UNIVERSITY OF KENT OPEN NEW SPORTS FACILITY INSTALLED BY MCARDLE ASTROTURF

The University of Kent’s held celebrations on the Sunday 2nd October to mark the official opening of its new sports facility, namely a new 3G pitch and FIH approved sand dressed all weather pitch, both sponsored and installed by McArdle AstroTurf.

The facility was officially opened by Mr Neale Cooper, Gillingham F.C Manager and was introduced by the Vice Chancellor, David Nightingale. Guests attending the opening were VIP’s from local county leagues, clubs and local authorities, and schools, sports academies and the university.

Following competitive tendering, three contractors were interviewed before the University of Kent contracted McArdle AstroTurf to undertake the prestigious project. The University stated that McArdle were chosen on the basis of product quality and management capability rather than cheapest price. The contract was later extended to include extensive natural turf playing field work.

It was imperative to the University that all work was completed no later than 22nd August 2005 with a contract period of 20 weeks. McArdle surpassed all expectations to complete the entire project within the contract period and provide the University with a truly first class facility.

Mike Wilkins, Director of Sport, “ The University of Kent are extremely pleased with the new synthetic pitch complex installed by McArdle AstroTurf . A great deal of research was undertaken by the Sports Department before choosing McArdle and we have been more than satisfied with the results. The pitches were installed ahead of time, on budget and look superb. In the first week, we received numerous compliments, as over 1000 community users and students took pleasure in playing on the new pitches.”

Mr Wilkins added, “I can recommend, with confidence, anyone wishing to install a synthetic turf pitch to definitely consider using McArdle AstroTurf.”

As part of the McArdle Group and established for more than 30 years, McArdle AstroTurf’s past acclaimed projects have included high profile systems installed at Manchester United Football Club and the Commonwealth Games, as well as working extensively with schools, colleges and local authorities.