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Benefits of owning a 3G pitch

• Priyanka Songra
• April 26, 2021

Home » Blog » Benefits of owning a 3G pitch

Why should you invest in a 3G pitch and what are the benefits? In this blog, we cover 5 things you need to know about 3G astroturf pitches.

3G pitches have become a staple in community sport since the turn of the century. The durability of these pitches means they can withstand thousands of playing hours without having to be replaced or serviced. They can also be played on all year round, meaning you can make the most from your investment.

Cost of a 3G Pitch in 2023

Here are 5 things you need to know about 3G pitches:

1) amazing ‘all weather’ surface.

3G football pitches are perfect in all weather conditions. Players can play in the rain or when the sun shines without worrying about the venue surface deteriorating or any weather cancellations. You don’t have to worry about the maintenance of waterlogged pitches or deal with a hard and dry surface, unlike natural grass surfaces.

2) 3G pitches are low maintenance

3G pitches have artificial grass with permanent line markings, therefore groundskeepers don’t need to worry about repainting lines every few weeks. Here are a number of things to consider when it comes to pitch maintenance:

• Drag brushing should be carried out at least once a week. This maintains a consistent distribution of rubber infills and raises the carpet pile.
• Deep cleaning should be carried out every one or two years by a specialist. This helps to remove dust, debris and broken-down carpet fibre.
• Weeds and moss can sometimes grow, which may need treatment. If left untreated, this can pose health and safety risks to players in the form of slip hazards.

3) Low cases of Injuries 

Another reason to consider 3G pitches is low cases of injuries to players. 3G pitches absorb the impact of trips and falls whereas unbalanced grass surfaces or post-rain grass surfaces can lead to injury risks.

National governing bodies (NGBs) have shown evidence that there are no negative health effects associated with rubber infill used in synthetic turf. NGBs state that they have taken all reasonable measures to ensure that the pitches they use and fund in England are safe and aren’t hazardous to health.

Here are some facts about the use of artificial pitches in the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup:

• In 2015 the tournament held matches on artificial turf for the first time. According to world football’s governing body’s technical report and statistics, they found out that “there was no significant difference regarding injuries sustained there and those on the grass at previous editions.”
• It was shown that the overall injury rate was 2.1% per match. This was lower than the overall injury rate at both the 2007 (2.3%) and 2011 (2.3%) Women’s World Cups, which were played exclusively on grass.
• The injury rate was also equal to or less than the rate at women’s matches played on grass pitches at the previous four Olympics Games.

4) Environment & local community 

3G pitches are very eco-friendly. This means 3G pitches don’t require any toxic chemicals, pesticides or fertilisers for their regular maintenance. 3G pitches are also known for their excellent playing characteristics in terms of ball roll and ball bounce, providing a high-quality experience for players.

The main benefit of 3G pitches is the revenue stream it offers to venues by hiring out to the local community. For example,  Tooting and Mitcham United Football Club hire out their 3g pitch to the local community.

Booking breakdown:

• 11-a-side all-weather 3G pitch (made up 6% of all bookings)
• 7-a-side all-weather 3G pitch (made up 94% of all bookings)

Through operating with Bookteq, Tooting and Mitcham United witnessed utilisation increase by 29%.

5) 3G pitch hire & cost

Although initial installation of 3G pitches can be expensive , the great thing about installing a 3G pitch is they can be tailored to fit your budget. You don’t need to worry about any extra costs. You choose the size, colour and texture. S & C Slatter is one of the best contraction companies for installing  3G pitches. Compared to many companies they give you a free consultation for your space and provide funding to help their clients.

Once your pitch is installed, you can look to hire your pitch out to gain revenue back on your investment. You could take on Bookteq by Playfinder , to manage bookings, customers and take payments online for your sports facilities. The platform is ideal for someone looking to maximise the utilisation of a 3G pitch. Venues operating with Bookteq have seen utilisation rates increase by up to 35% .

If you would like to hear more about the management of your facilities register your interest via our live chat 

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What lies beneath: key considerations for 3G pitch specification

With cost, permeability, and performance all key contributing factors in the construction of 3G pitches, and specification largely governed by carpet manufacturers, choosing the most appropriate sub-base can prove to be a challenging process for contractors and end-users alike. Here, Tim Edwards, Technical Sales Manager Tarmac's Topsport product line, explains the importance of choosing the correct sub-base system for an artificial pitch.

Once solely found at state-of-the-art professional sports clubs, 3G pitches are a synthetic surface option that have rapidly grown in popularity across a variety of applications over the last decades. Now they are just as likely to be installed at a school as they are a Premier League Academy.

This has largely been attributed to the enhanced usability of an artificial installation, as they can be used in most weather conditions. Not only does this lead to year-round playability, but for those sites that hire out their facilities, it can lead to improved revenue streams too.

However, while the playing surface, or carpet, is often the main talking point of an installation, the sub-base is arguably just as - if not more - important given it provides the 'feel' of a pitch and aims to help mirror the playability of a full grass installation. It also determines the ability of a pitch to both hold the optimum amount of water within the surface, and ensures any excess is able to freely drain away. As such, it can be very expensive and time consuming to correct if done wrong.

3G pitches are typically installed over one of two types of base - dynamic or engineered - with budget often being the main factor when commissioning an installation. Dynamic bases offer a more accessible route for the likes of schools and amateur sports clubs, as engineered bases are likely to be more suited to professional installations given their relatively higher cost.

An engineered base tends to consist of a Type 3 stone sub-base, topped by a porous open-textured asphalt layer and shockpad. This ensures long-lasting performance and excellent stability, and is likely to operate effectively for a number of carpet cycles. However, given the cost of installing an engineered asphalt base, it is frequently used by elite sport teams rather than by club teams or schools, simply due to expense.

A dynamic base is a more accessible way for those clubs and schools with smaller budgets to achieve a 3G pitch which replicates a natural grass surface. Typically, a dynamic base consists of a crushed limestone bed which is then topped with a shockpad (although this step is optional) before the carpet is laid. Dynamic bases are also particularly hardwearing and able to withstand significant impact - ideal for training or municipal pitches which will be in regular use throughout the year, or pitches which will double up as both rugby and football pitches.

Getting the right blend of material in a dynamic base is a very specific process and crucial to guaranteeing the permeability and performance of an artificial grass surface. One of the more common errors we see when creating a dynamic base is using a blend that fails to balance the drainage and stability requirements of the pitch.

To give some context, a base consisting of 2-6mm crushed limestone will offer excellent permeability and allow any water to freely drain through the pitch without waterlogging the carpet, yet will fail to deliver the requisite stability to allow the contractor to lay an even carpet. This could lead to a bumpy and uneven finished installation which would certainly be noticeable when playing on it. Conversely, a purely 0-6mm blend would offer improved stability but inferior drainage. To overcome this issue, Tarmac's Topsport team has designed a bespoke blend of 0-6mm Dynamic Layer stone which is both inherently stable, yet offers the necessary permeability to allow water to freely drain from the carpet surface at the optimum rate.

