Landscape & Amenity Product Update April 2015

Landscape Amenity

APRIL 2015

Green Roofs & Living Walls

Latest product news Page 16-17

Mounted, Remote & Pedestrian Mowers Sector round-up

Page 18-21

Sports Turf Maintenance Jane Carley reports Page 22-25

Campaign launched to protect hundreds of lost playing fields

A nationwide campaign is asking the public to identify over 900 ‘lost’ playing fields originally protected as public green spaces by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie’s charitable trust 90 years ago.

The #FieldFinders campaign was launched by The Carnegie UK Trust and Fields in Trust to protect as many as 3,000 football pitches, tennis courts, playgrounds and other recreational green spaces from urban development.

The sites are ‘lost’ because their exact locations were never centrally recorded, but under the original terms of the Carnegie grants it was in fact intended that they would remain protected from development.

#FieldFinders is hoping the public can help to locate the Carnegie playing fields so that better legal protection can be put in place, preserving the legacy of the original grants and protecting the spaces for future generations. The #FieldFinders campaign calls on people around the country to locate Carnegie playing fields in their area by submitting images or suggested locations using a dedicated web portal.

Members of a specialist Fields in Trust team will then cross reference submissions with any surviving documentation and begin the process of improving legal protection of the site to keep it safe for generations to come.

Douglas White, Head of Advocacy at Carnegie UK Trust said: “When these grants were made it was a significant sum of money for outdoor recreational spaces across the UK. A requirement of the grant was that the playing fields should remain public areas for the benefit of the community in perpetuity. We want to find as many of these fields as possible and ensure that they remain legally protected for the local community.”

Investigative ‘Field Finders’ are also being encouraged to share images of the sites using their social media profiles, specifically Twitter and Instagram, to share pictures, using #FieldFinders to help spread the word of the campaign and encourage their

Limagrain flower mixtures wow festival-goers

Founder of LodeStar music festival, Doug Durrant, had a lifelong vision of creating an event with a special atmosphere that brought people together in a beautiful place of natural surroundings.

Through the help of Limagrain UK, Doug has achieved a truly stunning setting for the festival to take place. In a fitting tribute to mark the 100 year anniversary of the start of the World War I, Doug felt that Limagrain UK’s WW1 Commemorative Poppy mix would provide LodeStar 2014 with a poignant and memorable display – the kind that epitomises the ethos of the festival.

The extraordinary array of vivid red flowers were created by Limagrain to serve as a powerful reminder of the great sacrifice made by British and Commonwealth people during WW1.

The iconic flower mixture, which is also available in a

mixture of Red Poppy and Red Flax, has proved to be extremely popular throughout the UK with golf clubs, landscapers and local communities all purchasing them.

friends in other locations to join the hunt. A pilot study by Fields in Trust, looking at London, Surrey, Kent and Middlesex

identified 107 grants in these areas and 14 of these Carnegie playing fields have now been confirmed, including Coram’s

Marshalls launches new commercial products

Marshalls has launched a comprehensive new range of products proving it continues to lead the way in public realm innovations, supplying the highest quality materials.

The latest products from Marshalls, the UK's leading hard landscaping manufacturer, combine clever engineering and technology, with imaginative ways to save time and costs across all disciplines, from innovative paving options, to sustainable urban drainage systems and the very latest in creative street furniture solutions.

Myriad is Marshalls’ truly creative, new combined concrete block and flag textured paving which allows designers to create standout urban landscapes. Renaissance is the

firm’s first high-recycled concrete paving range manufactured using recycled aggregates to achieve a minimum of 80% recycled content.

Marshalls is uniquely equipped to provide both high-performance linear drainage and permeable water management solutions. These sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDs) are designed to consider water quantity, water quality and the effects on biodiversity.

Marshalls also offers a complete end-to-end solution for cycling infrastructure and in 2015 extends its Cyclescape portfolio with two new segregation units, designed to create safer cycle landscapes for experienced and beginner cyclists alike.

Marshalls Enquiry 3

Limagrain UK Enquiry 2

Fields in central London (pictured).

Fields in Trust Enquiry 1

Marshalls has the largest range of UK-produced stone landscape products and decades of experience in importing natural stone from around the world.

Welcome...

There is increasing concern at the failure of successive governments to offer effective protection to our parks and green spaces. As campaigns to protect urban parks intensifies amid the latest Heritage Lottery Fund research into the very real threat they face from reduced local authority budgets, there is also a new drive to reclaim “lost” green spaces.

There is increasing pressure being put on politicians at local and national level to do more to safeguard these important community assets. All these efforts are to be applauded. But, arguably, one of the most significant recent proposals has come from The National Trust.

It is reported that the Trust, the UK’s biggest landowner, is investigating how it could help councils fund maintenance for local parkland. The proposal would see the Trust working with local authorities to establish sustained financial support for public parks.

The strategy will employ a similar funding model currently used to support historic houses and gardens across the country. It is to be tested in Sheffield, where the National Trust aims to lock-down annual funding to permanently cover costs at the city council’s 70 parks and open spaces.

There will also be increased focus on training a network of volunteers who can use the National Trust’s experience to look after council parks. It is a move that some might claim is long overdue. But it is one that should be welcomed and could well form a blueprint for future partnerships.

This month we cover a wide variety of key product areas, from pedestrian and remote controlled mowers to green roofs and living walls. There is also a special report from Jane Carley on sports turf maintenance.

We also have our usual round-up of new product launches and news from across the landscape and amenity industry, from the urban environment through to machinery for all aspects of groundcare.

Contents:

Industry News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Product News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12

Sport & Play. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Pedestrianisation & Hard Landscaping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15

Green Roofs & Living Walls. . . . . 16-17

Mounted, Remote & Pedestrian Mowers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-21

Sports Turf Maintenance. . . . . . . 22-25

Machinery, Plant & Vehicles. . . . . 26-30

Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Product News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Groves Editor

Paul

The battle against theft of strimmers

Strimmers are among the most commonly stolen power tools, so Armorgard have responded to the rising issue with two brand new product ranges as solution to secure these long handled tools.

The Armorgard StrimmerSafe Rack keeps your strimmers secure and organised while maximising storage space. This unique multipurpose storage system can be used to secure up to five strimmers, or similar machines such as hedge cutters and chainsaws.

Robustly constructed, with twin 5-lever deadlocks and a hinged

heavy-duty welded lid, the unit can also be bolted to a wall for added security. The base is fitted with a bunded drip tray to contain accidental spills of oil or fuel.

The Armorgard StrimmerSafe Vault is a secure storage unit specially designed for housing strimmers and similar long handled tools. The lid is fitted with hydraulic gas struts for easy opening, while an internal divider system allows two strimmers to be stored neatly side by side.

John Deere technicians graduate in style

A total of 28 young service technicians have graduated from the latest John Deere Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech advanced apprenticeship programmes, run by national training provider Babcock.

Alistair Baillie from dealer Thomas Sherriff & Co Ltd in Alnwick, Northumberland was named ag & turf apprentice of the year for 2014, while parts apprentice of the year was Mike King of Ben Burgess Newmarket in Suffolk.

The group of third year students received their certificates at the John Deere Forum visitor centre in Mannheim, Germany during a specially arranged visit to the company’s tractor and cab factories and European Parts Distribution Centre (EPDC).

The presentations were made by Deere & Company’s regional training delivery manager Dr

Lutz Schueppenhauer, John Deere Limited training manager Richard Halsall and marketing manager Chris Wiltshire, and Babcock programme manager Guy Schornig-Moore.

The John Deere three-year apprenticeships lead to the BAGMA/City & Guilds of London Institute 4025 agricultural/groundcare service engineers NVQ Level 2 & 3 certificates and Level 3 IMI Diploma in vehicle parts competence. Apprentices can choose to complete their education for a fourth year to gain the John Deere Diploma and register at LTA2 level in the industry’s Landbased Technician Accreditation scheme, while starting their adult training within the John Deere University.

Since the first programme started in 1992, more than 570 apprentices have graduated through all three John Deere

schemes (Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech) and are now working in the company’s nationwide dealer network. A new Customer Service Tech

training programme was also introduced in 2013.

John Deere Enquiry 6

Armorgard Enquiry 7

Affinity Water relies on Zaun's Super10

Security fencing manufacturer

Zaun has taken its first order for its HiSec Super10 system –believed to be the first single mesh to be certified to Security Rating 2.

Zaun will supply and install approaching 100m of the SR2rated HiSec Super10 along with a series of Super10 gates for security systems integrator Reliance High-Tech for Affinity Water.

The £50,000 contract is Zaun's first since Super10 was certified to LPS 1175 SR2 (certificate number 1164a/01) by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) and entered into Issue 7 of the Red Book.

Affinity Water insisted on SR2 fencing to surround four enclosures at two sites to the north west of London.

Zaun will install 4m-high blue-

coated Super10 fencing to surround a water tower and electric sub-station and a similarsized loading bay together with single and double leaf gates at one site.

Two similar enclosures made from 3m-high silver powder coated Super10 will go in at another water station nearby. Both sites will be completed by the end of March.

Reliance High-Tech is a leader security provider to Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) markets including water, power generation and telecommunications and delivered the biometric smartcard solution for the London 2012 Olympic Games.

To maintain accreditation and a listing in the LPCB Red Book, manufacturers must regularly demonstrate to independent auditors that they are producing

products consistent with those tested. This gives the customer the guarantee that they are getting a secure and quality product.

Products approved by LPCB are rigorously tested for resistance to deliberate attack and play an important role in protecting people and property against

physical attack, burglary, vandalism and terrorism.

LPS 1175 specifically covers the approval and listing of intruder resistant building components, strongpoints, security enclosures and free-standing barriers.

Enquiry 10

Kioti launches ride on series

Kioti has launched a diesel ride on mower series that will be available from April through UK importer RECO.

This new WD2610 unit has already proved that it cuts well and quickly in long wet grass conditions typical of the UK.

RECO is the sole importer of Kioti’s wide range of compact tractors and Mechron utility vehicles. This new mower series further extends its reach across the turf and ground care markets.

Powered by a Shibaura 26hp diesel engine, the new WD1260 has been designed in a similar style to Kioti’s CS2610 sub compact tractor to be instantly recognisable as a Kioti machine.

The WD1260 is a direct cut and collect ride on mower that features a deep 2.5mm thick steel

chamber cutting deck that provides a 1.2m cutting width and an 80mm blade overlap for consistent and clean grass collection.

There are two model options with either Low Tip or High Tip 600 litre collector. The well designed hydrostatic drive system allows for a large capacity discharge tunnel that is low to the ground and ensures that the material flows through into the collector quickly and unimpeded.

The twin pedal HST transmission provides optimal performance. An easily accessible operator platform and simple dash design shows all key machine functions helping to make sure the operator can focus on the task at hand.

RECO Enquiry 11

Zaun

Campaign to protect the nations parks gathers pace

Jake Goulson discovers how the uk’s rich tradition of public parks continues to face its biggest threat. Playing fields and local parks have long been an important part of Britain’s green and pleasant land.

Charles Johnston, property director of Sport England, has hailed the importance of these green spaces within the community. “Playing fields are a vital part of grassroots sport as they are often the place where people have their first experience of sport,” he said.

In addition to the obvious health benefits their sporting potential provides, these spaces have proven economic appeal in addition to performing vital functions including urban cooling and combating air pollution. Yet despite this many UK councils are being forced to consider either selling or disposing of the

management of some of their green spaces, according to research conducted by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Figures in the HLF’s ‘State of UK Public Parks 2014’ report reveals that 86 per cent of council park departments have experienced cuts to their budgets. The majority of those asked had seen cuts of 20 per cent or more to their revenue budgets and 15 per cent of the UK’s local authorities have had to find savings of more than 30 per cent.

The report has shown that although the majority of park managers and half of users thought their parks were in good condition, their concern is that this will quickly decline. In a further blow to local communities, a report compiled by a group of leading environmental organisations including the Campaign to Protect Rural

Clean and green weed control

With UK policy and legislation changes on the horizon, the Cardley-Wave range provides its users with the opportunity to employ a successful, future proof, integrated approach to weed control.

The innovative systems offer a highly successful and environmentally friendly weed killing strategy, eradicating both the plant and root of the weed through 100% hot water.

