CLS Sports Brochure

2 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

As Managing Director of CLS, I take great pride in our team and the outstanding
services we provide. From humble beginnings in 1968 as a local landscaping
company, we have grown into one of the leading sports pitch construction contractors
within the UK.
At the heart of all our projects are our highly qualified contract managers, site
supervisors and operatives. With years of experience under their belts, they apply the
utmost dedication and attention to detail, ensuring every client gets great value for
money and a result that exceeds their expectations.
While we consistently invest in the latest technology, machinery and training to
ensure we’re at the forefront of the market, we focus just as much on our firm
dedication to exceptional customer service. The long-term relationships we build with
our clients are invaluable, and so we go above and beyond to deliver a service they
can always rely on.
We hope you enjoy reading about our range of services and recent work. The CLS
Sports team and I look forward to discussing any future projects you may have in
mind.
Regards,

John Miller

Managing Director

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CLS Head Office

CLS Sports CLS Selfdrive
North West Depot Hull Depot

CLS Sports
Midlands Depot

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CONTENTS 6
8
Synthetic Sports Pitch Services 10
Yarm School 12
K Sports 14
Oundle School 16
Wavertree Athletics Stadium 18
St. Peter’s RC High School 20
Tonbride School
Sevenoaks School 22
24
Natural Turf Sports Pitch Services 26
Barnhurst Lane Pitches 28
Colliers Park, The Welsh FA 30
Bradford City AFC
Middlesbrough FC

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SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES

We are proud to be one of the UK’s leading synthetic sports field construction contractors, having delivered industry-leading
pitches for over 23 years.

We work nationwide, offering design, construction, refurbishment and maintenance services to a range of clients in the
sporting industry.

We are specialists in 3G, sand-filled, sand-dressed, water-based, polymeric and macadam surfaces and consistently deliver
facilities accredited to FIFA, FIH, World Rugby, ECB, IAAF and LTA standards.

DESIGN Although location cannot always be altered, it is important that
we consider it in the design stage as the costs for engineering
There are important decisions to be made with each synthetic a difficult site can be high. Topography, access, site drainage,
pitch design, and we understand that the vast number of electrical supply, water supply, trees and ground conditions are
options can be daunting. We will help you every step of the all things we consider in great detail.
way, whether you choose a painted macadam surface or a 3G After investigating all aspects of the site, we design a pitch system
synthetic turf system. that will offer you both value for money and the performance
To make sure the process is as seamless and stress-free characteristics you require. Depending on the sport you plan to
as possible for you, we take the time to understand your use the pitch for, and the final surface regularity requirements,
requirements and your ultimate goals from the outset. We there will be a number of options for you to consider. These
offer planning and funding advice, and will work with you could include the type of base (engineered or dynamic) and the
throughout the design process to ensure an informed decision type of shockpad (in-situ or prefabricated) if necessary.
is reached when selecting the correct surface to meet your Regardless of the type of pitch you require, we’ll work alongside
sporting requirements. you to design a solution that’s professional and sustainable.
Once you’ve selected the surface that will be best suited to your
needs, we can carry out preliminary investigations. This will
ensure the location, site and surroundings are all appropriate
for the project.

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Football Rugby Hockey Cricket Tennis MUGAs Athletics SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES

(Multi-Use
Game Areas)

