Landscape & Amenity Product Update February 2015

Landscape Amenity

Fencing & Security Product innovations & information

Page 10-11

BTME Review

Review of events in Harrogate Page 12

Tensar systems provide flooding lifeline for community

Systems from Tensar International, a worldwide leader in the manufacture and the provision of subgrade stabilisation, pavement optimisation and soil reinforcement, have been selected for use in the construction of a flood defence system in the Somerset village of Muchelney.

Frequently falling victim to flooding, Muchelney’s roads were earmarked for Central Government funding following flood events in 2013, with new designs seeing the village’s Law Lane being raised by 1.2m to allow continued access.

Tensar products were specified by the defences’ designer, Atkins, and

approximately 25,000m² of Tensar TriAx geogrids and 15,000m² of Tensar uniaxial geogrids were used to support the redesigned road. Both Atkins and Tensar worked closely with main contractor Skanska and Somerset County Council throughout the works.

Providing near isotropic 360° radial load spread properties, TriAx geogrids provided reliable, initial stabilisation over the site’s extremely soft ground, which includes areas of peat.

As increasing the road’s height will create a substantial embankment imposing significant loads onto the weak foundation, further layers of TriAx geogrids have also been included in the designs to help

STM under new ownership

After 24 years in business, Simon Tullett has decided it is time for a succession management plan, and the results of discussions with interested parties has led Simon to accept an arrangement whereby the current Sales Manager, Dominic Mason, purchases the company.

The company name will simply change to STM Co Ltd, and the product range of SCAG pedestrian and ride-on mowers, RoboFlail remote control mowers, Humus equipment and Wisconsin Engineering garden tractors will remain, with plans for further additions in the near future.

STM Enquiry 2

mitigate differential settlement of the road structure, while uniaxial geogrids will provide lateral restraint to prevent the sides of the embankment from slipping.

Geoff Carter, Area Civil Engineer at Tensar International, said: “The use of our geogrids will assist in the rapid construction of the road, allowing the side slopes to be kept as steep as possible. The minimal footprint of the new road embankment keeps additional land-take to a minimum in order to reduce the site’s impact on the surrounding area.”

The project is due for completion later this year.

Tensar Enquiry 1

Buzz returns with BTME 2015

The year kicked off in style at Harrogate with BTME 2015 attracting thousands of visitors to a show which saw a number of important new products and services unveiled by exhibitors.

The Continue to Learn education programme broke all records - at the last count, an initial figure of 2,900 delegates had travelled from across the UK and the world for the hugely diverse range of seminars and workshops.

A total of 4,692 visitors also attended the three days of the exhibition at the Harrogate International Centre with the halls particularly busy on the first day.

BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: “It’s been another fantastic week and it’s featured record numbers attending our Continue to Learn education programme which is at the heart of what we are trying to do.

“This year we’ve featured 215 excellent hours of education, the programme is going from strength to strength and this really drives quality visitors to the exhibition. We’ve had four sold out halls this year and as exhibitor demand continues to increase, BTME 2016 will feature a fifth exhibition hall. We’re already focusing our minds towards next January.”

Course boosts water conservation

The horticultural and water industries have jointly developed a ground-breaking online course in landscape water efficiency aimed at landscape contractors, gardeners, designers and groundkeepers.

The course can be accessed via www.htalearning.org.uk and the Certificate in Water Conservation is a costeffective, one hour long e-learning course in four clientfocused modules that provides the tools and knowledge to plan, build, establish and maintain sites that conserve and manage water sustainably.

The knowledge gained will deliver improved site usability and resilience and increase staff confidence when talking to clients about water management.

For the first time, 15 of the leading organisations in the horticulture and water supply industries have combined resources and expertise to help horticultural staff recognise and implement best practice in landscape water efficiency. BALI Enquiry 4

Simon Tullett Machinery now has a new man at the helm from January 2015.

BIGGA Enquiry 3

Welcome...

The buzz certainly made a welcome return to Harrogate at the end of January as BIGGA staged another successful BTME exhibition.

Even the first serious snowfall of the year did little to put off visitors as exhibitors reported encouraging footfall on all three days, with many securing firm deals and serious enquiries for a wide range of products and services.

The early news for the 2016 event is also encouraging, with an extra hall already being added to accommodate demand from exhibitors. Hopefully the feel-good factor experienced in Yorkshire will continue throughout the rest of 2015 and permeate across the whole of the UK in the coming months. It was interesting to note the continued expansion of BIGGA’s education programme at BTME too. This is another area the organisation expects to grow in 12 months’ times.

The level of interest is heartening for the industry as a whole – and mirrors the experience of the IOG at SALTEX. The future of the industry lies in having a skilled, motivated and flexible workforce and high quality training, education and career development is crucially important.

It is also an issue that could well become a political hot potato in the coming months. As the countdown to this year’s General Election begins in earnest there is growing concern across many industries at the Government’s failure to listen to those at the sharp end about skills gaps and training provision.

Although the Government will point to the growth of apprenticeship programmes, there are many who believe it has been guilty of sending out too many mixed messages about the importance of training and particularly vocational education. It is one of many questions that the various political parties will have to address in the coming months and which our industry will want answered.

This month we have a review of BTME, alongside our Play & Activity special supplement, a detailed look at fencing and security products and our usual round-up of product news and views from across the industry.

Contents:

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

Product News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Street Furniture & Pedestrianisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Fencing & Security. . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

BTME Review. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Play & Activity Today. . . . . . . . . . 13-17

Road Sweepers & Street Cleaning. 18

Machinery, Plant & Vehicles. . . . . 19-22

Classifieds.

Groves Editor

Paul

O’Brien buzzing after London Wasps pitch success

Contractors partnered with leading European sports pitch specialist, GreenFields UK, for the installation of a new playing surface at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.

The sports contractor secured the contract with GreenFields UK through its track-record of providing successful pitch installations for organisations, including: Oswestry School, Eastbourne Hockey Club, Kewford Eagles FC and Aston University.

The project at the Ricoh Arena involved site preparation works to remove the existing 8000m2 playing surface before GreenFields UK installed the new natural turf, farmed in the Netherlands. Works started on December 5 and was completed ready for Coventry City’s home league game with Fleetwood Town on December 20.

Aviva Premier League side, London Wasps, had initially announced its intentions to replace the current pitch during the summer to provide a playing surface suitable for the demands of both rugby and football matches, however, following a consultation, the rugby club decided to lay an interim pitch to ensure both Coventry City and London Wasps had a surface required to give them the best chance of success.

O’Brien Contractors is the first and only large civil engineering

firm able to offer turnkey solutions for a range of sports pitch installations, delivering projects ranging from athletics tracks, football pitches though to hockey and rugby pitches. This capability is all maintained in house – with no outsourcing required – by a team of experts with a proven track record of delivering design and build sports projects to a diverse range of exacting client specifications.

8

New 5G series tractors for 2015

range of transmission, PTO and hydraulic options, from entry level to premium alternatives.

These include: a two-wheel drive 12F/12R speed transmission up to a four-wheel drive 24F/12R PowrReverser transmission; a 540/540E PTO, or a 540/1000 PTO including ground drive; and a twin pump hydraulic system with two mechanical SCVs, or a triple pump system with four electro-hydraulic SCVs including seven mid-mounted couplers.

John

4.5-litre

This new series has been specifically designed to provide high levels of comfort, power,

hydraulic performance and manoeuvrability to customers who require a versatile utility tractor with compact dimensions and a narrow tread width.

The 5GF, 5GN and 5GV Series tractors offer customers an open operator station or a redesigned cab for maximum visibility and operator comfort, plus a wide

Dennis and SISIS host seminar

Dennis & SISIS will be holding their popular cricket seminar on February 17, where groundsmen in the sport will be able to refresh their education on a variety of topics.

The two powerhouses in turfcare machinery, along with support from other key companies within the groundscare industry, will be staging the insightful event for cricket groundsmen at St Albans School Trust. Attendees will be able to see presentations from an impressive line-up of speakers including Chris Wood, Vic

Demain, Andy Clarke, Ian Smith and Ian Wall. Following presentations, informal discussions will commence where all delegates will get the opportunity to ask any questions they may have to a host of industry professionals including the seminar’s guest speakers.

Attendance is free. To register contact Roger Moore on 01332 824777 or email Roger on roger.moore@dennisuk.com

Completing the new John Deere line-up of speciality tractors for 2015, the low-profile 5GL Series 75 and 85hp four-wheel drive models feature an open operator station and a 24F/24R Sync Reverser mechanical Hi-Lo transmission.

O’Brien Contractors Enquiry

Deere’s latest 5G Series tractor line-up includes four model ranges featuring 3.2 and

Stage IIIA engines with a rated power of 75, 85 or 100hp (97/68/EC), plus a choice of twoor four-wheel drive.