Additional cleaning properties are a bonus feature of this system, which deep cleans with noticeable results, tackles gum removal, and eradicates moss. With its dual-functionality, and no need for any extra additives, the Cardley-Wave range stands as

an excellent multi-purpose, lowcost weed control system.

The ecological alternative to weed control made possible by the Cardley-Wave range is sure to withstand upcoming guideline changes, as a versatile, costeffective and sustainable solution as both an independent methodology or as part of an integrated approach.

Cardley Wave Enquiry 15

England and the National Trust warn that spending on parks will fall by 60 per cent over the next five years and in Britain’s larger cities: “There will be little or no money left for parks by 2020.”

These cuts have had a drastic influence on our green spaces with a 2009 study by Natural England suggesting that only 10 per cent of children play in woodland areas as opposed to 40 per cent of their parents’ generation whilst other research claims that only 14 per cent of the UK’s population have easy access to green space. With local authorities and park departments under increasing pressure to implement further cuts, measures such as investment in good machinery and staff are imperative for the long term planning and future of these irreplaceable community areas.

Sport England Enquiry 14

Makita’s new 4-stroke pole hedge trimmer with gear drive

Makita’s new and rugged longreach pole hedge trimmer, the EN4950H, features a new gear drive transmission which converts the rotary shaft drive into cutting strokes for the 49cm long blade.

The double-sided blade will run up to 2,100 strokes per minute and will cut 21.5mm branches with ease. This pole trimmer, which has an overall length of

2.55 metres, is powered by the 25.4cc Makita MM4 4-stroke engine that delivers 1.03hp and 1.1Nm of torque.

The MM4 engine is providing major fuel economies for landscape contractors with the additional benefits of low noise and clean emissions.

Makita Enquiry 18

Irrigation at Millennium Stadium gets the Toro treatment

The Millennium Stadium’s heralded new pitch in Cardiff has been installed with Toro irrigation as part of its £3.1m development.

The inclusion of Toro’s latest Lynx irrigation central control system and TS90 turfcup sprinklers form part of the pitch’s transformation into a world-class surface for rugby and a host of other events.

Head groundsman Lee Evans is the man responsible for the new Desso pitch, which incorporates state-of-the-art technology to ensure year-round quality.

“The old, big gun irrigation system used to take over two hours to run a cycle,” he explains. “As we were having a Desso

pitch, I wanted more flexibility. We did look at other options, but the construction of the new pitch limited us to a depth of only 450mm to play with – plus each sprinkler needed to be individually controlled.

“The first design came back with a row of sprinklers down the middle of the pitch. It meant having a sprinkler on the centre spot, which was unacceptable. So we looked at it again and went with another design, this time using 24 Toro TS90 turfcup sprinklers. With their long throw and overall sprinkler height, it meant we could do away with the sprinkler line down the centre.”

As for the control system, Lee says he was looking for a controller that was easy to

New man at DLF Trifolium

operate, partly because he was not the only one who would be using it. The decision to opt for the Toro Lynx system was made after distributor Lely UK demonstrated it and Lee saw what it could offer.

Lee explains: “The old box on the wall was a minefield to get around, so our main focus was on

how easy it was to operate. We needed to start sprinklers and programs easily, without having to run back and forth to the controller. When you added in the remote access facility you get with Lynx mobile, and its reporting features, we were happy it would be perfectly suitable.

Get set for Spring with Sandtex Trade 365

Sandtex Trade 365 All Weather Masonry Paint features high performance Pliolite Resin to combat difficult weather conditions, meaning work can often start on outdoor areas earlier than the traditional exterior painting season in the UK.

With 15 years’ proven durability, Sandtex Trade 365 features exceptional adhesion, giving a long-lasting finish which has

been independently certified by the British Board of Agrément. With excellent opacity, Sandtex Trade 365 can be used on most exterior masonry surfaces and exterior grade building boards. A video of Sandtex Trade 365 All Weather Masonry Paint in action can be viewed at http://youtu.be/2G-eizsgOQI

Sandtex Trade Enquiry 21

Tim has been with DLF since January 2000, starting as Business Manager for Scotland before working his way up to Agricultural Sales Director and latterly European Strategy Group Manager.

Commenting on the appointment, DLF Trifolium’s CEO Truels Damsgaard said, “Tim is well known and well respected and has already achieved a great deal, not least managing the design and build of a £3m seed mixing plant outside Edinburgh which opened at the end of 2014.”

DLF Trifolium Enquiry 20

DLF Trifolium has appointed Tim Kerridge as their new Managing Director in the UK and Ireland.

Sadolin Classic and Extra is a perfect partnership

A new video demonstrating the benefits of a systemic approach to exterior woodcare has been produced by the superior woodcare brand, Sadolin.

The short film reveals how using Sadolin Classic and Sadolin Extra together can create longlasting benefits.

It also explains how Sadolin Classic and Sadolin Extra can both protect joinery and enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

The video is presented by Sadolin Woodcare expert Sean

Thompson. Sean said: “Sadolin Classic and Sadolin Extra are high-performance products in their own right.

“But they’re even better when used as a combination that creates the best of both worlds.

“Used together, the partnership offers significant benefits for specifers longing to achieve excellent aesthetics and protection.”

Sadolin Classic is an ideal base coat for all timber joinery, but is the most versatile woodstain as it can also be used on its own on

decking, cladding and fencing.

It’s particularly effective on new joinery when twinned with two coats of Sadolin Extra - a durable, translucent wood stain that creates a high-quality finish.

Sadolin Extra also offers tough weather protection due to its flexibility and water repellent features, while enhancing the natural beauty of the wood.

Sean says the outstanding aesthetics and durability provided by using the products as a system are too good to be ignored.

He added: “The partnership process is a fantastic idea as the products complement each other so well. The video gives an overview of the system and shows how the joined-up approach can provide major benefits by protecting and enhancing exterior joinery.

The established ‘This Is Sadolin’ series is available on the Sadolin website at www.sadolin.co.uk or on the Sadolin Woodcare YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/SadolinW oodcare Episode 2 covers Sadolin Classic and Extra in depth.

For more details, contact the Crown Paints’ Specification Team by calling 0845 034 1464, email info@crownpaintspec.co.uk or visit the specification website at www.crownpaintspec.co.uk

Alternatively, visit www.sadolin.co.uk

Sadolin Enquiry 23

Wet weather jointing for stone sett driveways

A prestige stone driveway was created using 100mm rumbled magma granite setts that were securely jointed by pointing with GftK’s slurry applied, selfcompacting and non-staining, vdw 850 jointing mortar from NCC Streetscape.

This unique material is the ‘stateof-the-art’ and market leader in stone paving jointing today and was selected for this project by natural stone specialists, PDG Groundworks because it provides extremely strong and durable joint installations, especially for driveways and roads.

The vdw 850 jointing mortar is capable of accommodating

frequent and heavy vehicle traffic loads and in service also prevents weed growth or boring insect infestations, plus it is resistant to de-icing salts, freeze thaw action and even to mechanical street sweepers.

The vdw 850 jointing mortar also has additional advantages in application, because it can be applied in cold and wet weather, it is extremely fast to apply and then it hardens rapidly, allowing the customer to put the driveways back into service as soon as possible.

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 24

“It also directs viewers to a more detailed film on the ‘This Is Sadolin’ range, which reveals several premium products designed for professionals.”

Practical preservation of natural beauty

When the environmentallyconscious owners of a prestigious caravan park were confronted with various maintenance projects they had to find practical solutions while preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings – something they succeeded in doing thanks to the Liniar range of plastic piling.

Claylands Park in Cabus, Lancashire, was established in 1959 as a small 14 acre farm set on the banks of the River Wyre and overlooking The Trough of Bowland, an area of outstanding natural beauty.

So, when one of their four fishing ponds started to leak in 2012, it was vital to the owners that they could fix the problem without compromising the principals and appearance of the park.

Andrew Brewer, a partner of Claylands Park, explains: “Whilst browsing through a Liniar brochure that we had been given, the plastic piling caught my eye as we needed a product that was going to be manageable and easy to use, but also maintenance free and that wouldn’t rot or rust in the water and this seemed a perfect solution.

“The pond bank was eroding and had started to leak. The plastic piling proved perfect for us to be able to retain and reinforce the banking. We were delighted with the end result.”

It was because of this, and the great service that Andrew had received, that when another project needed to be tackled in 2014, he immediately turned to Liniar for a solution.

“We needed to excavate some ground to create extra space to install a new lodge and this meant that we had to retain a bank.

“We naturally thought of Liniar. We came across the log piling and knew it would be ideal for the job. Its log appearance fits in perfectly with the appearance of the park.

“It was easy to install, solid and strong, and looks in keeping with the surroundings.”

For more information on Liniar’s range of plastic piling products go to: www.liniar.co.uk or call: 01332 883900.

HL Plastics Enquiry 26

New Hoaf weed burner from Kersten

Weeds and moss appear on hard surfaces every year. They grow in the dead organic material in your surface known as detritus. This builds up on many surfaces from deposits of leaves, twigs and other organic debris. Kersten offer sweepers and weed brushes to deal with this by removing both the weed and the detritus. New to the range this year is the Hoaf ThermHIT 75. The Hoaf ThermHIT 75 weed burner Uses Infra-red technology to deal with the weeds. The Hoaf weed burner heats the plant to 70°C. At this temperature the proteins in the plant congeal and the plant wilts. Repeated treatments will kill the weed. Burning is also a great preemergence treatment. Most annual weed seeds are in the top centimetre of soil or detritus and burners can kill already-

germinated seeds. Watering the surface first will improve your results as the water will conduct the heat and kill seedlings below the surface. This is great for the gaps between block paving and in more porous hard surfaces where a brush will struggle to reach.

Kersten Enquiry 27

Port Vale pitches in peak condition

Port Vale FC’s main pitch and training grounds are in the best condition for more than 15 years according to Steve Speed, the club’s head groundsman.

Regular maintenance, overseeding with quality cultivars and a new fertiliser programme have kept the pitches in prime condition, despite having to contend with heavy workloads and a limited ground care budget.

All three pitches are over-seeded on an annual basis, as soon as the playing season finishes.

“The entire area will be overseeded with Germinal’s A30 sports pitch renovating mixture, with

Galleon included to add a creeping perennial ryegrass to the standard A30 mixture,” he explains

The main pitch will receive a similar treatment on 22 May, but will also receive a top-dressing of 75 tonnes of sand (to provide a 15mm covering across the pitch) and over-seeded with Germinal’s A20 Premier Ryesport mixture.

“We only have an eight week window to get all three pitches ready for the new season, so rapid germination and vigorous establishment are essential,” Steve states. “We’ve found that both A20 and A30 take really well and continue to grow well for three years or more. They

also give a really deep green colour even through the depths of winter.”

Adding Galleon – a creeping perennial ryegrass – makes the standard A30 mixture even more robust. Pure potassium is also used to protect the turf in the winter by hardening the leaf blades and preventing disease attack.

Twelve months after the new fertiliser plan was introduced, Steve believes that the pitches are in the best condition he’s seen for 15 years.

Germinal Enquiry 29

Harrod

Harrod UK has launched a brand new Hinged Rugby Post Lifter.

Featuring a compact design the innovative lifter has been specifically designed for use with an appropriate tractor, and enables the safe installation and dismantling of Harrod UK hinged rugby posts.

Key design features of the assembly device are its reversible nature and ability to be used with both categories one and two (3point) linkage arms.

The upright effectively moves along the rollers in a controlled manner on the side of the cab for added safety.

Grounds maintenance apprentice recognised at Westminster event

An apprentice from John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance Ltd met Skills and Equalities Minister Nick Boles as part of a unique celebration of apprenticeships at the House of Commons on Tuesday 10 March.

The event, organised by the National Apprenticeship Service, showcased the products and services ‘made by apprentices’ to politicians, existing apprentice employers and business leaders. Apprentice, Jack Peters (22) from

John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance, was invited to the event to share his experiences of taking on an apprenticeship. Since taking on his apprenticeship, he has achieved his Level 2 Diploma in Amenity Horticulture and is currently working on his Level 3. Jack is involved in all aspects of his employer’s specialist grounds maintenance services.

John O’Connor Enquiry 28

Harrod

New SmartVest concept set to enhance safety on site

Software development specialist

3Squared is pioneering a SmartVest that could help enhance the safety of construction and rail workers on site.