CONSTRUCTION MAINTENANCE

When it comes to the construction of synthetic turf pitches, To ensure the longevity and performance of a synthetic pitch, a
our services are supported by our wealth of experience and bespoke maintenance regime should be established from day
excellent reputation. We are proud to have worked with a large one.
array of clients from both the public and private sectors. Our team of experts offer a range of artificial turf maintenance
All our construction projects are managed by our highly services that are tailored to your facility. These are dependent
trained contract managers and site supervisors. We have built on pitch usage, the nature of the sport played and the type of
a strong construction team of over 60 skilled operatives who synthetic turf. Our services include decompaction, brushing, infill
have a reputation for quality workmanship and reliability. top-ups, deep cleaning and repairs.
This specialist in-house expertise enables us to deliver a wide We also provide industry-leading pitch monitoring systems which
range of construction projects across many different sporting enable our clients to track their pitch usage and maintenance.
disciplines and sizes, from small MUGAs to complex sports hubs.
Underpinning all our operations and procedures is our
consistent approach to quality management. Our systems are
ISO 9001 accredited and ensure every project we undertake is
delivered to the standards stipulated. This consistent approach
has earned us SAPCA principle contractor status for the
construction of MUGAs, synthetic pitches and athletics tracks.
We are also a certified FIH field builder.
We invest heavily in the latest technology and training,
enabling us to deliver industry-leading solutions whilst still
being committed to offering value for money and exceptional
customer service.
Our company’s civil engineering background also enables us to
deliver specialist groundworks and extremely complex schemes
to the highest levels of accuracy.

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“Yarm School has engaged the services of CLS Sports
several times in recent years and we have been
consistently delighted with their work. I would not
hesitate to use CLS Sports again, nor to recommend
them to any interested party.”
David Dunn, Headmaster

8 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

YARM SCHOOL SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - YARM SCHOOL

SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCHES

Located on an environmentally sensitive site next to the River Tees, historic Yarm School appointed us as their
main contractor to carry out major improvements to their sporting provision and car park.
The project involved the construction of a full-sized synthetic hockey pitch, a modern boathouse and a new
car parking provision. This is in addition to the polymeric MUGA and cricket training facility we had previously
constructed on the other side of the school grounds.

The brief was very challenging, as planning permission, boat yard and slipway were also constructed at the bottom
environmental constraints and limited space dictated of the building. The Juliette balcony offers excellent riverside
many different elements that had to be considered. We put viewing for spectators, while a large platform on the other
together a design that would take all aspects into account side presents a grandstand view of the new hockey pitch. The
and provide a reliable solution for the client. boathouse has since won a Local Authority Building Control
As the pitch was to be constructed on an incline, the Award for The Best Educational Building in the North.
construction involved a significant amount of bulk A major soft and hard landscaping scheme was also carried
earthworks and a sheet pile retaining wall. A 480m³ out across the school’s car parking area to create a new
attenuation tank was also required within the pitch one-way system. A fully SUDs compliant drainage system
formation as it extended onto a nearby floodplain. An was installed under the new resin-bonded car parking bays
engineered base, in-situ shockpad and sand-dressed and macadam roads. Both paved and macadam pedestrian
synthetic turf then formed the final pitch surface. Full pathways were then installed around the site, along with
perimeter fencing and a bespoke floodlighting system were amenity LED lighting bollards.
also installed due to the varying external ground levels and A soft landscaping scheme was then finally undertaken,
close proximity of neighbouring residential properties. which included the planting of Chile Pine and Weeping Beech
At the bottom of the hockey pitch, we constructed a trees, ornamental box hedging and laying of turf.
futuristic, cedar-clad boathouse, featuring a large cantilever
structure overhanging the river. Inside, there is a cutting-edge
training facility, changing rooms and office space. A new

Client: Yarm School

Budget: £2,620,000

Location: Yarm

Timescale: 8 Months

Key Services: Hockey Pitch Construction,
Boathouse Construction,

Hard and Soft Landscaping

Hockey Pitch Construction

Boathouse Construction Polymeric MUGA Construction

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“We were extremely impressed with the professionalism and competence
of CLS Sports. Everything we expected was achieved and management
and construction staff were a pleasure to deal with, giving advice where
necessary and helping when there was no obligation to do so. We were
so pleased with the finished 3G pitch/stadium that we chose CLS Sports
to construct our hockey pitch. We have no hesitation in recommending
CLS Sports to anyone and would be happy for anyone to visit our sports
ground to see the result for themselves.”
Alan Dennington, CEO