However, even blends which are labelled the same can vary considerably across the country and from quarry to quarry. In particular, the type of limestone used and the way it is crushed can impact the composition of the dynamic layer. For example, a hard or carboniferous limestone is likely to produce a less fine dust, while a softer magnesium limestone is likely produce much more dust.

To combat this, at Tarmac we blend our Topsport dynamic layers in line with BS EN 1097-6:2013 Clause 9, and ensure we keep consistency in our blends across the country by looking at the source components, offering a bespoke blend per supply unit. This is particularly useful in minimising geological issues and keeping logistics down on a project, as the cost of transporting materials can quickly add up.

With minimal industry standard specification routes or legislation to follow, determining the most appropriate product can be a challenge for end-users who must rely on manufacturers and contractors to guide them correctly. Carpet manufacturers often provide a fairly specific sub-specification of what they'd like a contractor to use with their products, to ensure optimum stability and the most effective co-efficient of permeability to prevent the carpet from becoming waterlogged. However, this can vary considerably depending on the turf type and manufacturer.

Ultimately, the sub-base construction can make or break the performance of a 3G pitch. Failing to get the right blend of aggregates can easily result in a surface that is uneven or poorly draining . In the absence of an overarching standard governing dynamic base composition, contractors must commission pitches in line with carpet manufacturer guidelines. However, the ambiguity often associated with such specifications can create room for error. With contractors ultimately bearing the responsibility of pitch construction, taking the extra time to fully understand the intricacies of dynamic base composition can be the defining factor between a happy or disgruntled end-user. For those contractors keen to know more, I'd encourage them to get in touch with a member of the Topsport Technical Sales Team.

For more information on Tarmac's range of Topsport artificial sports surface solutions, please visit www.topsport.co.uk .

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Position Statement on 3G Pitches

The result of a collaboration between key stakeholders in response to questions and concerns regarding "Third Generation" (3G) Artificial Grass Pitches

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Joint statement from Sport England, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), sportscotland, Sport Wales, the Grounds Management Association, Football Foundation, The Football Association, Cymru Football Foundation, Welsh Rugby Union, Rugby Football League, Sports and Play Construction Association and England Rugby.

Artificial Grass Pitches (AGPs) provide a high-quality surface that are an integral part of modern community sport.

Recognised as durable, safe, year-round playing surfaces, they’re able to withstand intensive use and all kinds of weather.

A properly maintained AGP can sustain up to 80 hours of use a week, providing an average of around 1,400 playing opportunities. This compares favourably to a good quality grass pitch, which can sustain just six hours a week, accommodating an average of around 100 playing opportunities.

This means many people are able to engage in sport and physical activity regardless of the weather when otherwise matches would be cancelled.

AGPs therefore enable more people to experience the benefits of being active, such as improved physical health and mental wellbeing and improved confidence.

They’re used for playing many different sports, including football, hockey and rugby; and provide safe spaces for people to come together and connect, helping unite communities.

It’s critical that our sports facilities are flexible and resilient to reflect the real everyday requirements of users and meet societal changes.

However, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of these pitches. These have mostly related to microplastics in the form of rubber infill getting into the ecosystem and the need for greater focus on the end-of-life recycling of pitches. We understand these concerns and are taking them very seriously.

In September 2023 the European Commission completed the adoption of the EU REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) restriction on the sale of intentionally added microplastics onto the European market, which includes rubber infill for 3G AGPs.

The Commission has confirmed an eight-year transition period before the new restriction becomes effective and from October 2031, you’ll no longer be able to purchase rubber crumb within the EU.

The ruling does not prevent the continued use of this material for AGPs, nor does it prevent the construction of new pitches with rubber crumb infill before 2031 – but it may make the maintenance of these pitches after this time difficult.

The transition period is important because it allows the 3G AGPs that are in widespread use by communities across Europe, to continue to be used and maintained until they reach their end-of-life.

Replacement surfaces are very expensive, and many communities would simply be unable to afford to do so before the end of the transition.

Following the UK’s exit from the EU, the regulatory framework for these matters now sits at a UK level (except for Northern Ireland, which continues to follow EU REACH requirements).

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) recently commissioned an evidence project to review emissions of intentionally added microplastics in the UK, including rubber infill.

The project is expected to report in spring 2025 and will inform any future regulatory actions in Great Britain.

The Sports Councils – Sport England, Sport Wales, sportscotland, Sport NI – and leading sport bodies continue to work together and with respective governments to understand what the EU ban will mean for the stock of 3G AGPs in the UK, and the timings for any legislative decisions.

As stakeholders, in the community sport landscape we’re committed to exploring alternative artificial pitch systems, more sustainable infill products and increasing recycling capacity available to sports providers nationwide.

This commitment is reinforced through Sport England’s Sustainability Strategy ‘Every Move’. Sport England will work with partners and stakeholders, including the Football Foundation, to explore viable alternatives to the rubber infill used in third generation 3G AGPs and improved recycling opportunities and processes, given concerns about plastic pollution and waste.

Examples of this include the Football Foundation’s significant investment in its own ‘test hub’ to research alternative infill materials.

Many of the alternatives to rubber crumb are new to the market, and little is known about their performance, durability, availability, lifecycle cost and importantly the impact on player experience.

We are entering a period where there will be choices to make and it’s important that data exists to help future AGP owners make the right choice for their pitch.

Until we have a clearer understanding of these alternatives, we believe that the adoption of containment measures is an important and responsible approach to prevent the migration of microplastics.

The Football Foundation has followed European Technical Guidance since 2020, installing containment measures on all its funded pitches.

We know from studies around Europe that good design can reduce infill loss by 98%.

In partnership with the Football Foundation, Sport England is also undertaking research on the efficacy of containment measures and we’re commited to making the research available as soon as possible.

We acknowledge the difficulty in trying to balance the health and well-being benefits that come from the use of 3G pitches with environmental sustainability factors. However, it is also important to note that there are currently no widely available alternative infill products with proven durability on the market that are as effective, suitable for all UK weather conditions and deliver the required performance standards.

We’ll continue to work with partners across the UK and Europe to research and reduce the spread of microplastics into the environment.

More information will be published as discussions progress

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3G Pitch Consultants

Synthetic 3G sports pitches are becoming increasingly popular at schools and leisure facilities as they provide a lower maintenance alternative to natural grass.

3G Surface Architects

With help from specialist 3G pitch architects, you can create the perfect design for a new sports surface, as well as carrying out a hassle free installation process.

3G Surfacing Consultancy

Our services are available to a range of organisations who are looking to create better sports facilities but are struggling to know where to start with planning and construction.