With the construction industry focusing on improving its record on health and safety, 3Squared recognised how an established piece of PPE (personal protective equipment) could be adapted with the latest technology to assist workers by notifying them of potential hazards.

The SmartVest expands on the current invaluable safety benefits of the high visibility vest by incorporating low energy, Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) that respond to potential impending dangers.

Particularly for trackside railway workers, the SmartVest will integrate with established live data feeds to provide automated visual alerts for workers to inform them of trains approaching a working area.

Different coloured lighting is used to create visual alerts for individual workers and groups of workers helping them to identify

a possible hazard quickly and effectively.

To further extend the SmartVest’s functionality and to ensure it responds to different situations

3Squared utilises its ‘SmartSafe’ virtual zone management platform. Its SmartSafe webbased software allows engineers to upload site plans and draw out virtual safe, exclusion, hazardous working zones, such as overhead power cables.

Once out on site, the software utilises the latest iBeacon technology to establish and monitor these virtual zones.

iBeacons have revolutionised the field of micro positioning enabling devices to accurately obtain exact locations within built or open environments.

3Squared Enquiry 32

Create a garden of serenity

TigerTurf UK, has further extended its market leading landscape range with two competitively priced, visually appealing additions – Serenity and Serenity Lite.

Combining a mixture of green and jute tones, Serenity is a silky soft grass which mimics a healthy natural lawn. With a dense appearance, the surface stands at 30mm in height and is suitable

for light to medium traffic. The Serenity Lite variant is available with a lower pile height of 20mm, and imitates the look of a freshly-mowed natural lawn. Both surfaces are comprised of a combination of texturised and straight yarns which are made in Britain.

TigerTurf UK Enquiry 33

Toolstation launches new landscaping tools

Toolstation has launched a new range of garden landscaping tools in its new catalogue 59, including petrol and cordless battery powered lawnmowers, chainsaws and trimmers. Headlining the front cover is a 40V cordless lawnmower, complete with battery and charger for only £199.90.

Toolstation has also sharpened the prices on hundreds of lines, including 10% off all Roughneck products.

Pick up the latest Catalogue from one of Toolstation’s 180 plus sales counters across the UK or order on freephone 0808 100 7211, on “mobile friendly” number 0330 333 3303, or at www.toolstation.com.

Toolstation Enquiry 34

Petrol Performance. Without the petrol.

As you can appreciate, being admitted into hospital is never an ideal situation. Whatever the reason, time away from the comforts of home in unfamiliar surroundings is always stressful.

The NHS is relied upon by millions of patients in their time of need and is a cornerstone of Great Britain.

As we all know a major part of recovery is rest, a fact that Estate Supervisor David Gaffney was conscious of when maintaining the grounds of several sites for the North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Trust, stating "The environment we work in, noise is a big issue for us", and so began a search for a quieter alternative to petrol powered machinery.

Researching into the world of battery powered garden machinery; David approached his Local Authorised Husqvarna Dealer to enquire about the Husqvarna Battery Series products and requested a demonstration.

Supported by Husqvarna UK,

David was loaned a range of Battery Series products, the 536LiR brushcutter, 536LiHD60X hedgetrimmer and 536LiXP chainsaw, along with BLi940X backpack battery, and several BLi150 integrated batteries.

David’s initial concerns about replacing petrol for battery were quickly dashed, "Before now battery products were too big and did not deliver the run time or performance, now we are able to effectively replace petrol products", with thanks to powerful brushless motor technology the range delivers petrol equivalent performance but with considerably less noise, and low weight. He was particularly impressed with the noise levels and found “Working with the battery series gives us the opportunity to start earlier and finish earlier which means we do not disrupt visitors using the car parks during visiting hours", but more importantly they “allow us to work around hospital buildings and in courtyards without disturbing patients and staff.”

Impressed from the demonstration, and confident that the "quality, price and the options and efficiency it offers are extremely beneficial to us",

The New Husqvarna 536LiB Blower

Our newest addition to the highlyacclaimed battery series; the 536LiB blower, coming soon. Ideal for professional landscapers, gardeners and contractors. Do you require superior performance with optimum handling? User focused features such as Cruise Control;

The Power Behind The Performance

The power source for all Husqvarna hand held product performance is Li-ion 36V batteries with options offered to cover all operating needs or requirements.

Integrated Batteries & QC330 Smart Charger are ideal for professional occasional/frequent daily use and are

which maintains a single speed for easy operation and Boost Effect; providing increased blowing performance via the intuitive keypad will give you just that.

Attaining true petrol proficiency from a battery product may be something of a rarity in the probattery market. But the Husqvarna Battery Series delivers all-round performance, whenever you need it.

fully interchangeable between all products. Durable, reliable and long lasting and with no memory effect the BLi 150 offers 4.2Ah of power, with recharge times so quick that with 2 batteries and a Smart Charger it is possible to keep going all day. The cost to recharge a battery each time is minimal, for example based on comparing a Husqvarna 536LiHD60X against a Husqvarna 226HD60S petrol/oil mix tank refill is £0.04p* V £0.76p* which when calculated through 425 hours of use could equate to a saving of

David placed an order. After delivery and initial few weeks of use, the positives kept on coming, “productivity has increased as you can get started straight away and do not have to stop to refuel. The products are also lighter and easier to manoeuvre."

Another beneficial time saving feature, unique to Husqvarna “The trimmer head can be spun either way so when you trim along footpaths it means clippings can be kept off the footpaths meaning we don't have to come back with a blower to tidy up". Operational cost and productivity drastically changed after the switch to battery, in particular the “BLi940X backpacks are absolutely phenomenal.

On gentle trimming work around the hospital site we are only using 1/4 of the batteries charge per day" where previously "we generally use 2 / 3 litres of fuel per day per machine, with the battery product it costs next to nothing to charge".

Further good news came when from the low noise emissions; “using petrol products we would not dare start before 7.30am due to the noise, now we can start straight away at 6am” with no

complaints from patients or staff, and combined with low vibration levels, David and his team who “have a weekly HAV limit to work to, are more efficient and can work longer with the product”

In addition to a low noise requirement, the North Tees & Hartlepool NHS Trust also strive to be as environmentally friendly as possible, so "the green aspect fits with the trust policy in reducing carbon footprint and

reducing emissions" and also cutting fuel consumption. Since the swap over David and his team have never looked back, and "The first choice when we go to pick up a machine is always the battery product"

Back Pack Batteries & QC330 Smart Charger

Husqvarna has two low weight back pack battery options; the BLi520X offers 14.4Ah for extended heavy duty daily use, and the BLi940X offers 26.1Ah for all day heavy duty use. Both offer superb operator comfort with a pivoting harness that is adaptable to individual height and spreads the load evenly around the body. They are connected to the product by a quick release adaptor that is weighted similarly to an integral battery so that the product retains the same excellent balance and handling. Additionally it has a built in LED indicator which displays the battery status both whilst in use and recharging. With a QC330 Smart Charger the sealed, circuit protected and cooled cells can be recharged in 130 min for the BLi520X and 235 min for the BLi940X. Using the same calculating method for the BLi150 the cost of a recharge for the BLi940X is £0.20* and again comparing a Husqvarna

For Further Information or to arrange a demonstration visit: www.husqvarna.com/uk/landscape-and-groundcare or email our Specialist Team: info@husqvarna.co.uk

536LiHD60X against a Husqvarna 226HD60S petrol/oil mix tank refill at £0.76p* over the guaranteed life of the battery could equate to a saving of over £1480.00*.

*Calculation Criteria

1.Petrol based on 95 Octane @ £1.06 per litre mixed with Husqvarna LS+ @ 46p per 20ml (0.1 litre 1 shot bottle @ £2.30).

2.Cost to recharge based on average UK rate of 15.4p /kWh (September 2014). Charger current 0.33 kW/hr

3.Actual battery run time (estimated) based on the specific product / backpack no load (with savE) run time halved.

4.Petrol equivalent calculations based on 50 minute free run per tankful. 226HD60S – 0.5 litres

5.Product RRP’s based on 2015 prices inc. VAT. Charger used – QC330 @ £110 RRP

6.600 Cycles based on warranty period – For calculation

purposes, 1 cycle is full recharge to 100% from empty 7.Service costs are not

considered in any of the calculations. Eg. Air filter, spark plug, service work, etc.

Turfcare from the roots to the finishing touches

The complete and comprehensive portfolio of Vitax products for those charged with managing and maintaining sports and amenity is contained in the first edition of the combined Vitax Amenity and Supaturf catalogue.

From specialist fertilisers formulated to feed and nurture healthy turf to high quality line marking machines and liquids designed to demarcate every type of sports pitch, this first edition the data for turf and grounds professionals to select what best suits their site requirements.

Included here is the next generation Briteliner Arrow transfer-wheel and TXE 606 and 353 spray line marking machines

creating so much excitement within the turfcare sectors. The new SupaMark stencil kits for marking out car parks, parking bays, sportsfields and playgrounds are making their debut too.

Complete with details of the EvenSprey 300 and 250 batterypowered pedestrian boom spraying machines, spreader calibration guide and application rates for Vitax’s range of fertilisers, defoamers, turf treatments and marker fluids, the catalogue provides the single source for everything turf.

Replay gets glowing results at university

Following complaints of a slippery surface, The University of Leeds sought the help of Replay Maintenance to ensure its sand dressed hockey pitch returned to its usual excellent standards.

Sports Park Weetwood, University of Leeds, is renowned for playing host to some of the finest hockey in the UK.

Not only is Weetwood recognised as an England Hockey High Performance Assessment Camp and Junior Regional Performance Centre but the England Hockey North offices are based on site. The facility supports a wide range of hockey activity.

“We were starting to receive complaints of a slippery surface. The players couldn’t stand on

their feet with the high level of hockey that’s played on the pitch and the speed of the game. So we really needed to find a solution,” said James Wright, chargehand at Sports Park Weetwood.

Replay Maintenance carried out their popular Rejuvenation process which can restore artificial turf pitches to a “good as new” in terms of performance and appearance. In some instances, the process can also double the playing life of the.

The work is carried out by Replay Maintenance’s fully qualified and experienced team who operate the company’s class leading Beaver machines.

Replay Maintenance Enquiry 39

Proludic announces new Managing Director

Proludic Limited has announced that Rob Baker will become the company’s new Managing Director with immediate effect.

Rob takes over from Michael Hoenigmann, who has decided the time is right to pursue his other business interests in a full time capacity.

Rob says: “Michael has done a fantastic job building Proludic Limited, from a start-up business in the UK 13 years ago, into a market leader within the playground industry. His energy, passion and sense of humour will be missed but we all wish Michael well in his next challenge.”

Founder of Proludic International Denis Le Poupon added: “We are extremely pleased with the work Michael has done to establish Proludic Ltd in the UK. They

have become the 2nd largest part of our business, which now stretches across 4 continents and 40+ countries globally. Michael feels the time is now right to go down his own path and for this we wish him well.”

Rob Baker has been in the playground industry for 24 years, previously serving for 11 years at Charles Lawrence Surfaces Plc and five years at Kompan Ltd before joining Proludic in 2008.

Rob added: “I plan to draw on my own personal knowledge of the UK playground industry, the International inspiration that Proludic has to offer as a group and the passionate and talented team that we have built up here, to ensure that we continue to raise the bar in offering innovative solutions to play and sport.”

42

Matta leads the way for safer play

Each year, approximately 40,000 injuries occur in playgroundssomething that just can’t be helped with kids being kids.

Matta Products have been a leading provider of playground safety surfacing for over 20 years, installing their unique Safety Matta for schools and playgrounds nationwide.

With their extensive experience, Matta can offer a complete service, from initial site survey through to the very last tile being laid, as well as any general maintenance.

Matta take children’s safety incredibly seriously, ensuring that all products are complaint with UK and European safety standards.

The Playing Field

The Playing Field is a new website, designed to act as a source of free advice, guidance, news and views for all of those who are involved in community playing fields and play areas.

Nicole O’Donnell, Editor of The Playing Field, said: ‘The team behind the website believes strongly that good quality outdoor playing spaces are vital for the health and well-being of our communities. Local playing field or play area managers are often volunteers. The website was conceived to be a tool to help them to fulfil their role; to find the answers that they need to achieve their playing field or play area projects. We include a good mix of news and advice, including a funding directory. Users can also sign up to receive regular news updates direct to their inbox.’