John Deere Enquiry 9

Dennis & SISIS Enquiry 10

Charity Champions and Ambassador announced at the Party for Perennial

Over 300 people from across the horticulture industry gathered at The Roof Gardens in Kensington for the inaugural Party for Perennial. As part of the celebrations, the charity will launch the Perennial Champion Awards and its new Perennial Ambassador scheme. The Perennial Champion Awards are being introduced to recognise those who have gone above and beyond in their efforts for Perennial, whether through fundraising or offering other types of support.

The awards were presented at the party by Rachel de Thame to winners that include: the Grubby Gardeners fundraising team who starred in the Perennial Naked Gardeners Calendar; George Kestell who has coordinated volunteers and fundraising for Perennial in Cornwall for nearly 15 years; and several industry stalwarts such as Hardy’s Cottage Garden Plants, Majestic Trees and Coblands Nurseries who provided invaluable help in creating Perennial’s 175th anniversary exhibit at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2014.

Mark Gregory of award-winning Landform Consultants became the first official Perennial Ambassador and will help promote the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting all horticulturists in times of need.

As a 20-time Gold Medal winner at RHS Chelsea Flower Show and

Director of the HTA, Mark is active across the horticulture and landscaping industries and exceptionally well placed to lend his support to the charity. The Party for Perennial revives the tradition of an annual fundraising event, which was one of the earliest customs of the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Society. In those days the annual dinner was the organisation’s main source of income, but it was cancelled 100 years ago due to the outbreak of the World War I.

Anita Bates, Director of Marketing and Development at Perennial, said: “We are delighted that so many people have got behind the event and bought tickets, we are sure it is going to be a great night. It is fabulous to see the growing support from people across the industry for their trade charity –particular thanks go to our generous sponsors.”

All funds raised will help support UK horticulturists, retired and of working age, and their families, who come to Perennial for help. As the only charity that supports all UK horticulturists, Perennial makes a massive difference to people’s lives and the industry as a whole. The charity offers a wide range of advisory and financial help for problems ranging from debt, bereavement, injury or illness.

Snake makes light work of wet course

A Trimax Snake rotary mower has transformed the way greenkeeping staff maintain the golf course at a club in Wales.

Glynhir Golf Club, formerly Llandeilo Golf Club, near Ammanford in South Wales is a 105-acre, par 69 parkland style course laid out on clay.

Its course is managed by three staff - Course Manager Wayne Benger, with Raymond Davies and Nigel Ruck.

The semi-rough areas at Glynhir are maintained at a consistent

40mm, providing clear distinction from the fairways which are cut at between 13 and 18mm. If golfers stray offfairway, their ball can sit up nicely for playing up to a green.

“The Snake’s articulation around the greens and bunkers and on the undulating on-course areas is first class,” said Wayne. “There’s no sinkage and no damage when turning. We turn between trees in a tight turning circle and we could never have done that with the cylinders.”

Trimax Enquiry 13

Advanced Roundup ProVantage boosts performance

Roundup ProVantage is a new glyphosate herbicide from market leader Monsanto, formulated to set new and improved standards in weed control.

Boningale invest in new nursery machinery

Boningale Nurseries has committed to further improving the quality of its stock by investing in two top-of-the-range pieces of machinery.

A new potting machine will enable the Shropshire-based nursery to pot both bare root and larger pot sizes more efficiently, with minimal disturbance to the plants roots thus maximising growth.

Penny Fryer, Production Director at Boningale Nurseries, said: “The machine will make a real difference to the way in which we

work and will make the flow of our output much smoother.

“It’s compost delivery system produces less compaction of the growing media and the knock-on effect will be less wastage and better plant growth.”

To complement the potting machine, Boningale has also invested in a bark topping machine to top dress its potted plants.

Boningale Nurseries Enquiry

16

Building on Monsanto’s expertise in herbicide developments - the company first introduced the tried and tested Roundup in 1974 - Roundup ProVantage is more concentrated at 480g glyphosate per litre.

The optimised blend of surfactants as well as the high loading makes Roundup ProVantage Monsanto’s most advanced amenity glyphosate on the market.

This offers significant benefits for specifiers and operators alike. With more active ingredient in each pack, less packaging is needed for the same reliable weed control, creating less packaging waste. Improved environmental stewardship is an important consideration for local authorities and contractors, and reducing waste can make a major contribution.

Practical advantages include easier transport and handling of products, offering extra convenience when groundsmen may have a large amount of equipment to take to the worksite. Transport is also an expensive commodity, so any savings can help cut costs, while for large contracting operations reduced need for space in the chemical store is a further benefit.

Roundup ProVantage offers superior performance too – with improved rainfastness and speed of uptake. Rainfast in one hour for annuals and four hours for perennials, this new product reduces the risk of run off and ensures the maximum amount of glyphosate reaches the roots for the optimum effectiveness.

Roundup ProVantage can be used with confidence in public spaces as it has been classified as nonhazardous by COSHH and is approved for use in aquatic areas.

Perennial Enquiry 14

Adapting to changing landscapes

Landscape design technology seems to have evolved at a rapid pace, with an array of software for different platforms and even professional applications for mobile devices.

The use of design software in the landscape industry has been slower to evolve than in other sectors, like construction.

Landscape design is a creative art and the user base is less accepting of CAD than other professions, such as engineers and architects. Inevitably landscapes are more complex because of changes to landform and the amount of detail required to show realistic representations of trees, shrubs or paving areas.

Mike

created opportunities and challenges in equal measure.

“Listening to our customers, we have been able to develop a range of software to meet different requirements depending on user ability and need,” he said. “At one end of the spectrum we offer

entry level graphics based applications for creating high quality 2D landscape drawings with some basic 3D elements. At the other end there is more advanced technology such as our KeySCAPE Design Studio, with cutting edge landscape software

and an extensive library of 2D, 3D and elevation symbols. This enables users to create, modify, validate and cost up landscape drawings quickly and easily to show to the client.

“It allows them to work in either metric or imperial units or scale between them so drawings can be shared in the client’s preferred units.

“Whilst this evolution in technology offers significant opportunities to landscape professionals, it can also present challenges, particularly when it comes to time and cost. The use of design software has led to truncated project timescales and the expectation that change requests can be made instantly.

Shilton, Product Manager

for Keysoft SolutionsLandscape, believes the evolution of landscape design software has

SALTEX now gets a new team

will

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) has enhanced the team working behind the scenes on NEW SALTEX, scheduled at the NEC for 2015 with Matthew Knight and Caroline Barbour joining in roles to coordinate and direct the organisation, marketing and promotion of the show.

The IOG is increasing the resources to ensure added value to both exhibitors and visitors. Commenting on the appointment IOG CEO Geoff Webb stated that: “We are determined to provide the best possible exhibition for the Industry at SALTEX’s new home the NEC in 2015.

“The IOG is delighted to welcome both Matthew and Caroline who

“There is also a misguided belief among clients that you can design in 2D and the software will

miraculously turn this into a 3D landscape, fully rendered, animated and at a minimal cost.”

Design software will never be able to replace the creative input that is needed from landscape professionals but it does provide the assistance they need to create detailed 2D and 3D drawings,

improve collaboration and information sharing and make the modification process much more efficient, ensuring accurate drawings and schedule are always available and up to date.

Keysoft Solutions Enquiry 19

work with Jon Gibson at Brintex Events, Fusion Media and site operations led by ‘Mr Saltex’ Derek Walder and his team. This blended approach ensures we have continuity allied to the development of a new and vibrant SALTEX in 2015 and beyond.”

FUSO –A Daimler Group Brand

Atlas designed by EverEdge for artificial surfaces

EverEdge Atlas is the new galvanised steel edging product to come from the design team at EverEdge. It has been made specifically with the artificial grass market in mind and is the first product of its kind. EverEdge Atlas is a variation on the standard EverEdge Classic range of 1m long edging strips. The difference is that Atlas comes with a 20mm wide shelf on the rear face of the strip which allows installers to glue their artificial grass carpet down.

What makes this product so appealing is that, until now, the only real option was to use wood, which is difficult to bend and unlikely to last as long as the grass. EverEdge Atlas, on the

other hand, has been designed in such a way that it can be easily curved to create shapes and will last as long, or probably longer, than the grass. This flexibility allows installers to form the edging to easily create a more natural look.

Despite only being launched in September 2014, EverEdge Atlas has already proved to be extremely popular with the manufactures, the installers and the public who are laying more and more artificial lawns in the UK every year. To begin with, EverEdge Atlas will come in a standard depth of 75mm, in 1m lengths and will be 1.6mm thick.

EverEdge Enquiry 23

Prime Minister visits Ransomes Jacobsen

During his visit he met with Ransomes Jacobsen’s senior leadership team before walking over to the manufacturing plant to address an audience consisting of employees and specially invited guests.

His address centred on the recovery of the UK economy, the

importance of British manufacturing, jobs and apprenticeships for young people.

Alan Prickett, Managing Director of Ransomes Jacobsen, said: “We have been a major employer in the town for more than 200 years and draw our workforce from across the region. We are a net exporter and for the past three years have re-introduced an apprenticeship scheme”

Enquiry 25

Spread the news about Wessex

Wessex International has introduced new models to their range of trailed fertiliser spreaders.