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3g pitch surface consultants.

It is important to have a look at 3G pitch sports surface design consultants when thinking about a site for having a sports surface design installed.

Many schools and clubs throughout the UK have recently been choosing to replace natural grass sports fields with 3G synthetic turf to create a durable area which can be used by schools and clubs for multi activities with football and rugby being the primary sports.

Undertaking a project to install a large sports surface like this can be a daunting prospect, but our  consultants can guide you through each aspect including strategic development, sport area  designs, applying for planning permission, sourcing funding and installing the full sports surface design itself.

These sports facilities are often installed as multi-use facilities due to their versatile football-playing qualities.

Find out more about  multi-use game areas be contacting our team. Our team can carry out the installation and construction of new MUGAs or even turn existing sports areas into a MUGA.

For more information on 3G pitch consultancy please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team.

We will get back to you as soon as possible with more details regarding the construction of 3G pitches, costs, specifications and designs. Simply fill out the enquiry form to speak to a professional today for the perfect sports pitch. 

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Benefits of 3G Pitch Consultants

Engaging the services of 3G sports pitch consultants can offer several benefits to sports facility owners or organisations. Here are some advantages they can bring:

Long-Term Durability and Maintenance

3G sports pitch consultants can provide guidance on the appropriate maintenance practices and schedules to maximise the lifespan of sports surfaces on the football pitch.

They can recommend maintenance equipment, techniques, and protocols to ensure that the artificial grass surface remains in optimal condition for an extended period, minimising the need for costly repairs or premature replacement.

Compliance and Safety

Compliance with relevant sports governing bodies' regulations and safety standards is crucial for sports clubs

3G artificial pitches consultants stay updated with the latest guidelines and can assist the football association to ensure that the pitch design and construction align with the necessary regulations, providing a safe and compliant environment for players.

Cost Optimisation

While the upfront investment for a 3G pitch may be significant, engaging consultants can help optimise costs in the long run.

Their expertise can assist in selecting cost-effective materials, avoiding unnecessary expenses, and minimising the risk of future issues that may require costly repairs or renovations.

3G pitch consultants are usually involved in the whole process, from start to finish and can make the process much easier!

How Much Does a 3G Pitch Consultant Cost?

The average cost for a 3G sports pitch consultant is £100 - £300 per hour. However, hourly rates can vary depending on the consultant's expertise and reputation.

Typically, 3G pitch consultants charge either an hourly rate or a fixed fee for their services. 

For larger projects or long-term consultancy, consultants may offer a daily or weekly rate.

In addition to the consultant's fees, there may be additional costs associated with the project, such as travel expenses, accommodation, and any necessary equipment or materials.

To get an accurate and up-to-date cost estimate, it is advisable to contact multiple 3G pitch consultants in your area, provide them with the details of your project, and request a quote or consultation.

This will allow you to compare prices and services to find the best option that suits your specific needs and budget.

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3G Sports Pitch Contractors Near Me

The 3G surfacing consultancy must begin with feasibility tests and topographical surveys of the ground to check the levels, drainage and suitability of your existing area to make sure it’s safe for installing 3G surfacing.

When these tests and assessments have been carried out and the site has been approved, architects can come up with a specification and design for the artificial surfacing which includes a choice of 3G carpet, area size and drawings of the proposed facility.

This could also include extra accessories such as secure fencing and specialist sports floodlighting around the perimeter of your football field.

Once planning permission has been granted for the project, the construction work can start.

In order to find a company to complete the construction of your sports facility, the 3G surface consultants will compile this information, along with bills of quantities, into a tender document which is sent out to a few different contractors.

The company that gives the best value price for the work will be awarded the job.

What is a 3G Pitch?

A 3G pitch, also known as a third-generation artificial turf, is a type of playing surface commonly used in sports such football and rugby.

It is a synthetic pitch designed to replicate the look and feel of natural grass while providing enhanced durability and all-weather playability.

The "3G" in its name refers to the third generation of artificial turf, with the previous two generations being less advanced in terms of their composition and performance.

3G pitches are constructed using a combination of synthetic grass fibres, infill materials, and a rubber crumb or sand base.

The key features of a 3G pitch include:

• Synthetic Grass Fibres: The playing surface consists of synthetic grass fibres that are designed to closely resemble natural grass. These fibres are typically made of materials such as polyethylene or polypropylene and are tufted into a backing material.
• Infill Materials: The space between the grass fibres is filled with infill materials, such as rubber granules or sand. The infill provides stability, shock absorption, and helps to support the artificial grass fibres, allowing them to stand upright.
• Durability: 3G pitches are designed to be highly durable and capable of withstanding heavy use. They are often used in locations where natural grass cannot be maintained due to excessive wear or unfavorable weather conditions.
• All-Weather Playability: Unlike natural grass, 3G pitches are designed to be playable in various weather conditions, including rain. The drainage system incorporated into the pitch allows water to flow through the surface, minimising waterlogging and ensuring consistent playability.
• Reduced Maintenance: Compared to natural grass, 3G pitches require less maintenance. They do not require mowing, watering, or the use of fertilisers. However, periodic brushing and infill redistribution are necessary to maintain the performance and appearance of the pitch.

Overall, 3G pitches provide a consistent playing surface, regardless of the weather, and are often favored for their durability and extended usability, making them suitable for both professional and recreational sports activities.

Our soccer facility consultants can offer you more details on 3G installation if necessary, so please do not hesitate to contact us.

3G Pitch Surfacing Consultancy

When a suitable contractor has been chosen to complete the work, the 3G surfacing consultancy team will be on hand to oversee the whole project and ensure that every aspect meets the requirements of our client.

Assessments shall be carried out to check the quality of the contractor’s work and to ensure each stage of sport field construction meets safety requirements and is in line with standards set out by governing bodies like SAPCA and FIFA.

Regular meetings and progress checks shall be done throughout the building process so that any issues can be addressed quickly.

After the synthetic grass facility is installed and all building work is complete, the two top sports surface and design facility consultants will visit the site to undertake tests of the synthetic football pitch performance and safety qualities to ensure that the new surface is fit for purpose and will be safe for players to use.

Our consultants are able to work alongside Sport England, The Football Association (FA), The Football Foundation, Rugby Football Union (RFU), The Rugby Football League and The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

To find out more about our  sports consultants please get in touch. We can also offer advice on maintenance and aftercare to help you keep the new field in top condition over a long period of time.

How to Install a 3G Pitch

When looking at how to create and install 3G synthetic surfacing, our experts generally follow these simple steps:

• Excavate/Dig up existing surfacing 
• Lay down geotextile membrane
• Stone up and install sub base
• Install artificial grass sport surfacing
• Apply line markings where needed

We have worked with many organisations within the educational sector and sport industry so please get in touch with us through our contact form if you’d like some more details on 3G field consultancy and we’d be happy to discuss the whole project process with you.