Inclusive Play launches the Tactile Topiary

The brand new Inclusive Play Tactile Topiary has been designed to encourage tactile sensory play for all children.

As specialists in inclusive design Inclusive Play understand how valuable sensory play is, however many play areas omit sensory activities but these are vital for development as well as capturing the imagination of children.

The Tactile Topiary features a range of surfaces and textures as well as spinning and moving counters to allow children to use their hands and explore coordination and motor skills in play.

Inclusive Play Enquiry 44

establishes operations in the UK

Playworld, a leading playground equipment and surfacing manufacturer committed to saving outdoor unstructured play, today announced the opening of a London office. The company established the division to better service customers in England, Scotland and Wales. The office is equipped to meet the play needs of towns, councils and schools throughout the region.

Playworld Enquiry 46

Proludic Enquiry

Playworld

Matta Enquiry 43

New SuDS requirements guide

The trade association Interpave has published a new edition of its ‘SuDS + Permeable Paving Today’ guide, reviewing the latest government measures for implementation of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) from April. The move away from dedicated drainage legislation towards a planning approach to implementation signals a new opportunity for designers to take the lead in developing multifunctional SuDS as an integral part of good urban design.

A wider understanding of SuDS is now important, so that drainage engineering can become a supporting function, rather than an end in itself. Interpave’s guide is essential reading for all those involved with the development process – particularly architects, urban designers and developers, and local authority planning, flood risk, drainage, building control and highways officers. It explores the latest thinking on SuDS as a fundamental part of urban design and initiatives to deliver them now.

The guide also focuses on concrete block permeable paving - a key tool in urban design with SuDS as a water collection and source control technique. But its real strength is an ability to remove water-borne pollution offering the important – and often missed - opportunity of a gradual supply of treated water that can be exploited for innovative urban design, harvesting and ecology.

Interpave Enquiry 50

Brett Piatto brings rock hard paving to development

However, on researching the available options, Mace recognised not only that this was impractical, but that the Piatto range from Brett Landscaping would provide an equally effective and versatile solution to the project’s needs.

Aesthetics, product quality and specifier support are amongst the reasons behind the selection of Brett Landscaping to supply its premium Piatto block paving for a prestigious student accommodation development at the University of Edinburgh.

Deaconess House is a former hospital dating back to 1894 and the new development retains the frontage of the original building, combined with new modern construction to the rear. Mace Real Estate acquired the site following the relocation of

hospital services by NHS Lothian to a new administrative centre.

During the planning process, the University of Edinburgh expressed an interest in using Deaconess House for student accommodation and a deal was agreed.

Riverlynx CDA increases efficiency on housing contract

Sports Turf Services (York) Ltd has invested in some Riverlynx CDA (Controlled Droplet Application) spraying equipment for his Housing Contract based in West Yorkshire.

Owner Simon Race explained the company had been using knapsacks to spray the kerb edges, block paving and around mowing margins, which were heavy, need refilling regularly and were not productive enough.

“I looked at various CDA lances, but after a demonstration of the Riverlynx system it stood out to me that this was the system to use,” he said.

“The Riverlynx lances are fitted with a peristaltic pump which means they apply an accurate dose, this is especially important

since the actual amount of chemical applied is very low, previously I had used gravity lances which put me off CDA because they over applied and therefore weren’t cost effective.

“The other advantage of the Riverlynx system is that you mix your own chemical, this appealed to me since the premixed CDA herbicide is very expensive. The Riverlynx Ecomark is mixed with a conventional glyphosate, this barely adds anytime to the operation and off you go.

“My operators have really taken to using this system, it is a different concept to using a knapsack because of the amount of chemical applied – once the system is put to work the extra productively the system brings can be seen quickly.” Simon adds.

Riverlynx Ltd was purchased by Vale Engineering (York) Ltd in 2009 and were recently relocated from the previous site in Bristol to the Vale Engineering premises in York. Riverlynx products include two CDA lances and a range of carrier for mixing with herbicides.

Vale Engineering Enquiry 51

Given the building’s proximity to Holyrood Park, the planning conditions specified the use of indigenous stone for all paving on the project – initially, the stipulation was as strict as to state that the material must originate from within 20 miles of the site.

The natural aggregate facemix of Piatto ensures colour stability over the life of the product, making it ideal for specification – especially with 12 colours available in textured and ground finishes for maximum design flexibility. For Deaconess House, Piatto has been supplied in Silver Granite and Dark Basalt to provide an attractive colour contrast to the scheme.

Brett Landscaping

Enquiry 49

IronmongeryDirect adds fence hardware to its range

IronmongeryDirect, the UK’s largest online and mail order supplier of ironmongery products, has introduced fence hardware to its range for the first time in preparation for the summer months.

Thirty-five new fence hardware products have been added to IronmongeryDirect’s existing range of over 14,000 products to cater for people who are looking

to prepare their gardens for the warmer months ahead.

The new products include clips such as the Fence Panel Clip, brackets such as the Arris Rail Fence Bracket and accessories for fence posts such as post spikes, extenders and post tops.

IronmongeryDirect Enquiry 52

GftK’s vdw 850

pointing for Indian sandstone paving

The extensive terraces and multilevel patios around this property were all created by PDG Groundworks, using an attractive combination of random length, sawn, natural sandstone paving slabs, together with reclaimed granite setts.

All of the pointing and grouting was carried out after the main construction and paving bedding work had finished, when it was also into the wet winter months.

GftK’s vdw 850 Paving Joint Mortar was the ideal material for this pointing work, as not only was it non-staining on the riven and blastcleaned, sensitive stone surfaces, but it was fast and easy to wet-slurry apply and predominantly standing up, plus it is self-compacting into the

joints. Importantly, it can also be applied during cold and wet weather, even during the pouring rain without problems where necessary for completion, meaning there would be no delays on the project due to the weather.

Using the advanced GftK paving joint materials there is also absolutely no risk of any shrinkage cracking as there always is with sand and cement based jointing products, due to variable joint widths, or residual water in the joints changing the water to cement ratio.

Tobermore Paving selected for war memorial

A stunning memorial has recently been unveiled in the North seaport town of Hartlepool to mark 100 years since the town was bombarded by German warships in World War I.

Tobermore, the world class paving and walling manufacturer, has supplied a selection of block paving products for the new Bombardment Memorial which was designed and constructed by Hartlepool Council.

Hartlepool Council’s choice of Tobermore paving products for this landscaped area is the perfect accompaniment to the inspiring monuments at the Bombardment Memorial and the tranquil sea-

side surroundings. Tobermore’s Fusion block paving in sparkling Silver, Graphite and Rose are featured on the memorial grounds and have helped create a very striking, yet soft look.

Emulating traditional natural granite, Fusion's premium exposed aggregates and wide range of modular sizes and colour options, allow for the creation of eye-catching visual effects through the clever use of laying patterns. Fusion block paving can be easily incorporated on any type of landscaping project.

Tobermore Enquiry 56

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 55

Lawns

Q Lawns turf growers from Norfolk have given its website a complete overhaul.

The new site is mobile-friendly, easier to navigate and contains some helpful and unique features.

Aside from new products such as shade tolerant turf, wildflower turf and turfing tools, the updated www.qlawns.co.uk features a turf information centre, a turf selector tool and a video library.

“The turf information centre is a tool to help visitors find exactly what they need on the website.” explains Q Lawns’ in-house web developer Paul Watt. “It shows all of the subjects on the site on a clickable image and makes it easy for people to find the answers to their questions.

“The turf selector tool required some complex programming to make it work, but it was well worth the effort because it’s a really useful gadget for anyone who is struggling to choose between the 11 different turf types available from the online shop.”

Boningale plants its expertise at new eco-friendly landscape

improving the outside space with attractive landscaping and planting schemes.

Maggie Fennell, Technical Green Roof Expert at Boningale GreenSky, confirmed that the development at Rathbone has a strong ecological focus, with the designers keen to create a rich diversity of habitat areas within the urban complex.

Boningale’s SkyPlugs are specifically grown in conditions that mimic the harsh conditions of a rooftop environment. This ensures the rootball is strong and is able to grow out of the plug space as soon as possible, giving them maximum chance of establishing and surviving.

Tendercare system aids noise reduction

Tendercare has seen the need for greening solutions beyond their expertise as the UK’s premier grower of specimen plants and climbers, and has sought European partners to provide greening techniques for elevations and boundaries.

The Vertis green wall system provides modular units for both interior and exterior situations. This patented product allows for

larger plants to be used, minimising the growing on period and is simple and easy to fit.

Significant noise reduction within the landscape can be achieved using Kokowall. Climbers are pinned on to the exterior cocopanels set within steel framework and can be fitted to 8 metres height

Enquiry 61

Boningale Nurseries, one of the UK’s largest nurseries, has combined its unique horticulture and green roof expertise to help transform the landscape at an historic area of London that is undergoing a £180 million revitalisation.

The Shropshire-based nursery not only provided hundreds of semimature trees and perennials to the ongoing Rathbone Market

redevelopment in Canning Town, it also supplied with sister company Boningale GreenSky, bespoke native Green Roof Plugs for the community’s new green roofs and living walls.

As part of the development, which will revitalise the oncethriving east London market and create 650 homes, shops, cafes, a market square and new council offices, there is a commitment to

Phase Two of the Rathbone Market will be completed early in 2015, with Phase 3 beginning shortly after. ‘Plants For Wildlife’ sets out hundreds of approved plant species and varieties that encourage ecological diversity and attract myriad wildlife to new-build sites and green urban spaces, including green roofs.

Boningale Nurseries Enquiry 60

Roofingreen unveils Nature Side

Roofingreen Nature Side is a patented modular system ideal for covering and insulating vertical ventilated surfaces.

The Roofingreen Nature Side modules insulate vertical walls by covering them with a nice layer of synthetic grass, that improves the aesthetic impact and the thermal and acoustic performance of the building, thus being suitable for energy saving as well as for restructuring,

redevelopment and new construction.

By not requiring any maintenance and irrigation, Roofingreen Nature Side is a very competitive and sustainable solution, both from the economic and environmental point of view.

The benefits of living walls

Scotscape Landscaping Ltd is a living wall specialist and has installed systems throughout the UK for architects, designers, private individuals and commercial clients such as Marks and Spencer.

Some of the walls exceed 700m2 and others are small and compact and fit into small residential spaces.

Including living walls in any interior space attracts a range of benefits which go way beyond

aesthetics, including reduced energy costs, reduced noise levels, air purification from plants, reduction of airborne dust and reduction of air temperature in the summer.

All of these benefits impact users of buildings at a fundamental level by reducing stress, improving health and improving performance at work, recovery as a patient, even performance as a student.

Landscaping Ltd Enquiry 64

Tendercare

Roofingreen Nature Side

Scotscape

Dryseal plays an active role in innovative home

Dryseal was the material of choice for the green roof waterproofing on a recently constructed ‘Passive’ House in Easter Housebyres, Melrose, Scotland.

The term ‘Passive’ house (Passivhaus in German) refers to a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in buildings, reducing their ecological footprint. It results in an ultra lowenergy building that requires little input for space heating or cooling.

Malcolm Horsburgh of MEH Builders and Joiners chose robust and lightweight Dryseal to line the green roof on 130m2 of the main roof and 56m2 of the lower area and balcony. GRP was specified by the architect for the roof membrane and approved contractors MEH felt Dryseal was the obvious choice.

The Dryseal system is ideal for green roofs as it eradicates the need for a root barrier. The superior roofing material is also safe with potable water, as there is no contamination from the surface that might interfere with growth of the vegetation.

Dryseal has other environmental advantages; it has the lowest embodied carbon of all its competitors.

Mobilane unveils two new live products

Mobilane, the market leading developer and supplier of sustainable living systems for interior and exterior use, has added two exciting new products to its portfolio.

It has introduced the LiveDivider room dividing system, as well as new sizes in the LivePicture range of living picture systems.

LiveDivider is an interior room divider which is planted on both sides, offering not only privacy, but a range of health and wellbeing benefits.

Consisting of a metal frame on either a fixed or mobile base, LiveDivider features six exchangeable plant cassettes on either side to deliver an attractive and useful room divider that also reduces ambient noise, as well as reducing levels of carbon monoxide and pollutant particles. The choice of plants used is at the

discretion of the user.

LiveDivider requires no power, and only needs watering every four weeks.