Lawns, paddocks and driveways will all be taken care of with the Wessex FT-170T trailed spreader.

Perfect for use behind ATV’s and road vehicles, the spreader comes complete with a ball hitch and is ideal for spreading fertiliser and, using the optional winter kit, dry free-flowing salt to keep paths and drives open.

The spinning disc spreader is mechanically driven via pneumatic tyred wheels and is made from stainless steel for durability. There’s an agitator in the hopper to improve material flow.

A bigger brother to this general purpose spreader is the 270 litre FS-270 Wessex mounted spreader which is an excellent

addition to any fleet of groundcare equipment.

The FS-270 provides a spread width of up to 14 metres and has the same durable features as its smaller towed version.

Wessex International Enquiry 26

Prime Minister David Cameron visited Ransomes Jacobsen’s European head office and manufacturing facility in Ipswich during a tour of East Anglia.

Ransomes Jacobsen

Clear snow easily with the Ariens Path-Pro

The Ariens Path-Pro provides quick and efficient snow removal for paths, pavements and other outdoor spaces.

It is a single stage snow thrower designed for users who require a compact and easy-to-manoeuvre machine for snowfall of up to 22cm (8.6”).

The Path-Pro is fitted with an Ariens AX 208cc engine. This provides superior power regardless of the elements and comes with a 3-year cold start promise.

A 70cm (27.5”) rubber paddle scrapes the snow from the path. The snow is then ejected through

the discharge chute. The chute can be rotated using a conveniently placed lever on the handlebars, allowing the user to throw snow exactly where they want it to go. This machine has a clearing width of 60.9cm (21”) and a throwing distance of up to 10.7m (35ft).

Ergonomic folding handlebars ensure that the Path-Pro can be easily stored in a shed or garage. The Ariens Path-Pro has a 3-year warranty for homeowner use and a 90 day warranty for professional users.

Countax Enquiry 29

Conditioner unlocks potential of poor quality soils

Using a silicate colloid soil conditioner can help landscapers to maximise the potential of manufactured, compacted and contaminated soils and should be used wherever poor soil quality presents a barrier to effective vegetation establishment.

Containing sodium silicate and phosphate, Agrosil LR improves soil structure by forming large molecules of porous silicate gels which improve soil porosity and lock up heavy metals.

Agrosil LR also enhances phosphate availability to plant roots, making the most nutrient deficient soils capable of supporting plant growth.

Applying a top dressing at 3550g/m2 prior to seeding, or as an

under-turf treatment at 100-120 g/m2, improves soil structure to a depth of 30cm and provides the necessary nutrients for vegetation to grow in poor soils.

Agrosil LR also protects against fungal infections such as Fusarium, leaf spot and powdery mildew by promoting an increase of silicate in the leaf, preventing diseases from taking hold. The silicate gels also bond heavy metals so that they can no longer cause a toxic effect to plants.

Agrosil LR is available from Germinal Seeds: www.germinalamenity.com

Germinal Seeds Enquiry 28

Heavy-duty mowing from Toro

Toro top choice for new Beaverbrook Golf Club

Developer Longshot Cherkley Court chooses Toro irrigation and machinery for new £90m luxury hotel and private members club

Toro irrigation and turf maintenance machinery has been chosen by Beaverbrook Golf Club for its brand new course, currently under construction as part of a new £90m luxury hotel and private members club at Cherkley Court in Leatherhead, Surrey. The scheme will see the grade IIlisted building, famous for being the former residence of press baron Lord Beaverbrook, converted into a luxury hotel, health club and spa. This will be complemented by a private members club 18-hole golf course co-designed by David McLay and Tom Watson, opening in summer 2016.

Development is moving apace at the site, where a new, state-of-theart Toro irrigation system is currently being installed on the 400-acre site. This uses Toro’s innovative Lynx central control system with its intuitive interface that will allow Beaverbrook’s greenkeepers to precisely customise the system to their own course conditions and requirements to ensure efficient, controlled use of water at all times.

Added to this are Toro’s latest sprinklers – the new Infinity Series with Smart Access. Infinity sprinklers deliver all the Toro quality features of increased efficiency, enhanced course appearance and improved playing conditions, but with the added benefit of Smart Access. This feature is a boon to course managers as every serviceable element can be accessed from the top of the unit. It means sprinkler repairs and maintenance can be done without the need to dig up the unit with consequent damage to turf and loss of time and money. The sprinkler is also

future-proof, designed to accept new and improved parts whatever the future holds.

Tim Edwards, a director of developers Longshot Cherkley Court, says: “We aim to become the most exclusive private golf club in the UK and have chosen Toro to be a big part of our future plans. Everything about this project is about finding and using the best of the best – and that includes Toro. In my opinion they are the best in the industry; the highest quality.”

He sees it as a big benefit that the club will be 100 per cent Toro and that the irrigation will be complemented in the future by the arrival of a Toro turf equipment fleet to cut and maintain the prestigious Beaverbrook course. Distributor Lely UK’s Toro sales manager Jeff Anguige says this will comprise the full range of mowers for cutting all areas of the course, as well as Workman utility vehicles, sprayers and topdressers. TYM compact tractors will also be part of the deal. The project is expected to create around 300 jobs, with staff being recruited from the local community as far as possible. Tim Edwards says this includes bringing together the best greenkeeping team available – “the most skilled staff, ideally those who already know and like Toro and enjoy using Toro equipment”.

Meanwhile, Lely will be providing support throughout the grow-in phase and into the long-term. Andrew Brown, corporate accounts manager for The Toro Company, says: “Beaverbrook Golf Club is a prestigious new enterprise and Toro and Lely are delighted to be chosen as its preferred supplier for both irrigation and machinery. We look forward to working with Tim and his team over the coming months.”

Irrigation Enquiry 32

Toro

New products for a new year

range of sizes which will complement any garden space.

Marshalls is extending its Drivesys range of driveway products with the introduction of Drivesys Riven Stone in Golden and Silver Grey. Also available for 2015 are specially designed complementary edging products.

Tobermore aids £19m college overhaul

Hall College is phase one of a highly impressive £19 million overhaul at the educational facility which includes a spectacular new landscape featuring an expanse of paving products supplied by world

class paving and walling manufacturer, Tobermore. The eyecatching landscape has been created with Tobermore’s Textured Flag in beautiful Buff and demure Charcoal. Textured Flag is one of the premier products in Tobermore's large element paving range. The unique granular surface

and mellow colours available with the Textured Flag range produce a chic natural look. This product works beautifully with the gorgeous new building at the Rochdale Campus and the attractive scenery surrounding the college.

Peak paving solution from Brett

Fulfilling a landscape architect’s brief to achieve costeffectiveness under strict planning regulations, Brett Landscaping has been commended for its involvement in supplying its Beta concrete block paving at a two and threestorey split level cedar clad school, built within a Greenbelt area on the border with the National Peak District Park at Worrall in Sheffield.

The installation of Beta paving, which has been selected to fulfil the hard landscaping element of the school’s rebuild, has resulted in the delivery of a clean, smooth and durable aesthetic thanks to its minimal edge

chamfer, making it ideal for the school’s required application.

Brett designed, blended and produced a specific block run of 60mm Beta concrete block

A first for 2015 is Marshalls’ Pavesys System. With its

patented contoured base, this product is designed to take up to 50% of the time and hassle out of installing patio paving whilst maintaining exceptional good looks. Pavesys Heritage is available in two colours and a

Marshalls Driveline Metro linear paving is perfect for those seeking a high-end and contemporary driveway. A blend of four colours, every block is lightly washed to expose rich aggregates and give a premium finish.

Marshalls Enquiry 35

Urban design at Ecobuild with Interpave

The trade association Interpave’s stand at Ecobuild celebrates the transformative power of inspired hard landscape in our cities.

It focuses on opportunities for innovative uses of water in urban design, presented by new government requirements for SuDS and enabled by concrete block permeable paving.

Sustainable drainage (SuDS) and concrete block permeable paving are essential to help fight flooding. But they can also form an integral part of inspired urban design, which government now acknowledges with its new approach to implementation using the planning system.

Concrete block permeable paving is uniquely placed to play a key role by reducing, attenuating and treating rainwater runoff near the surface, while providing

completely level, well drained and slip-resistance surfaces accessible to all. But its real strength is an ability to remove water-borne pollution, offering a gradual supply of treated water that can be exploited for harvesting, ecology and –particularly – innovative landscape design.

Interpave also showcases the latest, innovative hard landscape

designs with all types of precast concrete paving and kerbs, meeting the widest sustainability criteria.

Join Interpave at Stand N6075 on the Concrete Pavilion (next to the North Arena), March 3-5, to find out more about SuDS and urban design.

Interpave Enquiry 38

Marshalls unveils its new products for 2015 with a solution for every garden or driveway project.

Designed by Kevin Brady Architects, the redevelopment of the Rochdale Campus at Hopwood

Tobermore Enquiry 36

paving in a unique colour combination to meet the planning stipulations.

