fast Pro 18 hockey carpet and in-situ shock pad on the engineered stabilised base.
Featuring hard wearing, curly PE fibres, FastPro hockey fields have more fibre per square metre than comparable products and have been fully tested with hockey specific shock pad systems. This leads to greater stick control, improved foot/surface interaction and a faster game.
The carpet was then dressed with selected, small, rounded, clean sand, to provide a stable, attractive and long lasting hockey pitch offering exceptional ball speed and uniformity as well as enhanced durability.
Feedback from our client
“We are absolutely delighted with the final product that PST Sport and CCGrass have been able to supply for Gravesham Sports Trust. The selection of using the PST Sport and CCGrass partnership came down to the enthusiasm they both demonstrated in helping us achieve our aim of providing a truly exceptional playing surface, not only for hockey but also for multisports. With the correct maintenance schedule in place, we look forward to using this pitch for many years to come.”
Simon Chapman, Chairman, Gravesham Sports Trust
Official opening of the new artificial turf hockey pitch
Pictured above: (left to right) Karen Mills, GST Secretary, Sue Jones, GST Project Manager, Simon Chapman, GST Chairman, Mayoress Nanjo Kaur Bungar, Mayor Councillor Gurdip Bungar, Councillor Shane Mochrie-Cox, Sharon Tams, GST Press Officer & Bryn Lee, CCGrass CEO European Head Office
“From day one of the project I cannot fault PST Sport and CCGrass for their enthusiasm, technical knowledge and commitment. The innovative ground penetrating survey gave myself and my client surety over our budget and allowed us to pre-plan remedial works thus reducing the programme. PST Sport’s attention to detail ensured a smooth and quality installation and has resulted in a top class playing surface that, without exception, has been positivity received by players. I would not hesitate in recommending PST Sport and CCGrass for future installations.”
Sue Jones, Project Manager, Gravesham Sports Trust
Pictured below: First training session on the newly installed state-of-the-art artificial turf hockey pitch.
Pictured below: Gravesham & Wellcome Hockey Club mens training in action.
“We are delighted to have delivered this project with our long-term friends and partners CCGrass. Over the past couple of months we have worked closely with Gravesham Sports Trust to hand over this world-class facility. Thank you for putting your trust in us. The new surface mimics the highest performance standards of hockey offering a true, fast and skilful game of hockey for players of all abilities.”
Colin Teahon, Managing Director, PST Sport
If your club or school has a hockey pitch development project that you would like to discuss, we would love to have the opportunity to meet with you to see how we can help – Contact PST Sport.