Landscape & Amenity Product Update December 2017

Public name Blackpool’s Stanley Park as the best in the UK

Blackpool’s Stanley Park, has been voted by the public as the UK’s Best Park at the prestigious annual Fields in Trust Awards 2017.

Designed by celebrated landscape architect Thomas Mawson in the 1920s, the park which boasts an Italian marble fountain, boating lake, bandstand, Medici lions, Italian gardens and Art Deco styled café, has scooped the headline award at the annual Fields in Trust Awards 2017.

Each year the Fields in Trust Awards showcases some of the UK’s best open spaces and shines a light on the efforts and achievements of the people whose tireless dedication ensures that these vital outdoor spaces can be enjoyed by the public.

Now in their sixth year, the Awards are organised by The Fields in Trust Charity, which counts His Royal Highness The Duke of Cambridge as its President and protects the UK’s vital open spaces, from sports pitches to children’s playgrounds, bicycle trails and country parks, safeguarding them for future generations.

Parks and Green Spaces Minister Marcus Jones said: “The public support shown for this park and all the finalists highlights just how much the residents of Blackpool and local communities more widely care about their treasured green spaces.

“Through the new Parks Action Group we have a great opportunity to ensure our parks remain places to be proud of for generations to come.”

Other successes of the night included Kimberley Mpukusa who scooped the Young Champion Award. An avid tennis player, Kimberley has been actively involved in the BME Sport Cymru project, engaging and inspiring women and young people from BME communities. Her achievements in tennis alongside the challenges she has overcome in her life, have been an inspiration to those around her.

Friends Group of the Year, an award which recognises the contribution of passionate communities to their local parks,

Furnitubes complete Westgate project

Furnitubes has successfully completed their most ambitious and innovative project to date, with a range of bespoke planters and seating solutions for the rooftop terraces of the £440 million redevelopment of Westgate Oxford.

Designed around a kitchen garden concept, unique outdoor spaces were created for 12 bars and restaurants,

offering impressive views of the Oxford skyline.

Planters were manufactured predominantly in steel, some with additional timber cladding and others with integrated seating and lighting. Since its opening the initial feedback has been very positive from the client and public alike.

Furnitubes Enquiry 2

was awarded to Friends of Angel Meadow, Manchester. The group was formed in 2004 to campaign for the park’s regeneration, and since then has transformed an abandoned, unloved site into a green retreat amid the bustle of the city.

Commenting on this year’s Awards, Helen Griffiths, added:

“These awards give us the opportunity to shine a light on some of the UK’s most beautiful green spaces up and down the country.

“Despite their undeniable contribution to the happiness and health of our communities parks and outdoor spaces are often undervalued. This annual event

not only gives the public the opportunity to champion their favourite park, but allows us to showcase some of the people and organisations that work tirelessly to ensure the upkeep and community enjoyment of these wonderful spaces.”

Fields in Trust Enquiry 1

Customise the new RANGER with Polaris accessories

The brand-new RANGER XP 1000 has made its debut this year following extensive development and testing.

With the first units arriving in dealerships, alongside the new vehicle there will be a range of 200 Polaris engineered parts and accessories for the model so owners can be sure that the vehicle has what they need to make ride further, work longer and carry out tasks easily.

Andreas Geisinger, Manager of the EMEA Parts, Gear, Accessories Business at Polaris Industries Inc., said: “We pride ourselves at Polaris for developing our range of parts and accessories alongside the vehicle itself.

“With the new RANGER XP 1000 Cab System, we bring quality and protection against the noise and dust to a new level, complete with automotive quality interior, this is simply the best cab on the market.”

The Ranger Pro Shield Cab system has benefited from

significant improvements to become the best cab system in the industry – keeping out three times more dust, two times more rain and one and a half times more noise out of the cab than the competition.

Check with your local Polaris ORV dealer to discover the range of accessories available.

Polaris Enquiry 3

“This means, not only are the accessories subject to the intense testing and development that the vehicle undergoes.

That time of year is fast approaching again. It is the time of receiving presents you do not want and making resolutions you know you will not keep.

Too cynical? You are probably right, especially given the fact that 2017 has proved to be quite a successful and important year for the industry and 2018 promises more of the same. From a plethora of significant new product launches, to the increasingly high-profile campaign to secure long-term funding and commitment for the future of our parks and green spaces, the last 12 months have offered a lot of positives for our industry.

Times remain challenging and the political and economic outlook remains uncertain. Yet whereas other industries have suffered during 2017, our industry has gone from strength to strength. The focus on improving training and education, as well encouraging the next generation into the industry through innovative apprenticeship programmes, bodes well for 2018 and beyond too. This positivity was very much in evidence at SALTEX 2017 in early November. Both days proved extremely busy for exhibitors and the IOG’s education and seminar programme was very popular.

The signs for BTME 2018 in January are also positive and we will preview the event in our January issue, due out early in the New Year. A near sell-out in terms of the exhibition halls, BIGGA has once more put together an excellent looking education programme, meaning the Harrogate buzz will be very much in evidence again. So, this is no time for cynicism. We have big plans for 2018 that reflect the continued growth of the industry.

Paul

Capel Manor College wins key horticulture apprenticeship contract

Capel Manor College is set to deliver high quality education and training for the prestigious Royal Parks Horticultural Apprenticeship Programme in a new three-year training programme specifically designed to support horticultural Apprentices.

“Our Royal Parks are vital components of London’s green infrastructure and they significantly contribute to making London one of the world’s finest capital cities and are loved by tourists and Londoner’s alike.

The Royal Parks’ Apprentices play an important part in helping maintain and develop the Royal Parks and Capel is delighted to be working with The Royal Parks to continue and enhance their success” says Malcolm Goodwin, Capel’s Principal.

“We do not underestimate the importance of this relationship and know it extends our credentials and expertise for supporting green space, parks and zoos across the whole of Greater London.”

Scheme receive first-hand training at one of the eight Royal Parks in central and Greater London.

They will also study for qualifications in the horticultural industry at the College oneday a week receiving tuition and support from their highly knowledgeable and experienced teaching team and attend specialist master classes with experts from The Royal Parks and the Royal Parks Guild.

Dennis Clarke, Head of Park Services, The Royal Parks, said: “We’re pleased to partner with Capel to train our new apprentices - and potentially the park managers of the future.

“There are an estimated 77 million annual visits to the parks, so it’s vital we train the best new talent to the highest standards to deliver world class horticulture and to continue to provide unparalleled opportunities for enjoyment, exploration and healthy living in the heart of London.”

STIHL TIMBERSPORTS World Championshipheads to UK for first time

The 2017 STIHL TIMBERSPORTS World Championships, which took place in Lillehammer, concluded with the announcement that next year’s Championship will take place at the Echo Arena Liverpool on October 19 and 20 2018.

Councillor Malcolm Kennedy, Lord Mayor of Liverpool, was presented with a wooden plaque by Wolfgang Zahn, Head of Research and Development on the STIHL Advisory Board, in the official handover at the finale of this year’s championships.

The STIHL TIMBERSPORTS World Championship sees the best athletes from across the globe compete in a series of woodchopping challenges utilizing axes and saws.

The sport was founded in 1985, and includes six different disciplines – the Underhand

Chop, the Stock Saw, the Standing Block Chop, the Single Buck, the Springboard and the Hot Saw. Over 5,500 spectators attended this year’s event in Norway, with millions worldwide tuning in to the action on TV. STIHL TIMBERSPORTS® is in fact recognized as one of the longest running shows on ESPN.

Athletes from over 20 nations will be battling it out in Liverpool next year for the Individual and Team titles. In the team event on Friday 19th October, the national teams will compete against each other in a knockout system, where the disciplines of Stock Saw, Underhand Chop, Single Buck and Standing Block Chop are completed by four athletes in a relay. The world’s top twelve athletes will then compete against one another in all six disciplines as part of the individual competition on

Saturday 20th October. In each discipline the competitor is awarded points according to their achieved time, with the athlete achieving the highest number of points declared the Individual World Champion.

Next year will be the first time that the World Championship will be hosted in the UK, with ‘Team GB’ looking to make the most of the home advantage, whilst the 2017 individual winner Jason Wynyard and team competition winners New Zealand will be hoping to retain their titles.

Simon Hewitt, Head of Marketing from STIHL added: “The popularity of the sport in the UK is growing exponentially, therefore the UK is an obvious choice to host the next World Championship event.

“We are thrilled that Liverpool will be hosting as they are incredibly passionate about their sport and we know the city will give a warm welcome to the athletes travelling from all over the world to compete.

“A STIHL TIMBERSPORTS live event really is a fantastic experience and we look forward to introducing the Original Extreme Sport and these world class athletes to a whole new audience.”

STIHL Enquiry 6

New £100,000 boost for natural grass pitches

The Institute of Groundsmanship has announced its new Grounds4Sport programme with an initial backing of £100,000 over the next three years to improve the quality and promote the benefits of natural turf sports surfaces.

Grounds4Sport will not only aim to develop the IOG’s National Framework for Natural Turf – which will match an innovative Pitch Grading System with appropriate educational standards for those who maintain playing surfaces, from grassroots to elite professional level - but it will also set out to re-invigorate

a passion for turf by offering integrated learning platforms using online options as well as practical help.

Building on the lessons learned from the ongoing IOG-led Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme, which has found widespread pitch compaction problems married with a lack of knowledge and training in pitch maintenance, Grounds4Sport is essentially “a movement and force for good natural turf practice”, says Geoff Webb, the IOG’s chief executive.

IOG Enquiry 8

Apprentices participating in this Royal Parks Apprenticeship

Capel Manor College Enquiry 7

Makita’s new factory service centre and training academy has a national role

Makita UK has opened their first regional Factory Service Centre (FSC) & Training Academy in Glasgow’s Govan commercial district to support the rapidly expanding market penetration of the professional power tool range in Scotland and Northern England.

Whilst this new facility is already providing a valuable regional role the FSC has already been awarded the national responsibility for the secure environment of servicing Makita’s comprehensive range of dust extraction machines.

The Factory Service Centre & Training Academy covers nearly 1000m³ on South Street in the G14 area and delivers technical repairs and maintenance services for the full range of Makita products, including all mains and cordless construction machines, and the rapidly expanding range of grounds care tools, including petrol engine products.

Training is a cornerstone of Makita’s marketing success ensuring that both authorised distributors and operators are fully conversant with the power tools, how to obtain the best

performance from the machines and how to maintain them for efficiency and productivity.

Makita offers a full itinerary of training courses covering the extensive product range. A key course: The Correct and Safe Use of Handheld Power Tools is a City & Guilds accredited course which offers either a user certificate or instructor certificate upon successful completion of the course.

The theory element of courses is held in a lecture theatre, followed by the essential hands-on practical work which is carried out in specially adapted and fully equipped training workshops.

Courses, including Health & Safety related and Correct Use, are of 1 – 2 days duration.

Any CITB certificated courses, which may include a combination of in-house and onsite training, relate to Abrasive Wheel training; an instructor’s course or user course. Gas Nailer user training, chainsaw cross cutting and service courses, are also available.

Makita Enquiry

Club trials enriched biochar to eliminate fungicide use

A new turf improver with roots in traditional green keeping is arming course managers with a natural alternative to ever restricted fungicides and chemical fertilisers.

Carbon Gold’s Enriched Biochar Soil Improver is a horticultural form of charcoal blended with optimum levels of fungi, bacteria and trace minerals, and is approved by EU certification bodies for organic growing.