Brett Landscaping Enquiry 37

Free counterterrorism guide for buildings and venues

As police forces across the country take to the streets to advise the public as part of Counter-terrorism Awareness Week, hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) security specialist, Townscape Products, is informing building and venue managers on the role they must play.

The current terror threat for the UK is ‘severe’, the highest it’s been since 2011, and Jonathan Goss, managing director of Townscape Products, is warning any facility which attracts a high concentration of people needs to review its perimeter security measures.

As part of Counter-terrorism Awareness Week, Townscape is providing building owners, architects and facilities managers with a free perimeter protection

factsheet, advising them on how they can create a robust vehicle barrier system. This free guide can be downloaded from the Townscape website –www.townscapeproducts.co.uk

Townscape has been providing integrated PAS 68 HVM solutions to many of the UK’s largest airports, utilities infrastructure, visitor attractions, government and public buildings. Townscape’s Counter Terror (CT) Block is a perimeter security system designed to immobilise a 7.5 tonne vehicle traveling at 40mph. The CT Block requires only very shallow (100mm) foundations, making it inexpensive to install without compromising on building security.

Townscape Enquiry 40

Zaun helped secure Glasgow Games

Commonwealth Games delivery partners looked to the largest supplier of perimeter fencing protection to the London 2012 Olympics to secure Glasgow 2014.

They handed almost £4 million of contracts to integrated highsecurity perimeter event overlay specialist Zaun to design, manufacture, install and decommission a broad range of temporary high-security fencing systems across the Glasgow 2014 sites, including Tier One venues.

Glasgow Games procurers ordered several thousand metres of two of Zaun's principal temporary high-security fencing systems, hundreds of vehicle and pedestrian gates to suit each system and bespoke above ground and system-mounted CCTV columns incorporated into the fencing lines.

Zaun supplied several thousand metres of its MultiFence and award winning RDS systems at heights of 3m and 2.4m, with sections fitted with Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) enhancements.

Zaun developed its PAS 68 MultiFence especially to resist hostile vehicle and mob attacks at

AVS Fencing Supplies purchase Herriard Sawmills

AVS Fencing Supplies has opened its ninth branch, in Herriard near Basingstoke, Hampshire.

The site was previously owned by Herriard Sawmills Ltd, whose owners decided to sell after 26 years of trading, to allow more time for their retirement plans.

Herriard Sawmills Director, Mike Self, said: “We have been fortunate in finding a most suitable buyer for the business. We are pleased that AVS place a high importance on maintaining the team and furthering relationships with both customers and suppliers.”

Growing since 1993, AVS are a leading supplier of fencing

materials in the UK, with a reputation for quality fencing supplies and unrivalled customer service.

Sales and Marketing Director, Nick Summers, said: “This is another exciting chapter for AVS as we continue to go from strength to strength.

“As we expand and grow as a business we continually seek to improve our products and services, and we thoroughly look forward to sharing our success with our new customers in Herriard, Basingstoke, and the surrounding areas.”

AVS Fencing Enquiry 42

the best fencing systems around

the London 2012 Olympics. MultiFence has been granted a patent by the UK Intellectual Property Office.

The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games was the latest global event to entrust the security of its stakeholders to Zaun. As well as the extensive use of its

systems at London 2012, the UK manufacturer has supplied The English Football Association's training centre at St George's Park, the 2013 G8 Summit in Northern Ireland and NATO Conference at Newport's Celtic Manor and key sites in Cardiff.

Unilog Pro stands the test of time

The highly regarded Unilog Pro landscaping timber range from leading specialist M&M Timber is now available with a warrantybacked desired service life of up to 30 years, providing a new, longer lasting landscaping option for local authorities, landscape architects and property developers.

Recommended for all commercial applications, Unilog Pro landscaping timbers are pressure treated in accordance with BS8417, using Celcure preservative and, significantly, are the only landscaping timbers on the market to be backed with a full written warranty by the company for a 15 year desired service life, which can be extended to a full 30 years.

Following a surge of enquiries for M&M Timber’s market leading

Unilog Pro products from recent landscaping shows and events, the company is backing its order books with an upturn in production output at its manufacturing centre in Worcestershire. And, with the recent commissioning of a second drying kiln, used in the preservation treatment process for the Unilog Pro timbers, stockholding has increased dramatically to enable a competitive 7-10 day turnaround of orders.

Unilog Pro landscaping timbers also blend in perfectly with the natural environment. They provide a long-lasting durable retaining barrier against earth, water or other materials, and blend in perfectly with the natural environment.

M&M Timber Enquiry 43

Zaun

Fencing of the future

Pedestrian guardrail project improves junction

The installation of new pedestrian guardrail by metal railings and gates manufacturer Alpha Rail at the busy road junction of the A158 and B1202 in the market town of Wragby in Lincolnshire is set to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians alike.

required Alpha Rail to make four separate site visits.

Training course boosts gate safety

Two hundred and fifty powered gate installers and specialists have now successfully completed the Door & Hardware Federation powered gate safety diploma training course. With more courses planned, the number of successful trainees is set to rise to 500 by the end of 2015.

Low maintenance, lightweight and 100% weather proof – these are just a few of the reasons that PVCu fencing is becoming increasingly popular in the marketplace, and Liniar’s innovative range offers an attractive alternative to more traditional timber and concrete systems. PVCu fence posts and gravel boards can be installed in exactly the same way as concrete or timber products but offer a more durable solution and can be used in various combinations.

The lightweight posts are easy to install and are only 10% the weight of a standard concrete post. They are rebated and compatible with other fencing systems.

Timber fence panels slot easily into place – or Liniar’s gravel boards can be combined to create a full plastic panel. Liniar fencing systems are available in a choice of colours – a unique concept in the marketplace – and can be combined with their PVCu

decking products for a coordinated customised design. All Liniar products are manufactured in the UK from 88% recycled materials and are lead free.

For a full list of the many benefits of the Liniar PVCu fencing range, visit: www.liniar.co.uk/fencingbenfits or call the sales team on 01332 883900.

Inventor makes installing fence posts easier

SteadyPost Ltd has launched FenceFins, which reduces the challenge of fence post installation.

FenceFins are a pair of steel braces that are nailed to the post and then sit just below ground level. They provide resistance

against the soil to counter the force of the wind on the fence. Their strength comes from their unique A-shape and not their weight – a pair for a 3”x3” post weighs only 1.3kg. They don’t need heavy labour to put in and can be adjusted during installation

to make it simple to get a post really straight. Per post they are priced similarly to spikes or quicksetting concrete, and a 4”x4” size is also available.

SteadyPost Ltd Enquiry 48

Alpha Rail was appointed to manufacture and install 82m of DG1112 Decorative Pedestrian Guardrail. The project had to be completed in quadrants as resurfacing works progressed and

The widening of the footpath running alongside the Marketplace/ A158 means it is more accessible for people with prams or reduced mobility. The new pedestrian guardrails have provided added visibility to motorists and help to ensure everyone is guided to safe crossing points.

Alpha Rail Enquiry 46

The two-day training scheme was launched at the end of 2013 by the DHF Powered Gate Group, in its drive to increase safety levels in the sector. The group represents the leading manufacturers, suppliers, installers and maintainers of powered automatic gates and gate automation equipment. The training course is aimed at all those responsible for the safety of automatically controlled powered gates including installers, inspectors and those responsible for gate maintenance.

During each course, delegates complete a number of training modules - covering all aspects of gate safety from initial risk assessment through to force testing - in order to obtain their coveted DHF gate safety diplomas. Topics covered include law and regulations, use of standards, risk assessment, testing and inspection, documentation, repair and maintenance. It is compulsory for all DHF Powered Gate Group to put their personnel through the training scheme. Monthly training courses have now been arranged through to Easter, 2015.

DHF Powered Gate Group Enquiry 49

HL Plastics Enquiry 47

Campey showcase new Raycam spreader

Debuts on the Rigby Taylor stand

Rigby Taylor’s featured a range of new industry introductions, with advances in grass seed technology demonstrated through the launch of RT25 CRT, a new creeping rygegrass and tetraploid mixture, components of which feature at the top on the STRI Turfgrass listing.

A new liquid soil penetrant to assist both the entry of wetting agents into the soil profile and to

relieve waterlogging at the surface was also launched.

Also on display was Rigby Taylor’s new range of 3-in-1 OptimM8 spreaders, the unique Preline initial linemarking paint, a new granular fertilizer/selective herbicide formulation and the company’s 2015 product range brochure.

Harrogate is a hit for Highspeed

Highspeed Group Ltd enjoyed what was probably their best BTME this year with an innovative ClearWater Prize Draw, the launch of the Carbery Fuel King 2500 litre Fuel Point and the Z Spray shoe, club and trolley cleaner.

BTME 2015 also was selected by Carbery Plastics for the UK launch of their fully specified 2500 litre Fuel King bunded Fuel Point through their distributor Highspeed Group Ltd. The tank features a five meter retractable filling hose and created much interest.