10 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

K SPORTS SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - K SPORTS

SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCHES

Combining elite and community sport provision
with a strong emphasis on education and vocational
opportunity, K Sports’ aim is to create opportunities
for people of all ages.
When new owners purchased the facility, they quickly set
about developing this new strategy with an investment
plan which saw K Sports transformed into one of the
most modern and well-constructed multi-sport facilities
in the South East.
As part of this major investment plan, we were appointed
to construct a full-sized 3G pitch and a hockey pitch.
Both pitches were built on what was originally natural
turf playing fields used by the sports club for training.
Due to the proximity of the nearby watercourse and
ground conditions, a deep drainage system was installed
to ensure the risk of flooding was minimised to the
lowest level.
For the 3G pitch, a prefabricated shockpad was installed
ahead of the synthetic turf installation. On completion,
the pitch was independently tested and received FIFA
accreditation.
For the hockey pitch, a dynamic stone was installed
ahead of the synthetic turf installation. This pitch was
also independently tested and received FIH National
accreditation.
Both pitches were installed with perimeter fencing,
floodlighting and macadam spectator areas.
As part of this project, we also constructed a reinforced
overspill gravel car park.

Client: K Sports

Budget: £1,277,046

Location: Kent

Timescale: 2 phases (3 Months and 4
Months)

Key Services: Hockey Pitch Construction,
3G Pitch Construction

Hockey Pitch and 3G Pitch Construction 11

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“The practice net installation is one of the best facilities (of its
kind) in the world. We have slower spin nets at one end, the
middle lanes are medium pace, and at the other end they’re
quick so we can move the kids about. It’s great. We have a big
link with the Northamptonshire Premier League club and their
cricketers look forward to it massively every time they come
along, so its wonderful for everyone.”
John Crawley, Director of Cricket

12 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

OUNDLE SCHOOL SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - OUNDLE SCHOOL

SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCHES

Oundle School is one of Britain’s leading co-educational boarding and day schools. We were appointed to carry
out extensive hockey pitch improvements, including the refurbishment of one hockey pitch and the construction
of two new ones. Further to this, we installed a 20-lane cricket practice facility.

HOCKEY PITCHES CRICKET FACILITY
The reconstruction of the hockey pitch initially involved the The new state-of-the-art cricket training facility was developed
removal of the existing synthetic turf, shockpad and macadam to meet the school’s requirements for elite performance and
surfacing. The existing base which had significant undulations capacity. The facility is comprised of 10 synthetic turf lanes
was then regraded, and a new stabilising layer installed. The and 10 natural turf lanes, and mimics conditions out in the
pitch was then reconstructed, and perimeter fencing erected. heat of competition.
A significant amount of earthmoving was then required to The ten synthetic wickets are built to ECB standards and
create the formation layer for the two brand-new hockey feature different shockpads to create varying paces and levels
pitches. Soft ground conditions dictated a fresh approach to of bounce and spin. Three of the wickets also have a power
drainage. The two new pitches were installed with a pozi-drain socket fitted to allow bowling machines to operate on them.
layer – a trenchless system fitted with drainage sections The ten natural strips were constructed on an angular stone
incorporated into a geotextile, which allows the bidirectional raft and a sand binding layer. Topsoil was then installed, and
flow of water and avoids settlement within drain lines. sand ameliorated into the surface before cricket loam was
Following this, we installed an engineered base with an in-situ imported, graded and consolidated to achieve the required
rubber shockpad before a sand-dressed synthetic turf was tolerances. We then fertilised, seeded and maintained the
laid. The associated sand infill was then installed evenly to natural turf wickets until they were fully established.
finish the surface and create the correct characteristics for
play. We also installed perimeter fencing, floodlighting and RUGBY FACILITY
perimeter footpaths. Utilising the surplus topsoil that was removed for the hockey
On completion of the works, the pitches were independently pitch constructions, we also constructed a natural turf pitch
tested and achieved FIH National accreditation. for rugby on an area of the school’s grounds which was
previously unutilised. This offered the school a sustainable,
economic and efficient solution, whilst also increasing their
sports facility capacity.