Once we receive your enquiry, we will get back to you with more information regarding the services which are 3G pitch surface consultants and surrounding areas, can carry out.

FOR MORE INFORMATION FILL OUT OUR CONTACT FORM

Why Should I Hire a 3G Pitch Consultant?

Hiring a top team of quality 3G pitch consultants can bring several benefits. They possess specialized knowledge and experience in 3G pitch construction, installation and maintenance.

Which can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your project meets regulatory requirements and planning permission requirements. 

They can also provide guidance on maximising the longevity, quality and performance of the football pitch itself. 

Are there any Ongoing Maintenance Requirements for 3G Pitches?

3G pitches require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and performance.

This can include activities such as brushing the turf, removing debris, inspecting and repairing seams, maintaining adequate infill levels, controlling weed growth, and addressing any drainage issues.

A 3G pitch consultant can provide guidance on the specific maintenance requirements for your pitch and project management advice. 

What Services do 3G Pitch Consultants Offer?

3G pitch consultants offer a range of services, including:

• Edibility Studies
• Feasibility Studies
• Topographical Surveys
• Site selection
• Design and Layout
• Planning Permission
• Project Management
• Budgeting and Cost Estimation
• Contractor Selection and Oversight
• Quality Assurance
• Performance Testing
• Maintenance Planning
• Ongoing Pitch Management Advice

Other Services we Offer

• Synthetic Football Pitch Consultants -  https://sportconsultants.co.uk/football/
• MUGA Pitch Consultants -  https://sportconsultants.co.uk/muga/
• All-Weather Pitch Consultancy -  https://sportconsultants.co.uk/all-weather/
• Athletics Track Consultants -  https://sportconsultants.co.uk/athletics/
• Synthetic Rugby Pitch Consultants -  https://sportconsultants.co.uk/rugby/
• Tennis Court Consultants -  https://sportconsultants.co.uk/tennis/
• Multi-Use Games Area Consultants -  https://sportconsultants.co.uk/multi-use/

If you would like to find out more about our 3G sports pitch consultancy services, please get in touch with us.

Our team have worked on various projects, from local playing fields and schools, to National and International Stadia.

We can deal with your project from start to finish and our team will be happy to discuss your project and answer any queries you might have about the process.

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• 3G Pitches – How Are They Made?

3G Pitches - How Are They Made

So, football fans of lower league clubs, how fed up are you of fixtures being constantly postponed and called off due to waterlogged or done dry pitches? Well, this may not be the case for much longer. Pitches are beginning to undergo a transformation from grass to synthetic turf, which begs the question: are 3G pitches the future of sport?

Third generation (3G) pitches are the latest development in synthetic surface technology and due to their practicality and easy maintenance; they are rapidly becoming a popular choice amongst sports clubs all over the world, at all competitive levels.

In 2012, Local side Maidstone United built their new Gallagher Stadium with a 3G football pitch. They were the first English club to do this, but since their instalment, many clubs have followed in opting for the artificial grass surface instead of traditional, natural grass. The FA has now approved 640 3G pitches across the country and this number is expected to significantly increase in future years.

So, how are 3G pitches actually made?

3G pitches are actually designed much differently to the domestic artificial lawns  that Forever-Green Lawns supply. The surface is made up of several intelligently incorporated layers that simulate the look, feel and performance of a real pitch. It’s clever stuff!

• This is typically made up of hard stone or concrete, which provides a solid foundation for the turf and is always used as a base for elite professional football pitches.
• The stone layer, which sits upon the soil, is engineered with a free-draining system that helps to optimise draining levels, therefore reducing the likelihood of waterlogged pitch.
• The base can also feature a textile membrane layer, which also helps with drainage.

Porous tarmac layer

• Top tier 3G football pitches are usually built with an ‘Engineered System’, which features a layer of porous tarmac. This provides good stability and also gives the surface a more realistic bounce and response to the ball.
• The Engineered System is optional, however, and not all pitches have it.

The Shockpad

• A Shockpad is placed on top of the tarmac layer and beneath the actual grass surface. This provides extra cushioning and reduces player impact upon landing.
• This also enables for the use of shorter pile blades, which is ideal for generating fast, dynamic play on the pitch.
• A high-quality Shockpad is also likely to prolong the life of the pitch and requires less maintenance than a longer pile surface.

Sand/rubber infill

• The playing surface is scattered with a layer of sand and rubber crumb, which is usually made from old tyres and recycled rubber material. This helps to provide thickness to the turf pile; simulating a real pitch surface.
• The combination of sand and rubber are also specifically designed to provide realistic ball bounce and aid ball control.
• The length and weight of the pile will differ depending on the type of sport.
• Football pitches should typically have a pile height of 40-60mm to ensure for optimal, realistic pitch performance. In terms of weight, piles should be between 900g and 1600g.
• Top quality turf piles are made up of polyethylene and/or monofilament fibre.

What about your garden?

If you’re considering installing a synthetic surface in your own back yard or for sports pitches, be sure to check out our huge range of high-quality artificial lawns . We assure you, you won’t find them cheaper anywhere!

Alternatively, you can contact one of our artificial grass specialists on 0800 688 1958.

Find out how to install artificial grass >>

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How much does it cost to build a 3G 5-a-side pitch?

21 September 2018 • By - Emilie Adib

How much does it cost to build a 5-a-side pitch? or even an 11-a-side pitch ? If you’re a venue owner looking to re-lay your football pitch, or you’re a football fan who dreams of having their own 5-a-side pitch in their garden, this question may have crossed your mind.

So what does it actually take to lay your own pitch? We’re going to cover it all, from the pitch itself, to goal posts and floodlights…

Why astroturf?

We’re used to having kickabouts in the garden or park with jumpers for goal posts, so why bother investing in an astroturf pitch?

Unlike the grass we’ve all played on, astroturf pitches are all-weather, meaning that they can be played on all year round regardless of what the British weather has to throw at them.

If you’re a frequent player, you’ll know there are a few different kinds of astroturf pitch out there, but the most sought after for football is 3G, which consists of an artificial grass surface covered in shock-absorbent rubber pellets. For a full breakdown of the difference between 2G, 3G, and even 4G astroturf, check out our astroturf guide .

For the purpose of this post, we’ll be focusing on 3G astroturf, as it’s the most common artificial 5-a-side surface.

What you’ll need

A lot more goes into installing a 3G pitch than just the turf. You’ve also got to think about equipment, such as goals, floodlights, and rebound boards.

You don’t necessarily need all these things, but we’re going all out. Here’s a full breakdown of anything and everything you might need for your football pitch:

• 3G astroturf (around 500 square metres for 5-a-side)
• Rebound boards (optional)
• Net (optional)
• Floodlights (optional)

Construction and cost

Once you’ve worked out what equipment you need for your pitch, you need to buy your materials and start construction.