The Zelup Z Spray new to the UK and available exclusively through Highspeed Group Ltd was also launched at the show. It created much interest and its effectiveness was demonstrated on the stand by Louis Issler from the manufacturer. This very compact unit uses an air and water mist for fast and efficient cleaning of golf clubs, shoes and trolleys.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 52

Every groundsman needs a granular fertiliser, seed and sand spreader and the new Raycam Fertiliser Spreader from Campey Turf Care Systems delivers on every level. It is quick, economic

and easy to operate, with an option of 500lt or 600lt hopper capacity.

The expansive spreading width is from 1m to 14 metres. Raycam

Fertiliser Spreaders are 3pt linkage mounted, PTO driven and known as Pendulum “Wagtail” spreaders. They are designed to distribute granular fertilizer and seed with precision, so

Headland Amenity Enquiry 53

eliminating unnecessary waste. The Raycam range is suitable for tractors between 30hp to 50hp.

Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 51

todayplay&activity

Your essential guide for Sports & Playground Equipment in association with

Investment in playgrounds falling despite physical inactivity crisis

Government policymakers are failing to recognise the value of play in tackling children’s catastrophic obesity and physical inactivity levels, says the Association of Play Industries (API).

According to latest figures from API member companies, UK order values for playgrounds and play equipment fell by six per cent between the second and third quarters of 2014, from £43.8 million in Q2 to £41 million in Q3.

Total order values in the first nine months of 2014 were

£128.1 million compared to £128.8 million at the same point last year, a drop of 0.5 per cent.

The API blames the play market downturn on financial pressures in the core Local Authority sector, traditionally the UK’s biggest play buying market.

A total of £18 million of National Lottery funding from Sport England to improve the outdoor facilities of 600 primary schools across England has so far failed to make a significant impact on the play

market, despite many API members winning contracts to install new facilities.

However it may contribute to a more optimistic end of year. Total order values for API member companies in 2014 are set to be £164 million.

This is a one per cent increase on 2013 levels (£162 million) but is 17 per cent below the 2010 market peak of £198 million when political support for play was at its highest.

API Chair Michael Hoenigmann says: “There has

never been a greater need to increase children’s activity levels, yet the UK play market faces significant challenges from constrained Local Authority budgets and a lack of political will.

“Today’s children will live shorter lives than their parents unless we tackle obesity and sedentary lifestyles. It’s time for policymakers to acknowledge that investment in well-designed, high-quality public play provision will bring long-term health, economic and societal benefits. This is about more than swings and

Sovereign completes play area

Children are benefitting from a newly redeveloped play area in Twt Park, Cowbridge, following the completion of a project to improve its play facilities.

The refurbishment, undertaken by Sovereign Play Equipment, has given the outdated play area a new lease of life with the installation of adventurous play facilities suitable for children from as young as three, through to the teenage years.

Promoting active play, the new facilities include two new cradle seat swings, a timber and rope adventure play frame, two timber climbing

towers and four new benches. Plans for a second phase of the development have been confirmed to further extend the play area’s

Sovereign Enquiry 57

roundabouts, it’s about our children’s future.”

One area where the API does expect to see market growth in 2015 is from commercial play buyers looking to attract more families like hospitality and tourism businesses.

The API is the lead trade body within the UK play sector, representing approximately 85 per cent of UK play industry companies including manufacturers, installers, designers and distributors of outdoor and indoor play equipment and safety surfacing.

Matrix unveiled by Townscape

Townscape Products Limited has launched the Matrix Modular Canopy system is an innovative flat packed shelter solution for schools, retail, transport, hospitals and commercial premises requiring all year weather protection.

The shelter can be installed on all types of ground surfaces and provides a high quality, long lasting cover with quick and cost effective installation.

The system comes as an easy to build, flat packed system in a range of colours. The roofing selection includes a clear translucent option, perfect for letting in natural light. Instead of having to

It campaigns at the highest levels for policy recognition of the value of play.

Play buyers include local authorities, town and parish councils, schools and nurseries, the NHS and MoD, housebuilders and developers, holiday and theme park operators, and pub and restaurant chains.

API Enquiry 56

purchase a made to measure outdoor shelter the Matrix Modular Canopy is a solution which is flexible and can be built to the specific dimensions you require.

The launch of the Matrix canopy system is part of Townscape’s 40th anniversary celebrations.

Townscape Products Limited Enquiry 58

Miroad Rubber – the new one stop shop for play, sport and leisure surfaces.

With a worldwide reputation for quality and an amazing range of vibrant colours, Miroad can supply many different types of external surfacing for playgrounds and recreational areas. Miroad is now available for the first time in the UK and Europe.

Our Products

We manufacture and supply 19 colours of EPDM granulate plus our own PU binder, all available from UK stock for immediate delivery at exceptionally competitive prices. We have a comprehensive range of recycled rubber tiles, mats and pavers to help specifiers

meet environmental targets. Our products are safety and performance tested in accordance with EN1177, making them suitable for all types of playgrounds.

Enhancing play value

A rubber surface can substantially enhance the play value of a playground. Colours, themes and designs can be used – blue for a winding river, brown for stepping stones, yellow for sand – or shapes and graphics can be placed within the surface. Miroad can supply prebonded graphics tiles with bright, fun images of animals, fish and other shapes. Or

numbers can be used to create a hopscotch pitch. The surface becomes not just a background for the play equipment, but part of the play experience, adding a whole new dimension.

Free technical help

At Miroad we don’t just sell you a product. We offer a full no obligation technical advisory service. We will visit site to help with groundwork planning. We will help to calculate how much material is needed. We can suggest suppliers for related services such as line painting, artificial grass or resin-bound gravel. We can even offer installation

training to make sure you get the best from your surface. You can call us anytime with technical questions and we will be happy to help.

Competitive pricing

We are routinely saving our customers at least 10-15% on their play surfacing costs. Why not consider us for your next project? For a free brochure and price list call us on 01278 727755/07475 872495, or email uk@miroadrubber.com. Or you can visit our site at www.miroadrubber.co.uk.

Miroad Enquiry 60

Child’s play is an election issue says industry

The lead trade body for the UK play sector is urging political parties campaigning for this year’s General Election to make play a policy priority.

Provision of high-quality play facilities in local communities not only has a vital role to play in tackling the nation’s catastrophic physical inactivity epidemic, but also addresses wider social problems like social exclusion, anti-social behaviour and community cohesion, says the Association of Play Industries (API).

API Chair Michael Hoenigmann says: “Every child has a fundamental right to play but there are many local communities that have nowhere safe for their children to play.

At the same time that childhood obesity and physical inactivity are rising and young people’s relationship with the outdoor world is dwindling, austerity measures are putting children’s right to play and their health and well-being at risk.”

The Association calls on politicians for investment in high-quality public play facilities and parks, particularly in deprived communities, for children’s needs to come first when planning new play facilities, for long-term funding for all schools to provide more and better opportunities for active outdoor learning and play and to improve provision of PE and sport, and for measurement of children’s

Inspections

physical literacy within the Ofsted inspection regime.

In full, the API makes four key asks:

1.Investment in, and subsequent maintenance of, public play facilities should be a government priority, particularly in deprived communities.

2.Decisions about local play provision should be made by specialists within local authorities who understand the benefits of play and the needs of local communities, not by procurement departments.

3.The Sport England Primary Spaces programme should be extended to every school, with broader scope to incorporate a

wide variety of physical literacy activities, not just ball games.

4.A measurable outcome for physical literacy in schools with agreed minimum levels of physical activity, outdoor learning and play should be mandated in all schools as part of the National Curriculum with outcomes assessed within the Ofsted framework. API Enquiry 61

Scotland’s first trampoline park bounces into action

Air Space has officially sprung into action, bringing the worldwide trampolining buzz to South Lanarkshire. The revolutionary £2 million leisure destination opened its doors at Playsport in East Kilbride, and has already received an incredible response. As Europe’s largest freestyle jumping arena, Air Space features more than 100 interconnected, wall-to-wall trampolines in an area over 35,000 square feet. The attraction showcases a spring-

loaded urban playground where jumpsters can perfect their freestyle parkour moves in the main arena, jumping from one trampoline deck to the next. They can also test their skills in dodgeball courts, slam dunk hoops and football, all on super-sprung pitches, or try their moves on the air bag crash test site and defy gravity on the wall ramp.

Air Space Enquiry 62

7.4m x 20 tonne "singing stone" menhir. We have all shapes and sizes of weathered Cornish granite boulders.

Large climbing/play features and weathered landscaping boulders for the BALI Grand Award-winning Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, South Park Plaza scheme supplied by Cornish Landscaping Granite.

Photo copyright: ROBIN FORSTER courtesy LDA

To commemorate Dame Janet Baker as Rector of York University, artist Gordon Young has selected this

Steelway scores with range of MUGAs

Steelway is helping to tackle the growing issue of childhood obesity and concerns about increased inactivity amongst the younger generation with a range of MUGA equipment to suit a variety of different sporting activities, age groups and budgets.

Children need a safe and welcoming environment in which to play and interact with their friends. Providing outdoor sport equipment at a local park or open space helps to provide local communities with an economical way of exercising and socialising for everyone.