Client: Oundle School

Budget: £2,116,703

Location: Peterborough

Timescale: Multi-Phased (4 Months, 8
Months and 9 Months)

Key Services: Hockey Pitch Construction
and Renovation, Cricket
Facility Construction

Bulk Earthworks

Synthetic Cricket Training Facility Construction Hockey Pitch Construction

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“CLS Sports delivered a high quality and professional service
throughout the refurbishment of the Wavertree Athletics Track.
They installed a high quality surface and managed the programme
effectively, keeping us up to date with progress. I would have no
hesitation in recommending CLS to other clients.”
Michael Kearney, Head of Sport and Recreation,
Liverpool City Council

14 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

WAVERTREE ATHLETICS SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - WAVERTREE ATHLETICS STADIUM
STADIUM

SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCHES

As part of Liverpool’s bid to stage the 2022
Commonwealth Games, we were appointed to
reconstruct the Wavertree Athletics Track into a
professional centre fit for regional, national and
international competitions.
The project involved the removal of the existing 8-lane,
400m synthetic surface down to the macadam base, and
the installation of a new non-porous sandwich system.
The new system was made up of a bound rubber base,
followed by a polyurethane coating and finally a red
EPDM rubber granule surface. This system was chosen
as it offers exceptional acceleration performance
and enhanced tread elasticity, as well as meeting all
current IAAF and UKA specifications. The new surface
is considered a faster facility than its predecessor and
hopes are high that competition on it will challenge
track records.
The new all-weather track also encloses refurbished field
facility surfacing. Extended high jump and pole vault
areas now allow competitions to be staged concurrently.
The expanded shot put zone includes both Redgra and
traditional surfaces, while field capability has been
further enhanced with a hammer cage and triple jump
running between two long jump strips to also allow side-
by-side events.
The home of Liverpool Harriers and Athletic Club is now
a centre of excellence for athletics and hosts major track
and field events.

Client: Wavertree Athletics Stadium

Budget: £518,601

Location: Liverpool

Timescale: 5 Months

Key Services: Athletics Track Refurbishment

Before Refurbishment

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“CLS provided St. Peter’s with an exceptional service throughout the
project. All staff on site were very professional at all times and were
always willing to explore the best cost-effective ways to deliver the
project on time. The finished products are state-of-the-art surfaces that
will provide our students and the local community high quality sports
provision for years to come. Thank you CLS.”
Stuart Crabb, Head of Physical Education,
St. Peter’s RC High School

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ST. PETER’S RC HIGH SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - ST. PETER’S RC HIGH SCHOOL
SCHOOL

SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCHES

The project we completed at St. Peter’s RC High
School involved the refurbishment of an existing
hockey pitch and the construction of a new 3G pitch to
be used for rugby.
3G RUGBY PITCH
At the school, the natural pitches were often waterlogged
throughout winter and, consequently, their rugby play
was limited. The 3G pitch we installed was built to World
Rugby and FIFA quality standards. It has vastly improved
their facilities, increasing their playable hours during wet
winter periods and giving the remaining natural pitches
time to rest.
The topography of the land was a particular challenge
due to varying levels and drainage outflow constraints.
To overcome these issues, we installed attenuation
drainage cells underneath the new pitch and a restricted
outflow to ensure the existing drainage system was
not overloaded. An interlocking concrete retaining
structure was also installed in one corner of the pitch to
accommodate the new pitch levels whilst retaining the
existing land behind.
HOCKEY PITCH
The old hockey pitch at St. Peter’s RC High School
had been used for many years and was in need of a
replacement to ensure it met FIH standards.
The existing surface was carefully removed before a new
shockpad and synthetic turf were installed.

