TGMS are specialists in the design, specification and project management for the construction of artificial sports surfaces. We are a completely independent consultancy practice which allows us to select the most appropriate surface, fencing, lighting and drainage depending on the customer’s usage needs and budgetary constraints.
We normally structure our service into discrete stages, although we are entirely flexible depending on our customer’s requirements:
Project Stages
We normally structure our services into discreet stages, although we are entirely flexible depending on our clients requirements.
Site survey and feasibility study
The overall aim of this stage is to provide the customer with sufficient information such that a detailed project plan can be developed. Very often, our feasibility reports are used as the basis for attracting funding (e.g. from The Football Foundation) or obtaining outline planning consents for developments. The feasibility study normally comprises a topographic survey, geophysical (soil) survey, site technical appraisal (excavation of test pits, removal of soil samples for laboratory analysis etc.), production of outline development/construction options, indicative cost estimates for the development options and an indicative work programme for the construction phase.
Design
Taking into account all of the information gathered during the feasibility study, and in consultation with the customer, the aim of this stage is to produce a set of detailed designs, specifications, bills of quantities and construction drawings for the project. The specification will be scientifically sound in terms of addressing the specific issues prevailing at the site, and will provide the basis for the production of tender documentation for potential contractors.
Managing the tender process
Depending on the customer’s requirements, TGMS is able to produce all of the necessary documentation required for the tender process. Once the tender period closes, we can provide an analysis of the tender returns, looking at factors such as quality and cost, in order to reduce the list down to a single preferred contractor.
Project management & contract admin
Once the contract has been let, it is crucial that the project is managed rigorously in order to avoid the efficacy of the remediation or construction works being compromised by factors such as the use of inappropriate or hydraulically incompatible materials (very common), use of machinery in unsuitable conditions (causing soil compaction and smear) and deviation from the specifications. TGMS undertakes regular site visits during the construction phase to ensure that the requisite quality is achieved.
Key stage testing
During the construction of artificial pitches, TGMS can perform Key Stage Testing to check compliance against the design specification.
Typically there would be 7 Keys Stages, although interim testing may be required.
- Inspection of the formation surface
- Inspection of the stone foundation
- Inspection of the dynamic or engineered base
- Inspection of the shockpad installation
- Inspection of the carpet installation
- Infill installation, inspection of the fencing and final snagging
- Sign-off of snagging list at or prior to handover
A range of tests are carried out, including dynamic cone assessment to ascertain the formation surface CBR (California Bearing Ratio), lightweight deflectometer to assess surface stiffness, surface levels (depth of material), surface evenness, infiltration rate and all materials used will be assessed for compliance.
For a full breakdown of all the testing at each Key Stage, click here to open a pdf.
Maintenance advice and performance testing
Following completion of the construction phase of the project, TGMS can provide maintenance advice to assist the customer in maintaining a first class facility. Furthermore, we offer a performance testing service in order to assist the customer in demonstrating compliance with the relevant governing body criteria (e.g. Sport England Performance Quality Standards).
See our artificial sports surfaces case studies for further information.
PQS Performance Testing
The sports governing bodies (e.g. Sport England) have developed a range of performance quality standard (PQS) assessments for artificial playing surfaces that provide a benchmark for the minimum acceptable standard for:
- Infiltration rate (i.e. surface drainage rate)
- Gradient along and across the direction of play
- Surface evenness
- Surface hardness
- Traction
- Ball rebound resilience
- Ball roll
PQS assessments form part of the contract management for “new-builds” to demonstrate compliance with the specifications and the criteria stipulated by sports governing bodies such as Sport England, England Rugby, English Hockey Association and The Football Association.
TGMS are able to undertake the full range of Performance Quality Standard assessments. The results from these are provided to the Client in a written report together with recommendations to address any areas where the facility may fail to meet the basic standards.
For more information feel free to phone us on 01772 297830 or email via our online contact system