Steelway has created a collection of products that offer a choice of sporting activities that benefit all age groups, including a singular basketball goal that stands 3.05m to the bottom of the basketball ring for regular basketball play. The Ball Chute Tree is a fun game of skill and luck which can be

played by one or three people at a time. It involves throwing the basketball into the top of the chute, the ball then drops out from one of the three exit holes.

Popular indoor games such as Badminton and Volleyball which have traditionally been played indoors can now be played outside. Football offerings include an economical 5-ASide goal frame 1.5m high x 3.0m wide.

Traditional tennis nets work well on tennis courts that are supervised. For areas when supervision is not possible traditional nets often become damaged through misuse or vandalism. Steelway’s tennis net which is 12.2m wide offers the perfect solution for unsupervised play. It’s robust anti vandal construction will offer years of service.

Steelway Enquiry 67

Timberplay opens first UK skate park

Hull’s Pennine Way is the proud recipient of the UK’s first Timberplay skate park, including state-of-the art prefabricated skate elements from Concrete, designed to deliver exceptional ride-ability.

Designed by skaters, for skaters, and utilising the best materials for improved performance, this street style park is set to become a skaters’ favourite.

The park was opened by one of Hull’s biggest landlords, Riverside, and has been years in the planning.

The park has been created using a combination of

prefabricated elements, for example the penny, london gap and funbox, and bespoke in-situ features such as the volcano and pool corner.

Timberplay worked closely with their Dutch partners, 2Move, a specialist skate design consultancy established by landscape designers with a passion for skating.

They utilise Concrete prefabricated elements, widely recognised as provider of some of the best performing skate elements across the world.

Timberplay

Enquiry 66

Orchard meets the needs of village play area

A playground designed and installed by Sutcliffe Play is delivering challenging, active play opportunities to children in Avonwick, Devon.

A new playground was required to meet the needs of a new housing area and the surrounding village.

Sutcliffe Play was challenged with providing equipment for a compact space which would be suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.

The equipment installed included a unit from the

Orchard range, a range of environmentally friendly play equipment which encourages physical, challenging play and social interaction. The woodbased clamber units and trim trails are designed to fulfil many of the developmental needs of children and help improve their balance, strength and coordination. The unit installed at Avonwick Play Area features a climbing wall, fireman’s pole, horizontal climbing net and rope walk.

The play area also features a basket swing designed to encourage inclusive play, a

mound tunnel to complement the natural environment and swings with a pod seat and a flat seat to suit a variety of ages. Emma Cousins, Chairperson of the Avonwick Play Area SubCommittee, said: “We’re so pleased with the park. It’s not a huge space and the equipment really makes the most of it.

“We’ve had children from babies up to 14-year-olds playing there, from the whole village. The feedback has been brilliant – no one ever thought we’d have a play area like this.”

Sutcliffe Play Enquiry 70

Urbanix has hit the ground running

Urbanix, the most state-of-theart outdoor gym equipment currently on the market is now installed in several locations around the UK.

Urbanix is the latest innovation to hit the industry and is exclusively available from Proludic, the Nottinghamshire based play and sports specialist.

Unlike other gym equipment Urbanix has a patented user controlled hydraulic piston which provides 8 levels of resistance. This allows you to control your workout to a level that suits your own ability whilst offering progression as fitness improves.

The features and benefits include: each station offers bidirectional resistance targeting different muscle groups –enabling users to work out at their own pace and encouraging repeat visits; clear signage is provided for each piece of equipment with QR Codes which link to virtual coaching videos –guaranteeing the equipment is used properly and providing

the user with excellent personal training; ergonomically designed seating, foot, hand and back supports – provide a comfortable space to work out; products have been tested to DIN 79000 by TUV Rheinland ensuring maximum durability; and the modern, contemporary design and low visual impact fits into any environment.

The equipment installed at Kingston Road Recreation Ground in Leatherhead, Surrey in October 2014 has been a huge success with local residents. The similarities between Urbanix and that of indoor gym units has meant that several personal fitness trainers have been using the site to conduct bootcamp sessions with their clients and have been extremely impressed with the quality.

With a choice of 20 individual stations, 8 pre-designed packages or a bespoke design service, Proludic are able to meet the needs of any outdoor gym projects.

Proludic Enquiry 71

Abacus launches new collection of sports and play surfacing

Ruggedly durable and beautifully decorative, with minimal maintenance:

Abacus Playgrounds, the UK’s largest installer of safety surfaces for children’s playgrounds, is launching an impressive new range of sports and play surfacing.

The varied range includes three distinctly different types of surfacing that are each extremely hardwearing and support better play through rapid water drainage.

The collection includes synthetic turf, resin-bonded dry aggregate and a multipurpose, polymeric surface, perfect for MUGAs. Whether you are looking for a new walkway, multipurpose outdoor playing area or low maintenance, highly realistic artificial grass, there is something in Abacus’ new range to suit virtually any facility.

Abacus Play Grass, the new synthetic turf is a ruggedly durable alternative to real grass, which is ideal for play as it is non-abrasive, highly UV resistant and with zero maintenance. Made from a blend of fibres and twine woven through a polymeric membrane, and with practically invisible seaming producing one continuous, smooth-looking surface, it is well suited to any area, regardless of size. What’s more, the 28mm pile and realistic blend of colours

combine to create a naturallooking finish that is particularly suitable for play areas.

Abacus Resin Bound, resin bound dry aggregate is a beautifully decorative outdoor surface, ideal for virtually any size area or installation due to its incredible durability. It is porous, supporting fast drainage and minimizes injury through surface water, and is slip-resistant. Its permanent resilience to wear and damage make it a visually striking alternative to tarmac or concrete. It is also very versatile, as the aggregate is mixed with a resin and troweled over a prepared base, allowing for almost any shape to be created, even incorporating logos, making it perfect for schools, businesses and local authorities. It gives the appearance of a loose aggregate but with no messy clean up or maintenance caused by shifting stone.

Sport-Top, the third in Abacus’ new range of surfaces, is a continuous polymeric sports surface, ideal for use outdoors. It is a safe and cost effective, robust flooring system, suitable for a wide variety of activities and providing high-quality play combined with comfort, good grip, minimum risk of injuries and fast drainage after rain. Importantly, it is designed to meet Sport England’s M.U.G.A. Type 3 and 4 specification, making it as versatile as it is hardwearing.

Bill Worthington,

Playgrounds Ltd, explains why they are second to none in terms of service and satisfaction: “What sets us apart from the competition is an ability to offer top quality installations at competitive prices due to our strong position in the market. With this great new range of

products we aim to further establish ourselves as leaders in the play surfaces industry and provide our customers with more choice.

“Our experience, efficiency and versatility allows us to continue to be the best choice for play and sports surfacing and by expanding our product

range we also offer a simple solution to multi-surface projects.

“We firmly believe that what we do reflects on you the customer, with that in mind we take every job, no matter how small, very seriously and are very proud of what we do.”

For more information about the three new ranges of sports and play surfacing and to see how they could benefit your facility, visit www.abacuspg.co.uk and www.sport-top.co.uk

of Abacus

SweepEx from Wessex gets hitched

Slurry, snow, standing water, mud and slush, it’s all the same to a SweepEx push broom.

Easily hitched to a skidsteer, telehandler, fork lift or any category 11 three point hitch, they and your SweepEx were made for each other, clearing the area fast and efficiently with the facility to ‘squeegee’ wet surfaces, shift fallen leaves and plough your way into all types of debris including wood chips, gravel, small rocks and spills.

Considering the time it takes one person to sweep up, a SweepEx is another world. Take the SweepEx Pro broom. It’s designed for medium to heavy sweeping while the Mega broom, with its eleven rows of bristles, provides maximum sweeping power.

The MegaMax C-broom takes the concept of the push broom and adds carefully twisted side retainers which will hold bulk volumes of material in front of the brush without spillage.

All SweepEx brooms dramatically reduce sweeping times and in the case of the

MegaMax you eliminate spill lines and so reduce the time clearing up even further. There are no moving parts, belts or chains and no motor, offering safe and maintenance-free operation. The SweepEx comes with polypropylene bristles, a high tensile steel broom head and

highly durable mounting hardware. The patented bristle track holds the bristles firmly in place and there are 25% more bristles per inch than competitor types.

Wessex International Enquiry 79

Hako-Citymaster is compact, convenient and comfortable

The Hako-Citymaster 1250 multipurpose sweeper is the result of further development of the successful Hako-Citymaster 1200.

The main emphasis lay in improving the riding comfort and operating convenience as well as increasing efficiency and performance capability, which represent the central aspects for professional, commercial users.

The driving speed of 30 km/h represents a 20% increase compared to its predecessor model, the Hako-Citymaster 1200, meaning that actual work can begin more quickly and tra velling times are reduced. The 30% increase in the working

speed represents a distinct improvement in the work output.

The Hako-Citymaster 1250 is available in two models: HakoCitymaster 1250, a single-purpose vehicle, and Hako-Citymaster 1250C, a multipurpose vehicle.