Also for interior use, LivePicture is a living picture system that uses plants to create a healthier and more attractive working environment. The health advantages of plants in the workplace are well understood, however, they can take up valuable space. Mobilane has developed LivePicture to deliver these benefits without the loss of floor space. LivePicture also requires no power and the plant cassettes can be changed in moments and need watering only every 6 weeks.

“There is a definite move toward increased use of plants in the workplace,” explains Paul Garlick, National Sales Manager for Mobilane. “The health benefits are well known, but as

Sempergreen launches three new colours for green roof blankets

Exuberant summer colours have inspired Sempergreen to develop three new types of vegetation blankets, each with its own distinct colour scheme.

The Dazzling Yellow, Passionate Pink and Sparkling White vegetation blankets have been created to bring more colour and diversity to the green roofings. These new blankets are immediately deliverable from supplies as from now.

At flowering times, the yellow flowers in the Dazzling Yellow vegetation blanket ensure an eyecatching yellow glow on the roof. The white flowers in the Sparkling White vegetation blanket provide sparkling white lights, while the pink in the Passionate Pink blankets provide a warm, intense colour explosion.

Apart from being planted with colourful flowers, the vegetation blankets also contain various types of Sedum plants. To keep the roof nicely green during the winter, a variety of evergreen plants have been included. In chosing the flowers and plants, attraction of butterflies and bees was one of the selection criteria. This increases the biodiversity of the green roofs. Plants grow on coconut fibre matting and an especially developed Sempergreen substrate.

These colourful Sempergreen vegetation blankets are completely free from pesticides and suited to all roofing at sloping angles of up to 25 degrees.

Sempergreen can also deliver vegetation blankets with Sedum succulents in combination with other plant varieties, such as

have been developed to be both functional and hassle-free, and they are certainly eye-catching.”

herbs, wildflowers, shade plants and decorative grasses.

Sempergreen Enquiry 67

companies look to deliver healthier and more pleasant working environments through the introduction of plants, they have to balance this against the physical practicality of having

plants in the busy office environment. “Mobilane is a company that strives to innovate and deliver systems that are both easy to integrate and to manage. Our interior planting systems

Mobilane Enquiry 65

New engine for Ransomes Mastiff

The Ransomes Mastiff, one of the stalwarts of stadium and cricket pitch mowing, has been reengined and improved.

The newly refreshed models will benefit from a Honda GX390 petrol engine, rated at 8.7Kw at 3600 rpm (11.7hp) but they will run at a lower rpm to benefit from the maximum torque of 26.5 Nm at 2500 rpm.

Hand Arm Vibration has been improved and is reduced by 11%.

Manual transmission has been retained on this 91 cm (36 inch) heavy sports turf mower, as this provides a more consistent forward speed than a hydrostatic mower while providing a more precise clip rate of 65 cuts per metre with the 6-blade cutting cylinder and 100 cuts per metre with the 9-blade option.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry 70

Full range of Bomford mowers for amenity use

With over 100 years experience in the design and manufacture of grass and vegetation control machinery, Bomford Turner Ltd is the UK’s longest established manufacturer of hedge and verge mowing machinery, and leads the way in the design and manufacture of low running cost, reliable and easy to use machinery.

For amenity and local authority users looking for high quality reach mowers to use on smaller tractors, Bomford offers an extensive range with reaches from just 3.2m upwards.

Designed specifically for use with smaller compact tractors of just 15hp and upwards, the Bomford MicroKlippa has the flexibility of being able to be used on either the left or right hand side of the tractor and is available in either a 3.2m or 3.5m reach versions. The MicroKlippa is quickly and easily fitted using an A frame and can even be mounted on the front of the tractor if required. Controlled using cable or proportional electronic controls, it can be fitted with either a 1.2m or 1.5m cutterbar to leave a high quality ‘clipped’ finish.

Available with a reach of 3.4m or 4.3m, the Robin is the smallest

flail mower in the Bomford range and is ideal for both amenity and estate use. Designed for use with tractors of 30hp and above, the Robin benefits from having its own 50 litres/minute independent hydraulic system, powered by a powerful twin gear type pump to ensure consistent power to the cutting head. Controlled by cable or proportional electronic controls, there is also the option if required of electronic arm and head float. For a more ‘clipped’ finish, the Robin can also be used with the 1.5m Sheartrim cutterbar, or for heavier, overgrown material it can also be used with the Pro-Saw bladed saw-head.

Popular with smaller agricultural as well as amenity users, the Raven has a reach of 4.7m and is powered by a powerful 74 litres/minute twin gear pump. The Raven can be used with a wide range of direct drive cutting heads up to 1257mm wide and flail types, as well as the Sheartrim cutterbar and Pro-Saw. Depending on requirements, options include proportional electronic controls and arm and head float systems.

Completing the range of smaller reach mowers is the Osprey, which is designed to be a larger

economic entry level machine for use with bigger tractors above 75hp. The Osprey is three-point linkage mounted and has a reach of 5.0m. The standard specification includes a 74 litre/minute hydraulic system, a 110 degree power slew and hydraulic breakaway, whilst options include low-pressure hydraulic controls and electronic arm and head float. The Osprey can be used with a wide range of cutting heads and flail types and other attachments such as the Sheartrim or Pro-Saw.

For those wanting a higher specification, heavier duty machine, the Kestrel Evo E (5.0m) and Kestrel Evo S (5.0m and 5.7m) offer additional features such as parallel arm linkage, front linkage mounting and the availability of a forward arm to bring the cutting head alongside the cab. The Kestrel is the first Bomford reach arm mower to be available with the new Electronic Switch Control (ESC) which enables electronic non-proportional control of four functions using a control box strapped to the arm rest.

Walk or ride with a SCAG from STM

One of the most popular selling machines from STM in recent months has been The V-Ride unit from SCAG.

It is classed as a stand-on mower; no seat, but there is a plate on the back that you can either lift out of the way and operate the machine as a walk-behind, or stand on the plate and ride-on.

Feedback has been genuinely positive about how successful this arrangement is in practice. The stand-on feature makes it less fatiguing for the operator on larger cut areas – backed up by the ease of manoeuvring a pedestrian machine for the more intricate areas.

A further advantage is that, with the stand-on plate in place, an operator gets an enhanced view of the working area. The machines are available with four cut-width sizes: 36, 48, 52 and 61inches

Machinery Enquiry 72

Bomford Turner Enquiry 71

Simon Tullet

Turfmaster professional pedestrian mower from Toro

Launched last year - the TurfMaster professional pedestrian mower from Toro features a 76cm wide deck combined with a unique twinblade cutting system offering professionals savings of up to 40% on mowing time.

The machine is powered by a reliable, durable Kawasaki commercial engine and features a

3.8 litre long range fuel tank to further increase operating time. Increased productivity and excellent manoeuvrability, combined with the versatility of collection, Recycling or side discharge options, make this machine perfect for busy contractors working large grass areas.

ATT moves into the Sports Ground sector

To cater for the needs of the Groundsman ATT has developed a 30” version of its popular INFiNiSystem.

This new model follows on the heels of last year’s launch of a 26” version, up from the 22” launch model.

Built to the same exacting standards as you would expect from any ATT product, the new 30” INFiNiSystem is more than simply an elongated version of the 22” and 26” units. The 30” boasts the same unique floating head mechanism that is independent of the traction drive, ensuring ground pressure is spread between three rollers, as opposed to two as seen on fixed head units. This is hugely beneficial as it helps to regulate weight transfer and minimise

plant stress during routine cutting operations.

The new 30” INFiNiSystem, pictured with ATT managing director John Coleman, can be driven either fully electrically via a single or double battery module or by hybrid electric via an engine generator configuration. The added width means the unit offers increased productivity and is especially well suited to larger areas such as football and rugby pitches. The decreased ground pressure is particularly beneficial where maintaining synthetic fibre integrity is paramount such as on DESSO GrassMaster Hybrid systems. Users also benefit from the accuracy and cleanliness of cut from the ATT 30” SMARTCut.

ATT Enquiry 74

Toro Enquiry 75

Steep slopes prove no match for ROBOPOWER

ROBOPOWER has passed one of its toughest tests after tackling slopes of up to 40 degrees while trimming gorse at the National Trust’s Carding Mill Valley site in Shropshire.

The innovative unmanned tractor performed successfully, cutting firebreaks in an area where the thick vegetation has always had to be hand-cut by a team of rangers and volunteers.

ROBOPOWER’s low-centre of gravity and high-grip tracks ensured a safe and productive performance, and helped protect a landscape that is one of only 46 sites in the UK which has been

McConnel

Allett’s new Stadium Mower finds fans

Allett mowers introduced their new RM 34 Stadium Mower, featuring a 34” (86cm) full width rear roller for strong stripes, during the final months of 2014.

Developed in conjunction with leading groundsmen, it caused a stir in tests and has generated a great deal of interest since its official launch.

It has twin, contra-rotating blades for central collection and filling a 90 litre grassbag at the centre of the deck. The mower creates an ultra-high vacuum for debris collection while the high tip speed of the blades ensures the ultimate cutting quality.

There is micro height adjustment between 15mm and 75mm for exact blade cut and a 5 gear speed selection for precise control. Solid to look at, substantial to use, the RM 34 is actually 55kg

lighter than an Allett Buffalo cylinder mower. There is also an optional fixed strip brush available for the machine.

Allett Mowers Enquiry 80

A range of mowers to suit all requirements

Lloyds and Co of Letchworth manufactures the superb range of Paladin pedestrian and Leda gang mowers.

Any turf professional responsible for the maintenance and general upkeep of sports surfaces, including those used for golf, rugby, football, cricket, tennis and bowls, can benefit from owning a Lloyds machine.

The Paladin brand is known across the world and holds an enviable reputation for ease of operation and robust construction. All of the products are of excellent quality and retain their simplistic but effective engineering which always delivers outstanding performance and trouble free service.

There are several models available; the Paladin, Paladin Dual and the Paladin TG in two widths of 21”(533mm) and 24”(610mm).

Lloyds Paladin Dual has been developed to give the best finish with an infinitely variable adjustment to facilitate the perfect cut.

Lloyds Paladin TG has all the features and performance of the Paladin but with the added benefit of a groomer for conditioning the turf and improving its playability. The groomer is fitted closely between the cutting cylinder and the grooved front roller and encourages healthy growth by removing the lateral grasses and other debris.

Lloyds Leda Gang Mowers range from combinations of the Standard units with 190mm diameter and 760mm wide cylinders, or Lloyds Leda Giant units with 254mm diameter cylinders 760mm long. In outfits of Trio, Quintuple and Septuple.

READER ENQUIRY 81

Lloyds & Co Enquiry 82

Cub Cadet Triloy helps with trials success

The Blenheim Horse Trials, a firm fixture in the eventing calendar since 1990, is now only a few weeks away, and work is ramping up to get the venue ready for the field of world-class competitors and thousands of spectators.

Once the course is cut, it's all about the details, and trickier areas around the jumps, or on the various steep-sided mounds can only be reached with a smaller machine. The team use the Cub Cadet Triloy self-propelled pedestrian mower CC53SPBEV,

and are full of praise for it: light and manoeuvrable, and with variable speed control, it makes short work of any task. Most importantly, the electric starter is easy and reliable; making sure the Triloy is ready to go when they are!

Cub Cadet Garden Machinery is only sold through specially selected dealers who are dedicated to providing the best before and after sales service.

Cub Cadet Enquiry 85

EGO’s range goes head to head with petrol

Environmental issues will play centre stage as the newest entrant to the cordless sector announces that its 56volt battery powered range is going head to head with petrol equivalents.

EGO’s lawnmowers were first launched in the USA at the start of the 2014 season and are now one of the two top selling cordless brands in the whole of North America.

Prices of the lithium-ion battery powered range are competitively pitched against petrol powered equivalents and comparative cordless products already on the market.

Full UK distribution is assured as EGO had agreed sole distribution terms with the market leading Henton & Chattell which has more than 1,500 dealers nationwide.

Batteries are totally interchangeable across the products in the range and will fully recharge from flat in just 30 minutes with the “infinity charger”. The lawnmower will cut up to 800 M2 of grass on just one charge and the life expectancy of the batteries is over 1000 recharges – sufficient for more than ten years of work for the average sized garden.

