The work then went out to a competitive tender to 4 other contractors, the tender process submission was focused not only on price but quality and previous work / references.

The team at STM was delighted to win the tender and sign the works contract with the client.

Given we had already support the specification and design prior to tender we managed to process the orders with our suppliers and our selected FIFA approved turf producer.

The intention was to extend the polymeric area which was 34m x 19.5m to make it suitable for 5-a-side therefore we increased the length building in recesses to allow the goals to sit within this space rather than taking more of the court space.

For the 3G pitch they wanted to replace the surface like for like with another 3G but the specification to ensure the new surface could be laid onto the macadam and meet FIFA Quality and Quality Pro.

The FIFA quality programme is set out to ensure the testing for artificial turf surfaces so they meet the requirements of football players. Only artificial turf surfaces that have been tested under the FIFA Quality Programme criteria in the laboratory and after the installation can be called football turf.

For the University this was key with the level of play and the community usage the turf design was important for safety, durability, performance and long-term quality guarantee.

Due to the existing nature of the sub-base we decided that a shock pad was not required and laying directly onto the existing tarmac base would be best. Using TigerTurf Atomic Pro 60 with elastomeric SBR and sand infill would meet the FIFA Quality and quality Pro requirements as tested by the manufacturer requirements as tested by the manufacturer.