Client: St. Peter’s RC High School

Budget: £667,381

Location: Gloucester

Timescale: 2 Phases (2 Months and
3 Months)

Key Services: 3G Pitch Construction,
Hockey Pitch Refurbishment

Hockey Pitch Refurbishment 17

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“Both the athletics track and hockey pitch
refurbishments were carried out to the high
standard we expected from CLS Sports. They
gave us invaluable advice when choosing the
surfaces and managed the project efficiently
and effectively. I would have no hesitation
recommending them to other parties.”
George Alexander, Director of Grounds,
Tonbridge School

18 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

TONBRIDGE SCHOOL SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - TONBRIDGE SCHOOL

SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCHES

We were appointed by Tonbridge School to fully
refurbish their athletics track and water-based hockey
pitch. This new refurbishment will ensure the school
continues to deliver sporting facilities of the highest
standards.

ATHLETICS TRACK
To refurbish the athletics track, we removed the existing
synthetic surfacing and carried out a number of repairs to
the old base before installing the new system.
The new system consists of a non-porous sandwich
system expertly installed by our team of specialists. Once
completed and tested, the track received IAAF approval and
British Athletic Track Mark Certification.
The throwing facilities were also resurfaced with macadam,
as were the neighbouring footpaths to the facility.

HOCKEY PITCH
The old nylon water-based hockey surface at Tonbridge
School was at the end of its life span. We were appointed
to refurbish it and bring it up to date. This project ran
alongside the refurbishment of the athletics track, meaning
any disruption to the school was kept to a minimum.
The existing shockpad and synthetic turf were removed
before we installed a new in-situ rubber shockpad. A state-
of-the-art, two-tone synthetic turf which retains water for
longer was then installed to meet FIH global standards for
water-based hockey pitches.
The new pitch system now guarantees an extremely fast,
professional, high-quality game and offers unparalleled
playing comfort, meeting the most stringent requirements
of top professional players.

Client: Tonbridge School

Budget: £399,265

Location: Kent

Timescale: 3 Months

Key Services: Athletics Track Refurbishment,
Hockey Pitch Refurbishment

Athletics Track Refurbishment 19

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“I was pleased with the whole MUGA pitch project
completed by CLS. The project went very smoothly,
in part due to the easy way it is to discuss different
options with the staff if unexpected issues were
to arise, and also because of the amount of
discussions and site visits which CLS were happy
to undertake to ensure the project was thoroughly
thought through.”
Simon Willems, Head of Grounds and Gardens,
Sevenoaks School

20 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

SEVENOAKS SCHOOL SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - SEVENOAKS SCHOOL

SYNTHETIC SPORTS PITCHES

We were approached by the prestigious Sevenoaks
School to upgrade a macadam MUGA at their School
House boarding school site. The existing MUGA
was reconstructed to Sport England standards and
involved the installation of a sand-dressed synthetic
turf to accommodate tennis, netball, five-a-side
football and mini hockey.
This project presented a challenge in the form of tight
restrictive access. We overcame this issue by ensuring
succinct planning and coordination throughout the project.
All deliveries were planned around the school’s activities to
ensure disruption was kept to a minimum.
Once the MUGA was refurbished, we installed twin bar
rebound fencing around the full perimeter of the courts.
New access steps were also installed to complete the facility.
As well as the MUGA, we installed a new paved patio area
and reconstructed an existing natural playing field. The
existing area was re-levelled before the new five-a-side
football pitch was cultivated, fertilised and seeded. The
raised patio area with a retaining timber and steel structure
was then installed.

Client: Sevenoaks School

Budget: £88,665

Location: Kent

Timescale: 2 Months

Key Services: MUGA Construction, Playing
Field Reconstruction

Hard & Soft Landscaping 21

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NATURAL TURF SPORTS PITCH SERVICES

We are known nationally for our outstanding services in natural sports pitch construction. Our experience in this area
spans over a wide array of clients, including professional clubs, schools, amateur clubs and local authorities.

Every site we work on is different, and every client has unique requirements – this is something we consider when
approaching any project. Our in-house engineers and natural pitch experts work with the latest technology to ensure we
are able to provide the most effective and sustainable solutions for any given project.