EGO Enquiry 87

Dennis the only choice at Turf Moor

Burnley FC reached the highest tier in English football at the start of this season after being promoted to the Barclay’s Premier League.

Now rubbing shoulders with some of the finest teams in the country, the club has turned to Dennis to help keep the pitch in pristine condition.

Head groundsman at Turf Moor, Paul Bradshaw, maintains the pitch with the help of two Dennis G860 professional mowers complete with a range of interchangeable cassettes which have recently been purchased from his local dealer GGM Groundscare.

The Dennis G860 has 11 quick changeover cassette options giving ultimate flexibility and a single power unit for many dayto-day maintenance tasks. It also features a large diameter front roller with an adjustable scraper

which has been designed for a precise height of cut control, giving an excellent finish on every occasion.

Paul is no stranger to this machine. Prior to his role at Burnley, Paul plied his trade at Liverpool FC. It was there where he had his first encounter with the G860.

“The best feature on the mower is its interchangeable cassettes –it just makes everything so easy,” he said. “We wanted a mower that wasn’t just a mower and it’s great to have a machine that’s so versatile.

“The G860’s were at the top of my wish list and I wasn’t even considering anything else. The team are already familiar with them and it was just the natural choice.”

Dennis Enquiry 86

Sports pitches green up

Sportsturf renovation and maintenance techniques continue to develop, helping local authorities get the best out of hard-working pitches. Jane Carley looks at the latest developments and catches up with the contractors.

Spring has finally sprung and turf managers are busy planning renovation work needed to improve winter pitches after a long season. At schools and sportsgrounds, intensive maintenance can help playing surfaces multi-task for outfield duty and summer fixtures, while remaining in tip-top condition.

The Grass Group supplies the GKB Combinator which has been specially developed for work on sportsturf.

“As the top layers can be cut to a length of 0 to 5 cm, the machine is suitable for both fraise mowing and verticutting,” says the Grass Group’s Tim Merrell. “The Combinator can remove the top layer and grass cover and when it fraise mows on uneven surfaces, it removes all irregularities giving a perfectly level result. Fraise mowing is done using a specially designed rotor shaft with cutting blades and the rotor

shaft can also be used for verticutting.”

Cut material is then taken away by a horizontal and an elevating conveyor belt, which can be folded away neatly onto the machine for transport. The Combinator can also be used for the removal of infill material in artificial turf, using a special brush attachment.

The GKB Eco-dresser was primarily designed for sports fields, but it can also be used on golf courses and in parks to improve sowing conditions and provide intensive aeration. Compacted areas can also be broken up and dug out, which results in better rooting and drainage conditions.

Easily adjustable forward blade rollers and pressure rollers can also be supplied for the larger models. These models also have a rotary shaft complete with slip clutch and spring-loaded

coulters, to prevent damage from stones a stone screen with collecting tray can be attached parallel to the machine using a specially designed power-arm for stony conditions.

Recycling the soil

The Eco-dresser can dig out and recycle the soil from the top layer and will then lay that soil down on the top layer, while levelling out the surface at the same time. The top dressing soil can also be collected and used to repair the centre circle and goal mouth areas.

Another useful machine from the Grass Group’s range is the TRILO S3, a compact and economical vacuum sweeper with a loading capacity of 3 m3 and low ground pressure tyres. The S3 is equipped with a brush hood as standard, with a mowing axle, verticutting axle or a combined axle for simultaneously mowing and verticutting as options. The gauge wheels are mounted at the centre of the axle, ensuring that the sweeper follows the contours of the soil perfectly.

This vacuum sweeper is suitable for tractors from 28hp and is driven by a Walterscheid PTO shaft with wide angle and overrun clutch. The 700mm diameter four-blade fan is placed inside a Trilo centrifugal pump with replaceable lining for extra-long life. The optional wander hose has a reach of 6m and is equipped with a sturdy end pipe with handgrip.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery supplies the Redexim Turf Stripper which can work at variable depths to either verticut and thin out down to the roots or fraise mow to stimulate growth

of favourable grasses. Where clubs are looking to tackle black anaerobic layer, or more serious issues with the pitch, it can strip the surface to 50mm deep before reseeding. It is particularly applicable to a stadium environment where poor air circulation affects turf health. It is popular for top end pitches, especially in football, but the 1.2m model would be an ideal size for cricket pitches. It is a tidy and low labour operation, especially as the Turf Stripper has its own elevator to load the waste material into a trailer.

The new 4m wide Flexi400 from Sisis is an interchangeable unit which has been specifically designed for fast and effective coverage on large areas such as golf fairways and sports grounds. The unit has seven fully floating heads which allows it to follow ground contours. The unit can be fitted with either roller or brush heads and is said to be ideal for the removal of dew, striping for improved presentation, lifting grasses prior to cutting or brushing in top dressings.

It is attachable to the towing unit by a simple 50mm ball hitch or clevis pin and both arms can be raised for ease of storage or transportation.

Grooming pitches SCH (Supplies) Ltd has introduced the Combination Turf Groomer. The three-point linkage mounted groomer is a multi-tasking unit to groom pitches prior to use or at the finish of play. The leading starshaped slitter bar pierces the surface to increase drainage, the brush and rake bars tickle over the surface to enhance the quality and appearance of the

area, then the rear roller firms up the surface and gives that much sought-after striping.

All three tools can be adjusted by individual screw jacks for depth and pressure.

A weight tray is incorporated in the design to allow top weight to be added if required. This tray also acts as a useful general purpose carrier. Working width is 1.5m and the groomer can also be fitted with other turf maintenance attachments.

Schiller Grounds Care has launched its turfcare spring ‘package’ featuring the Classen Turf Rakes, Aerators and Overseeders. Regular scarifying to remove the thatch and moss preventing rainwater getting to the roots of the grass is crucial to turf and green maintenance so it makes sense to have a machine on hand that’s tough yet economical at the outset.

The Classen Turf Rake is a versatile and portable dethatcher with folding handles for easy transportation, ideal for contractors and hire operators, says Schiller Groundscare. The flail blades adjust to five

different heights and there are optional attachments for seeding and grass collection.

Classen Aerators are selfpropelled, feature operator friendly controls and are solidly built for professional turf care. The new Reciprocating Aerator is belt driven, said to make the controls simpler to use. The core tines reciprocate at 450rpm, covering up to 26,000 sq ft per hour and the aerator is designed to punch cleaner holes in tough soil without additional weights. This machine also has lifting and tie down handles for easy transportation.

Classen turf overseeders can be used for sowing fresh swards or overseeding. The front seed drop ensures follow-up soil coverage for better seed germination. Blades feature a cutting edge on both ends to double the blade life. Handles fold easily, for portability and storage and the overseeder converts in minutes to a rake with catcher bag or vertical cutter. There’s a choice of standard or selfpropelled models.

New additions

AFT Trenchers has developed the new Rope Sandbander to provide a unique method of installing Passive Capillary Drainage (PCD) from Aquaterra Europe. The re-engineered Sandbander enables effective sports turf drainage to be performed with minimal disruption, quickly and effectively.

Passive Capillary Drainage (PCD) comprises a stainless steel mesh core that can remove large quantities of water quickly

The Grass Group

Charterhouse Machinery

SCH Supplies

flow and capillary attraction method. Its main advantage is that it is nonintrusive to greens and disruption is at an absolute minimum for clubs; especially for those that have a large amount of play.

The AFT Sandbander uses a specialist blade design and oscillating movement to create drainage slits filled with wellconsolidated sand. These can also successfully divert surface water to existing lateral drains.

The new AFT Rope Sandbander is the only system that can position the PCD into a golf green at narrow spacings to create a network under the surface to drain water underground.

It features an oscillating plough blade with a hollow centre. The PCD is fed through this hollow section and is in effect ‘placed’ in the bottom of the freshly cut slit whilst sand is simultaneously deposited on top of the PCD throughout the slit depth. The key to minimising surface heave is the oscillation of the blade.

The AFT Rope Sandbander avoids intrusive and aggressive trenching, lifting or stripping of the turf. Re-instatement is minimal and the process is maintenance free.

A single green can typically be installed within a day, with play commencing immediately upon completion with only minimal disruption to the putting surface. When compared to traditional drainage schemes the installation cost is less but the surface drainage coefficiency is greater.

Save time and labour

Wiedenmann UK has launched new 3.2m and 4.4m scarifying rakes designed to save time and labour when it comes to refurbishment projects. Introduced in addition to the 1.6m and 2.1m wide versions, it comes with a newly-designed folding frame which for easy transportation.

Four rows of spring suspended verticutting tines remove dead leaves and lateral growth and are said to be highly effective at dislodging persistent thatch. High driving speeds of up to 12kph set the tines into rapid vibration so they also pull up thatch for collection. Designed so they never clog, they are finely spaced at just 20 mm apart. To change the verticutting depth the operator just puts down or lifts up the guiding wheels, which also helps set the level of aggressiveness.

Wiedenmann’s Super 500 sweeper/collector/scarifier has a ‘one-pass’ capability which makes it ideal for sports fields, says the company.

“Excellent at scarifying and collecting in just one visit, it’s another machine in the Wiedenmann armoury that keeps natural surfaces thatchfree,” points out Wiedenmann’s Chas Ayres.

“It can also remove grass right to the crown of the plant which can be a huge benefit during pitch regeneration. It also doubles as a pitch cleaner removing debris from the surface. At 1.6m wide and with a capacity of 2m³ it can work away from base for long periods without requiring emptying and when it does it can hydraulically discharge at heights of up to 2.1m giving the maintenance team and contractor lots of options.

Where compaction and thatch problems run deeper, Wiedenmann’s Terra Spike fleet comes into its own, says Chas.

“Wiedenmann has ten deep tine aerators some which penetrate down to 400mm. The Terra Spike XP in particular is favoured by contractors

requiring varying degrees of heave. When renovating a pitch the high traffic areas need most attention as that’s where compaction is at its worst.”

Heavy duty help

BLEC offers a number of

solutions for renovating and maintaining sports pitches. The BLEC Laser grader mid and heavy duty series is designed for the contractor who demands a strong and accurate grader to cope with demanding conditions and is suitable for tractors from 50-150hp.

All models are fitted with twin Danfoss proportional valves and a rear four-wheel new type offset wheel frame, with each pair of wheels controlled independently for dual grading. All graders are set up to accept any make of laser equipment, and if required BLEC can supply a complete package with training.

BLEC’s Multivator is capable of decompacting and top dressing by recycling buried soil/root zone up to the surface and incorporating back into the root structure, saving time and money importing materials.

Specially designed carbide faced blades, which can be spaced at 10 or 20cm lift the soil and leave any unwanted stones buried for a clean finish. A rear drag brush incorporates the soil dressing into the surface. An

The Multivator can also be used as a rotary de-compactor by fitting the optional smooth blades for a clean finish.

A seed hopper is also available for a one pass overseeding operation.

The Multivator can also be specified as a heavy duty version to suit tractors from 70125hp, which produces 1000kg of recycled soil per 100 square metres and can dig from 1018cm.

The tractor mounted BLEC Power Box Rake is designed as a landscape construction tool for cultivating, earth moving, grading and raking. At the heart of the unit is a carbide pointed tooth rotor which contra-rotates, pulverising and separating the debris from the soil, leaving a clean raked finish. The hydraulic bi-angling rotor windrows unwanted stones and debris and by folding down the side plates all the raked material can be gathered up. An optional laser kit can be fitted for accurate levelling and raking on sportsturf areas.

optional hydraulic rotary brush is available.

AFT Trenchers

Wiedenmann

Contractor case studies

Koro helps Vipers strike

The Koro by Imants Field Top Maker (FTM) from Campey Turf Care Systems has played a major role in the renovation of the Vipers RFC training pitch near Leicester.

Ian Reid owns and runs Matchfit Sportsturf – a Leicestershire contractor working with the Vipers. “High usage compounded by decades of extended play on the Vipers training pitch had badly worn the surface. Despite receiving regular maintenance, renovation and de-compaction, matches were still being cancelled,” explains Ian.

However, to remedy this, Ian set the Koro FTM fitted with a Universe rotor to not only remove organic matter from the pitch surface, but also to restore the surface levels by Koro-ing off the entire surface in one pass.

“The beauty of the Koro FTM fitted with the Universe rotor is in its versatility and effectiveness over its full working width, allowing a single pass operation,” says Ian. “It may appear a radical approach, but a few weeks later,

when the grass has re-grown and the pitch is effectively re-bornit’s amazing.”