There are plenty of pitch laying companies out there that will do the job for you. The average cost of a 5-a-side 3G pitch is around £50 per square metre, meaning a total cost of £25,000 for the 500 square metres we recommended earlier. If you’ve decided to splash out for a 4G pitch, that cost would rise to £35,000.

Pitch cost: £25,000

Standard 5-a-side goals are 12 x 4ft. The cheapest we found were £190 for two goals, but since we’re going all out with our pitch, we’ve decided to splash the cash on some higher quality, aluminium goals for £600. Goal costs can range anywhere from £90 – £3000, so it’s really up to you how much you’re willing spend.

Pitch and goals:  £25,600

The next items on our list are rebound boards and netting to go around the outside of the pitch. These aren’t essential but unless you don’t mind chasing after the ball every time it goes out of play, boards and netting are going to make your playing experience a lot better. It depends what material you go for, but the average cost of putting up rebound boards and netting is £7000.

Pitch, goals, rebound boards & netting: £32,600

Unless you only want to play football in the summer, you’ll need floodlights for evening games. These will set you back around £350 a piece, and we’re going to splash out on 6, plus the cost of installation, which should be add up to around £2,800.

And that’s all you need to build a 5-a-side pitch!

If you decide to go ahead with building one, and you are looking to rent it out make sure you check out Bookteq’s sports facility management software !

Total estimated cost of building your own 3G astroturf 5-a-side pitch: £35,400

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Sports Pitch Finance and Sports Facility Funding  

With a broad range of clients across the sport, leisure, and education sectors we understand the challenges of funding new sports facilities. These financial challenges face community organisations, sports clubs, stadia, and schools alike.

On this page we share our knowledge of the funding landscape with advice on the grants and finance options available to support the development of new and refurbished sports facilities.

Through our exclusive partnership with Buckingham Leasing we can provide competive funding solutions (subject to approval) for your new sports facility via Hire Purchase, Finance Leasing and Operating Leases.

Continue reading to learn more or call 01635 34521 or email for an informal chat about your project.

Finance options for sports facilities

S&C Slatter work in exclusive partnership with Buckingam Leasing, a leading supplier of business and asset finance.

Buckingam Leasing have over 18 years’ experience in delivering flexible and competitive financial solutions, with proven expertise in the grounds care, sport and leisure sectors.

As well as providing finance from their own fund base, over the last twenty years have developed additional relationships with some of the largest lending institutions in the UK.

Together we can provide competitive funding solutions (subject to approval) for your new sports facility via three finance options:

• Operating Lease
• Hire Purchase Agreement
• Finance Lease

Sports facilities we finance

Through our finance offerings, clients can fund, construct and maintain the below facilities through one point of contact:

• Artificial turf pitches (inc. fencing, floodlighting and maintenance)
• Hybrid turf pitches (inc. fencing, floodlighting and maintenance)
• Athletics tracks (inc. fencing, floodlighting and maintenance)
• Tennis/netball courts and MUGAs
• Non-turf cricket facilities
• Natural turf pitches

Offering market leading rates and working closely with S&C Slatter to understand your project Buckingham Finance can offer bespoke finance packages from £1,000 to £10,000,000.

Get in touch to discuss your options or find out more about each finance type below.

Funding for Academy and State Schools

Where capital expenditure or grant funding may not be an option, sports operating leases are becoming increasingly popular in the education sector.

Particularly popular for academy and state schools, sports operating leases allow you to spread the cost of investing in new sports facilities. Repayments can be made monthly, quarterly, annually or on a bespoke schedule over 1-7 years.

The lease enables you to construct a new sports facility, or resurface one, such as a synthetic pitch, in return for agreed regular payments, with no deposit required.

Benefits of a sports operating lease:

• Reduce upfront costs and free up funds for other projects.
• Fixed payments improve financial management and forecasting.
• Reduced tax payments and the option to reclaim VAT.
• Operating lease rentals are treated as an expense item.
• An operating lease is an additional line of finance (so may not affect existing bank arrangements)

Sports Operating Leases

We work exclusively with Buckingam Finance to offer you operating leases with competitive rates, no-deposit options and flexible repayment terms suited to your needs.

An example below outlines a real-world quote for the construction of a new full-sized 3G artificial turf pitch (inclusive of floodlighting and fencing), based on Sport England’s latest facility cost figures . The payment profile includes: no payment for 3 months followed by 81 monthly payments.

*Figures quoted are correct at time of writing (May 22) and serve for illustrative purposes only.  Contact us  for a tailored quote.

Sports Operating Lease case study

We worked with the John Madejski Academy who utilised an operating lease to fund their new FIFA Quality 3G football pitch . Popular with the local community, the pitch pays for itself through revenue earned from pitch hire.

Learn more about Operating Leases

Check our dedicated page to find out more about sports operating leases , if your organisation is eligible and what you can fund – contact us for a tailored quote.

Funding options for VAT Registered organisations

While some universities, elite sports clubs and local authorities may be eligible for sports operating leases (see above) other funding options are recommended to these sectors.

For organisations who are VAT registered, Hire Purchase Agreements are often the best option for financing a new facility.

Available to a variety of sectors including sports, education and leisure, a Hire Purchase Agreement allows you to spread the cost of your new sports facility over time.

In return for an agreed deposit and regular* payments, your new sports pitch can be constructed through a hire purchase agreement before your monthly payments even begin.

*Monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, annually or bespoke repayment plans.

Benefits of a Hire Purchase Agreement

• Reduced upfront costs make construction more affordable
• Full ownership on final payment
• Fixed payments over 1-7 years improve financial management and forecasting
• Deferred payment options allow pitch construction to be completed before payments begin, allowing revenue generated from your new pitch to contribute to repayments
• Claim VAT back from the outset (if VAT registered)
• If paying annually, payment can be deferred for up to 12 months
• Claim tax relief via annual capital allowances

Hire Purchase Agreements

Buckingham Leasing work with a carefully selected panel of lenders, who are able to offer our clients hire purchase agreement options that work for them.

An example below outlines a real-world quote (based on  Sport England’s latest facility cost figures ) presented for the construction of a brand-new, full-sized 3G pitch, including fencing and floodlighting. The payment profile is: no payment for 3 months, followed by 81 monthly payments at a 3.5% flat rate.

*Figures quoted are correct at time of writing (May 22) and serve for illustrative purposes only. Contact us for a tailored quote.

Learn more about Hire Purchase Agreements

To find out more, refer to our dedicated Hire Purchase Agreement page or   get in touch  for a tailored quote.