David Chammings, Amenity Specialist for Sherriff Amenity, a division of Agrovista UK, has been the Chairman of Greens at Okehampton Golf Club for the past three years.

His position and experience allow him to trial innovative techniques on different areas of the course, and he approached Carbon Gold, keen to be the fi rst to trial biochar on golf course greens.

Glyphosate given last minute reprieve by the EU

The EU has granted a five-year reprieve to the use of glyphosate as a weedkiller just weeks before the deadline of the existence licence.

Following months of wrangling, the EU countries voted to renew the licence despite environmental concerns.

The proposal at the EU Commission’s Appeal Committee got 18 votes in favour and nine against, with one abstention.

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Professor John Moverley, Independent Chairman of the Amenity Forum, welcomed the decision and said: “It is an important active ingredient used in the amenity sector and has been proved to be safe to use following extensive analysis and review.

“The Forum always advocates an integrated approach to weed control utilising all methods available, cultural, biological, mechanical and chemical. However glyphosate remains in many situations the most cost effective and efficient method ensuring safe, healthy and sustainable amenity spaces and

sports surfaces fit for purpose and keeping Britain moving.”

The Commission says the new five-year licence will be ready before the current one expires on 15 December. However, France plans to ban the use of glyphosate within three years.

The UK was among the states in favour of glyphosate renewal. The EU Commission says the current proposal on the weedkiller “enjoys the broadest possible support by the member states while ensuring a high level of protection of human health and the environment”.

Amenity Forum Enquiry 13

In 2016, Stuart Entwhistle joined as Course Manager, and together he and David devised a trial outline to test how Carbon Gold’s enriched biochar would perform on specific areas of the course, in the hope of finding a new solution to old problems.

A full review of the trials will appear in the Professional Groundscare supplement of January’s issue.

Carbon Gold Enquiry 11

Trilo S3 makes light work of leaf clearance

Any machinery that makes time-consuming tasks more manageable is desirable and in the area of leaf clearance, a Trilo S3 is just that.

At 617 acres, Keele University’s single-site campus is the largest in Europe. With woodland, gardens, sports facilities, halls of residence and academic areas to maintain the in-house maintenance team of 12 have their work cut out - that’s where the Trilo S3 comes in.

Jane Barker has been Head of Grounds at Keele University for 3 years but her knowledge of Trilo kit pre-dates this. “I’ve worked in grounds for the last 20 years, including for the MoD at Catterick Garrison, which is where I first came across the Trilo brand. We worked with

a contractor at the time who used Trilo equipment and I was immediately impressed.”

Upon Jane joining Keele, leaf collection was a task that was still done by hand, meaning it was both very labour intensive and tedious for the staff involved.

“With over 4,500 deciduous trees on our site, generating millions of leaves, the clearance of these would very often go right through the winter and into the spring.”

“One of my first decisions here was to invest in a Trilo S3 vacuum sweeper. Though it was greeted with initial scepticism based on past experiences of similar machinery, very quickly indeed they were all converted and were singing its praises.”

Headland and Bayer provide technical update on trials

Ongoing and future management of the pathogen Microdochium nivale was one of the hot topics that greenkeepers discussed at the recent STRI annual Trial Event, held in Bingley, West Yorkshire.

Having actively researched and trialled products to suppress the disease for over 10 years, Headland Amenity, along with Bayer, were some of the leading contributors on the topic.

Historically, Iprodionebased products have been the main approach to deal with Microdochium nivale, applied curatively, when the first stages of the disease are seen. Whilst at the time of writing, fungicide products containing Iprodione are still available to use, it has been announced that its withdrawal is now imminent and we will soon be without this valuable tool to control turf disease.

David Howells, Northern Area Manager, explains the

alternatives. “With climate and legislation changes, preventative disease management will have to be the way forward.

“Headland Amenity predicted these issues many years ago and has over 10 years of independent trialwork to support effective, alternative preventative strategies, incorporating both fungicides and non-fungicidal products.

“STRI Trials and feedback from Turf Managers have long shown the beneficial effects of using Headland’s 20-20-30 tank mix to minimise disease levels when applied as part of a preventative programme. This consists of a tank mix of plant hardeners and elicitors, Liquid Turf Hardener, Seamac ProTurf and Turfite. For example, during the autumn of 2016, control trial plots were hit with 75% Microdochium nivale disease pressure. Plots treated with 20-20-30 tank mix alone, prior to disease establishment, showed a 50% reduction in this activity.

Three-day round trip proves invaluable

After embarking on a threeday round journey to attend a Dennis and SISIS bowling green maintenance seminar in Perth, Scotland, Mike Bailey - secretary and treasurer of the Lerwick Outdoor Bowling Club, feels that the club has benefitted in more ways than one.

Designed to help club greenkeepers and volunteers maintain their bowling greens, the popular seminars have been credited for improving the greens at numerous bowls clubs throughout the country.

“When I gave my report about the trip to our Committee, the idea about a new multi-purpose machine with easily changed cassettes really appealed to them and a fund raising programme was set up with a view to purchasing a Dennis FT510,” explains Mike.

The Dennis FT510 is highly regarded by many who tend to

bowling greens and it is easy to see why. With a 51cm working width, the FT510 provides its user with comfort, flexibility and excellent performance.

A true sense of control is obtained through the full variable speed on the rear roller and the drive means that power will not be lost when carrying out tougher jobs such as scarification.

Available with five-bladed and ten-bladed cutting cylinders the machine can be matched to any situation and the interchangeable cassettes can be speedily changed without the requirement of tools.

The range of 11 different cassettes mean that one machine can be used for several key maintenance tasks including scarifying, verticutting or brushing.

Dennis Enquiry 18

“As we lose one ‘old chemistry’ active ingredient, a new one, Fluopyram, comes to the UK.

“From a new chemical group of fungicides known as SDHI’s, Fluopyram is an acropetal penetrant, which means it can enter the plant through roots, shoots or leaves, and moves up through the plant to provide protective activity.

It can be found in Bayer’s new Exteris Stressgard product, alongside Trifloxystrobin and the unique ‘Stressgard’ technology which provides plant protection against stress situations resulting in a visibly healthier looking sward.”

Headland Amenity is a primary supplier of Exteris Stressgard alongside another Bayer product, Dedicate – a systemic fungicide which can be used preventatively at the earliest sign of disease. Alternating applications of these two products assists in reducing any potential resistance risk.

“Moving forwards, whilst Iprodione is still on the shelf as a back-up, now is the perfect time to be putting together an integrated strategy combining

good cultural practice, managing sward compositions and implementing a preventative fungicidal programme to ensure your

facility is prepared for what lies ahead,” he added.

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2.3 meter working widths.

P R OFE S S ION A L GR A DE T

spring-longer

Front or rear mounted professional roadside mower. Available in 1.6, 2 and

Headland Amenity Enquiry

Top quality grouting for a top quality paving solution

The owners had a new pool with top quality porcelain tiles selected for the paved terrace surround and wanted to be sure that the pointing they used was going to be durable in this environment, particularly in that it would not discolour or stain the tiles. Plus, the architect was concerned that it was suitable for the narrow joints between these larger format pavers.

After researching the subject with their paving suppliers they found GftK’s vdw 815+ Paving Joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape, which is undoubtedly the best pointing to use on such porcelain projects.

GftK’s vdw 815+ is quick and easy to install by wet-slurry application, which also means no waiting for dry weather to prepare, grout, cure and go into service.

It is a unique, ‘state of the art’ material based on epoxy-bound, graded sands, purpose designed for narrow (3-5mm x >20mm deep) joints in quality porcelain and prestige natural stone paving.

GftK’s vdw 815+ is none staining (unlike cement based or gun-applied materials), and wellproven to be very durable in this type of environment.

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 20

Winter wood care made easy with Safeguard’s Roxil range

Timber protection and ‘wood winterisation’ has now made easy thanks to Roxil Wood Protection Cream from Safeguard Europe – the UK’s leading specialist in damp-proofing and waterproofing technology.

The cream forms part of the company’s high-performance Roxil landscaping protection range, which also includes Roxil Wood & Patio Cleaner and Roxil Patio Cream.

Roxil Wood Protection Cream is a silicone cream emulsion used to invisibly treat absorbent wood with a single coat application, protecting it from the effects of damp and moisture. The benefits

of an application of Roxil Wood Protection Cream to timber, such as sheds, fences or garden furniture, include: improved appearance; increased resistance to warping, decay and rot; increased resistance to dirt and a reduction in mould and algae growth.

Popular Heritage Bin has new suit of clothes

Leafield Environmental’s

Square Heritage hooded litter bin is being re-launched with a host of new features but still maintaining the traditional style that has made it so popular.

One of the most durable litter bins available, thanks to the double wall construction throughout the entire bin, the Heritage’s outer walls now sport ridges to prevent unwanted fly posting but the improvements are more than just skin deep.

Personalisation panels now feature on each of the four faces and each can now be enhanced with a framed polycarbonate poster cover to carry advertising promotional material or sponsorship.

All four faces have moulded chamfered apertures with extended lips that direct the litter into the 115litre plastic liner, although a galvanised steel liner is available as an option. Now, for the first time, a plate is available to blank off an aperture when the

bin is to be sited against a wall. For those sited in coastal areas, optional pest flaps deter nuisance seagull intruders.

For smokers, optional metal stubber plates and a new 1litre ashtray with quick release emptying mechanism are offered.

To bring the Square Heritage bins completely up-to-date they are ‘sensor ready’. They can now accommodate the fill-level sensors that turn them into Smart Bins and provide authorities with the intelligence necessary to make their litter collection operations greener and more efficient.

Leafield Enviromental Enquiry 23

Snickers bodymapping climate control workwear

A change of season means a change of focus on what you wear on site, so Snickers FLEXIWork, RUFFWork, LITEWork and ALLROUND Workwear ensures you keep your cool when the heat is on or warm and comfortable when the temperature drops.

Interweaving 37.5® Technology fabric into Snickers’ working clothes means that you’ve got a wide choice of waterproof and windproof Jackets, mid-layer Fleeces and Stretch Hoodies.

Plus base-layer Undergarments, Gloves and Headgear that excel at ventilation and moisture transportation to keep you

working comfortably wherever you are on site.

Enquiry 21

Makita adds pin nailer, multi-cutter and fan

Makita has added three new tools to the increasingly popular 10.8v CXT range in which the compact size of these high performance tools is proving valuable for confined space operations.

The new Makita PT354 CXT Pin Nailer can fire five alternative lengths of 23 gauge (0.6mm) nails. The magazine will hold 100 pieces of either 15, 18, 25, 30 or 35mm long nails. The Makita CP100D CXT Multi Cutter has an automatic selfsharpening rotary blade that runs

up to 300 rpm and has a 6mm cutting capacity.

The new Makita CF100D CXT portable, 180mm fan has three speed settings, giving a maximum air speed of 180 m/min in the highest setting, then 150 m/min and 120 m/min in the medium and low settings respectively, with corresponding run times when powered by the Makita 4.0Ah 10.8v Li-ion battery of 275 mins, 380 mins and 630 mins.

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Snickers

Dav d Keegan Garden Design

Safeguard Enquiry 22

Makita Enquiry

Weedingtech expands offering with new lance launch

Weedingtech continues to respond to market demand with the launch of their Wide Head lance.