The single-purpose 1250 model is the ideal vehicle for pure sweeping tasks or wet cleaning (with additional options) and represents an economic basic vehicle.

The multipurpose 1250C model represents an excellent basis from which to complete other work beyond the scope of pure sweeping tasks. The multipurpose vehicle can also be equipped with additional options for wet cleaning.

New generation compact loaders sweep up

The new generation 600, 700 and 800 platform compact loader ranges from Bobcat offer several unique features and enhancements that significantly extend the range of applications for loaders of this type, reinforcing the company’s leadership in the compact loader market worldwide.

The 600 Series comprises three models, the S630 and S650 skidsteer loaders and the T650 compact tracked loader.

The 700 Series comprises a skidsteer loader model, the S770, a compact tracked loader, the T770, and an all-wheel-steer (AWS) loader, the A770.

The 800 Series contains the new S850 skid-steer loader and T870 compact tracked loader, the most powerful loaders offering the highest lift height ever manufactured by the company.

The models can be fitted with a wide range of accessories and attachments, including an industrial brush system that allows the machine to operate as an effective and efficient road sweeper.

Bobcat Enquiry 80

The new system for changing attachments requires shorter setup times, compared to the predecessor model. The overall procedure is easier and operations can be completed by a single operator to increase efficiency and improve economy.

Hako Enquiry 78

Johnstone launches new range of brushes

The brush is a crucial part of the sweeper’s performance and also has a major impact on operating costs.

Over the past ten years, the evolution of road sweepers has been easy to see. Engine legislation, which has changed significantly to improve emissions, together with lower noise levels, better suspension, improved cab design and telematics, are just some of the changes made to improve performance and driver environment.

Johnstone’s Sweepers has launched a new range of brushes. It has a new moulded steel tine brush available which delivers all of the same benefits in terms of performance and durability.

As the tines can be positioned accurately in the brush head, sweeping performance is improved as each tine can be angled to match the rotation of the brush. This delivers a better flicking action and leaves no gaps for dust and debris to pass through.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, the new City Brush has been introduced for councils operating a daily sweep operation, a lower density brush could perform as well as the higher specification brush at a much lower cost. The wear rate will be equal to the higher spec brush, providing municipal operators with lower operating costs.

Johnstone

Lely expands training offering for groundsmen as 2015 guide released

Toro distributor Lely UK has launched its new Turfcare Training Programme for 2015, which sees new courses and training venues introduced for the year.

Accessible via www.lelyliterature.co.uk, the 12page guide comprises all of the industry-leading courses Lely is recognised for; from certificated Toro operator training sessions to turfcare mechanic and spray technician courses.

New for 2015, however, is the introduction of tractor driving courses, added to complement the TYM range Lely distributes. “Our new TYM Compact Tractor Driving Award allows even the most experienced tractor drivers to update their knowledge and skills and get the very best out of the machinery we supply,” says Neil Adams, head of training at Lely UK. “The new course is already proving popular with experienced and novice operators alike.”

Also showing popularity early on are Lely’s sprayer technician courses; a trend thought to be affected by upcoming legislation changes. Currently, anyone born before 31 December 1964 does not need a specified Certificate of Competence (CoC) to apply professional plant protection products (PPP). As of November 2015, however, everyone will require a CoC to apply pesticides.

Lely is now City and Guilds (NPTC) accredited to offer this training with its Advanced Pesticides Application course.

As well as chemical application training, Lely is able to offer City & Guilds vocational training in a variety of land-based machinery disciplines to its customers, similar to that currently offered by colleges and other training providers. This follows the appointment of The Toro Company as an approved City & Guilds training centre in Europe.

Along with being associated with a global leader in skills development, Neil says an added benefit of becoming City & Guilds accredited is a significant drop in course prices. “We’ve essentially cut out the middle man, allowing us to offer our customers some fantastic training opportunities at a lower rate than past years.”

Together with the introduction of a new course and lowered prices, Lely has also announced that they will be trialling three new training venues this year. Cutting Technology and After-cut Appearance, a course that always sees a high uptake, will now be available at Celtic Manor Resort, Newport; Elmwood Golf Club, Fife, Scotland; and ReelTech, Ireland.

Neil explains the firm’s motive for expanding their offering

beyond Lely’s training base in St Neots, Cambridgeshire. “We’ve always offered the choice to deliver courses at our customers’ own premises, but often it’s more cost effective to train employees off site for the smaller companies. By making the courses more accessible UK-wide, we hope to

encourage a higher participation in training,” he says. While Lely is offering just one course at more locations currently, the company plans to expand this offering across all courses if customer feedback is positive.

Lely UK Enquiry 84

Pellenc keeps it quiet at RAC

The Royal Automobile Club

Estate Manager Eric Olson and Head Gardener Andy Pearson are two men aiming to make the Club in Surrey as environmentally friendly and efficient as possible, with the purchase of a range of Pellenc battery-powered tools.

Andy, who has been at the Club for 15 years, and his team of three gardeners, who are seen as an extended arm of the 20 strong greenkeeping team, look after all the footpaths, watering of plants, hedge cutting, planting as well as both hard and soft landscaping on the estate.

He was looking at purchasing environmentally-friendly equipment that could be used around the clock whilst also improving productivity and cutting operating costs.

In the last five years, Pellenc has gained market recognition by offering a unique range of ‘zero emission’ battery-powered handheld tools, thanks to the development of Lithium-ion ultra-high performance batteries.

This technology, which is exclusive to Pellenc, allows for a drastic reduction in the production of greenhouse gases and noise pollution. It is also comfortable for users, meets new sustainable development demands and offers excellent economic profitability.

Pellenc is exclusively distributed in the UK by Etesia UK.

Etesia

UK Enquiry 85

Deal points to green shoots for Isuzu

Isuzu UK has secured a major fleet deal, providing Glendale, the UK’s leading supplier of green service solutions, with 25 utilityspec double-cab D-Max pick-ups.

Wrapped in lime green with Isuzu’s dark green canopy to match Glendale’s distinctive branding, the new fleet certainly won’t be hard to spot.

Launched in the summer of 2012, the D-Max continues to impress, winning numerous

prestigious accolades including Fleet Van’s ‘Pick-Up Truck of the Year’, Trade Van Driver Magazine’s ‘Best 4x4 Trade Pick-Up’, and VansA2Z.com’s ‘Pick-Up of the Year’ in just the last few months.

The Isuzu D-Max is available in three body styles – single, extended and double cab. It is fitted with a super-efficient 2.5litre twin-turbo diesel engine, producing 163 PS and 400 Nm of torque, is able to tow a class-

leading 3.5-tonnes (braked) while still returning fuel economy of 38.7 mpg (combined), and is available with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

Every Isuzu D-Max sold in the UK comes with the company’s pioneering five-year / 125,000mile warranty, as standard. Isuzu

Little Wonder it’s cutting it with professionals

Schiller Grounds

0800 840 0888 lwdealer@littlewonder.uk.com www.littlewonder.uk.com

T6 drives off for quick round

Perched 200 feet up on the cliffs of the south Wales coast, overlooking some of the UK’s most beautiful shoreline, Pennard Golf Club describes itself

perfectly as the “links in the sky”.

One of the most important tasks at the end of the summer season is replenishing the fairways’ grass with a seed drill in October; a job

for which speed is the essence to minimise disruption to players but without risking damage to the carefully manicured surface.

The solution came from J.G. Plant, a New Holland dealership based in Bridgend, Glamorgan, which provided Dean with a T6.140 tractor – the perfect utility workhorse balancing power with sure-footedness.

Fitted with extra wide Trelleborg tyres for minimal ground pressure, the T6.140 had the power to pull the heavy seeder and drill the fairways with 80 bags of seed – all in just one pass. The task was done in a week.

New Holland Enquiry 88

New combo machines are key to combatting compaction

Twose’s innovative new all-inone subsoiler and aerator machines have been unveiled.

Designed to boost soil quality and fight compaction, the new SSA range combines the two operations in a single-passheaving, aerating and rolling the soil before slitting it to aid water percolation and promote capillary action. Available in a choice of 2.5m and 3.0m working widths, the new machines potentially halve the time required to treat pasture and deliver major savings in labour and fuel costs.

Twose director of sales and marketing Tim Coleridge said the

SSA machines would offer a major labour and cost saving advantage for contractors and prove a significant weapon in easing compaction and enhancing growth.

“The double action of subsoiling and aeration will enhance the condition of grass roots and improve the ingression of water and air, promoting strong earlier growth of grass,” he added.

“Combining the two roles into a single-pass operation will save contractors time and money and

help them increase efficiency and quality.”

The SSA machines are compatible with tractors of 80 hp and above (two leg model), 120hp and above for a three-leg configuration.

Twose Enquiry 89

Terex prepares for EHS

With projects like Crossrail, HS2 and the Help to Buy scheme taking the headlines, outlook for the construction industry is strong. Meeting the demands of this market, global equipment solutions provider, Terex Construction, will showcase its latest range of compact construction machinery at this year’s Executive Hire Show (EHS).