Funding options for Non-VAT Registered organisations

For schools, universities, sports clubs and other organisations who are Non-VAT registered, Finance Leases are the recommended option for financing a new facility, as it allows you to spread the cost of VAT over the financing term.

As with Hire Purchase Agreements, Finance Leases are available to a variety of sectors. For organisations in the education, sports or leisure sectors who are Non-VAT Registered, a finance lease allows you to spread the cost of your new sports facility (including VAT) over a period of 1-7 years.

The lease enables you to construct a new sports facility, or resurface one, such as a synthetic pitch, in return for agreed regular* payments, with no deposit required.

Benefits of a Finance Lease

• No deposit required – free up funds for other projects
• Finance lease payments are treated as an expense item
• Reduce taxable income with full asset value on balance sheet
• Full ownership at end of term
• VAT cost spread over agreement, payable on each repayment

Finance Lease 3G pitch example

We work exclusively with Buckingam Finance, offering you finance lease agreement options that work for your needs.

An example below outlines a real-world quote for the construction of an 3G artificial turf pitch, inclusive of fencing and floodlighting (based on  Sport England’s latest facility cost figures ). The payment profile in this example is: no deposit, no payment for 3 months, followed by 81 monthly payments at a 3.5% flat rate.

*Figures quoted are correct at time of writing (May 22 ) and serve for illustrative purposes only.  Contact us  for a tailored quote.

Learn more about Finance Leases

Get in touch  for more information or learn more about constructing or renovating your sports facilities through a finance lease on our dedicated page.

Government grants for sport

Funding from the government and organisations like the national lottery are often delivered via sport governing bodies, like Sport England.

Sport England offer a number of funding options for community level and elite level facilities, which you may be eligible to apply for when funding a new sports project or refurbishment.

Local and regional councils will often also have grants available for sporting projects that can demonstrate specific benefit to the local community. These may be partial or full grants depending on the size and scope of the project, they also may require additional fundraising in support of the grant.

We encourage you to refer to your local council’s website to see what may be available in your area.

Funding for 3G football pitches

The Football Foundation is a charity partnership between The Premier League, The FA and The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, established to help communities improve their local football facilities through football grants.

Over 20 years, they have allocated grants to construct 829 artificial grass pitches, 1091 changing room/pavilion facilities and improved 3091 natural grass pitches.

With £60m allocated in 2019 alone, it’s worth looking into the eligibility options to see whether your school or local facility may be able to apply for funding from the scheme.

We’re proud to be official suppliers to the Football Foundation’s AGP Framework with our artificial turf partners FieldTurf. Together, we deliver projects funded by the Football Foundation to provide first-class facilities to communities across the country. Recent examples include delivering  Swindon Town FC Community Trust’s new 3G training pitch and a state-of-the-art 3G artificial grass pitch at Fleet Primary School in London , officially opened by former Arsenal player Robert Pires.

Developer funded relocation

Many sports facilities are located on high value land but realising the land’s value can be complex. Our in-house Design & Planning division are experienced in relocation projects and can advise you on the potential for developer funded relocation.

With a poor-performing natural turf pitch in need of repair, Ringmer AFC faced an uncertain future. Thanks to housing developer Bedford Park developments, the club were able to sell their land for housing development, with the developer covering the cost of both relocation and construction of a cutting-edge new 3G Pitch and clubhouse.

Offsetting costs with facility hire

The demand for high-quality artificial turf pitch hire across the UK is high, with the likes of 3G Pitches and water-based hockey pitches commanding high hourly rental rates.

Many organisations enjoy the benefit of additional revenue from their new-build or refurbished facilities through pitch hire. See how non-league football clubs are reaping the rewards from their 3G Stadia Pitches .

Credit is available for business users only. Subject to status and acceptance, terms and conditions apply. Administration fees apply. Finance agreements are arranged by Buckingham Leasing Limited, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN: 671552, Company Registration No: 4637226. Buckingham Leasing are acting as a credit broker and not a lender. Registered address: Waterfield House, Wellmore, Foscott Road, Maids Moreton, England, MK18 1QQ.

Funding and finance advice from S&C Slatter

We’ve worked with clients who have utilised a variety of funding options to bring their sports construction projects to life. With 30 years’ experience in the design, construction and maintenance of sports facilities, we have a large network of funding partners and contacts.

Working exclusively with our partners Buckingham Leasing , we offer a variety of financing solutions to enable clients to fund, build and maintain sports pitches, playing courts and athletics tracks.

View our sports funding and finance case studies  to see a selection of projects funded through finance solutions or grant funding.

Contact our team to talk to us about your plans and receive advice and guidance on what funding options may be best suited to you.

For more information call 01635 34521 or email [email protected]

3G Maintenance Machinery and Equipment

Funding of up to £25,000 for 3G pitch maintenance machinery and equipment

Eligibility

You don’t have to be a football club to apply to the Football Foundation, however, grassroots football must be an integral part of your offer. 

Who is eligible?

• A not-for-profit football club or voluntary group 
• A Local Authority
• A County FA 
• A Professional Club Community Organisation 
• An educational establishment providing facilities for the community 
• A registered charity 
• A not-for-profit company 
• A community interest company (CIC) or other social enterprises 
• A company limited by guarantee 

Who is not eligible?

• An individual or sole trader 
• A national governing body 
• A commercial/for-profit entity 
• A club within the Premier League, Football League, National League System (Step 1 to 6), Women’s Football Pyramid (Tier 1 – 4) or the Welsh Premier League 
• Educational establishments providing facilities solely for their students 

About the grant

To apply for a grant towards 3G pitch maintenance machinery and equipment, you must first agree to keep your facility on The FA 3G Pitch Register for the duration of the terms and conditions of the award.

The 3G pitch should be tested, and then tested again every three years for grassroots football or every year for football in the National League System. This will enable the 3G to be used for affiliated league matches and therefore help the 3G pitch to be used to its maximum potential by programming matches at peak times. 

The machinery should be purchased in line with the recommendation of your pitch manufacturer, pitch installer or specialist pitch consultant. 

If successful with your application, we expect your equipment to be covered by suitable insurance and securely stored when not in use. It should be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, and we'd request that it’s only used by suitably trained operators. 

If your pitch was delivered with a grant from the Football Foundation and maintenance machinery was provided as part of the project, replacement machinery should be funded from the machinery and equipment sinking fund, as identified in the business plan for the site, and not through an additional grant from the Foundation. 

Grant limits

Are you a football club looking for funding.

Please note that only the Chair, Secretary or Treasurer of that Club can submit an application form. 

Applications submitted since 1 July 2023 by other members of the Club will be rejected. You’ll be contacted by the Football Foundation team and asked that an authorised person complete a new funding application. 

When it comes to the acceptance and claiming stages of your grant, the secondary contact nominated to co-sign the required forms must also fulfil one of the roles of Chair, Secretary or Treasurer of the Football Club.