CONSTRUCTION We work alongside many specialist industry consultants and
liaise with our clients from enquiry stage through to agronomic
As leaders in the natural sports pitch construction industry, we maintenance and handover. Maintaining this high level of
can offer a specialist and professional service to deliver reliable, service allows us to build genuine, long-lasting relationships
quality pitches. with all our clients.

Our highly experienced contract managers, supervisors and
operatives have earned a reputation for quality workmanship
and reliability, and we don’t subcontract any of our pitch
construction services.

Owning an extensive fleet of earthmoving plant, laser-guided
equipment and industry-leading 3D modelling systems enables
us to deliver pitches to the highest levels of accuracy. All our
plant is also fitted with low ground pressure tyres or tracks to
keep surface damage to a minimum.

Underpinning all our operations and procedures is our
consistent approach to quality management. Our systems are
ISO 9001 accredited and ensure every project we undertake is
delivered to the standards stipulated. This consistent approach
has earned us SAPCA principle contractor status for the
construction of natural turf pitches.

We invest heavily in the latest technology and training,
enabling us to deliver industry-leading solutions whilst still
being committed to offering value for money and exceptional
customer service.

22 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

DRAINAGE NATURAL TURF SPORTS PITCH SERVICES
INSTALLATION
RENOVATIONS &
We are trusted specialists in the installation of sports pitch MAINTENANCE
drainage and have over 17 years’ experience. Whether you
have naturally slow draining clay soil, water rising from below, Our experienced team can carry out ongoing maintenance,
excess run-off from adjoining or higher ground, excessive end-of-season renovations and specialist operations to suit a
thatch or capping, we can install a drainage solution to solve wide variety of needs.
the problem. We understand that every pitch is different and requires a
PRIMARY DRAINAGE INSTALLATION unique and tailored approach. After a thorough site inspection
We install lateral drainage systems using specialist trenchers and initial assessment, our in-house team can provide the
at 3-10m centres depending on the pitch and client’s following natural turf maintenance services to meet your
requirements. requirements:
SECONDARY DRAINAGE INSTALLATION •  Verti-draining
We install gravel banding, sand grooving, sand banding and •  Sand top dressing/amelioration
sand slitting to further aid pitch drainage once a primary •  Selective herbicide applications
system has been installed. •  Fertiliser applications
•  Over seeding
IRRIGATION •  Decompaction
•  Scarification
Installation of irrigation systems should be considered when •  Fraize mowing
carrying out any natural pitch construction project. We have •  ‘Koroing’
a wealth of experience, allowing us to install a wide variety of •  Aeration
irrigation systems to suit a range of requirements and budgets. •  Surface levelling
We can install anything from manual hose point systems, Our renovation services are not limited to certain types of
drip systems and travelling sprinkler systems through to pitches – we work on professional sports clubs and amateur
fully automated and computer-controlled systems. Our teams alike, with the majority of our clients coming back to us
solutions incorporate the latest efficiencies in controlling and year on year.
distributing water to ensure no resources are wasted.
We have experience installing irrigation systems for football
pitches, rugby pitches, cricket grounds, golf courses and
water-filled hockey pitches.

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“CLS’ experience in constructing grass pitches was a key factor in their
selection. They have the heavy equipment and machinery to create
a grass sports pitch, as well as extensive surveying and construction
know-how. We’ve created a major community sports facility that
impacts minimally on the environment, is built to high standards and
includes sustainable drainage systems (SuDS). Teamwork at its best.”
David Purdie, Landscape Architect, City of Wolverhampton Council

24 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

BARNHURST LANE PITCHES NATURAL TURF SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - BARNHURST LANE PITCHES

NATURAL SPORTS PITCHES

We were appointed by Wolverhampton City Council to redevelop the derelict Barnhurst Lane area into nine
natural sports pitches. The site was a total of 105,000m2, making this one of CLS Sports’ largest construction
projects to date.