The light-weight aluminium lance enables operators to apply 350mm band of foam at any one time.

Outputs of 750m squared per hour are expected in open spaces. The Wide Head lance is just one from an increasing list of optional extras by Weedingtech.

Continued development and market response are at the forefront of the company’s

vision, offering end users pioneering green solutions.

Weedingtech are fast being recognised globally as the most economically viable, environmentally-friendly solution for invasive species control, moss and algae removal and now street cleaning solutions.

Year-round use of the Foamstream system and their multi-purpose lance range offers end users versatility and the opportunity to spread costs throughout the year, reducing the overheads of owning capital equipment.

Weedingtech offer favourable finance packages for a wide variety of sectors. Looking to further increase the distribution of their product range Weedingtech would like to hear from any retail partners seeking a green opportunity.

Weedingtech Enquiry 28

Water made irrigation ready by Otterbine at equipment testing centre

Otterbine’s High Volume aerator has been installed in the golf practice area in The R&A’s Equipment Testing Centre at Kingsbarns, Scotland, to keep the water well-aerated and the build-up of algae to a minimum.

Paul Kimber from Kimber Golf, golf course architect and contractor working with The R&A on the facility, says: “Otterbine was considered a good choice to aerate the water for irrigating the practice area, based on the good company it keeps under Reesink Turfcare distributorship.

“Reliable after-sales service was important and we know through our work with Reesink and its Toro products this is what we’d get. Otterbine is providing us with the high quality solution for an important client we would expect.”

And that solution is clean and healthy water. Callum Oliphant, managing director of Applied Irrigation, one of Scotland’s

leading irrigation specialists, who worked with The R&A and Kimber Golf on making this product choice, says: “Irrigation is vital to keep the greens in the best condition so tests can be performed on a true playing surface and clean healthy water is essential for that. One pond feeds the entire underground irrigation tank so we knew the product we chose had to be able to shift a good quantity of water.”

Otterbine is the only manufacturer to have oxygen transfer and pumping rates independently

tested and published on its aeration systems with the High Volume offering the highest in the industry. Moving an impressive 3.3lbs or 1.5kg of oxygen per horsepower hour and pumping over 900GPM or 198 m 3/hr, Otterbine’s experience is obvious in the performance and results of the High Volume. Constructed from stainless steel, thermoplastics and with a rugged low speed motor, this system is built to deliver results no matter what the aquatic environment.

Otterbine Enquiry 30

Green-tech launch new anchoring system

Green-tech has launched a new range of specialist tree anchoring kits, specifically developed in partnership with Anchor Systems (International) Ltd, the leading manufacturer of ground anchoring systems.

Richard Kay, Green-tech chairman said after an extensive R&D period, the new tree anchoring kits were ready to release.

“They are borne from the extensive civil engineering, ground reinforcement and utility knowledge of The Anchor Systems team and our own wealth of knowledge that comes from supplying anchor systems to the landscape industry for nearly 25 years,” he added.

Extensive feedback and first-hand experience has given Green-tech a unique insight into installer needs and pitfalls with available systems. The Anchor Systems

team have been able to address these to design and manufacture a robust and reliable system that meets all end-user requirements.

Hadley Smith, Operations Director from Anchor Systems (International) Ltd comments: “Anchor Systems operates throughout Europe and draws on two decades of experience in geotechnical and structural stabilisation. With our technical support, advice, design specification and site testing

services we have been able to produce a range of high quality anchoring systems for Greentech that will meet the needs of landscape architects, contractors, designers and clients.”

Richard continues: “The tree anchoring kits are fully supported by technical drawings, method statements, installation videos and site visits to assist with initial installations.”

The biggest Mobilane WallPlanter in the UK

The architecture in Bracknell town centre has been drastically updated by a new £240 million retail site.

A true central focal point within this next generation of shopping and leisure experiences in Bracknell town centre is an 800m expanse of Mobilane WallPlanter, creating a stunning tapestry along the car park and walkways, providing both beauty and function, shielding an otherwise bland car park façade whilst also allowing unhindered ventilation.

Constructed of stainless steel troughs and planted with Mobilane Green Screens, a 200 metre LivePanel wall guides shoppers along the thoroughfare and offers an extra

natural aspect within the confines of a shopping mall, peppered with semi-mature trees. This continues the green commitment around the centre and along The Avenue, the main thoroughfare within the shopping zone. The LivePanel feature is a superb accompaniment to the WallPlanter and runs alongside the new Marks and Spencer store, opened since July 2017. The WallPlanter

and LivePanel were expertly installed by Hedera Screens.

Its modernity and elegance is enhanced by Mobilane green systems. This majestic green transformation is such an important development in the region, creating a sustainable, natural environment within Bracknell town centre.

Mobilane Enquiry 31

Development’s contemporary yet timeless theme achieved by Tobermore

As one of the UK’s largest residential developers, Taylor Wimpey projects are designed and constructed to the highest standards and this wasn’t any different with The Ladbroke Grove in Chelsea, London.

The developer worked with UK and US architect, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, in designing the lavish apartments at The Ladbroke Grove which required stylish hard landscaping materials that would complement the brick buildings on site.

Tobermore held the ideal solution with the provision of Pembury block paving, Textured Flags and Mayfair Step Flags.

Having worked with Tobermore on other projects, Taylor Wimpey reviewed a variety of Tobermore paving samples

provided by the Tobermore South East Sales team.

Tobermore’s Pembury, a versatile block paving product with a textured surface finish, and Textured Flags, a unique paving slab with a granular surface, was specified for the project. The blended colour of Bracken from the Pembury range and the soft colour of Buff from the Textured Flags range were chosen as a complementary colour combination to go alongside the dark brick facade of the apartment buildings.

Providing continuity between the flat and raised areas, Tobermore’s Mayfair Step Flags with delineation markings was chosen as a step solution. The product was specified in the colour of Sandstone which worked

Take a look at NatraTex

perfectly with the Textured Flags colour used. Mayfair Step Flags are manufactured with a granite aggregate surface layer that produces a modern look similar to natural granite.

The combination of products chosen reflected the contemporary yet timeless vision for the project wonderfully.

Tobermore Enquiry 34

Fine porcelain pointing made easy with vdw Epoxy Paving Grout

Another great ‘Porcelain Pointing’ job using GftK’s vdw 815 Paving Joint Mortar that was the ideal solution for grouting these top quality Emperor Limerick Porcelain slabs.

These are larger format paving (larger format generally means the paving units are larger than 400 x 400mm), and so the jointing mortar must be suitable for smaller joints and ease of application across larger surfaces without staining or creating additional cleaning works. The advanced vdw 815 material is specifically designed for narrower joints (down to 3mm) in addition to its easy of wetslurry application.

GftK’s Epoxy Resin Bound technology ensures no dusting,

full homogeneous mixing and fast application, allowing pointing and finishing the work in bad weather, even in the pouring rain.

Finally on this project the colour was very important as the owners wanted to see the paving rather than the resin and it has blended in really well.

NatraTex is one of the leading brands of attractive and innovative hard-landscaping solutions.

NatraTex, NatraTex Colour, NatraTex Cotswold and NatraTex ColdLay have been widely adopted in many landscaping and development projects across the UK.

Some of the latest NatraTex projects have been completed at Cheltenham Racecourse and Pimperne School, as well as care homes, housing developments and local highways.

Known for their aesthetic differences to black tarmac, NatraTex and NatraTex Colour offer a vibrant and exciting finish with the same durable qualities and performance as traditional asphalt. Both materials can be specified in a range of different colours, including buff, red, green, blue, grey and salmon to create a new landscape that complements or contrasts with its surroundings. Manufactured by the BituChem Group, NatraTex pioneered the market for durable and coloured asphalt.

NatraTex Enquiry 36

Beautiful paving and driveways with FibreGrid

FibreGrid has launched block paving sealers to improve the appearance and durability of paving and driveways

Standard Block Paving Sealer, and Heavy Duty Block Paving Sealer are clear, low viscosity, polyurethane resins, designed to penetrate the jointing sand of block paving to form an elastomeric joint.

Both products help reduce the loss of sand from joints, preventing growth of moss and weeds, whilst retaining the flexibility of the paving.

In addition, for spaces where there is a risk of unsightly

staining from products such as oil and fuel, the Heavy Duty Block Paving Sealer will give extra protection and helps in the removal of such stains. Both are available in 5 and 20 litre containers.

FibreGrid Enquiry 37

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 35

Natural Paving Products introduces Talasey Group in line with company growth

With a variety of products catering to a host of different landscaping solutions, Natural Paving Products (UK) Ltd has created the Talasey Group corporate entity under which Natural Paving and all of its sub brands now sit.

Since its launch in 2004, Natural Paving has become the UK’s leading independent supplier of ethically sourced, natural stone landscaping products.

As the business grew Natural Paving has continually diversified its range of products so that it now offers one of the broadest and highest quality landscaping solutions range available with full UK coverage as well as activities in the USA and Europe.

Many of these landscaping solutions that have been added to the company’s portfolio over the years are not made from

natural stone and therefore it no longer made sense to retain Natural Paving as the company name.

An overarching corporate name, Talasey Group, has been created as a better fi t to house all of the brands that previously fell under the Natural Paving umbrella.

The Talasey Group now fully encapsulates the company’s

Charcon supplies award-winning Quarry Garden

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has supplied the Institute of Quarrying with quality commercial flag paving and kerbs to the award-winning IQ Quarry Garden at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.

The multiple award winning garden featured at this year’s RHS Chatsworth Flower Show and was designed by garden expert Paul Hervey-Brookes. It won Best In Show, Best Construction and a Gold Medal.

The garden has now been reimagined to fit a bespoke space

just inside the entrance to the National Memorial Arboretum.

The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK’s yearround Centre for Remembrance; a spiritually uplifting place which honours the fallen, recognises service and sacrifice, and fosters pride in our country. It is located on a restored former sand and gravel quarry, which was gifted on a peppercorn rent by Tarmac with a 999 year lease.

Mark Barter, Sales Director for Charcon, comments: “It has been an honour to be involved in this project and see the garden installed as a permanent fixture within the

National Memorial Arboretum for people to enjoy for years to come. Not only does the Quarry Garden aim to convey to the public how efficient quarrying can be, it also fosters young talent by supporting local students on their horticultural journey. It has been great to showcase the wonderfully creative ways of using Charcon’s Eco range products, which with their quality and durability, will truly stand the test of time in the Quarry Garden.”

Charcon’s 600mm x 600mm EcoPave Textured flag paving in Grey Fleck has been used throughout the garden. This sustainable product, containing 50% recycled or reclaimed materials, incorporates uniquely formulated Cornish aggregates to optimise performance, durability and the aesthetic appeal of granite.

In addition, Charcon’s Eco Countryside Kerb served as the garden edging and likewise replicates the look of natural granite. Being manufactured here in the UK from 82% recycled or reclaimed material content, it boasts excellent environmental benefits and is available in a choice of installed profiles.

Charcon Enquiry 41

complete range of products and solutions incorporating Natural Paving, Vitripiazza Italian porcelain vitrified flagstones, Baksteen Dutch clay pavers, Luxigraze artificial grass and accessories and Pavetuf, stone installation cleaning and maintenance products and new Resiscape resin-bound aggregates.