Document & tenure requirements

Tenure required.

There is no security of tenure requirements for the purchase of pitch maintenance machinery, but the applicant will be liable for the machinery and equipment for the length of the five-year clawback period. 

Documents required

Before you apply, you'll need the following documents:

• 3G Pitch Test Certificate, or agreement to add your pitch to The FA 3G Pitch Register 
• Two like-for-like quotations for each item of equipment from different suppliers 
• Evidence of partnership funding 
• If previously owned pitch maintenance equipment is to be purchased, 12 months warranty from a reputable dealer is required 
• Photos of existing equipment being replaced and where new equipment will be stored.

Once you’ve submitted your application, we’ll send you a confirmation email. Your application will then be assessed by our Grant Management Team and you’ll receive an email normally within ten working days with a link to download your decision letter and T&Cs on your Football Foundation account.

Apply for funding now

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What is a 3G Pitch?

Third Generation surfaces (3G) have been developed to replicate natural turf, with outstanding performance, reduced ball bounce, and low resistance to turning and sliding – offering greater safety to players, more realistic conditions, and greater durability. 3G pitches are used from recreational to elite competitive levels.

In 3G turf, the pile (artificial grass ‘blades’) is supported by a thin base layer of sand, and by an infill of rubber crumb or a biodegradable suitable alternative. The pile height ranges from 40mm to 60mm depending on which primary sport is to be played on the surface. The shorter pile height is suitable for football and hockey, whilst the longer pile height is suitable for football and rugby.

A shockpad is installed beneath the playing surface to cushion the player upon impact with the ground. This is especially important for the shorter pile turfs designed to speed up football play and allow for hockey play, as the protective capability of the turf is less substantial in shorter pile lengths.

The 3G sports turf can be laid straight onto a stone base with or without the use of a shockpad. This is called a Dynamic system. The optimum construction build-up for 3G pitches is to use a single or double layer of porous macadam to offer a much greater degree of stability. This is called an Engineered system.

The base construction of a 3G pitch is comprised of free-draining stone layer and textile membrane on top of prepared soil formation.

The two main yarn types are monofilament and fibrillated: a monofilament yarn is manufactured as a single fibre string which is nominally preferred for higher specification football and rugby pitches (FIFA Quality, for example). Fibrillated yarn is manufactured as a fibrillating fibre tape, nominally offering greater durability against frequent and intensive use (a 5-a-side facility, for example)

What is a 4G pitch and beyond?

4G surfaces and beyond are developed 3G surfaces, with the primary aim to omit performance infill (SBR/rubber crumb). New systems are also being established with the further aim to remove sand infill, creating an entirely infill free system. However, these changes create more abrasive systems and are thus not approved by FIFA and National Governing Bodies.

Blakedown Sport & Play strongly recommend contacting us to discuss and evaluate these concepts regarding your specific project.

Our Recent Projects

3G pitch construction

Oaklands College

Olton Primary School, Solihull

Norman Scott Park

One of the largest and longest established sports facility construction contractors in the UK.

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TigerTurf design and manufacture a range of artificial grass for sports and landscape applications. Find out more about our industry leading products here.

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Pitch Perfect: How to choose the right 3G synthetic turf

With a variety of different types of artificial pitches available on today’s market, end users have several factors to consider when it comes to choosing the right 3G pitch for their facility and its needs.   

Here are three things to consider in order to pick the right artificial sports turf.  

1. What is the intended application?  

It’s important to have a clear idea of exactly what the surfaces are going to be used for. Making assumptions on the best synthetic football turf for the facility, rather than consulting a qualified sports surface contractor can have hugely negative consequences on the lifespan of the pitch itself, the quality of the sport played on it, and ultimately the return on investment.  

In the case of 3G pitches, this means considering whether it is going to be used recreationally, such as in a school environment, or if it’s intended for elite level football.  

2. The FIFA QUALITY mark  

To distinguish the differences in qualities between pitches,  FIFA  has set a benchmark for artificial football pitches to meet – the FIFA QUALITY mark and the FIFA QUALITY PRO mark.  

The FIFA QUALITY PRO mark identifies pitches which successfully mimic the high-quality performance and safety requirements for professional football, for a typical usage of up to 20 playing hours per week. There are also stricter requirements for international match pitches, such as its size.  

On the other hand, the FIFA QUALITY mark distinguishes pitches that meet the standards for community and municipal football. This includes being durable, resistant, safe and high performing in environments where there are 40-60 playing hours per week.  

3. What does the end-user really need and expect from an artificial grass football pitch?  

For schools in particular, new synthetic surfaces may need to be used for a multitude of activities in addition to football to fulfil their curricular obligations. Therefore, versatility and durability can often prove a key factor as to which 3G surface is chosen. There is also an increasing number of schools keen to use their sports fields as an additional revenue stream by making it available to community sports clubs.  

Those looking for a multi-use playing surface should consider a 3G football pitch with a monofilament yarn. This is due to the manufacturing process, which enables different profiles and thicknesses to be offered, increasing its resilience. In addition, straight monofilament yarn can be created to reduce ball roll and offer a slower surface for football.  

4. What is the reality of usage?  

From the very start, it needs to be known how many hours per week the 3G pitches will be used for and who by. A pitch that is only used during school hours Monday to Friday is very different to one that is also used by community football clubs during weekday evenings and at weekends. And this needs to be factored into the specification stage of a project to ensure a system is fitted that is well suited to its intended use.  

Don’t forget to get in touch today for any queries you may have. Call us on 01299 253966 or visit here for more information.   

How can we help?

TigerTurf manufactures and installs high quality products for a range of sports, leisure and landscape applications. We are committed to providing expert knowledge and advice on synthetic turf products and systems, along with exceptional customer service before, during and after your purchase.

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3G Pitch Construction

3g pitch installation.

3G artificial pitch construction is mainly carried out at high schools, leisure centres and sports clubs, this is because the 3G artificial grass is perfect for Rugby and Football, which are two of the most popular sports across the nation. The artificial grass carpet is installed over a sub base – the sub base is designed to make sure that the playing surface is completely flat for when the 3G artificial pitch construction takes place. It also makes sure the pitch is completely porous as it allows for water to pass through it.

Our team have completed many of these projects so feel free to contact us if you would like to find out more. We’d be happy to give you a quote for a full installation if you fill in our contact form with all of the details.

The 3G artificial pitch construction should potentially take place over a shock pad, which is recommended for sports pitches that are being used for rugby as it is a full contact game that could result in a lot of injuries without it. Not only that, the sub base ensures that the carpet does not slip, making sure that the product life is as long as it can be. The carpet has a moderate pile height and is fitted with a rubber and sand infill that helps maintain the height of the fibres throughout play.