Taking place at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena, 11-12 February, the dedicated equipment exhibition will give delegates the chance to find out about the latest plant technologies and customer-driven hire solutions.

Representatives from Terex will be on stand B90, talking to visitors about the company’s 2015 range of compact construction machinery, including next-generation Tier 4 final-compliant rental tough site dumpers, compaction rollers and excavators. All of the equipment being showcased has been specifically developed for site hire applications. In addition to site dumpers, Terex will also showcase its walk-behind pedestrian roller, which recently saw full production onshored to the Terex Coventry manufacturing facility.

Terex

Enquiry 91

Wessex reaches new heights

Wessex International has launched a new range of tractor mounted hedgecutters for the agricultural and groundcare markets, with public highway use.

The flagship models, the T500G and TPE600 have a reach of 4.85m and 5.96m respectively with a 1.2m working width head, and both feature the option of cable controls or the EP-Tronic proportional control joystick for accurate manoeuvrability.

In the mid-range the TA38OD and TA43OD offer 3.84m and 4.33m

reaches, with a 1m width cutting head and a choice of Y-pattern or Bootie flails and a mechanical break-away device. The arms are fabricated from heavy gauge circular steel tube for maximum resistance to torsion stress and the moulded hydraulic oil tank is designed to significantly reduce the overall weight.

An additional option is a cutter bar which is ideal for use on public footpaths.

Wessex International Enquiry 92

McConnel unveil major breakthrough in flail technology

The most important breakthrough in flail development in more than a decade has been unveiled with the launch of McConnel’s new F14 T-flail.

The F14 is the first heavy-duty Tflail which is equally adept at grass mowing, hedge-cutting, and the maintenance of mature threeyear hedge growth.

Featuring a larger cutting area, an innovative hollow cavity design, and a wider shank, the F14 delivers a powerful and precise cutting action and is perfect for farmers and contractors who want a versatile flail which can handle both hedge-cutting and grass mowing.

Key features of the new F14 flail include: patented cavity design retains durability while minimising weight (Patent pending 1405860.6); rounded shank improves material flow and prevents grass wrap; improved cutting angle on the leading edge delivers a cleaner more consistent cut; double the flail overlap of the standard F10 T-flail; more mass generates a greater cutting momentum; cast from tried and tested ADI steel for a stronger more durable flail; exceptional cutting performance; longer

leading edge profile extends working life; versatile flail that’s ideal for a wide variety of jobs; and compatible with McConnel’s best-selling Multicut rotor

The new flails will be equipped as standard on new 65, 70, and 85-Series Power Arms. Customers who wish to upgrade their existing flails should contact their local McConnel dealer.

McConnel Enquiry 94

Dennis and SISIS provide solution for all at GIS 2015

Visitors to booth 26052 at the Golf Industry Show (GIS) in San Antonio Texas in February will see an impressive line-up of quality turf maintenance products from two of the leading names in the industry – on the combined stand of Dennis and SISIS.

The company is launching the SISIS Flexi400 to the US market, while course favourites such as the Dennis FT510, and the SISIS Veemo, SISIS Rotorake 600HD and SISIS Auto Rotorake MK5 ensure that booth 26052 is the must see attraction at this year’s show.

The SISIS Rotorake 600HD is a heavy duty pedestrian de-thatcher and linear aerator which can be used for regular, routine use at a

shallow setting or a deeper setting as and when required.

The SISIS Veemo MK 2 is a tractor-mounted de-thatcher used for removing thatch from large areas of turf, such as golf course fairways. The Veemo’s strong cutting blades are designed for minimum surface disturbance and maximum thatch removal via three floating heads which are independent from the main frame.

The Dennis FT510 has been engineered to maintain areas of fine turf. A cutting width of 510mm (20”) and a range of 11 interchangeable cassettes mean that one machine can be used for several different tasks from dethatching, verticutting or

brushing. Chosen for its reliability, robustness and performance, it’s no wonder that the Dennis FT510 is relied upon in many maintenance programmes throughout the UK and beyond.

The SISIS Auto Rotorake MK 5 is a self-propelled heavy duty de-

thatcher for removal and control of thatch on fine and other quality turf. It works on the successful contra-rotating principle for a clean, consistent performance with a selection of blades to suit key seasonal tasks.

95

Dennis & SISIS Enquiry

Tines Direct strengthens its market share

Tines Direct has enjoyed an extraordinarily successful year as a one stop online shop for replacement tines, blades, brushes, and quality accessories for sports turf professionals. The company supplies the products to meet all the requirements and provide solutions to any issues that may arise in the day to day working day of a ground professional.

Tines Direct also provide an extensive selection of scarifying blades, available in hardened or carbide tipped for well-known brands including Trilo, Richard Long, Amazone, Graden, SISIS and many others.

Wiedenmann adds three new models

The Terra Rake, a perennial favourite of Wiedenmann UK customers, has been re-engineered to double both its output and width.

A brand new folding frame means the versatile verticut harrow becomes significantly more time efficient for those with sizeable areas to cover.

Previously only available in 1.6 m and 2.1 m widths, it now adds a 3.2 m and 4.4 m to its range, the two wider machines taking advantage of technology developed as part of Wiedenmann’s continuous R&D programme.

sized units either 1.6 m or 2.1 m, can be transported together and ‘joined’ when in work mode to create twice as much output, the folding mechanism working hydraulically from the operator’s in cab controls.

In all these instances the parallelogram-shaped Terra Rake has a robust steel frame containing closely arranged rows of long verticutting tines. These tines are self-vibrating and probe the turf inquisitively, their aggressive action pulling up thatch and depositing it on the surface.

Tines Direct Enquiry 98

In essence the folding frame means that two separate same-

Wiedenmann Enquiry 99

Mitox is same product with a new name

Take the Kawasaki reputation for quality, reliability and durability and roll it into the new Japanese-made Mitox and you have a formidable range of commercial brushcutters.

That is what has just been launched in the UK to give Mitox a really competitive edge with professional brushcutters at grass roots pricing.

The new Mitox machines, formerly Kawasaki, still boast Kawasaki engines and quality Japanese manufacture, yet at lower prices in 2015 than you would have paid for the equivalent Kawasaki brushcutter in 2014.

Add to this the comprehensive 3-year commercial warranty (5years domestic) and you can easily see why Mitox, already one of the fastest growing garden machinery brands, has staked its claim on becoming a

leader in landscaping, groundscare, amenity and forestry. To further stamp this mark there will also be other products in the professional range to come.

Mitox Enquiry 100

Landscape Amenity

Timberland PRO launches Wildcard Mid

busting five-year guarantee

If you are after a professional brush cutter, then look no further than the Maruyama BCV5020 which features an anti-vibration driveshaft with oversized volumetric dampers, to ensure a low vibration.

Martin Woodhouse, of Woodgrow Horticulture, says: “Without doubt the most impressive feature is the reduced whole-life cost of owning a Maruyama BCV5020.

“The engine has an industrybusting 5 year warranty, while the drive shaft and ignition module carry a life-rime warranty. We found the BCV5020 to be very

fuel efficient and the large fuel tank meant fewer fill ups. With a very competitive purchase price, buying and owning the Maruyama BCV5020 is a nobrainer in our opinion.”

For more information about the Maruyama BCV5020 brush cutter, please call 0845 643 9776 or visit www.dmmp.co.uk

DMMP Enquiry 116

Timberland PRO is providing ultimate protection against water penetration for outdoor workers with the launch of the Wildcard Mid safety footwear – a brand new addition to its sports-inspired Wildcard range.

The Wildcard Mid ankle boot has been designed to keep feet dry, comfortable and safe in tough environments. This is achieved primarily through a high performance, waterproof membrane, that keeps water and rain out whilst allowing perspiration-absorption inside the boot, enhancing foot comfort during long, active working days.

With an exclusively designed Vibram outsole to provide

Timberland Enquiry 117

Stonemarket unveils new products for 2015

Stonemarket has launched a comprehensive new range of cutting-edge garden and driveway products for 2015.

These range additions demonstrate Stonemarket’s ongoing commitment to creating stunning, design-led products which are loved by homeowners, garden designers and landscapers alike.

Extend your living space with Stonemarket’s Vitrified paving, perfect for use both outdoors and in. The product is available in three ranges; Paleo, Gravity and Lucent. Paleo comes in three contemporary colours, Sand, Gold and a subtle light blue Azura.

Vitrified paving is a highly reliable and low maintenance material which absorbs little or no moisture,

helping to minimise moss and algae growth. It is available in three or four size project packs, each containing the appropriate amount of narrow jointing compound.

An exciting addition to Stonemarket’s Reconstituted Stone range, Excelsior, is a modern polished flag, complete with a clean, smooth texture for a truly contemporary look. With three colours and sizes to choose from, every project can be catered for.

Stonemarket Enquiry 118

excellent slip and abrasion resistance, the new Wildcard Mid footwear is ideally suited to those working outdoors who face increased slip and trip hazards. The addition of the Ethylene

Vinyl Acetate (EVA) midsole adds superb shock absorption, flexibility and comfort.