Natural Paving Products Enquiry 39

Wienerberger expands its range of clay pavers with new KK80 products

Wienerberger, the UK’s leading provider of wall, roof and landscaping solutions, has expanded its range of clay pavers with the addition of a brand new KK80 clay paver. Developed from its existing Dutch range, the new paver will help Wienerberger to meet the increasing demand for durable pavers that are suitable for all commercial applications.

Measuring at 80mm deep, this versatile 200 x 100mm clay paver is ideal for creating unique designs in landscaped areas.

Boasting the ability to be regularly subjected to heavy vehicular traffic, the KK80 clay paver is available in six natural colours including Bruno, Mastiek, Nero, Padova, Paviona and Siena.

These pavers are colour fast, contributing to the fundamental resilience and long-term performance of the product - as well as making them a costeffective solution suitable for a range of markets.

“Here at Wienerberger, we are always looking for ways in which we can meet the needs of clients wanting to use our products for different applications from commercial, heavily trafficked areas to pedestrian walkways.”

Wienerberger Enquiry 40

Joanne Roberts, Landscape Category Product Manager at Wienerberger, commented:

API supports Power of Play Appeal

The Association of Play Industries is supporting the Power of Play – a Children in Need appeal in partnership with Asda.

The appeal will enable 30,000 disadvantaged children across the UK to develop vital life skills through play.

API Chair, Mark Hardy says: “The importance of play is often underestimated. It’s absolutely central to children’s healthy physical, emotional and social development. We’re delighted that Children in Need is recognising the power of play.

“The API’s Nowhere2Play report revealed an alarming decline in playgrounds in England. Between 2014/15 and 2015/16 local authorities across England closed 214 children’s playgrounds, and when asked about future plans they admitted their aim was to close a further 234.

“These closures will disproportionately affect children in the most deprived areas, many of whom will, quite literally, find themselves with nowhere to play.

We welcome the fact that the Power of Play appeal is targeting some of the most disadvantaged children in the UK.

“Children are becoming increasingly isolated and sedentary. The lure of technology, parental attitudes to children ‘playing out’ and, of course, the decline in spaces in which children can play, are all contributing to a national crisis for our children.

deprived of play are being denied an essential aspect of childhood.

“Access to safe and free areas to play is crucial for a healthy and happy childhood, as fundamental as getting enough sleep and having a good diet. Playgrounds are especially

important in deprived areas where, for many children, they represent their only opportunities to be active and socialise with peers. Without them, we are driving children indoors, onto their screens and away from each other. We back the Power of Play appeal

and wish it every success – not just in terms of raising funds, but also in raising awareness of the crisis many children are facing and the importance of play.”

API Enquiry 44

Gerflor and Judy Murray rise to community challenge Ensuring the safety of Britain’s playgrounds

Inchgarth community centre in the ‘Granite City’ of Aberdeen is the city’s biggest, busiest and most successful centre with some 2000 users, 150 sessions of activity per week and delivers services for people of all ages including; music, fitness, sports, education, leisure, recreation, the arts and social projects including many outreach services.

Mother of tennis superstar Sir Andy Murray, Judy Murray wanted to do something tangible to assist the centre.

Eighteen months ago, she delivered a large coaching session for fifty adults and forty children to introduce them to tennis,

“Opportunities for free, unstructured and unsupervised play are shrinking and at the same time the childhood obesity crisis worsens and the number of children with mental health problems is on the rise. Children passing on the basic coaching skills in order that tennis could grow in the community.

Working with Kris Souter through Tennis on The Road, Judy Murray remembered Inchgarth and offered the centre an amount of PowerGame outdoor modular sports flooring from Sport Court which had been originally donated by international flooring specialists Gerflor to Judy Murray to further her tennis initiatives.

In 2015 Gerflor announced their acquisition of Connor Sports and their Sport Court brand in a move that subsequently expanded the company’s global market reach.

Back in 2005, Connor Sports joined industry leader Sport Court to form Connor Sport Court International, Inc. (CSCI). Sport Court has built systems for many elite associations including the NBA, NCAA, FIBA, USTA,

FIVB, US Youth Futsal, USA Volleyball and Premier Euro League Teams.

The safest modular outdoor court in the world PowerGame from Sport Court features the lowest skin abrasion of virtually any outdoor court surface and is made of the highest quality materials and UV stabilizers to protect the customer’s investment.

The patented Double-Tier shock absorbing grid and Lateral Forgiveness reduces joint strain and fatigue to help users play longer and more safely than ever.

The PowerGame system supplied by Gerflor is now a permanent fixture at the Inchgarth community centre where it’s playing its’ role in providing on-going tennis lessons for a new generation of possible Wimbledon stars, all thanks to Gerflor and Judy Murray.

Gerflor Enquiry 45

The Register of Play Inspectors International (RPII) has released its new brochure highlighting the importance of using accredited inspectors to ensure the safety of playground equipment, play areas and inflatables.

The Register of Play Inspectors International (RPII) is the official UK body for examining, accrediting and certificating inflatable, indoor and outdoor play inspectors.

The RPII examines, accredits and certificates inspectors across a range of job roles, from post manufacture inspection to regular routine inspection.

Ensuring play safety is essential - both for the protection of the children using the equipment and to mitigate risk for the councils, schools and organisations in charge of these play areas.

By using accredited playground inspectors, providers can be sure that they meet the strict criteria set by the RPII and that they’ve been fully trained to conduct inspections to the required levels of competence.

The RPII provides industry updates, continuing professional development and industry updates for its members.

It also works year-round to promote the benefits of using accredited inspectors to relevant user groups.

The RPII is a UK based organisation, which has international members who wish to work to the high standards of the UK voluntarily.

RPII Enquiry 46

Spotlight on the vibrant

Transforming outdoor spaces for nearly 40 years

A&S Landscape have been transforming and creating outdoor spaces for nearly 40 years.

The company manufactures its brand of canopies and shade sails here in the UK and for quality is paramount.

With a range of polycarbonate canopies, fabric canopies and cycle stores, not to mention bespoke capabilities, the options are endless.

Fabric structures can enhance any outdoor area, creating space for dining, socialising, learning or just relaxing. The option to have waterproof fabric means you can add shelter from the rain not just from UV rays.

Polycarbonate and steel canopies come in a wide range of designs, offering entrance canopies, shelters and covered walkways in any shape or configuration. The steelwork is galvanised and powder coated to stop corrosion and extend the life of the structure.

The company also offer aluminium guttering as standard

which can be powder coated and colour matched to the rest of the canopy, far preferable to brittle plastic gutters.

A&S Landscape are the only company in the UK to offer coloured polycarbonate roofing as an option, which is a striking addition to any canopy.

The same quality of materials extends to the cycle store range, where it offers both open or secure cycle stores. Long lasting, quality products that will encourage cycling for many years to come, A&S has a configuration to fit your requirement.

A&S Landscape are regarded within the industry for our efficiency, integrity and reliability. Since 1976 it has developed a close working relationship with Local Authorities, Architects, Schools, Builders and Property Managers meeting their needs with superior products, enhanced aesthetics, greater functionality and competitive prices.

A&S Landscape Enquiry 48

Act now to save our parks, playgrounds and green spaces

New research from Fields in Trust showing the crucial role that parks and green spaces play in all our lives has prompted the Association of Play Industries (API) to highlight once again the alarming decline in playgrounds uncovered in their Nowhere to Play campaign.

API Chair, Mark Hardy, says: “The Fields in Trust research shows, for the first time at national level, a direct and statistically significant link between public parks and green spaces and health and wellbeing.

“We are at a pivotal point in the ongoing campaign to protect the future of our playgrounds, parks and green spaces. There is a clear picture emerging demonstrating the positive impact that parks have on health, wellbeing and community integration.

“We need to act now to reverse the decline in parks and green spaces due to budget cuts and use this and other research data to inform public policy.”

The Fields in Trust findings which will be published in full soon, establish a link between an individual’s use of parks and green spaces and an improvement in their life satisfaction, sense of worth, happiness and anxiety levels.

The research comes amid news of the newly-established Parks Action Group, a governmentcreated advisory body which will explore options to ensure that communities can benefit from parks and green spaces for generations to come.

“We welcome the formation of the Parks Action Group,” says Mark. “Given the increasingly overwhelming evidence of the health benefits of parks and the negative impact their decline will have, it’s now imperative that Government looks into the future of our green spaces.”

The API’s Nowhere to Play report uncovered an alarming decline in playground provision. Between 2014/15 and 2015/16

And the recent Heritage Lottery Fund report highlighted cuts to budgets for the running of parks, with 92% of park managers reporting cuts to their budgets over the past three years.

“The downward trend in park and playground provision is happening fast and let’s not forget that once a park has gone it’s probably gone forever,” adds Mark. “To take away opportunities for children to play outside and be active - at

“The Parks Action Group represents a welcome joined-up approach to safeguarding these spaces and is urgently needed. We now need a clear show of support for playgrounds and the benefits they bring to young people. We are repeating our call for a £100 million investment to replace lost playgrounds and help re-instate children’s access to free play and activity.”

API Enquiry 49

High quality timber solutions for new development

Alconbury Weald, Britain’s largest housing development, is being built on an old, cold-war RAF base and has a perimeter of 18km and will deliver nearly 7,000 homes.

The scheme costs £1.5billion and is hailed as an urban extension because it is larger than a garden village but smaller than a new town.

It will include a Governmentbacked enterprise zone, two primary schools, a secondary school, a health centre, 700 acres of green space and a cricket pitch.

The scale of the project warrants multiple play areas located across

the new community and JupiTER Play has secured a key role.

Bradley Murphy Design created the first of many play areas. The result highlights how important quality green spaces are. Bradley Murphy Design wanted to continue the character of the housing development through to the play area.

As a result, Jupiter supplied material from the company’s FHS range which offers the highest quality robinia timbers in the market. Furthermore, this robust product will require minimal maintenance works and will withstand unwanted behaviour.

The playground caters to children of all ages therefore encouraging individuals to play with one another regardless their stage of development. In addition, the sand allows parents

to explore with their toddlers without obstructing the children on the structure.

Jupiter Play Enquiry 50

local authorities across England closed 214 children’s playgrounds with plans to close a further 234.

the same time as we are trying to tackle childhood obesityis counterproductive and it is children in deprived areas who are hit hardest.

Oxford United installs leading brand of artificial grass

ArtificialGrass.com has installed a winning indoor surface in the home changing room at Oxford United.

The leading UK supplier provided a mini pitch of inlaid grass flooring, creating a ‘virtual’ setting designed to boost team tactics on match days.

The new mini pitch is thought to be the first of its kind in the English Football League.

Covering an area of around five by 15 metres, the mini pitch installation was part of investment in the general refurbishment of Oxford United changing rooms during the preseason period.

With the club currently sitting in the top half of League 1, Oxford United Business Development Manager Peter Rhoades-Brown has high hopes for the rest of the season and is pleased with the positive effect of the new mini pitch on the level of play so far.

“Our players really like the new surface. It not only brightens up the changing room area, but is also of valuable practical use; in particular being ideal for developing tactics and set-pieces, as well as rethinking moves at half time. I think we are the first club to have gone down this route and all good so far.”

There is an increasing trend for artificial turf across the UK and demand is rapidly growing for ArtificialGrass.com products.

Available exclusively through builders’ merchants, ArtificialGrass.com offers a range of products suitable for residential and commercial installation, including schools and play areas, providing a

Waste wood from playground firm donated to charity project

WASTE wood left over from the creation of children’s playgrounds is being donated to a new wildlife charity project which aims to reach out to lonely older people and provide a vital training hub for young people.