The project started with a thorough site clearance of Many environmental issues had to be considered within
vegetation, trees, walls and debris from what was the this project, and monthly ecology reports were carried
remains of a Victorian sewage treatment plant. out. Great lengths were taken to protect the local wildlife
A cut and fill earthworks operation was then carried out and ecosystems.
to level the area. The geology of the site proved to be a Along with the remediation and pitch works, we also
significant challenge due to the high sand, silt and stone constructed fencing, mosaic perimeter paths, an access
content. The whole site therefore had to be treated using road and a 100-bay car park. To complete the project, we
a Kirpy stone crusher, and the installation of drainage then landscaped the amenity areas with wildflowers and
involved the use of specialist machinery. trees and installed street furniture and lighting.
Two ponds and one detention basin were constructed, The finished facility now benefits the adjacent school,
along with the installation of 21,000m of lateral drainage local sports clubs and the general public.
pipes. 65,000m of Koro top drain sand slits were also
installed to aid drainage, as the topsoil was prone to
water retention due to its high silt content. The extensive
drainage system was then connected to the newly
constructed swales and weirs for water attenuation. A
massive 65,000m2 was then cultivated, pre-fertilised,
seeded and maintained until fully established.

Client: Barnhurst Lane Pitches

Budget: £1,638,000

Location: Wolverhampton

Timescale: 12 Months (Plus 12 Months
Agronomic Maintenance)

Key Services: Bulk Earthworks, Drainage
Installation, Natural
Sports Pitch Construction,
Hard and Soft Landscaping

Bulk Earthworks

Natural Turf Pitch Construction Wildflower Meadow

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“CLS Sports delivered a good job on time and to
budget, working to a team approach to solve any
issues and interfacing well with the client, the pitch
contract manager (Geo Turf Consulting Ltd) and the
building contractor throughout the work. They were
easy to work with and resourced the site well in
terms of both people and plant. CLS Sports certainly
justified their appointment for such a high-profile,
nationally important project.”
Jonathan Smith, Geo Turf Consulting Ltd

26 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

COLLIERS PARK, THE WELSH FA NATURAL TURF SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - COLLIERS PARK, THE WELSH FA

NATURAL SPORTS PITCHES

This £1.9m project, which formed part of the redevelopment of Wrexham Football Club’s former training ground,
saw us deliver a host of high-end sporting provision.
Among our remit were two full-size natural grass pitches and a FIFA accredited full-size 3G area, complete with full
drainage systems and a soakaway. Our natural and synthetic pitch construction teams worked seamlessly with
sports facility design consultancy Geo Turf, ensuring we completed the project on time and to budget.

Pitch 1 is a Fibresand reinforced surface and hosts the Other facilities we installed were floodlighting for Pitch
Welsh national first team training and youth sides. The 1, on hand for training by the Welsh national football
Fibresand pitch construction involved preparing a level squads and youth teams, and the 3G area, to be hired
pitch perimeter and creating a 180mm high crown central, out to the local community and leagues – as is the other
with a full drainage system at 5m centres. A 150mm depth natural turf pitch. Two 150 and 75-seat grandstands,
of 2-6mm diameter gravel carpet was then laid below pitch perimeter fencing, maintenance shed, hard and
200mm of medium fine sand and 100mm rootzone, with soft landscaping and pathways for the Park completed
0.8% polypropylene fibres to help stabilise it. our share of the upgrade, which also includes FAW main
Pitch 2, which lies end to end with Pitch 1, has a 1:100 reception rotunda and adjoining buildings.
gradient along the line of play to the north and is a more This project marks a milestone in our development as a
soil-based construction which will require less watering leading sports contractor and civil engineering specialist.
and fewer nutrients. The drainage system on this pitch Colliers Park showcases our construction team’s ability
features a 150mm depth of 2-6mm diameter gravel to deliver across both natural and synthetic pitch
drainage blanket, 150mm layer of medium fine sand, installations to world class standards. The Welsh FA now
covered with 150mm of site-derived topsoil, with 30mm have exceptional facilities, offering both professionals
of sand cultivated into the upper 30mm of topsoil for the and members of the community an exciting, professional
final 60mm. Sand slit drains installed at 500mm centres place to enjoy football.
across the width of the pitch allow surface water to drain
through the topsoil into the underlying gravel layer. Client: Colliers Park, The Welsh FA
The sustainable drainage system involved the
construction at the northern end of the site of a Budget: £ 1,918,423
60-metre long, 2-metre deep and 1-metre wide gravel
soakaway. This was backfilled with 20-40mm high void Location: Wrexham
ratio aggregate and has been constructed outside an
impermeable layer of colliery waste lying beneath the Timescale: 12 Months (Plus 12 Months
surface of most of the site. The soakaway has capacity to Agronomic Maintenance)
cope with a once-in-a-century storm event, ensuring the
site is prepared for every eventuality. Key Services: Natural Pitch Construction