Good surface hygiene is the key to eliminating the spread of poa annua and the success of the Koro FTM has been built on this premise. Alongside the Universe rotor is the new Terraplane which uses carbidetipped blades on the rotor to remove organic build-up. This leaves the top surface not only more hygienic than ever before, but crucially more durable.

The Vipers project was completed by spreading 120 tonnes of washed silica sand to the pitch surface, followed by solid tine aeration, brushing in sand and over-seeding with a top quality rye grass mixture. A bespoke fertiliser programme was established along with twice weekly mowing, maintaining the sward at a height of 30mmincreasing to 50mm at the start of the playing season.

Renovation puts Bolton RUFC in winning form

Duncan Ross sportsturf construction and drainage contractors has completed a major project to install drainage

and renovate the pitches at Bolton RUFC.

Four years ago Bolton RUFC would not have been able to stage a game following torrential rain. Despite the popularity of the club and the enthusiasm of the players – 50% of the current adult teams have come up from their own junior ranks – the constant cancellation of matches was beginning to take a heavy toll with more and more players losing interest or moving to other local clubs with better playing facilities.

Bolton RUFC took over the council site at Mortfield Pavilion 26 years ago and only employed some basic routine maintenance to help with general drainage and aeration.

Professional Sports Turf Design (PSD) Consultants was engaged and evaluated what needed to be done and Duncan Ross was chosen by PSD to undertake the work.

The first team pitch was completely re-structured, a new drainage system and pitch laid and a partial refurbishment of the second pitch and secondary drainage installed on the third. Boundary fencing completed the project giving in the words of club captain Les Towler: “A proper club which we can all be proud of.”

Since then pitches have been relaid and properly drained and not a single game has been cancelled due to bad weather or waterlogging. There have been fewer injuries and greater enjoyment at all levels of competition.

MD Duncan Ross is delighted that the new construction and remedial work has been so well received. “It is a big investment for any club. But now the pitches are open for use all year round and the quality of play is helped, not hindered by the turf.”

Terralift scores at Duns FC Duns Football Club in the Scottish Borders was suffering from serious compaction which had led to waterlogging, rendering the ground unplayable on its pitch at The Old High School and resulting in all games being played away. Using rotary decompactors on the pitch had little effect so Head Groundsman Scott Poole and Chairman Colin Pike sought an alternative solution from Terrain Aeration in February 2015. The company’s Terralift was brought in to break through the compaction plate.

The Terralift's probe is directly in front of the operator who can watch each probe insertion and resultant shot. He can see if the probe is taking a long time to hammer into the soil to one metre depth, aided by the JCB road breaker gun. In Duns’ case the ground was like concrete.

Once the probe has reached one metre, the operator fires the system which releases an air

Is the grass greener? With the vast number of perennial ryegrass cultivars available for use in the UK, selecting individual varieties to formulate a mixture can be a bewildering proposition, suggests Barenbrug’s Research and development manager David Greenshields.

“The spectrum could be divided between dark green cultivars and bright green ones and the two groups have additional large contrasts in a wide range of characteristics. Generally speaking, the dark-green types have originated from breeding programmes in other continents (eg, North America), whereas the bright green cultivars are more typically bred here in Europe.”

Use of the darker types, particularly in winter sports pitches, seems to be on the increase in the UK market; year-

blast and injects dried milled seaweed on the tail end of the blast. Over a period of time the dried seaweed expands and contracts with the moisture content in the soil and this movement helps to keep the airways open.

To assist the long term aeration process the probe holes are backfilled with an aggregate, which is inert and porous as well as being mower friendly, rather than pea shingle which could destroy mower blades. The operator uses two metre centre spacings on a staggered grid pattern, a proven practice whereby the soil is fractured and fissured, and each shot connects with the previous surrounding shots.

The club had taken photographs of the water ponding, where it

round darker green colour obviously seems an attractive proposition. But much of the dark green, North-American material is bred in areas with very harsh winters, he points out.

“The dark types persist by shutting down and go through a long period of winter dormancy in growth; they show less growth under low light intensity. They do have aesthetic value as they tend to maintain their colour better in winter months but this benefit is heavily offset by their inability to grow – and recover from wear – during this time.”

The bright green breeding material has generally originated in Europe, where selections are made more for winter-active growth. In a breeder’s trial subject to wear through the winter, those varieties that are still growing and are able to

would lay for a considerable time, and these helped pinpoint the areas needing treatment. Once probing began the club’s onlookers witnessed two metre high spurts of smelly, anaerobic water come flying out of the probe holes, showing that water was sitting beneath the surface where it can rot the grass roots and cause further damage to the pitch. The seaweed acts by swelling and allowing surface water to drain down the fissures created by the Terralift.

“The work has been so successful,” says club chairman Colin Pike, “we played our first game on the pitch within 17 days and won the match. There was concern, after five months under water, there would be a lot of damage to the surface but it played like a normal pitch.”

recover during this time will tend to fare best.

David adds: “They are simply better adapted to grow in low light levels and seem to be more efficient at using available light, particularly during the winter. New material from the South of France has recently emerged via the global Barenbrug breeding programmes and has proved particularly successful in UK trials. Barorlando, Barcristalla, Barillion and Bardorado show good winter activity. Barorlando and Barcristalla have an added benefit of a very rich bright green colour for all but the coldest periods of the year.”

These facts clearly point to the benefits of the predominant use of bright green cultivars in winter sports pitches in the UK, particularly in stadia environments where light levels are low.

Graden in the spotlight at Charterhouse demo day

The GS04 was originally designed for Cricket Squares but has now found a home on most sports surfaces. Offering a 0.4m cutting width and variable cutting depth from 0 – 45mm, this machine can remove up to 22% of a green in one treatment (depending on blade width and spacing).

The ingenious CSI is a scarifier/aerator with the ability to scarify to any depth from 1mm to 40mm, whilst using a gravity feed system to simultaneously backfill the grooves with either sand or a combination of sand and seed to improve drainage and rooting. Its floating head makes it perfect for undulating areas such as golf greens, tees and approaches.

Course Manager at Hankley Common Golf Club, Gareth Roberts, commented: “On the first pass of the Swing Wing I was amazed at the amount of material being removed. I also like the fact that the blade depth can be adjusted to suit any need. I was most impressed by the robust construction and speed of the machines.

“The CSI’s role in a fine turf maintenance programme would be invaluable - it goes deeper; rips out organic matter; back fills with sand and all in one pass.”

Charterhouse Machinery Enquiry 97

Following the announcement at SALTEX 2014 that they were to become exclusive UK distributors of Graden products, Charterhouse Turf Machinery recently invited members of the UK trade press to Hankley Common Golf Club.

Graden Industries is at the leading edge of quality specialist turf machinery. The company started out as a family business serving just the Australian Turf Industry, but over the years has branched out throughout the world.

Charterhouse Sales Manager Nick Darking said: "I honestly believe the Graden machines are one of maybe four key pieces of groundcare machinery which have had a profound effect on the industry. The phrase 'to Graden' has become a generic term, just like ‘to Verti-Drain’ has. The

phone has not stopped ringing since we took on the range last year.”

First up, John Fitzpatrick demonstrated the two tractor mounted models, the Swing Wing and GBS 1200. The Swing Wing is belt driven, available in two working widths - 1.5m and 2.0m, and is fitted with 3 individual floating heads. It is ideal for Greens, Tees and Fairways as well as Cricket Outfields and Squares.

The GBS 1200 is a 1.2m straight reeled verticutter ideal for flat areas such as Sports Pitches, Cricket Squares, Tennis Courts, Golf Tees and Approaches.

Next up came the two pedestrian models in the range, the GS04 ‘Original Graden’ and the critically-acclaimed Contour Sand Injection (CSI) unit.

11Multi-Clean Push Broom

New John Deere lawn tractors for 2015

For

contact Philip Bryant (Phil the Brush) Mobile: 074362292 Website: www.bemasweepers.co.uk

Howard Marshall Enquiry 100

John Deere is adding three new models to its extensive range of lawn tractors for 2015.

The X590 Multi-Terrain lawn tractor combines higher levels of power, performance and comfort, and is particularly suitable for larger areas of grass (over 8000m2) or more challenging terrain.

The new X115R lawn tractor is now John Deere’s entry level rear discharge/rear collect model. The high capacity 300-litre collector means faster work with fewer stops to empty the clippings, which is quickly done from the operator’s seat.

The X105 lawn tractor is now the smallest model, and the lowest priced, in John Deere’s established X100 range. Its compact size makes it ideally suited to smaller grass areas, and for manoeuvring in tight spaces like intricately landscaped gardens and through narrow gateways.

John Deere Enquiry 101

First DX530LC-3 in England

Forest Pennant Limited has purchased the first Doosan DX530LC-3 52 tonne crawler excavator in England for the company’s quarry in the Royal Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire.

Supplied by Kellands (Plant Sales) Ltd, the Authorised Dealer for the Doosan, Bobcat and Montabert ranges for South West England, the new Stage IIIB compliant DX530LC-3 excavator

has replaced an existing Doosan DX520LC model that had been working at the quarry for the last five years.

The quarry produces Royal Forest Pennant Natural Stone, a unique source of carboniferous Pennant sandstone with naturally hard wearing properties and exceptional whole life costs.

Forest Pennant Limited Enquiry 102

Farm and Forestry Equipment joins BRP’s network

Farm and Forestry Equipment, based in Inverness, is joining Bombardier Recreational Products’ (BRP) burgeoning UK dealership network to sell its Can-Am ATV (All Terrain Vehicle) range in the North of Scotland.

The partnership will enable the business to increase its product portfolio to meet the growing demand for utility ATVs for commercial use in the farming, shooting, forestry and estate management industries as well as

for recreational use in the Scottish Highlands.

All BRP’s vehicles are manufactured to a very high standard from the Rotax engines, which power the vehicles, to the innovative designs that improve the handling, comfort and versatility of the units and allow them to complete any task or overcome any terrain that is put in front of them.

BRP

Enquiry 105

New South African dealer showcases Air2G2

Campey Turf Care Systems has taken the GT Air2G2 Air Inject to South Africa to show how effectively it tackles problem greens. Assisted by Campey’s newly appointed South African dealer Nanquip, based at Mossel Bay in the Eastern Cape, the Air 2G2 has been showcased at a number of demonstrations, the first of which was at Fancourt Links, George, one of South Africa’s premier golf courses.

Campey Turf Care Systems, along with Nanquip Product Specialist Marcel Sonnekus, used the Air2G2 Inject on the turf nursery, where they were able to aerate the ground deeper than had ever been done before. The visitors were able to see movement beneath the green as the air travelled through the profile.

Campey Turf Care Systems

Enquiry 106

Grillo’s mowers keep collecting accolades

Grillo manufactures some of the industry’s most efficient cut and collect machines, including the FD2200.

This powerful 44hp machine is fitted with a 155cm cutter deck which houses twin contrarotating blades. Grass clippings are discharged rearwards into a unique designed impeller which in turn throws the cut grass into a 1200ltr hi-tip collector.

The FD 2200 has permanent hydraulic 4wd with on demand diff-lock and a built in slope sensor which will automatically engage the diff -lock if traction is lost whilst mowing on slopes.

An outstanding feature of all Grillo machines is their ability to

cut and collect in all weathers without blocking and yet still leave a very fine finish.

Smaller of the two is the FD1309 powered by a 31hp Yanmar engine and again with hydraulic 4wd, on demand diff-lock and slope sensor. The 132cm cutter deck is equipped with a hydraulic ram so that cutting heights can be adjusted whilst on the move.

Grass is directed into a rotating flail system which cuts the clippings up finely before ejecting them into its 900ltr hi-tip collector.

Grillo Enquiry 109

McConnel launches new PA5045 Power Arm

Spring clean with Etesia

Spring is traditionally the time to clean up paths, roadways and hard surfaces and pick up fallen leaves and twigs from grassed areas in preparation for the summer.

Since this is a seasonal job, it makes cost effective sense to take advantage of multi-functional equipment - especially in the current economic climate when budgets are tight.

With economy in mind, Etesia has a wide range of attachments which enable their Hydro 124, Hydro 100 and Hydro 80 ride-on mowers to carry out many tasksall-year-round. These machines can not only help spread precious funding; but also enable commercial end users to win new contracts.