Chester-based family firm,

Working with placement students from South Cheshire College and other volunteer groups, the proceeds from the sale of the items will be used to support the trust’s conservation work.

James Harris, Managing Director of Creative Play, whose father, Keith Harris started the company

he popped over for a chat. We decided to supply them with all the scrap timber generated from the playgrounds we create - if good could come from it, we’d rather it be used than go to waste.

“Sam has already picked up a couple of pallets of material which will be used to build

Corporate Partnerships Manager for Cheshire Wildlife Trust, Sam Salisbury, said the focus of the project is sustainability and social engagement.

The trust has already used some of their first batch of timber to work on prototypes for the scheme, as well as other projects like making bug hotels with local children.

William’s Den delivers exceptional play whatever the weather

East Yorkshire’s newest family attraction, William’s Den, is enjoying a very busy first season, and it’s not hard to see why with such exceptional play facilities.

Timberplay were delighted to be part of this unique attraction, designing and delivering the outdoor play area.

William’s Den sought to create an attraction that provided the very best naturally inspired play opportunities, from the UK’s largest timber indoor play areas with a difference, to sand and water sites, playful landscaping, challenging outdoor equipment, and den building. It seems the leisure market was waiting for a site such as Williams Den as it has been fully booked for most of the summer holidays.

Timberplay worked with William’s Den to create outdoor play which embraced landscaping to create a space which appeals to children across a wide age range. The inclusion of sand and water pumps and channels boosts the playvalue within the site significantly.

Older children have the challenge of the Climbing Structure and the thrill of the cableway. Toddlers can embrace the role play within the Platform House or fly as high as they dare in the Cradle Swing.

Timberplay Enquiry 56

Feel ‘the power’ with Connor Sport Court

Connor Sport Court, owned by international flooring and interiors specialist Gerflor is the market leader in sports surfacing and has built systems for many elite associations including the NBA, NCAA, FIBA, USATF and USA Volleyball, together with supplying the recent 2016 Rio Olympic Games with their basketball courts.

Connor Sport Court specialise in both wood and synthetic surfaces

and have appropriate solutions for every type of athletic venue, park or multi-use facility.

It provides products that are ideal for a myriad of sport uses in education colleges and universities, schools, sports and leisure centres, the military, together with dance floor studios and fitness venues.

The safest outdoor court in the world PowerGame from Connor

Sport Court features the lowest skin abrasion of any outdoor court surface and is made of the highest quality materials and UV stabilisers to protect the specifiers investment and is a perfect fit for a host of performance sports including; badminton, tennis, basketball, netball and hockey.

The patented Double-Tier shock absorbing grid and Lateral Forgiveness reduces joint strain and fatigue to help participants play longer and more safely than ever.

Available in 22 stunning colour choices the performance of PowerGame is also designed to deliver excellent ball bounce, a huge factor in both on-court response and enjoyment.

Gerflor Enquiry 58

Adding flair to the Fleet Arm Museum

Proludic has completed a bespoke play area, at the Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Museum in Somerset.

As one of the South West’s leading tourist attractions – this unique play area definitely has the ‘wow’ factor. The inspiration behind the design was the Queen Elizabeth Class Carrier and Fleet Air Arm themes which created a playful space that is easily recognisable for all.

Within this theme; the Proludic design team crafted 4 main bespoke play equipment items – The Flight Control Tower, The Ship Control Tower, The F35 Fighter Jet and the Merlin Helicopter. Each piece unique to the play area and the fleet arm museum, using their current branding and themes.

As Proludic manufacture all their equipment from one factory base, located at the head

office in France – they have the capabilities of working to a client’s specific needs and brief. The results are a completely special play area tailored specifically to what people want.

The Fleet Air Arm museum is a great example of what can be achieved using this creative design philosophy. Catering

for the 2-14 year age ranges, It can accommodate up to 76 users with 63 individual play activities. The opening was attended by over 150 people and the play area proved to be a real hit.

RTC enjoys top of the class billing at Rigby Hall

Road markings and rivers are some of the most popular graphics in playground surfacing – and with good reason.

They may seem simple, but they can have a striking visual effect and are great fun for children.

Working on behalf of Playdale, RTC Safety Surfaces was asked

to install over 900m² of wet pour safety surfacing at depths varying between 20mm and 80mm.

Rather than a simple single lane roadway (which can be great for smaller areas) the school opted for a road with two lanes, two zebra crossing and a roundabout at the centre. By creating such a ‘busy’ road the children will get

the chance to learn how traffic flows on roads and roadabouts, as well as how to use the crossing carefully and respectfully.

RTC also installed a blue river that meandered its way across the playground, including green lily pads and culminating in an ‘island’ – a great place for sitting and watching the world go by.

Rigby Hall School was keen to promote the school’s key values; as such our team put their in-house training to the test and installed the play area with phrases such as “Mutual Respect,” “Individual Liberty” and “Valuing Every Achievement” written within the surfacing.

RTC

Inclusive outdoor learning and play area

Sutcliffe Play has worked with Glenwood School on the development of a £250,000 inclusive outdoor learning and play area.

The school has recently been rebuilt by Essex County Council on land adjacent to its previous site. The school reopened in September 2017 and as part of the new build project the school wanted to include an outdoor space that could be used for both learning and play.

Glenwood is a Community Special School for learners aged 3-19 with severe, profound or multiple learning difficulties. This includes learners with autistic spectrum condition and those with complex physical and sensory impairments.

The school is committed to creating a happy and positive environment for pupils and staff, with the new playground forming an integral part of their strategy. It was important that the playground wasn’t just about the equipment; it needed to be an outdoor learning space that would engage pupils across four key areas:

• Sensory Garden

• Balance & Coordination Area

• Outdoor Classroom

• Inclusive Physical Development Area

Inclusivity is at the heart of all of Sutcliffe Play’s proposals

and our design team has created an outdoor space for Glenwood School that creates endless opportunities for both learnings and play. The four areas have created clear zones for pupils to engage in different activities:

Sensory Garden - This area uses equipment and materials to create a natural playground. Pathways and tunnels are created with wooden equipment, bamboo and planters. We’ve also introduced pieces that create opportunities that will help to develop and engage sound and vision. A hammock and table and chairs provide settings to develop social skills.

Balance & Coordination Area - This area features equipment from Sutcliffe Play’s Orchard range. The wooden, environmentally friendly range complements the Sensory Garden with sleeper benches and activity trails to help develop balance. This area also includes an inclusive nest swing that is designed like a bird’s next to allow children of differing abilities to swing together.

Outdoor Classroom - A gazebo has been installed to create an outdoor learning environment with a chalkboard, benches and tables accessible for wheelchairs.

Inclusive Physical Development Area - This area is packed with some of Sutcliffe Play’s newest and most innovative equipment. This includes two multi-play

units featuring a wide range of different play options, access points and levels of challenge:

• The first, a large bespoke unit offers double wheel chair access ramps with turning and passing points whilst incorporating play elements along the route. Drag ramps, wide non-slip access steps and double width access cargo nets ensure that users of all abilities can access the 1.2 high large seating central play house and slide.

• The second, the Daffodil Climber from the Toddlerzone Plus range features gentle waving panels to reflect a natural theme.

Sutcliffe Play also installed our inclusive wheelchair roundabout that allows those in a wheelchair to experience spinning, just as if they were on a traditional roundabout.

Judith Salter, head teacher at Glenwood School says: “Outdoor space forms a really important part of the learning opportunities and leisure time for the young people attending Glenwood. We aim to provide the best possible education for all learners to prepare them for everything they can achieve in life. The new playground will help us to achieve these goals and will have a long-lasting positive impact on the school.”

Russell Play completes Spooky Rookies toddlers play area

An exclusive set of themed toddler’s play equipment from the Russell Play Berliner rope play range, has added a fresh bold style to a new play area in Magdalene Glen, Edinburgh.

The fenced play area with its colourful rubber safe play surface has an arrangement of three linked ‘Spooky Rookie’ play units.

These attractive themed playhouse structures offer a great selection of challenging play activities suitably designed for the capabilities of small children.

During consultation with the local community, The City of Edinburgh Council’s Design Team produced several alternative designs and play locations. It was decided that two play areas were to be constructed, a toddler area and a junior area for older children.

For the toddler park the community assessed and formally approved the final

scheme, which had a focus on utilising the Berliner equipment. Both the client and the community could see the great appeal of the Berliner rope structures and ‘Spooky Rookies’ range in offering children fun activities and imaginative play. The council could also see the possible options with its modular construction and decided it would be a good practical choice for the sloping site.

Berliner are experts in creating modular rope play equipment. The ‘Spooky Rookies’ range was devised with toddlers specifically in mind featuring low to the ground access ramps, nets and platforms. The units can also be linked-up in different arrangements, as demonstrated with Magdalene Glen toddler play area, to create larger play structures rather than just as stand-alone items.

With the Spooky Rookies range, taller units can be linked

to low level access units with rope bridges to give children more play options. There are many activities that kids love as well as traversing the rope bridges including slides, lookout windows, access rope nets and access steps. The playhouse shape makes them great for a child’s imagination play with patterns printed onto the side and roof panels suggesting stone walls and tiled roofs of old castles and buildings.

‘Spooky Rookies’ is a great all round collection of play units for small children with many possibilities of formation. Not only that but they add a fun feel that invites children to play and creates a distinctive style that looks great in all locations.

Russell Play Enquiry 62

Special secondary school gets basketball court

A basketball court at a Hampshire special school is up and running after a £4.4m project of remodelling and refurbishment.

The main works were completed in August by W Stirland, a privately-owned construction company near Chichester.

They involved the conversion and extension of the existing Victorian school building at Linden Education Centre in

Aldershot, creating teaching accommodation for 92 secondary age pupils who are unable to attend main stream school because of emotional or behavioural reasons

Farnham-based PRO Fencing, the fencing division of WL West & Sons Ltd, installed the basketball court using 3m-high Duo8 steel fencing from Zaun Ltd, with matching 1.2m-high spectator railings to one side.

Duo8 forms a robust play area that is highly durable, low maintenance and ‘graffiti-proof’, and rubber inserts between panels and posts to keep ‘rattle’ during play to a minimum.

Linden Education Centre caters for students aged 11–16 whose behavioural problems have resulted in them being permanently excluded from a mainstream school, or who are in danger of being excluded.

The aim is to re-integrate students aged 11–14 into a mainstream school. Older students, especially those in Year 11, invariably complete their education at the centre before moving on to further education.

Zaun Enquiry 64

Sutcliffe Play Enquiry 63

DJ Turfcare impresses yet again

DJ Turfcare Equipment, one of the UK’s most consistent suppliers of lawn care products, showed off its brand new RHS endorsed range of chemicalfree lawn fertiliser products, plus view the latest garden machinery aimed at the landscaping trade market.

Forming part of DJ Turfcare’s new RHS endorsed range of chemical-free lawn fertiliser products, Bio-Lime, has been created to combat black layer and all the acidic and sour conditions that can be an ideal environment for moss to thrive, by ‘sweetening’ the soil to raise its pH. Bio-Lime contains magnesium, which helps the lawn to maintain its colour throughout the chilly winter months, making it the ideal yearround lawn treatment.