Drainage Installation Natural Turf Pitch Construction

www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk 27

“After a bad season where several games were cancelled due to the pitch being waterlogged, we
appointed CLS to undertake a full pitch renovation and drainage installation.
We are delighted with the work CLS undertook within the tight project programme. Given the
restrictive site access and the unexpected findings of bedrock underneath the pitch, CLS did
well to manage everything in their stride and nothing was a problem. The operatives on site
were professional and friendly at all times and they kept disruption to a minimum. The access to
the pitch is very limited, however this was managed effectively and safely and the project was
delivered ahead of schedule within just 14 days.
Following the work CLS carried out, we have had a great season and the pitch has never
performed better. Praise goes to both CLS and the consultant for delivering such high standards.”
Paula Watson, Operations Manager

28 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

BRADFORD CITY AFC NATURAL TURF SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - BRADFORD CITY AFC

NATURAL SPORTS PITCHES

After a heavy season of play at the Valley Parade
Stadium, Bradford City AFC sought our sports
drainage installation and renovation services.
One of the main aspects of the project was to install a
new intensive drainage system to the stadium pitch.
This was an essential requirement for the club after
a season where several matches had been cancelled
due to its inadequate drainage system.
We installed a network of lateral drains at 3m
centres using a whizz wheel trencher. This was then
connected into the old system, making a 1,300m
drainage system that can successfully divert heavy
rainfall and minimises impact on the pitch.
Further to this, a secondary drainage system made up
of sand slits was installed at 90 degrees to the lateral
drains, connecting the surface to the primary system.
A polypropylene Fibresand was then installed to
create stability in the surface before we began the
seeding operation.
The project involved us working closely with the
groundsmen and the natural turf consultant to ensure
the turf was established correctly and everything ran
on time, ready for the first game of the season.

Client: Bradford City AFC

Budget: £87,921

Location: Bradford

Timescale: 2 Weeks

Key Services: End-of-Season Renovations

Sports Drainage Installation and Renovations 29

www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

“CLS have carried out our end-of-season renovations at our
Training Ground for several years now and I have been very
impressed with the professional way they carry out the works,
in particular the attention to detail they give to every task. Their
standard of work is excellent and always achieved in the agreed
time frames with the minimum of fuss. The staff are always
friendly, flexible and have been a pleasure to work with.”
Tony Bell, Head Groundsman, Middlesbrough Football Club

30 www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

MIDDLESBROUGH FC NATURAL TURF SPORTS PITCH SERVICES - MIDDLESBROUGH FC

NATURAL SPORTS PITCHES

We work with Middlesbrough Football Club on a
regular basis, carrying out annual end-of-season
renovations.
Some of the specialist operations we carry out include:
•  Koroing
•  Sand slitting
•  Scarifying
•  Seeding
•  Verti-draining
•  Sand dressing
•  Fertiliser applications

Client: Middlesbrough FC

Budget: Various

Location: Middlesbrough

Timescale: 2-3 Weeks

Key Services: End-of-Season Renovations

End-of-Season Renovations 31

www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

A division of
Cleveland Land Services (Guisborough) Ltd
Park Farm, Dunsdale, Guisborough, TS14 6RQ
01642 488328
[email protected]
www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk