Landscape & Amenity Product Update April 2016

Green Roofs, Garden Roofs & Living Walls

Pedestrian & Remote Control Mowers

Major machinery investment unlocks production increase for Stewart

Stewart, the British manufacturer and distributor of gardening products and technical moulding solutions, is investing in its manufacturing capability. The market-leading plastics business is spending £400,000 to install a Ferry RotoSpeed RS-3000 rotational moulding machine at its state-of-the art factory in Banbury.

Stewart expects the machine to contribute to a 27 per cent increase in production across like for like manufacturing patterns within a year. Moreover, the machine will allow greater capacity to grow in the rotational moulding category, which today, is largely centred on decorative pot planters in the garden sector.

Andy Burns, managing director at Stewart, says the upgrade is linked

to the company’s commitment to improving manufacturing capacity, efficiency and speed.

“The Ferry RotoSpeed RS-3000 will help us realise our growth potential and enhance our reputation for quality, timely and accurate production,” he said.

“Our analysis shows that the payback period for this investment will be relatively short. Due to the high performance and efficiency of this machine it will do more than three of the existing ones put together. So our productivity will be up considerably in comparison to our current capacity very soon.”

Stewart Garden has a range of grow your own products, pots, watering equipment, propagators and garden accessories that available in over 1,600 stockist across the UK and Eire.

The company has also launched the 2016 Stewart Garden Schools Campaign. For the fourth year running, Stewart Garden is preparing to distribute grow your own gardening kits to over 100 primary schools across the county as part of the Stewart Garden Schools Campaign 2016.

Participating schools across the UK will receive the kits, which will equip them to start growing their own fruit and vegetables. Almost 350 schools across the UK have participated in the Stewart Garden Schools Campaign since 2012.

Stweart Garden Enquiry 1

Gianni Ferrari PG gets an upgrade

The Gianni Ferrari PG Ride-on mower has undergone some ergonomic improvements to increase operator comfort.

The upgrade includes a new electronic control unit with easy to read and water proof display, Iso-mounted footrest to minimise vibration to the operator and control panel and levers positioned for easy use.

The workhorse is perfect for local authorities and contractors responsible for parks and public green areas where you can often find litter, dirt and grass clippings. Compact in size the 28hp 3 cylinder diesel engine powers the combined action of the front collection deck and

the suction turbine to clean and collect in perfect unison.

Other technical features which ensure smooth efficient operation include an ultra-efficient transmission system; the front axle consists of a differential assembly that connects two

reduction gears in oil baths. An integrated collection system (suction turbine and collection hose are housed inside the traction unit) delivers trouble free, clean collection, with minimum fuss.

Single treatment peace of mind

Achieving non-selective, long lasting weed control in one hit and with a product that reduces reliance on glyphosate is a realistic aspiration this spring as weeds respond to rising temperatures.

Pistol is a broad spectrum herbicide for the control of annual and perennial weeds and grasses, on soft and gravel surfaces in amenity situations. “And it only needs to be applied once,” says Dave Orchard from Bayer.

“It’s also a product that has a staggering 66 per cent less glyphosate content compared to other products which contain straight glyphosate and need

two applications to be as effective.

“Another benefit of using Pistol, is its long lasting systemic and residual mode of action which means that once it is applied it will continue its effectiveness by creating a barrier on the upper profile of the soil throughout the season, controlling any germinating weed seeds.”

Using only one application of Pistol, compared to the normal practice of two glyphosate applications, at eight week intervals, reduces the amount of glyphosate that is being

applied and also saves time. Pistol will not settle in the tank which means it has a uniform consistency and there is less chance of blocked nozzles, making it easy to apply.

As an all-in-one herbicide, Pistol also offers reduced risk of spillage and a cost saving, as it does not need to have glyphosate added to it.

Bayer Enquiry 3

Gianni Ferrari Enquiry 2

Welcome...

The recent Budget has dominated headlines more for the internal strife it seems to have caused for the Government rather than the content. However, it is fair to say, that when it comes to our industry there was not much to shout about in terms of support or new initiatives. But there were a few important announcements that could have a significant impact for us all in the years to come. For example, the push to create new garden towns and cities of between 1,500 to 10,000 homes will provide opportunities.

There is one important caveat – within the proposals there is hardly mention of the landscaping of such major new developments, which many critics have been quick to point out should be one of the first considerations when drawing up plans for these schemes.

As Noel Farrer, President of the Landscape Institute said: “Landscape is the primary consideration in delivering places where people want to be; want to work; want to innovate. People want to live in desirable housing, not just any housing.

“Poor design is a barrier to any new developments. Existing residents in cities, towns and villages need to believe that new housing will enhance, not diminish, their quality of life and the value of their homes.

“By adopting a landscape-led approach, change in the landscape should not be feared as it helps guarantee long term economic value and makes the most of our precious land resources.”

We can only hope when the internal wrangling stops, the Government starts to listen.

This month we take a look at a diverse range of product areas and Jane Carley turns her attention to a look at sports turf management and maintenance. There is a round-up of the latest models in the all-important pedestrian, mounted and robotic mower market, while at the other end of the industry spectrum we take a special look at green roofs and living walls. We also have our usual round-up of news, views and product launches from across the industry.

Contents:

Groves Editor

PUBLISHER

David Stiles david@tspmedia.co.uk

EDITOR Paul Groves paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

CIRCULATION

Paul

FA scheme gives grassroots clubs access to world-class products

The Football Association has officially announced its Pitch Improvement Programme (PIP), along with partners, Redexim Charterhouse Turf Machinery and Rigby Taylor.

The association hopes the £8 million scheme to help improve more than 2,000 natural turf football pitches from the National Conference League down.

Part of The FA’s Strategy for Participation and Development, the four-year PIP scheme will enable grassroots clubs to access discounted products from two of the industry’s leading suppliers - Redexim Charterhouse for machinery and equipment, and Rigby Taylor for grass seed, fertilisers, line marking paints and machines, as well as other consumable products.

The programme will be supported by a range of partners including the network of Institute of Groundsmanship regional pitch advisors, professional and semi-professional groundstaff and coordinated by the respective county FA. It will also include a range of measures to help develop the skills and knowledge of the volunteers and groundsmen including seminars

and workshops. Interested clubs need first to contact their county FA to find out how to start the ‘ball’ rolling.

Launching the programme, The FA’s Director of Participation and Development Kelly Simmons, and Mark Pover, The FA’s National Facilities and Investment Manager, both emphasised how the scheme is designed to enable thousands of groundsmen – predominantly volunteers – to make the most of their time and their budgets.

Rigby Taylor’s Executive Chairman Chris Clark said: “Our Official Supplier status to the Pitch Improvement Programme provides a fantastic opportunity for grassroots football clubs to benefit from of our market-leading products that are the result of years of research and development.”

Redexim Charterhouse’s Business Development Manager, Curtis Allen, added: “The programme enables grassroots organisations to take ownership of the maintenance programme which is such an important part of the game that often gets forgotten.”

The Football Association Enquiry 7

Special promotion launched by Polaris

Polaris has announced a special introductory offer price on the new Sportsman 450 H.O.

The deal offers a great opportunity to buy a full-size capability quad at considerable lower cost than the comparable entry-level price for a 400cc class quad.

As well as Polaris automatic 4 x 4 system, Independent Rear Suspension, and PVT Automatic Transmission, there is a 660 watt output and the ATV comes with integrated plough and winch mounts as standard.

The offer price is £4,500.00 (excluding VAT). Members of the NFU, NFU Scotland and Ulster Farmers’ Union can also enjoy the additional 5% discount available to them on the purchase of new Polaris ATVs.

Polaris Enquiry 6

Century success for Certificate in Water Conservation

The horticulture sector is now officially awash with water saving specialists, thanks to the success of an online course that has recently reached a major milestone. Since its launch a year ago, 100 professionals have now completed the ‘Water Conservation Course’ developed through a joint initiative by horticultural and landscape industry trade associations in partnership with a number of UK water companies. The aim is to reduce the demand for water in areas labelled by the Environment Agency as “serious water stressed”.

It requires horticulture professionals to demonstrate high standards of sustainable, cost effective and environmentally sensitive use of water in gardens, parks, sports grounds and other

amenity areas. Tim Mudge, Chief Executive at the Turfgrass Growers Association, said: “The e-learning course is an important step forward for the industry. It is the first time water companies and trade associations have cooperated so closely for the benefit of the environment. We would urge everyone to take advantage of this course to help manage water in the garden, which is such a precious resource.”

The hour-long course comprises four modules focusing on planning, constructing, establishing and maintaining gardens, grounds and landscapes in ways which use minimal water. It costs £10 plus VAT and can be accessed online by visiting www.htalearning.org.uk

Pub opens on time for launch thanks to NCC Streetscape

A stunning looking project that was completed and opened successfully ahead of deadline benefitted from using GftK’s vdw 850+ from NCCStreetscape Ltd.

It was specified for the landscaping works as part of the redevelopment and scheduled opening of the prestige George & Dragon Pub in Dartmouth, Devon.

Despite almost continuous rain and gale force winds the black limestone and granite sett paving was able to be completed and successfully jointed using GftK’s vdw 850+, safely in time for the scheduled VIP Reception and Opening Night in mid-November.

Paul McGeary the Managing Director of Main Contractor, Building & Design Services Ltd., said: “With any other paving grout system this would have been impossible and a disaster for everybody because of the terrible weather.

“Without NCC Streetscape’s advice and the vdw 850+ Jointing Mortar, this flagship Gastro-Pub redevelopment by Heavitree Brewery PLC would also never have been finished and open for their important trading month running up to Christmas and New Year - and then we would all have still been discussing penalties and trying to get paid.”

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 10

New turf manual from Bayer

Bayer’s new turf manual is now available as either a hard copy version, or as a downloadable file from the website.

The manual is packed full of relevant information and, as the last update was at the end of 2012, for the 2013/14 season, there’s plenty of new facts, helpful hints and product information included.

There have been plenty of regulation changes since the last edition, and the new copy includes these, plus changes to the Sustainable Use Directive and the Water Framework Directive.

There are new and improved grass (species) identification charts, and guides to a range of pests and diseases, with colourful

pictures making spotting each problem easy to find.

The Bayer turf solutions team has also added some cultural, biological and chemical approaches, allowing turf managers to use fully integrated management campaigns rather than just a chemical response.

Bayer Enquiry 11

Delegates enjoy thoughtprovoking cricket seminar

Dennis & SISIS’s cricket groundsmen seminar returned with a bang at Durham County Cricket Club with 110 delegates attending.

The Dennis and SISIS cricket seminar has become a firm fixture in a cricket groundsman’s diary.

The day offers all delegates a fantastic opportunity to refresh their education on a variety of topics and is a great chance to meet other likeminded individuals, share and gain knowledge and learn best practises.

This year’s Seminar was hosted by Durham County Cricket Ground at the Riverside Stadium, what was unique was that Vic Domain the presiding Head groundsman at Durham, having

risen through the ranks from being a volunteer groundsman to his present day position.

Supporting Dennis and SISIS this year where: local Durham Turfcare Specialist (TSL ) headed up by Terry Charlton who was also one of the guest speakers, Limagrain United Kingdom, Poweroll, Greenlay, Stewart Canvas products, Boughton Loam and Cricket World.

The final talk of the day was given by Chris Woods, who provided a demonstration of how he assesses county pitches. Armed with an array of modern testing equipment he described his role and gave plenty of advice on how to test the hardness, ball bounce and pace of a pitch.

& SISIS Enquiry 12

Wiedenmann reaches parts other aerators cannot

Very few can claim to have tamed the notorious 9th green of Kingsbarns Golf Links in Fife but step forward Wiedenmann’s Terra Spike GXi8 HD aerator.

After taking delivery of the deep tine machine in December, the team at the Worldwide Top 100 ranked course immediately set about spiking greens, tees, fairways and approaches as

well as coring a few specifi c test areas to get the measure of their new kit.

Soon they were sufficiently relaxed to take it up the steep banking of the ninth with its infamous middle shelf.

The centre of gravity being closer to the tractor makes it exceptionally stable. The tines

on the GXi machines are nearer to the front roller ensuring a uniform job as the spiking action is exceptionally precise and accurate.

Constant hole-spacing is maintained even at high fast forward speed so when following the contours of the ground the quality of work does not falter.

Wiedenmann Enquiry 13

Dennis

Landscape architects equipped to produce good soil specifications

Tim O’Hare, soil scientist and principal consultant at Tim O’Hare Associates, helped landscape architects to build their knowledge of soil specification during two sessions at the Landscape Institute’s Annual Conference.

‘How good is your soil specification?’ looked at the various aspects of soil specification and testing, helping landscape architects to select, assess or approve soils.

Tim gave an overview of the British Standards for Topsoil (BS3882:2015) and Subsoil (BS8601:2013), including recent improvements, and highlighted their potential limitations where specific projects are concerned.

He focused on the key elements of soil specification for different end-uses, including wildflower grassland, sports pitches and podium landscapes, and explained the main requirements when requesting soil tests, including the types

of investigation applicable to different projects, sampling protocols, soil test parameters (including contaminants), and report content.

The importance of obtaining the correct information from contractors when offering a soil for approval was discussed and delegates were provided with the ‘ammunition’ they need to enable them to confidently reject soils they consider are of inferior quality.

Over 40 delegates attended the two sessions on the final day of the conference, which was hosted in partnership with the University of Sheffield’s Department of Landscape.

Tim O’Hare commented: “I hope those landscape architects who attended left better equipped to provide good soil specifications and to confidently assess a soil’s suitability when measured against the specification.”

Enquiry 16

Marshalls celebrates Register member success

The Marshalls Register Awards showcased the best garden and driveway projects which were designed and installed by members of Marshalls’ national Register scheme in 2015.

Jason Cummings of JSC Paving and Landscaping, based in Poole, Dorset, was crowned ‘Marshalls Contractor of the Year’ after scooping the top prize for the ‘Best Engineering Achievement’ category, and was presented with a brand new Toyota Hilux pickup truck and a natural stone trophy.

All the award finalists were able to cast their vote for the 11

category winners and their overall contractor of the year through an anonymous online poll.

The Marshalls Register Awards this year attracted over 700 project submissions from 240 accredited landscape contractors and driveway installers from Marshalls’ nationwide network of members – the highest number the awards has seen.

The Marshalls Register of accredited landscape contractors and driveway installers is the only fully vetted national scheme in the industry and an exclusive organisation of professionals who have repeatedly demonstrated proven skills and experience to Marshalls’ critical satisfaction.

TOHA

Marshalls has celebrated the quality and workmanship of its accredited landscape contractors at its prestigious annual award ceremony.

Marshalls Enquiry 17

Stormwater Management demonstrates Versicell system

Versicell is a lightweight, high strength, interlocking module that provides excellent subsoil drainage and water storage for roof gardens, planters and landscaped decks.

The benefits of Versicell include rapid capture and discharge of surplus water, along with high water storage capacity. It enables the effective return of stored water to planting via geotextile

wicks, allows greater soil depths for a wider variety of plants and is able to withstand pedestrian and light vehicle traffic

For more information on Versicell contact the sales office on 01455 502222 or visit www. storm-water.co.uk.

Stormwater Management Enquiry 20

Snickers’ kneepads offer top quality protection.

The Snickers’ range of revolutionary Kneepads deliver cutting edge protection

Whether you’re a craftsman or woman working in tough working environments, the Kneepads are all ergonomically designed to suit a wide range of on-site working environments and will mold around your knees for maximum comfort on rough, damp ground and help

ward off niggly knee problems and long term injuries

Every Kneepad in the range is comfortable and efficiently designed to fit the unique KneeGuard Positioning System on every pair of Snickers WorkTrousers, so you can pick and choose whatever you need for the job in hand.

Snickers Enquiry 21

CABI offers a definitive guide

CABI is offering a complete and comprehensive guide to an area most of us take for granted, Environmental Horticulture.

PlayGuard is top choice for playground timbers

M&M Timber has long been regarded as the UK’s leading manufacturer of timber products for playgrounds, educational and other outdoor leisure applications.

Its specially developed PlayGuard range opens up exciting new possibilities in innovative design projects that combine flexibility with durability and ease of maintenance.

Utilising only timber selected from high quality Radiata pine, which has inherent lowsplit properties and therefore minimises finger traps, the PlayGuard range is kiln dried, fully sanded and treated with Tanalith E for durability and long service life. PlayGuard is available in a choice of Standard or higher grade premium ranges.

M&M Timber Enquiry 22

The guide includes commentary and critiques of contemporary thinking on the subject, as well as an exploration of the role, value and application of horticulture in different landscapes. It reviews

the importance and impact of horticulture on the wider environment and covers practical management advice for categories of environmental horticulture such as turf grass, bedding plants, trees, grasslands and green roofs. Find out more at www.cabi.org/ bookshop/book/9781780641386

CABI Enquiry 23

Free outdoor lighting for landscaping

New from Bright Spark Solar is the Solar Sensor LED Light.

This inexpensive solar-powered LED floodlight is robust and fully weatherproof and provides some powerful lighting using free solar energy for a host of applications from driveways and yards to remote buildings, paths and entrances.

This new generation of solar lighting provides more light for

The evolution of Snug

Sutcliffe Play has given Snug, the large-scale, flexible, loose parts play system a comprehensive makeover with a new name, a new colour scheme and a new piece of equipment.

Working with Snug & Outdoor, the original designer of the playground equipment, Sutcliffe Play has relaunched the kit as Snug Evolution.

Sutcliffe Play has also introduced even more play opportunities with the introduction of a new piece of equipment.

The Cog can be used to create pathways or can be linked to other elements using Snug Noodles. It can also be used as a building block as it fits over both the Bump and the Cone easily.

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longer. The Solar Sensor LED Light has a crystalline solar panel which charges an integrated lithium-ion battery in just 9 hours of bright sunlight, which in turns provides five nights of light from the low wattage LED floodlight.

Spark Solar Enquiry 24

Snug Evolution’s new colour scheme will transform playgrounds into dynamic and creative playscapes for children to explore, create, discover and learn.

The kit is designed to encourage social interaction, co-operation and problem solving and comprises 10 inter-related, colourful shapes which can be moved, joined and arranged by children to create new environments for play every time it’s used.

Snug Evolution is weather proof and requires no installation or safety surfacing.

It is soft and tactile yet robust enough to withstand the rigours of the playground. Sutcliffe Play

Bright

Fire bowls to suit any space

Made from 3mm thick corten steel, these fire bowls are one of The Pot Company’s best-selling products.

The burners are easy to move around, come with a circular stand welded to the base and holes in the base for maximum airflow.

Available from 60-150cm in diameter these fire pits will suit any space and any budget. Overall this is an extremely strong, attractive low maintenance garden feature.

The Pot Company Enquiry 27

Belton House enables younger visitors to let off steam

The National Trust’s Belton House have recently opened their brand new expansive play area, giving young visitors the opportunity to let off some steam on a wide variety of challenging and exciting equipment, set within a wild setting.

Timberplay contributed to this scheme with a wide variety of equipment.

Toddlers can explore the play houses and train or picnic with the Duck Family, whereas older children and teenagers can let off some steam with high energy equipment such as the Queen Swing, Giant Revolving Disc and Climbing Structure.

The Gravel Play area has a wide appeal, with products provided to enable children to manipulate and transport the gravel via hoists, chutes, sand wheels and even an excavator.

Similarly, extensive waterplay delights children across a wide age range with a Playground Pump, channels, wedges and wheels. The design was also flexible enough to incorporate last minute adjustments, with the inclusion of a Forest Fountain, a variety of timber posts that spray water

via different spray heads when children use the associated pump.

As well as the sound of children laughing and playing, the play space is also alive with the sounds of musical play equipment, the Sound Cushions and Stone Xylophone.

The overall contract for Belton House was awarded to Blue Forest, and Timberplay equipment was used heavily throughout the designs.

Timberplay Enquiry 28

New investment initiates Unilog Pro sales boost

M&M Timber’s Unilog Pro landscaping timbers look set to become one of the company’s best selling products of the year, following further investment at the company’s Worcestershire manufacturing centre.

Demand for M&M Timber’s market leading Unilog Pro landscaping timbers continues to grow and this has initiated new investment to step up production output to meet demand. Stockholding has now increased dramatically after the recent commissioning of further drying kilns, used in the

preservation process of Unilog Pro timbers, enabling a competitive 7-10 day turnaround of orders.

Recommended for all commercial applications, Unilog Pro landscaping timbers are pressure treated with Tanalith E preservative in accordance with BS8417 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 warranty, which can be extended to a full 30 years.

New compact sod cutters from Classen

Classen has delivered the first of its new compact sod cutters to Campey Turf Care Systems.

The simplified machine comes in 5.5hp/HSC185 and 8hp/HSC188 versions feature short unit length and an integrated swivel wheel to make the sod cuttter the most compact and manoeuvrable in the industry, say Classen.

Claiming the fastest transport speed in the industry the hydrostatic drive pushes the machine along at up to 4.7 mph whilst it delivers a cleaner cut. Classen has worked hard to develop an advanced vibration dampening system for

greater operator comfort and to contribute, alongside the speed and clean cutting, to a marked increase in productivity. For simple operation there is an integrated throttle/clutch control on the handle which goes idle and stops the machine when released and better traction is ensured with knobbly tread tyres which also eliminate dirt build up.

Both Classen models are powered by Honda engines: the HSC185 has a 163cc Honda GX160 engine and the HSC188 a 242cc GX240.

Schiller Groundscare Enquiry 30

Total control with Pistol

Scan to fi nd out more at www.environmentalscience.bayer.co.uk Tel: 00800 1214 9451

Due to the mild Winter, weeds are already starting to emerge. Using Pistol® will provide long lasting control of the problem and reduce the need for subsequent glyphosate applications. Pistol® also offers;

Early season weed control

Less mixing needed; no need for additional products

M&M Timber Enquiry 29

The perfect cut, rain or shine

Our unique blade, deck and grass catcher box help our lawn mowers cut, collect and compact damp spring and dry summer grass with ease. So you can enjoy your lawn for longer, whatever the weather.

VIKING – A member of the STIHL Group www.vikingmowers.co.uk

GKB launches topdresser range

GKB has launched a range of topdressers in to the UK market. The first is a spinning disc spreader with a hopper capacity of between four and seven tons and large profile tyres to give the machine a small foot print on the turf. With a spread width of ten meters the large belt the middle of the machine ensures

an even distribution of a variety of materials threw the machine. The second line of dressers available is the GKB Top Drop, which allows the calibration of the machine to handle the finest of materials.

GKB Enquiry 34

Prestige scalloped fencing – the ultimate in good looks

M&M Timber’s top of the range Prestige scalloped post and rail fencing is in high demand due to it’s ultimate good looks, superb specification and smooth sanded surfaces.

Strong and elegant, with chamfered tops, the scalloped post and half round rail fencing looks good in any application and has become the top choice for high end perimeter fencing and commercial applications throughout the UK. As suited to the entrance and driveway of a stately home, as it is to public

leisure areas, such as woodland walks, heritage sites and theme parks, M&M’s Prestige fencing is also an established favourite in equestrian circles, and is widely used in stabling enclosures, ménages and sporting venues.

Prestige scalloped post and rail fencing is recommended by professionals for its aesthetic appeal and versatility, offering a choice of specially selected light or heavy weight timbers and two, three or four-rail scalloped post options.

Kiln dried and pressure treated in accordance with BS 8417, all M&M Timber’s Prestige scalloped post and rail fencing timbers are designed to last,

with the backing of a noquibble 15 year service life warranty.

M&M Timber Enquiry 33

Video highlights the qualities of Sadolin’s Beautiflex

Specifiers can get up to speed with the high performance qualities of Sadolin’s latest product, Beautiflex, which offers the opportunity for an early start outdoors for wood care projects.

A video has been produced highlighting the features and benefits attributed to this latest addition to the superior woodcare brand’s portfolio.

Of significance is the fact that this solvent opaque woodstain can be applied in cooler temperatures, enabling wood

protection projects to take place outside typical outdoor seasons.

Sadolin Beautiflex is ideal for all new, bare or previously coated exterior wood, including decking and its superior flexibility is achieved through a formulation which features alkyd resin technology, giving the coating the assurance of up to 7 years protection.

Sharon Smith, Sadolin Brand Manager, said: “Due to its solvent based formulation, specifiers can take advantage of milder Spring

weather to introduce the product into wood protection projects.

“Specifiers can be assured that due to Sadolin’s superior

formulations we are providing a beautiful, flexible finish with long term protection.”

Sadolin Enquiry 35

First we introduced the MP ‘3’ series, wide area rotary mowers with cutting widths of 3.0, 3.3 and 3.5 metres and latterly the MP ‘5’ series wide area cylinder mowers with a choice of Magna or Sport cutting units.

Both series are available with 49 hp or 65 hp Kubota diesel engines and either ROPS or a cab.

Finance offer on TS Industrie chipper-shredders

Finance offer on TS Industrie chipper-shredders

Until May 31 2016, TS Industrie are pleased to offer retail customers three finance schemes across all new TS Industrie machines.

The offers are:

• Option 1) - 4 months deposit + 20 monthly payments 0% Finance

• Option 2) - 3 months

Parts Depot Enquiry 38

Fisher presents IPB Olympiad illuminated pedestrian beacon

Featuring Fisher’s unique aluminium extrusion which provides excellent vandal resistance, the Illuminated Pedestrian Beacon is fitted with LED technology providing bright light with low power consumption of just 30W total, combined with low maintenance and easy installation.

The beacon key features include 8w extra bright white LED Flashing Beacon, 6 sets of bright white LEDs illuminating opposing sides facing traffic –total 21w, and carbon emission of just 0.143 metric tonnes per unit per annum.

The 3m column comes as standard with choice of base options – 600mm Root or Flange Mount – while the 300mm amber globe is made from UV stabilised polyethylene.

An anti-vandal aluminium gallery is secured to column, as well as vandal resistant polycarbonate lens covering the column LEDs. There is a robust anti-fade black powder coat finish to the column.

The flash rate and luminance is fully compliant to BS 8442:2006 and the unit provides years of virtually maintenance free, efficient operation.

The unit is delivered in 2 sections for ease of installation and set-up and this also makes the wiring a very quick and simple task –saving time and money on site.

Fisher & Co

All-weather durable jointing for stone setts

A prestige stone driveway was created using 100mm rumbled magma granite setts, by the natural stone paving specialists from PDG Groundworks, who recommended that the setts be jointed with the slurry applied, self compacting and nonstaining, vdw 850 jointing mortar from NCC Streetscape.

The vdw 850 jointing mortar is capable of accommodating frequent and heavy vehicle traffic loads, and it prevents

weed growth or boring insect infestations, it is also fully resistant to the use of de-icing salts and freeze thaw action, plus it is suitable for frequent cleaning with mechanical street sweepers.

The vdw 850 jointing mortar also has advantages in its application, because it can be applied in cold and wet weather, it is extremely fast to apply and then it hardens rapidly.

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 40

will be a welcome addition to your weed control armoury. Highly effective against a wide range of weeds – especially Japanese Knotweed, packs a powerful punch from very low levels of active and a small 1 litre pack. Equally reassuring, has virtually no odour and is safe to grass.

Nothing gets to grips with invasive and tough, woody weeds like

Intelligent controller takes irrigation management to the next level

A new high-tech control system enables contractors to control customers’ irrigation systems from anywhere in the world.

Hydrawise is operated through a smartphone or tablet using an app available on iOS and Android, or through a web browser. The controller uses a wireless internet connection to access real time data from local weather stations, and adjusts the watering schedule to suit the conditions.

The Hydrawise controller can be retrofitted to existing irrigation systems quickly and simply, enabling contractors to offer an efficient, effective managed watering and system management service to multiple

customers in any location where they have internet access.

Once installed, the user-friendly interface provides a range of useful reports and information, including water usage and irrigation system faults, plus the controller can send an email or sms text if there is a problem. Simple adjustments can be made to the controller and schedule without visiting the site.

Customers have peace of mind from knowing that their irrigation is being managed accurately and efficiently. Plants and shrubs only receive the water they need, providing water savings of up to 50% compared to a controller with a fixed schedule.

Bauder launches BioSOLAR green roof

Flat roof manufacturer Bauder has officially launched its innovative, combined green roof and PV system offering BioSOLAR.

The integration of PV and green roof technologies requires skill, expert understanding and ultimately a collaborative approach throughout the survey, design and installation process from all project stakeholders to ensure the maximum benefit for the building owner.

Bauder’s BioSOLAR system uses the substrate and vegetation to provide the ballasted installation mechanism, removing the need to penetrate the waterproofing to secure the mounting units to the roof and simultaneously making the most of the available area for

vegetation, enabling the entire roof to qualify as a biodiverse green roof.

The front edge of the polycrystalline PV panel is raised 300mm above the finished green roof level, allowing light and moisture to reach beneath the modules whilst ensuring the mature vegetation will not shade the panels and can be easily maintained.

The mixture of sunny, shaded and sheltered areas together with a variable depth of FLL compliant extensive substrate gives a matrix of different habitats that allow a broader range of plant species to thrive, and a rich foraging environment for bees and insects.

Bauder Enquiry 44

Living wall actively fights air pollution

Air quality in Central London is amongst the most polluted in the UK and a partnership has been created to help tackle the problem at one new development.

The first purification unit, along with an information panel, was installed as part of a trial that will last until July 2017, in affiliation with Treebox, Mace Construction and Exemplar.

The Avenue development will comprise 70,000 sq ft of office space together with 14,000 sq ft of new retail accommodation, all built to high environmental standards. Construction is underway and due for completion in spring 2017 and these APUs will be used throughout this period.

Air purification units - or APUs for short — are powered by AEROGATION Active Green

Wall system – this unique system removes the dirty air from the streets & passes it through the roots of the plants this removes all of the contaminants as well as pollen & dust.

The Mayor’s £20 million Air Quality Fund (MAQF) has supported bold pollution-busting projects across the capital over the past three years.

The aim is to roll out APUs to other locations within Fitzrovia over the year in partnership with Treebox, to help achieve the 10,000 vision. Sites will include tube frontages, phone boxes and railings to provide the best coverage of the most polluted pockets in the area in order to make a tangible difference in improving local air quality.

Treebox Enquiry 45

LWS Enquiry 43

ANS Global brings life back to built environments

Living Wall and Green Roof specialist, ANS Global, has recently brought nature back to the built environment with a new 147m² Living Wall at the biggest M&S store in the West Midlands.

The Longbridge store is part of a retail development at the site which was previously the MG Rover car factory. ANS Global’s Living Wall installation has added greenery to the area and boosted the environmental credentials, as well as fitting with the aspirations of the M&S eco policy Plan A.

ANS Global was chosen by M&S following its compatibility and success on previous Living Wall features for other M&S stores, including Newcastle’s Northumberland Street store.

The Living Wall features 20 indigenous plant species to encourage biodiversity. Scott Anderson, Director of ANS Global, explains: “The colour palette is in-keeping with M&S’s corporate style using many different shades of green and utilising evergreen plants which stay active all year round, not dying off for winter.”

ANS Global’s Living Walls are irrigated by rainwater which is captured on the roof by a rainwater harvesting system, and controlled from the team’s offices in West Sussex. The rainwater is stored onsite until it is needed, and it is also utilised inside the building as toilet water.

ANS Global Enquiry 47

Energy efficiency planted in college scheme

The £5.8 million ‘Collections House’ development at Warwickshire College Group’s Pershore College has been completed following a building services design project by sustainability specialist, Greenways.

Delivered as a design & build project based on architectural designs prepared for the college by the Hitchman Stone Partnership, the BREEAM ‘Very Good’ development provides a two-storey teaching facility for the prestigious horticultural college.

The main reception has a hydroponic wall and this feature will also be served from the rainwater harvesting system.

Tamsin Jones, interim principal at Pershore College: “We have an international reputation for horticulture and this building has been commissioned to showcase our students’ achievements and provide them with an excellent environment in which to learn.”

Easy installation and maintenance is the key for living systems

The ongoing challenge to ensure continued uptake of living systems is to deliver systems that are not only robust and effective, but are easy to install and manage.

This is the message from Paul Garlick, National Business Manager of Mobilane UK, the market leading developer and supplier of sustainable living systems.

Garlick says: “Living walls, green roofs and sustainable fencing solutions are now widely

accepted, commonplace, and achieving remarkable results in improving air quality and biodiversity.

“Our modular systems are leading the way as they require very little or no major building alteration to install, need minimal maintenance, and are remarkably flexible. Several of our systems, such as our LivePanel living wall system, are increasingly finding use indoors as well as outdoors, especially within the corporate office environment, where it is adding a stunning aesthetic

Boningale’s roof garden business soars

By working in partnership with its green roof division, one of the UK’s leading horticultural suppliers to the landscaping market saw a huge growth in roof garden business in 2015 - and predicts further grow in 2016.

Boningale Nurseries said that by combining its horticulture experience and the cutting edge research from its awardwinning green roof department, GreenSky, landscape architects

working on designs that require a roof garden, have been able to benefit from the whole package.

From specialist advice on how to plant a roof garden to supplying all the planting stock required –both for the roof garden and the surrounding landscape.

Such has been the success of the venture that the group saw a significant rise in its roof garden business in 2015.

Maggie Fennell, Head of Boningale GreenSky added that these have included herb projects where GreenSky was able to recommend the correct substrate for the nursery’s rosemary and lavender.

“By working more closely with the Nursery, our combined expertise has enabled us to work with contractors who are trying to create as much useable green space as possible,” confirmed Maggie.

“Because we have a ‘one-stop shop’ for landscaping and green roofs, we can provide our semi-intensive SkyPlugs and substrates, plus intensive roof options using plants from our nursery. This has led to our clients winning more projects, too.”

to foyers in offices, shopping centres and hotels across Europe.

“Our Green Screen living security fence system is being widely used by local authorities, businesses and housing developers as a rapid install solution, but is also increasingly finding a use in the domestic environment for use on patios and balconies. It is this fluid approach to application which is the key to ensuring progress in the push for future sustainability.”

