Situated in central Newbury, St Nicolas C of E Junior School has a large playground area which has to operate as both playground and sports area. Largely laid to tarmacadam, a polymeric surface had been added some years ago in order to provide a more comfortable and safer environment for the wide range of activities played.
However, with the passing of time the surface had naturally worn down; in some places through to the tarmacadam underneath. Drainage was also being compromised.
S&C Slatter was asked to survey the playground and prepare recommendations and costings which were to include extending the area currently covered by synthetic surfacing. After consideration of various alternatives, it was agreed that a new 15mm polymeric surface in colour green would be most suited to the school’s future needs.
After removing and disposing of the existing playing surface, the tarmacadam sub-base was pierced to improve vertical drainage and extended. The new surfacing system was then installed, and line marked for an 8-lane running track, 3 netball courts and a 5 a side football pitch.
The refurbishment has created a superb new sport and play facility which is both highly practical and a visual asset.