Another product from the new RHS range – and perfect for greenkeepers and groundsman – is Recovery an organic fertiliser. Containing many effective ingredients – including the unique Humifirst, which

creates biological activity and acts as a plant growth stimulant – Recovery is perfect for use before laying turf, seeding or as an autumn lawn feed. It is also ideal for renovation work, use after drought, areas of high footfall and after scarification.

MO Bacter completed the new RHS endorsed range that shall be on display at SALTEX.

MO Bacter is an organicbased, slow release fertiliser for lawns, which destroys moss as a secondary action. It is easily spread, contains no chemicals, is pet and child-friendly, and completely harmless to garden plants.

DJ Turfcare will also displayed two market-leading edgers at SALTEX. The Atom Professional Lawn Edger is a super speedy edger, which can edge up to 90% faster compared to other edging devices and using 80% less fuel. This phenomenal machine can increase business profitability and productivity.

The robust Bushranger Edger E35 has been specifically designed to cope with the stresses and demands of local authority grounds work. Its integral third wheel allows the edger to drop down and run along gutters, giving the operator balance, stability and control when using along kerbs and tackling difficult areas.

DJ Turfcare Enquiry 67

Upson Mowers appointed new Ventrac dealer

Upson Mowers are pleased to announce that they have been appointed as a new dealer for the Ventrac range working in conjunction with Price Turfcare.

Jim Upson, director at the company, said: “There is a lot of interest in the Ventrac 4500 range and the feedback is amazing.

“There is nothing else quite like this on the market and it’s just the type of machine that our customers need. Straight away we had a confirmed order from a local authority who are exceptionally pleased with the performance of their 4500 Dual wheel Ventrac, they’re out mowing slopes and wet areas

saving hundreds of man hours per year and managing sites where they had to previously employ external contractors.

“Two more orders are lined up for early next year and things are looking great

It’s always reassuring for us to see these new products performing well and surpassing expectations in tough environments. These Ventracs are seriously versatile machines that will go pretty much anywhere in all conditions, the cutting performance and quality of cut is exceptional.”

Weibang has dedicated stand for commercial machinery

Weibang has undergone a new identity, highlighting key features on the range of commercial rear roller and fourwheeled lawnmowers with a new modern appearance.

“Our commercial products have seen huge growth in 2017, with feedback from commercial users on how productive, well built, and high performance the products are.”

As well as the complete range of lawnmowers, Weibang displayed other products including scarifiers, aerators, stump grinders, and the brands new professional leaf and litter vacuum.

Weibang Enquiry 69

Oregon’s revolutionary Gator SpeedLoad trimmer and brushcutter system has won an Innovation Award at this year’s SALTEX exhibition.

The company was exhibiting its full range of equipment and solutions at the 2017 event and secured the award for the cutting system that was introduced earlier this year and has already proved successful and extremely popular with customers.

The Oregon Gator SpeedLoad was designed to get lawn care professionals and homeowners back to work quicker, increasing efficiency and ease of use.

Oregon’s integrated head and disk line system simplifies the reloading of trimmer line because it requires no winding or spooling, reducing both frustration and replacement time to less than 20 seconds.

Upson

Mowers Enquiry 68

Oregon celebrates innovation award for Gator SpeedLoad

Longer-lasting and two times stronger than its competitors, Oregon Gator SpeedLoad’s innovative tongue-and-groove line comes pre-wound in small, selfcontained discs for convenient transport, making it a fast, easy-touse replacement solution.

The Oregon Gator SpeedLoad cutting system has three models which, combined, fit over 95%

Oregon Enquiry 70

Mark Rochford, Marketing Director for the brand in the UK said: “Our new brand identity is now in full circulation and the response has been fantastic from dealers and end users.

of petrol-driven trimmers and brushcutters, and is available at authorised Oregon dealers nationwide.

The innovation award was presented to the Oregon team by Geoff Webb, chief executive of show organisers the IOG, during the event.

Very modern British brands making a global impact

Paul Groves takes a look behindthe-scenes at Dennis and SISIS and heard of plans for continued growth and investment in worldleading products

It is little wonder that Ian Howard has a big smile on his face as he conducts a tour of the ever-expanding facilities that have helped make the Dennis and SISIS brands some of the most successful groundscare products on the market.

And it isn’t simply because he is explaining the latest £1m investment in new hi-tech, computerised machinery at All British Precision, part of the group of companies he oversees in Derbyshire.

All British Precision produces parts for the various Dennis and SISIS models and you get the distinct impression Ian still enjoys being on the shop floor,

where the parts are engineered and solutions are created.

Indeed, despite the on-going investment in 21st century technology the smile broadens just a little as he points to a corner of the unit where the now ageing machine tools his father and his grandfather would have both used still have a role to play.

But the biggest smile comes as he introduces the latest apprentice, busy working on one of the newest machines. He is on first name terms with everyone and is keen to highlight the investment remains in people as much as it does in machinery.

“We are a family business, we have grown as a family and we will continue to move forward as a family,” he explains.

It is a simple philosophy, but one that is clearly paying dividends.

New product launches

Not only are the established Dennis and SISIS models continuing to enjoy sales growth, but there are ambitious plans afoot.

The PRO 34R professional rotary mower, debuted at SALTEX 2017, will be available to purchase in the new year. A partnership with global giant Bosch will very soon lead to the first battery-powered Dennis machine.

And investment in independent testing is confirming just how effective SISIS machines, such as the Javelin Aer-Aid 1500, remain for groundscare professionals.

The progress is a result of the family business ethos and the fact that there is very much a team effort at play. “The people who work here are the most important asset we have,” continues Ian.

“The knowledge and experience that exists with them are what counts and are what helps us continue to be a success.”

Indeed, seven years on from buying SISIS the company still buses workers down from Macclesfield where it used to be based to the site just outside of Derby. The same is true of the skilled workers at Crocodile Precision, another recent acquisition that produces the blades for Dennis mowers, who travel across from their former

base in Wolverhampton on a daily basis.

The business has also invested in a new in-house powder-coating facility that ensures even more of the production process remains on the site.

All roads lead to Derbyshire. Indeed, it was the feedback from customers, dealers and visitors to the site in recent years that prompted Ian and the team to develop the new PRO 34R.

“Our energy and focus over recent years has been making sure we know everything there is to know about the SISIS machines,” says Ian. “But we are constantly looking at the Dennis brand and the feedback we keep getting.

“The PRO 34R professional rotary mower is something of a departure for us, but it has been born out of the feedback we have been getting with people suggesting the time was right for Dennis to produce this model.

“It has been a two-year process of research and development. We have taken pre-production models out for trial in key sectors, with the groundscare professionals who will ultimately be using the machine playing a big role in fine tuning the PRO 34R.

“This is a significant investment for us. We have spent close to £250,000 over the last two years

in developing this model and although it will not be available until February we are already taking orders.”

Looking to the future This process of evolution has also led Dennis to partner with Bosch, global leaders in battery technology, which also generated a lot of interest at SALTEX.

“The partnership with Bosch is a fairly long-standing one,” adds Ian. “We have been talking for some time about ways in which we might work together.

“It is a very important partnership for us moving forward. Whatever argument you wish to use to justify it, the simple fact is the rise of battery technology and battery-powered products warrants us getting involved.

“Partnering with Bosch makes perfect sense given their track record in this technology.

“We anticipate that by the time SALTEX 2018 comes around we will have a battery-powered Dennis machine on the stand in pre-production form at least.”

This continued investment is a theme also taken up by Roger Moore, who spearheads the effective Dennis and SISIS marketing campaigns.

He points to the use of industry body STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute) to carry out independent

tests of the successful Javelin Aer-Aid 1500 as a sign that the business is always looking to move forward.

“We know the Javelin Aer-Aid works and the sales growth shows we have many satisfied customers,” he explains. “But we were also keen to have independent proof of how and why it works.”

The research saw three trial plots set-up in which one area examined the effects of the SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid with air injection, one with the Aer-Aid without air injection, while the other plot was left un-treated.

The trials show how effective the Javelin Aer-Aid is on the hardness of the turf, root depth, water infiltration and disease and SISIS has now produced an innovative CGI animation showing how the machine works once the tines break the surface.

The smile returns to Ian’s face as he watches the CGI presentation. He’s a fan of technology, whether that is the tried and trusted machines his grandfather first used or the latest computergenerated marketing tool.

With exports now accounting for 40% of Dennis and SISIS sales, these very British brands are pushing the technological boundaries and making significant impacts on the global stage.

Ian Howard

Reach out for mowing solutions

There’s a wide choice of hedge and verge mowing equipment, with new entrants to the market and useful solutions from unexpected sources, reports Jane Carley

Hedge and verge mowing equipment continues to advance with a wider range of arm and mounting options making it possible to tailor a machine to your precise requirements. Controls also become ever more sophisticated, giving more precise operation for efficiency and machine longevity.

McConnel has introduced the new PA4830 VFR which features an innovative new armset created from Strenx and Hardox steel that is more than five per cent lighter while adding 0.5m reach over the company’s PA4330.

VFR technology enables customers to extend the arm 0.9m forward and 0.9m backward, positioning the attachment at any point along the cutting range and expanding the working area.

The benefits from the new armset include improved comfort and visibility; greater precision; fl exibility to tailor the position of the arm to the job at hand or personal preference; and faster working speeds when operating in confined environments or around obstacles such as signposts and street furniture.

Designed for landscape, amenities, and groundcare professionals, the 4.8m reach PA4830 features 30hp independent hydraulics built around McConnel-designed

valve blocks precisionengineered in house.

The PA4830 will be available with McConnel’s new Polar’ oil tank and cooling system as an option, offering consistent cooling in all weather conditions and significantly reducing heat build-up. Eliminating areas in the tank where resting oil can concentrate.

Control is via the new Mini Motion joystick controller. Created especially for McConnel’s compact Power Arm range, the new system features a progressive thumb-stick controller with two easy-access hat switches providing proportional control of up to five different services.

Mini Motion features progressive controls which deliver faster movement the further the

stick is pushed forward; four proportional services and dual direction rotor control (optional).

McConnel marketing manager Wayne Brown comments: “The PA4830 offers longer reach, greater arm strength, and better

visibility and comfort than any other compact machine and helps verge-mowing and hedge-cutting professionals to work harder, smarter, and faster than before.”

Spearhead Machinery has added two new models to the

Twiga compact reach arm range, offering the increased flexibility of front mounting. The Twiga Compact 360 and 460 Front Mount feature parallel arm geometry, hydraulic safety breakout, and mini-pilot controls. They are supplied with 1m flailhead or a choice of other cutting attachments, and front mounting is designed to optimise operator visibility from the cab.

Improvements to the 3.6 and 4.6m reach arms have been made through an added offset position designed to allow the operator to work in tighter, higher spaces, giving more manoeuvrability. Another new feature is the fold flat arm position bringing the machine over for a lower point of clearance to further improve visibility.

Arm lengths for the Twiga machines range from 3.2m in the Twiga Compact, to the 9m Twiga Flex. The two original Compact models, the 320 and 420, offer sideways reach options of 3.2 and 4.2m and can be mounted at the rear or front of a compact tractor with a minimum tractor power requirement of 25hp.

Spearhead’s TWIGA Classic series is based on the Excel 565, powered by a 65hp hydraulic system and comes with parallel arm geometry and hydraulic safety breakout as standard.