3G Synthetic Pitch Installation Costs

3G synthetic pitch installation costs can vary on a lot of different factors, the biggest factor being the  size of the pitch  that’s being constructed, obviously the bigger the pitch, the more expensive the job is going to be due to more 3G carpet being used. You can also get different specifications for 3G artificial pitch construction; this means that certain accreditations set by governing bodies can be met, such as FIFA 1 and 2 star, allowing for more control and customization over your sports pitch, helping you control the 3G synthetic pitch installation costs.

In this video the process of a 3G sports pitch is shown, this is a project we carried out in Gloucestershire to create a multi use football pitch in 3G synthetic turf.

When having your 3G synthetic pitch installed, you can opt to have a variety of extra features for your sports pitch  such as sports facility fencing , and there is also the option to have floodlighting installed so the pitch can be used for evening matches. 3G synthetic pitch installation costs should always take into account a maintenance plan for once the sports pitch has been installed, a thorough maintenance plan can ensure that the product life of the sports surface is much longer and extensive than without one. We aim to give the best quality sports pitch at the best possible value, ensuring a happy customer that is able to stay within their budget.

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Get more information.

Be sure to contact us if you have any further questions about 3G artificial pitch construction or you need some advice on what surface type to choose. You can use our enquiry form to send us over the details of your project and we’ll give you some product sheets and specifications, along with an idea of costs for the construction work. Once the sports pitch installation has been completed, we can also offer your maintenance and cleaning services to keep the facility performing to its maximum potential over long periods of time.

Our team would be happy to talk through the installation process and help you decide on the perfect specification. Just let us know if you have any questions and we’ll give you some professional advice.

Get a free quote

35 water ln, wilmslow sk9 5ar, 01625 445766.

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Position statement on 3G pitches

The result of a collaboration between key stakeholders in response to questions and concerns regarding 'third generation' (3G) artificial grass pitches

Our position

Joint statement from Sport England, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), sportscotland, Sport Wales, the Grounds Management Association, Football Foundation, The Football Association, Cymru Football Foundation, Welsh Rugby Union, Rugby Football League, Sports and Play Construction Association and England Rugby.

Artificial Grass Pitches (AGPs) provide a high-quality surface that are an integral part of modern community sport.

Recognised as durable, safe, year-round playing surfaces, they’re able to withstand intensive use and all kinds of weather.

A properly maintained AGP can sustain up to 80 hours of use a week, providing an average of around 1,400 playing opportunities. This compares favourably to a good quality grass pitch, which can sustain just six hours a week, accommodating an average of around 100 playing opportunities.

This means many people are able to engage in sport and physical activity regardless of the weather when otherwise matches would be cancelled.

AGPs therefore enable more people to experience the benefits of being active, such as improved physical health and mental wellbeing and improved confidence.

They're used for playing many different sports, including football, hockey and rugby; and provide safe spaces for people to come together and connect, helping unite communities.

It's critical that our sports facilities are flexible and resilient to reflect the real everyday requirements of users and meet societal changes.

However, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of these pitches. These have mostly related to microplastics in the form of rubber infill getting into the ecosystem and the need for greater focus on the end-of-life recycling of pitches. We understand these concerns and are taking them very seriously.

In September 2023 the European Commission completed the adoption of the EU REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) restriction on the sale of intentionally added microplastics onto the European market, which includes rubber infill for 3G AGPs.

The Commission has confirmed an eight-year transition period before the new restriction becomes effective and from October 2031, you'll no longer be able to purchase rubber crumb within the EU.

The ruling does not prevent the continued use of this material for AGPs, nor does it prevent the construction of new pitches with rubber crumb infill before 2031 – but it may make the maintenance of these pitches after this time difficult.

The transition period is important because it allows the 3G AGPs that are in widespread use by communities across Europe, to continue to be used and maintained until they reach their end-of-life.

Replacement surfaces are very expensive, and many communities would simply be unable to afford to do so before the end of the transition.

Following the UK’s exit from the EU, the regulatory framework for these matters now sits at a UK level (except for Northern Ireland, which continues to follow EU REACH requirements).

The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) recently commissioned an evidence project to review emissions of intentionally added microplastics in the UK, including rubber infill.

The project is expected to report in spring 2025 and will inform any future regulatory actions in Great Britain.

The Sports Councils – Sport England, Sport Wales, sportscotland, Sport NI – and leading sport bodies continue to work together and with respective governments to understand what the EU ban will mean for the stock of 3G AGPs in the UK, and the timings for any legislative decisions.

As stakeholders, in the community sport landscape we're committed to exploring alternative artificial pitch systems, more sustainable infill products and increasing recycling capacity available to sports providers nationwide.

This commitment is reinforced through Sport England’s Sustainability Strategy ‘Every Move’. Sport England will work with partners and stakeholders, including the Football Foundation, to explore viable alternatives to the rubber infill used in third generation 3G AGPs and improved recycling opportunities and processes, given concerns about plastic pollution and waste.

Examples of this include the Football Foundation's significant investment in its own ‘test hub’ to research alternative infill materials.

Many of the alternatives to rubber crumb are new to the market, and little is known about their performance, durability, availability, lifecycle cost and importantly the impact on player experience.

We are entering a period where there will be choices to make and it’s important that data exists to help future AGP owners make the right choice for their pitch.

Until we have a clearer understanding of these alternatives, we believe that the adoption of containment measures is an important and responsible approach to prevent the migration of microplastics.

The Football Foundation has followed European Technical Guidance since 2020, installing containment measures on all its funded pitches.

We know from studies around Europe that good design can reduce infill loss by 98%.

In partnership with the Football Foundation, Sport England is also undertaking research on the efficacy of containment measures and we’re commited to making the research available as soon as possible.

We acknowledge the difficulty in trying to balance the health and well-being benefits that come from the use of 3G pitches with environmental sustainability factors. However, it is also important to note that there are currently no widely available alternative infill products with proven durability on the market that are as effective, suitable for all UK weather conditions and deliver the required performance standards.

We'll continue to work with partners across the UK and Europe to research and reduce the spread of microplastics into the environment.

More information will be published as discussions progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

This document has been prepared as result of a collaboration between the key stakeholders listed above to bring together a series of frequently asked questions (FAQs) regarding the use of infill materials in “third generation” (3G) artificial grass (aka synthetic turf) pitches.

The FAQs are provided for general information only and are based on information, research and material that is currently in the public domain.

The guidance will be kept under review continually by members of the group and updated as necessary.

The FAQs are not intended to be a comprehensive guide replacing the need for specialist technical advice.

You should seek specialist advice from suitably qualified and experienced professionals in relation to concerns about specific sites or projects.

Care has been taken over the accuracy of the content of this guidance note, but the stakeholders cannot guarantee that the information is up to date or reflects all relevant legal requirements at the time of reading.

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