One of the most popular accessories is the front-mounted sweeper for cleaning roadways, car parks, pathways, playgrounds and other hard surfaces.

When mowing grass, Etesia's ride-on rotaries offer commercial end users a unique anti-clog cutting and collecting system that provides outstanding performance, even in the wettest of conditions.

The addition of attachments such as the sweeper transforms the lawnmower into a host power source to drive a multitude of turfcare and other equipment all year round.

Etesia Enquiry 110

School grows with addition of new TYM tractor

Created for groundskeepers and local government contractors, the new PA5045 upgrades the reach of the existing 4.7m PA4745, offering operators a greater cutting range.

Driven by high-performance 45hp hydraulics, the machine is light, manoeuvrable, and easy to use. It is equally adept at hedgecutting and verge-mowing, is compatible with a range of cutting attachments, and offers

the power and versatility to handle tough jobs.

Weighing in at just 633kg the machine is compatible with smaller tractors of just 50hp and above (weight requirement 2,500kg).

McConnel’s UK sales manager Jon Webb said: “The PA5045 is ideal for customers with smaller tractors who still want all the benefits of 5.0m reach and powerful hydraulics.”

McConnel Enquiry 111

Independent prep school Spratton Hall has taken delivery of a new TYM T503 tractor – an investment that’s quickly shown its worth since it arrived earlier this year.

Situated in 50 acres of lush Northamptonshire countryside, the establishment has an exceptionally good reputation, both in terms of education and

the aesthetics of the school’s vast grounds.

Helping maintain this reputation is the job of head groundsman Doug McCarlie, who decided to demo a range of tractors when the need for a new vehicle arose.

“We tested out tractors from a few market leaders, including TYM, but quickly discovered that

the TYM T503 was the best fit for us,” explains Doug. “Not only did we find it offers great visibility, is straightforward to use and is exceptionally roomy, but the fact that TYMs are supplied by Lely UK was an additional bonus.

“Our new TYM is a pleasure to use. Whatever the job, the design of the cab makes it that

much more comfortable to use and the control system is fantastically simple to operate. Even with the snow plough fitted, you can still drive the vehicle using the same controllers, which is a real benefit.”

Little Wonder it’s cutting it with professionals

The Little Wonder Hydro BRC-26 brushcutter with hydrostatic drive is cutting it with professional landscapers, groundsmen and hire outlets. It rips through rough and tough weeds and brush at speeds up to 4.2mph with reduced fatigue for the operator. Constructed in welded steel with solid rod control and Honda GXV390 engine, this is a brushcutter built to last.

Schiller Grounds Care 0800 840 0888 lwdealer@littlewonder.uk.com www.littlewonder.uk.com

McConnel has unveiled a new 5.0m reach model for its popular 45-series Power Arms.

Royal visit at tractor plant

CNH Industrial hosted HRH The Earl of Wessex at a recent visit to the New Holland Agriculture, World Class Manufacturing facility in Basildon, Essex.

His Royal Highness enjoyed a private tour of the manufacturing site and met with a number of employees, including senior executives from CNH Industrial, workers and apprentices along the manufacturing line and staff working in non-manufacturing functions connected to the site

New Holland Enquiry 114

First ATT Dealer of the Year award goes to Thomas

The excellent performance of Thomas Sherriff during 2014 has seen them named as the ATT ‘Dealer of the Year’ by The Grass Group.

Thomas Sherriff & Co was established as a machinery manufacturer and dealer in 1816.

From 7 branches based throughout South Scotland and North Northumberland, they now deliver comprehensive sales, parts and service support for agricultural, amenity and consumer equipment.

Jeremy Vincent, General Manager at The Grass Group, added “This award is not only for their sales achievements in 2014 but also for their enthusiasm to the entire ATT range which is consistently reflected in their commitment and product knowledge, delivering excellent results and a high level of customer satisfaction”.

Polaris goes racing with Scrambler series

Polaris is known as the industry leader in off-road vehicles for farming, amenity, sports and leisure.

Now the maker of the Sportsman ATVs and Ranger UTVs is also taking the lead in the growing popularity of quad racing with the Polaris Factory Racing Team and the company’s powerful Scrambler machines.

For 2015, Polaris has established new relationships with some key affinity partners including Evans Cooling, ITP Wheels and Tyres, Fox Racing Shocks, DP Brakes, Fasst flex bars and Teixeira.

There is a team of six experienced quad riders all keen to put the machines to the test.

Assisting the team is Shane Watson, from Dirt Warz, who brings a wealth of experience and professionalism to the Team’s race logistics and activities.

The Polaris WOR Series is sure to be a great proving ground for the Scrambler in 2015 and the first race at Baden Hall in Staffordshire certainly lived up to expectations with podium finishes for the team. The Scrambler 1000 also made its mark in the challenging DQR (Dragon Quad Racing) event at Stourport-on-Severn taking more podium places. Polaris

SGM in mower appeal

In August 2014, SGM Contracts launched their brand new We Want Any Mower initiative online at www.sgm-uk.com.

The initiative was launched with a view to reducing machinery waste, to benefit the seller, who receives a fee for machinery that might otherwise have been discarded, and also to benefit the ongoing buyer, who will receive a fully refurbished machine that they might not otherwise have been able to purchase.

Over the past few months, SGM have received an excellent response to their ‘We Want Any Mower’ initiative.

‘We Want Any Mower’ is a simple and easy way for individuals and organisations to

sell their unwanted groundcare machinery and equipment for cash.

SGM is keen to attract various types of equipment, including grass cutting machinery, and they can provide potential sellers with an immediate valuation. In order to receive a valuation from SGM, machinery owners just have to fill in the simple online enquiry form that can be found at the ‘We Want Any Mower’ section of SGM’s website.

If you have a more specific query, you can email the company’s sales team directly at sales@sgmuk.com.

SGM Groundscare Enquiry 115

Lely expands with appointment of two new sales managers

As part of continued plans to build a specialist groundscare sales team, Lely UK has further strengthened its offering to councils, contractors and landscapers with the appointment of two new retail sales managers.

Stewart Jeffs, based in South Lincolnshire, joined the team to take on a role that sees him cover Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Leicestershire; while Daniel Lake, based in Norwich, has come on board to cover Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex, East Hertfordshire and North East London.

Together, Stewart and Daniel bring a wealth of sector knowledge and

experience to the roles. Offering the full range of groundscare machinery distributed by Lely, including Toro grounds mowers and TYM tractors, the job sees them advise everyone from local authorities to private schools on which machines will work best for their needs.

A highly experienced turf machinery salesman, Stewart has worked in groundscare since 1984, during which he’s enjoyed sales roles with both manufacturers and dealers, the latter of which allowed him build extensive knowledge of all industry brands – including Toro. Equally, Daniel has been impressed by the quality of the

machinery he now has the chance to represent. Familiar with Toro from an early age, he started his career as a greenkeeper at Western Park Golf Club in Norfolk at just 17 years old. From there, he went on to build experience in the groundscare sector, enjoying roles that included working for dealerships.

Selling a wide selection of mowers and garden equipment, Daniel was quickly able to develop strong customer relationships and expanded his knowledge of the Toro product range beyond golf.

Lely UK Enquiry 120

Terex goes big with dumper order

Terex Construction, has announced its largest site dumper order of the year. The contract, which comes as part of an ongoing relationship with the UK’s leading independent hire company – GAP Group – will see a total of 460 one, three, six and nine-tonne Terex site dumpers supplied throughout 2015.

Manufactured at Terex Construction’s Coventry facility, the specialist Power Tip and Swivel Tip site dumper units will be used in a wide variety of high-profile construction projects. The equipment will help to both expand and rejuvenate GAP’s construction fleet, providing high quality rental units for customers nationwide.

Terex

Construction Enquiry 121

Scrub stands no chance with Wessex

The answer to clearing areas of dense vegetation and heavy scrubland is to find yourself a rotary slasher tough enough for the task.

One of the originals, and still highly rated today, the Wessex Scrubmaster has an enviable reputation for serious scrub clearing ability.

www.psdgroundscare sales@psdgroundscare.com Phone 08450 773773

In fact, Wessex say, they still receive calls for spare parts for Scrubmasters over thirty years old. Powering its way unstoppably through dense brush and scrub in woodlands and forest areas across the UK and Europe, the Scrubmaster is certainly impressive to watch.

Little stands in the way of this slasher with its heavy gauge steel plate and exceptionally high performance drive system. You have the choice of a blade assembly with four heavy-duty reversible blades mounted on the large hardened steel square plate, delivering over two thousand one ton impact cuts a minute.

It will slash its way through woody material, effortlessly bringing down scrub, and it can be used for controlling grass and weed growth. In areas where there are tree stumps and rocks which could damage blades you can turn to the chain cutters which comprise three high tensile chains on a circular boss. This will lacerate woody and fibrous scrub growth and accelerate its breakdown.

The Scrubmaster also has adjustable side skids with replaceable wear shoes and the skids are positioned so the working width is marginally less than the overall width, allowing you to cut close to stumps and trees in plantations.

The fully floating headstock allows the slasher to be dragged across rough ground with minimal stress to the frame of the machine and a heavy galvanized chain lifts it out of work.

International Enquiry 123

Wessex

Better Safe Than Sorry

Working beyond the limits of equipment on steep inclines could be a thing of the past following the introduction of Tiltmaster to the UK groundcare sector. The three different models available can be quickly fitted to any machine providing a constant supply of working angle information to ensure the operator stays working safely within their machines capabilities. The three different models are Tiltmaster C for Compact Tractors (0-15 degrees), Tiltmaster D (0-25degrees) and Tiltmaster Extreme for specialist machines (0-45 degrees). Tiltmaster, now available from as little as £34 plus VAT, is a simple and effective method of providing additional health and safety data to users of groundcare and other machinery.

Simon Richard Ltd Tel: 01450 860774 Email: simon@simon-richard.co.uk

APRIL 2015

Landscape Amenity

PRODUCT UPDATE

Veolia is the UK’s largest compost company!

Veolia’s 14 production sites around the UK turn 400,000 tonnes of green waste into soil conditioner every year.

Veolia has now launched an extended range of ProGrow, our ecofriendly, peatfree compost and soil conditioner for landscapers and gardeners. It is designed to improve soil quality as well as helping the environment.

Manufactured in the UK, the high quality ecofriendly products are suitable for everything from beds to hanging baskets and from lawns to plant pots.

● Free delivery for most of regions in UK

● 100 collection points

● 100% peat free in compliance with government regulations

● Made from 100% organic materials

We transform green waste from your local area into rich, peatfree soil conditioner that puts the essential nutrients back into your soil.

Enjoy a big bulk discount, without the hassle of transporting bulky loads home, by ordering our 1 cubic metre bulky bag online today from £55 delivered *

Registration opens for Turf Maintenance LIVE event

A new event involving five of the UK turf industry’s leading suppliers is to take place in May

Turf Maintenance LIVE will be showcasing and demonstrating equipment from BLEC Global,

Ransomes, Rigby Taylor, Shelton Drainage and Weidenmann UK.

To be held on May 12 and 13 2015 at Deeping Rangers Football Club, Market Deeping near Peterborough, visitors will be able

to meet with suppliers and have the opportunity to see the latest innovations and equipment in action. BIGGA and IOG members will be able claim CPD points for their attendance. Entrance to the event is free but pre-registration is

essential and this can be done by either telephoning 0141 814 3366 or completing a registration form online at www.turfmaintenancelive.com.

Alpha Rail celebrates 30 year anniversary

When a UK based manufacturing company marks its 30th anniversary, it is an achievement that should definitely be celebrated.

Alpha Rail Limited, based in Kirkby in Ashfield Nottingham and its 40 staff, five of which will also be celebrating 30 years’ service, will halt production briefly to celebrate this impressive milestone anniversary.

Managing Director Steve Shirley said: “Originally the company was focused on selling pedestrian guardrail to local authorities, but had to adapt as the market changed and moved into the manufacture of metal railings, gates and other bespoke metalwork. I am really proud that we have built a reputation based on the quality of our products, our ability to create bespoke designs and our friendly service.”

The company has now embarked on the Growth Accelerator Programme, a £200m initiative launched by the government to help businesses grow.

Alpha Rail Enquiry 141

Veolia Enquiry 139

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 140