THE ELIET SUPER PROF THE FUTURE IN SHREDDING

In 1994 with the launch of The Super Prof, Eliet introduced the first professional shredder. Today the Super Prof Shredder is more comfortable, efficient, environmentally friendly and smarter.

• 13cm (5”) diameter capacity

• Large infeed opening

• Air blown chips removal via 360° rotatable chute

• Intelligent communication with the operator

• Eco-EyeTM technology reducing energy, emissions & sound levels

• Available as Self-propelled, Trailed & Cross Country (tracked) models

Contact us for further details Tel: 01282 856819

Email: sales@psdgroundscare.com Web: www.psdgroundscare.com

McConnel

Spearhead

Arm reaches range from 4.7 to 6.4m and with a tractor power requirement from 60–100hp.

Flailheads are available in widths of 1.2, 1.5 or 1.6m with either direct or belt drive. Alternative attachments include the Quadsaw and Cutterbar attachments which can cleanly cut tree branches up to 200mm diameter.

For larger workloads and 90100hp tractors, the Twiga Mid range is available in reaches from 5.5 to 7.0m, with two models having a telescopic reach as standard. Forward reach arm sets are available to give the operator improved visibility.

A new manufacturer enters the hedge and verge market at LAMMA with the launch

of Blaney Group’s C600 hedgecutter featuring the company’s power shredding technology for a tidy finish.

Blaney says that as an independent manufacturer with no links to any other range, there are no restrictions to its design, giving the ability to offer experienced users exactly what they want.

The new Blaney Compact hedge cutter is equipped with a cutterbar trimmer, featuring a low friction, self-lubricating design to be easy to drive and reduce wear and associated maintenance costs.

It is also said to give enhanced performance even on older tractors with less oil flow, and be ideal for smaller or

compact tractors for lighter hedgecutting tasks where a flail head is not required.

The range extends from a Compact trimmer to a telescopic Contractor machine with 6.5m reach. For those who have special requirements and want a different combination of features, Blaney can tailor machines for a custom build.

New ‘Soft Touch’ proportional control options have been developed in response to customer demand, designed to be more responsive to further improve finish and user comfort.

As well as manufacturing hedgecutters, Blaney has developed an excavator cutting head designed for optimum manoeuvrability to allow for cutting in closer proximity to the hedge, and manufactured to suit any make/model of digger.

Excavator heads are equipped with a special hydraulic ‘Powerbox’ which ensures the rotor is running at the right speed and protects the head hydraulic

motor from any imbalances in the system.

The Ryetec range of side arm flail mowers offers one of the most comprehensive range of compact machines on the market. The MP and SL ranges have been added to in recent years to meet customer requests, and the larger SL420 now comes in its standard form complete with slide out oil tank for maximum stability and reach on tractors of as little as 1200kg.

For larger compacts and heavy duty mowing applications two further versions of the SL420 are available, the SL420H with a 25hp drive (instead of the usual 18hp drive) or for the really tough jobs the SL420HP with a 40hp head drive. All SL420s now feature a 1m wide flail head with optional interchangeable 2m fingerbar head for high quality cutting of ornamental hedges.

Both the standard SL420 and the smaller 320 are reversible, allowing their use on reverse drive tractors for improved visibility and all models can now be supplied with the Kobi proportional joystick option for easy operation and compact controls in the smallest cab.

The larger AV500 offers an innovative arm configuration to allow vertical cutting within the tractor’s rear wheel, plus variable forward reach, and is now also available with an electronic arm float. This can be set by the operator to provide the exact amount of float required on verge and bank mowing, relative to the reach of the machine and ground conditions, at the twist of a small dial on the joystick control.

Contractors offering long reach verge mowing have another machne at their disposal with the launch of the Buzzard Telescopic VFA which has a reach of 7.25m – 8.0m but can also cut close into the tractor.

With a125 litre per minute cutting system producing 74hp

at the cutting head, the Buzzard Telescopic VFA offers a choice of drive system system and can run a variety of cutting attachments, such as 1500 –2000mm head, rotary heads, and saws.

The Tele VFA arm system gives the ability to cut alongside the tractor cab, easing the strain on the operator when being used for prolonged periods of time.

The arm can travel up to 2.1m forward, and rearwards of 1.1m, allowing the cutting head to be place in behind the rear tractor wheel for use in confined areas.

Control is via the ICS fully proportional system, and other features include, Parallel linkage, oil cooler, arm float and head float, cutting head transport bracket, hydraulic breakout and LED road lighting.

Blaney

Blaney

Ryetec

The 2018 line of Shelbourne Reynolds hedge and verge trimmers targeted at the landscape and amenity market features the Powerblade 250, 350 and 450, which all have a 5.16m maximum reach, and are equipped with a double-skinned, belt-driven 1.2m head, attached to the boom via a slide/clamp mounting system that allows either centre- or offset-mounting.

Suiting tractors of 50hp and above, the entry level Powerblade 250 incorporates a fixed, nonslew frame and weighs 1,080kg. It incorporates many of the features of Shelbourne’s larger machines, but without parallel arm geometry, reducing both weight and cost.

The only difference between the 350 and 450 series machines is that the 350 has a fixed frame. The 1,190kg 450, meanwhile, incorporates power slew, which makes the machine more compact for transport as well as

CASE STUDIES

Derbyshire contractor RH Clayton purchased a new Maschio Katia 650 for this season. With many hours of verge and hedge cutting contracts for local councils and private customers, the business needed a reliable machine that would be easy to control for operators spending hours in the cab.

“The Katia is a well-built machine, which was significantly more cost-effective than comparable competition,” comments David Clayton. “Whilst we had a few initial fine-tuning issues, overall I am pleased with how well the Katia has performed and the reach offered by this machine.”

enabling the operator to more easily trim into corners.

For those with bigger workloads and denser material to handle, the Powerblade 600 models offers a high specification hedge/verge trimmer in a lighter frame suited to medium-sized tractors of 70hp-plus.

The 656 features a modified frame, a 5.6m reach and a 70hprated hydraulic system plus belt drive 1.2m or 1.5m heads. It also features a new digital proportional electronic joystick control system, giving proportional control over lift and reach functions and switched control on head angle and slew functions.

A telescopic 660T telescopic version has a standard horizontal reach of 5.0m, but when fully extended this is boosted to 6.25m.

Teagle Machinery, a family business based in Cornwall,

has been distributing flail mowers in the UK from Italian manufacturer Berti for over 15 years.

Teagle has verge mowers to suit tractors from 25hp – 180hp with working widths from 1.15m – 2.5m cutting material up to 7cm diameter.

All models have the ability to work effectively in the horizontal or vertical plane ,and incorporate an Automatic Belt Tensioning System to ensure efficient operation and extend the life of the drive belts.

Models with a cutting width of 2m and above come with a wideangle PTO Shaft as standard

An inner skin designed to protect the chassis from challenging materials is manufactured from high performance Strenx wear resistant steel with its structural strength and weight saving characteristics.

A different approach

For angled verges, such as motorways and reservoir embankments, STM Co Ltd have two main machine configurations to offer.

The pedestrian SCAG SWZ machine from STM Co Ltd is available with a twin rear wheel set-up on the driving wheels, giving increased grip, wider footprint and effectively a lowered centre of gravity.

This is a well-established and popular approach to such conditions, with many units sold per year for use by Councils, estate management providers and hire companies, suggests STM.

SWZ pedestrian mowers are available with 90cm, 1.2m and 1.32m rotary cutting decks, and the twin wheel attachment is an optional extra, as is also flail cutting at 76cm, 90cm and 1.2m widths.

The RoboFlail remote control mower is an alternative approach from STM–especially for steeper verges and health and safety sensitive areas. The unit can be operated

from up to 300m distance, and the twin-track configuration allows for very concise turning in between cutting operations.

RoboFlail machines come in diesel and petrol formats with 1.2m rotary or flail cutting head options. Other models in the range allow for the use of popular front-mounted hydraulic or PTO driven attachments.

Muthing has launched a wheeled version of its out-front MU-FM flail. Simon Richard, UK Agent for the Muthing range says, “Manoeuvrability has always been the negative to using a flail mower but Muthing’s new development, where the conventional rear roller is replaced with four wheels, has taken performance to a new level. Client testing feedback

confirms a marked increase in both manoeuvrability and also quality of cut, along verges and around flower beds and trees.”

longer, wetter

Manoeuvrability

and the end

The Woods Rotary Cutter, also being imported by

Simon says: “The Woods name is synonymous with quality and reliability and we are encountering clients who have had product on the fleet for many years. The range runs from the 1.06m Economy Spindle cutter for 15-30hp tractors to the 6.1m Multi-Spindle cutter for 70hp -300hp tractors.”

Contractors A J Steven have just completed ten years of work with their Batwing BW180X and Duncan Steven says: “We use the 180X for verge mowing and performance and cut quality is consistent and excellent.”

The Katia also features variable forward reach, which allows the cutting head to work alongside or behind the tractor, giving the driver much better visibility.

“This has been a heck of an improvement as our drivers are no longer having to constantly look over their shoulder,” says David, “When we have staff on hedge and verge cutting for long periods, they need to be comfortable and this makes it much easier, combating driver fatigue.”

An electric joystick to control the direction of the rotor blades has also been beneficial, allowing a quick switch between verge and hedge cutting whilst on the move.

The Gekko from innovative, multi-award winning German manufacturer Koppl means you can now choose whether to operate your mower via walkbehind or remote control.

The Gekko is a robust and reliable solution for banks mowing that is suitable for heavy use in tough working conditions including verge areas that are difficult to reach via the easy to use remote control function. Benefits include: high performance & multi-attachment capabilities;

powerful 23 HP petrol engine; remote control range up to 300m; capable of working on slopes up to 45°; high ground clearance and low centre of gravity; cutting edge innovations including revolutionary twistgrip steering

Koppl have been manufacturing since 1896 and produce an extensive range of implement carriers (5.7hp – 23hp) and attachments including sweepers, rotavators & mowers to suit individual specific needs.

Things are looking up in County Down for contractor Robert Harrison after he switched to a new Twose TW67T-5 for the upcoming season. Based in Greyabbey, Robert covers around 2,500 hours a year cutting hedgerows – working primarily for local farmers and building companies around the county. He wanted a combination of reach and cutting power, as well as precise controls and strong build quality so he purchased Twose’s flagship TW67T – 5 from local dealer McCord Machinery of Cookstown, specifying it with a 1.5m HD flailhead with competition flails.

The TW67T-5 features 6.7m reach, 65hp high-performance hydraulics, and a Telescopic arm extension to enhance manoeuvrability and cutting flexibility. Robert comments: “It’s a strongly-built machine and the performance is excellent. It delivers a powerful cut and a great finish. “

One of the key innovations available on 5 Series machines is the new Electric Proportional

Joystick – which offers precise proportional control; innovative touch-pad controls and a twist grip for enhanced functionality; and an ergonomic design.

“The joystick controls are ideal for working long hours when hedge-cutting because they are comfortable and easy to master. The stick is well-designed and grips comfortably in the hand so it feels very intuitive to control,” he adds.

“I love the 6.7m reach and the telescopic arm extension. It’s been very reliable - I have had no problems in the first 500 hours and would definitely recommend it to others.”

Dougie Fox from East Lothian Council’s Landscape and Countryside Department says: “Due to changes in the way certain areas have to be maintained, using a flail mower is the ideal solution. The Muthing MU-FM-4 wheeled mower on our John Deeres allows us to cut

growth.

is improved,

result is a more easily maintained area with a better visual finish.”

Simon Richard is also being used for verge mowing

Muthing

STM

VFR boosts cutting comfort

Looking up in Co Down

Tackling verges that are too steep to walk

Katia

Gekko

Twose

New T393 brings even more versatility

The latest addition to the TYM compact tractor range is the T393. It has been brought to the UK by Reesink Turfcare because of its perfect positioning to bridge the gap in the TYM line up, from the compact utility range into the mid-duty range.

A 39hp Yanmar engine, two transmission options: 12x12 speed manual with dash mounted shuttle lever or a three range HST transmission, and the highest lift capabilities in its class at 1200kg, means the T393 can take on the small and big jobs with ease.

Productivity is at the fore of the T393’s design. It’s available with either a rear mounted ROPS or a factory fitted cabin with air conditioning to deliver all-year round operating comfort, plus, the cabin features a high capacity heater and front and rear work lamps. So, dark winter afternoons or inclement weather won’t stop work with the T393.

The T393 has one of the highest hydraulic flow rates with a maximum output of 42 litres per minute, making it suitable for use with a wide range of

hydraulically driven attachments. And all the HST models come equipped with a new ‘Auto Throttle’ function, linking the HST pedals to the engine throttle to synchronise the tractor’s speed and engine rpm. This simplifies tractor operation and helps to reduce fuel consumption.

The cab features wide opening doors which allows for easy access on and off the tractor and, unlike larger models, there is no intrusive B-post on the tractor to hinder visibility.

The T393 completes the TYM compact utility tractor range joining the TS25, T293 and T353, and further complements the mid- and heavy-duty TYM ranges. It is available with optional extras such as a front loader, backhoe, front-weight kit and rear counter balance.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 79

ProLine H800 goes longer between stops for effortless mowing

Reesink has announced the arrival of a brand-new Toro rotary mower designed to improve productivity by going longer between stops.

The ProLine H800 direct collect rotary mower promises to boost productivity and revolutionise clipping clear-up for groundscare professionals across the UK.

With a 41ltr fuel tank and 810ltr collector, plus the ability to change the height of cut without stopping, Reesink Turfcare says productivity is at an all-time high with this machine.

Jeff Anguige, national sales manager at Reesink, says: “This launch will appeal to councils and landscape contractors looking for minimum downtime. The fuel tank is large enough to power a full day’s work, while

the generous capacity of the collector is accompanied by a sensor which alerts the operator when it’s full.”

In fact, you barely have to give clipping collection a second thought: “With the ProLine, you simply switch the mower on and go, most of the chores are done for you. Once the collector is full, the deck automatically disengages to prevent overfilling or grass going uncollected. Clippings can be emptied into a truck bed effortlessly with the high lift system, which can be raised to almost two metres in height and remotely controlled from the operator’s station,” explains Jeff.

To reduce interruptions further, the height of cut can be changed to between 20-110mm from the operator’s seat, enabling quick

and intuitive adjustment. No time is wasted stopping to unclog the machine either, thanks to automatic deck cleaning wipers.

This machine is perfect for those with a large workload on a tight schedule. The 26.1hp engine powers up to 12,000m2 of mowing per hour, throughout which the ProLine’s high performance cutting system delivers a clean quality of cut ideal for sports fields and commercial sites.

Added to that, the machine affords excellent visibility, enabling trimming right up to the edges of pathways

and borders within parks and urban areas. Built with durability in mind, the ProLine’s deck boasts a welded bull nose bumper and heavy-duty caster forks to withstand any knocks thrown its way, and long-lasting skid protection makes it a machine to be relied on.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry

Lees Hall latest to purchase a Ventrac

Lees Hall Golf Club is the latest purchaser of a Ventrac 4500 compact tractor and attachments.

Ian Whitehead is the Head Greenkeeper and heads a team of four dedicated greenkeepers. He has been in the job for 16 months, having previously been Course Manager at Hillsborough Golf Club for 23 years.

“We have upgraded various machines including a greens mower, tees mower and a greens iron,” he said. “However, the purchase of the Ventrac 4500

from local dealer, Russells Groundcare, has been the real bonus. It’s a powerful, multipurpose compact tractor on which you put many attachments.

“Like other recent purchasers of Ventrac, I was sceptical when I first saw the machine, it’s a bit quirky, but once you’ve sat on it you realise it’s a powerful and versatile tractor, very smooth to drive and the articulating Contour mower deck leaves a great finish. Its hill climbing is excellent and that’s a prime consideration here.

“We’re already looking at other attachments as we prepare our 2018 budget. There’s so much that this single machine can do with its selection of accessories which include a Tough Cut deck, Stump Grinder, Edger, Blower and more.”

Price Turfcare Enquiry 80

SHB turns to Garia to offer an electric fleet solution

SHB is delighted to announce a partnership with Garia - the Danish Buggy and Utility vehicle manufacturer to offer a full 100% electric vehicle solution to its customers.

The Garia Utility model offers an efficient and practical solution to fleet operators looking to move to an electric option. With a range of hire or purchase plans available and a road legal model with an array of body options to the rear,

SHB is aiming to work with its customers to help bring a cost and carbon output improvement that is not at the expense of the vehicle’s commercial ability.

SHB will be stocking various Garia models, all of which are now available on long term and short-term hire plans as well as for purchase.

SHB Enquiry 82

New customer-designed Batwing from Woods

Based on end-user feedback Woods Equipment have developed and launched a new generation of their Batwing rotary cutter range.

Simon Richard, UK Agent for the Woods rotary cutter range, said a variety of features make this new Batwing the most durable in the field.

“Steel tubes surround the perimeter to absorb shock and chain shielding integrated within the frame prevents damage,” he said. “The

machine’s beefy, heavy-duty skid shoes prevent gouging and protect the deck, increasing toughness and durability.

“The machine is also equipped with features that ease maintenance, including grease fittings that are easy to reach and a smooth, sloped deck that’s free of components for easy clean-up and grease able quick-change blade pins.

“Rounded wings that slice through brush and a curved leading edge that easily

Be Prepared This Winter

PSD Groundscare, a leading distributor of professional groundscare machinery have an exciting range of robust vacuums, blowers & sweepers from innovative European manufacturers ELIET and Koppl.

Leading Belgium manufacturer ELIET have developed a range of vacuums & blowers that includes leaf blowers, truckloaders, snow blowers and the Cameleon, a multi-vac that combines a vacuum with an optional shredder unit.

Innovative German manufacturer Koppl provides a range of multiattachment machines that can be fitted to a power unit and with

over 50 attachments to choose from including weed clearance, snow-blowers, snow ploughs & sweepers there is a solution for almost any groundscare requirement. The wonderful advantage of the Koppl range is the power unit can be used all year round with attachments to suit the season.

PSD Groundscare, are a leading distributor of professional groundscare machinery including mowers, brushcutters, shredders & scarifiers and our extensive range ensures every season is catered for.

Parts Depot Enquiry 83

Contractor takes delivery of new composter from Harry West

SLW Landscapes in Herefordshire has added a Seko composter from Harry West to its machinery fleet.

The company specified a 15m3 Composter on flotation tires to aid easy access to the apple orchards during the pruning season.

The small family run enterprise has more than 20 years experience in the landscaping, ground works and garden maintenance sectors.

Harry West supplies a range of Seko machines and the Green and Compost unit for a variety of tasks, including chopping and

mixing of branches and pruning. Key benefits include low noise levels, tailored design to meet individual requirements and it reduces the volume of material. Other features are: augers and body built from special hardwearing steel; mobile or static machines; and low running costs.

Harry West also supplies its own range of specialist machinery and equipment and offers a used machinery option as well as extensive servicing and maintenance opportunities.

Harry West Enquiry 84

manoeuvers close to trees and poles deliver optimum performance and the calculated positioning of welded baffles optimizes airflow for even cutting and superior distribution.”

Simon Richard Enquiry 85

D. Burney & Sons makes Iseki investment

D. Burney & Sons, vegetable and salad growers based in Clitheroe, Lancashire, has taken delivery of a new Iseki TM3185 compact tractor to assist with planting potatoes and rotavating crops on its 3-acre site in Tarleton.

The family-run business used to produce over 1000 boxes of tomatoes under contract for a major supermarket, but has since chosen to focus efforts on its retail business in Clitheroe, which was founded in 1949 by the current owner, Richard Burney’s father.

Richard said: “We use the Iseki TM3185 mainly for planting

potatoes at our site in Tarleton, and also at our other site in Little Hoole.” The Iseki TM3185 is powered by a 15 hp diesel engine and features 4-wheel drive and differential lock providing solid traction in any ground

conditions. Robustly constructed, its narrow wheelbase makes it the ideal workhorse for narrow or restricted working environments.

UK Enquiry 86

Iseki

Less is more for Leigh Golf Club

Robert Ainscough, Head

at Leigh Golf Club in Warrington Cheshire, is perhaps one of a few greenkeepers who boasted clean, disease free greens during a particularly difficult winter period last year.

This was achieved by adhering to a preventative programme using a range of Syngenta fungicides from ICL, which saw him applying less product than he was previously when working on a more reactive basis.

“I changed the products around and it was at this point that I started using ICL and Syngenta products, such as the growth

“They made such an improvement that at the start of last year I sat down with Phil Collinson (ICL Technical Area Sales Manager) to devise a full ICL iTurf programme on the greens, tees and approaches and this included a combination of fungicides to help keep disease at bay.”

Last year, Robert started his preventative approach with an application of Banner Maxx just before annual maintenance work on the greens in September. This was followed by an application of Instrata four weeks later and then finally he sprayed the greens with Medallion TL in December.

Robert admits that it took a while to adjust to the preventative approach, but the results have made it all worthwhile.

Enquiry 105

Turning up the heat

Naked gardeners bare all for Perennial

A group of gardeners have stripped off to star in a naked calendar to raise money for Perennial, the charity helping those in horticulture.

Round Wood of Mayfield offers a collection of eco-friendly Thermo-Treated timber products by Thermory including decking, cladding and flooring.

The range includes decking, cladding and flooring, all of which has been thermo-treated. This chemical free process is used to transform ash and spruce from responsibly managed forests in North America and Europe into timber with a durability that rivals that of tropical hardwoods.

Thermo-treatment takes place in computer controlled kilns. Finished timber profiles are heated and steamed at temperatures of up to 215°C

in order to reduce moisture content, remove resins and bake out the natural sugars that can cause decay.

The result is an extremely durable timber with outstanding dimensional stability, suitable for a variety of external and internal uses.

Thermo-treatment also infuses the timber with a strong, luxurious colour throughout, particularly suited to contemporary projects. Stunning results have been achieved in projects throughout the world.

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The Perennial Naked Gardeners Calendar 2018 makes a great Christmas gift and all proceeds will go towards helping those working in horticulture and their families during times of crisis.

Following the success of the 2015 Naked Gardeners Calendar, this hardy group of volunteers

from across the horticulture industry collectively known as The Grubby Gardeners decided to get together again, baring all for their trade charity. They were photographed by Jonathan Ward of Ginger Horticulture at RHS Garden Wisley.

The 2018 Perennial Naked Gardeners calendar costs £10.00 and is available to order from: perennial.org.uk/shop

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Greenkeeper

regulator Primo Maxx and Greenmaster Pro-Lite Cold Start and Sierraform GT fertilizers,” he excplains.

ICL