Helping to green capital city

In Madrid, Sempergreen conducted an important project in the green landscape and architecture world.

Helvetia – the insurance holding from Switzerland - decided to establish its new headquarter in the popular Plaza Cibeles, Madrid.

Betoconcept

The company also took the important decision to give the new building a sustainable and modern aesthetics with the installation of a spectacular

green wall, in the central axis of the lobby.

The vertical garden of 55m2 is an ecological monument in one of the most popular parts of the Spanish capital. The green wall, besides becoming an attraction for workers and visitors of the new HQ, is already part of the corporate image of the company, becoming a symbol of modernity and quality.

Greenways Enquiry 48

Mobilane

Sempergreen

Boningale Nurseries Enquiry 50

The Coll

Wildflowers 20/80

❀ Traditional mixtures containing 20% wildflowers and 80% grasses

❀ Mixes for a diverse range of ecological habitats

❀ Restore, create and enhance the landscape

Natural Meadows

❀ Gentle grassland mixtures containing 95% grasses and 5% wildflowers

❀ Grasses provide texture and attractive seed heads

❀ Pastel shades of wildflowers provide a glimpse of colour and added interested

Wildflowers 100%

❀ Ideal where a diversity and abundance of wildflowers would enhance the landscape

❀ Restores bio-diversity

❀ Creates swaths of colour in established grassland

❀ Ideal where there is already a competitive seed bank of grasses

Specialist Grasses 100% ❀ Companion sowing with 100% wildflower mixtures ❀ Ideal for specific soil types and environmental influences ❀ Habitat restoration ❀ Soil stabilisation

Accoya Wood goes C2C Platinum

Accoya, the revolutionary modified wood produced by Accsys Technologies, has been awarded Cradle to Cradle (C2C) Platinum Standard certification in the Material Health category, the highest score available in Portico, Google’s Healthy Materials Program tool.

The leading modified wood met all the criteria for the Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Institute’s Material Health certification.

The wood product achieved

from the institute for the past consecutive five years.

Accoya received this recent certification having demonstrated it does not contain any so called GREY or x-assessed chemicals, meaning no danger for environment and human health.

As a result Accoya is now amongst the most highly rated products in Google’s Healthy Materials Portal, Portico, earning 15 out of 16 points. This highlights Accoya as an optimized product with a

Charcon introduces Andover range extensions

Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has introduced six new shades to its popular Andover Washed concrete block paving range.

In response to increased demand from specifiers and contractors for contemporary colour options, three new grey shades – Light, Mid and Dark Grey – have been added to complement the existing Andover range.

The collection has been strengthened with the addition of three bespoke shades – Pink Granite, Heather Porphyry and Tuscan Porphyry – which were designed specifically for Leicester’s Greyfriars Conservation Area, ahead of the reinternment of King Richard III in 2015.

The new shades have extended the Andover Washed range from two

standard colour options – Silver Grey and Anthracite Charcoal – to eight complementary shades. Each of the new shades are available in all Andover’s standard size options.

Andover Washed offers a high quality contemporary hard landscaping solution, ideal for public realm projects, including town centres and pedestrianised areas.

The enhanced range can be used to create different patterning effects in adjacent areas while retaining overall texture and colour consistency. Long aspect paving is available for a versatile contemporary look. Andover Washed contains up to 50 per cent recycled material in the complete mix design, with permeable block paving options available.

Charcon Enquiry 55

New homes use Natratex for matching footpaths

A recent housing development by Bellway Homes in Sheffield is one of the latest projects to use Bituchem’s specialist Natratex Cotswold landscaping material. Natratex Cotswold proved the perfect solution for the application due to its ability to withstand constant pedestrian usage without damaging the appearance of the natural stone.

Natratex Cotswold, Bituchem’s flagship product, is extremely versatile with successful applications across a variety of sectors, including the housebuilding sector.

The material can be laid all year round and is done so using conventional equipment for a quick and easy application without the need for lengthy road closures.

Bituchem has created a heavy duty alternative for heavilytrafficked areas and also a porous option for schemes requiring a sustainable drainage solution, which eliminates the need for noticeable conventional drains.

Bituchem

Revolutionary EcoCycle bike storage unit for the UK

Apex Lifts is collaborating with innovative cycle storage company, EcoCycle in creating eco-friendly technology to improve and secure the cycling storage network around the country.

EcoCyle has two storage products, a revolving cylinder and a vault system. The units can be built into the piles of tall buildings.

Both alternatives offer a maximum capacity of 204 bikes, with an average retrieval time of 13 seconds. Nick Knight, Managing Director of EcoCycle, believes the company’s products are the “future for cycling”.

“It’s vital for all businesses to take responsibility for protecting and sustaining the environment,” explains Warren Jenchner, Managing Director of Apex Lifts. “EcoCycle is an exciting project for Apex Lifts. We’ve pledged to reduce our own carbon footprint, we’re delighted to be able to help others do the same.”

Apex is supporting the EcoCycle project by manufacturing components and constructing the units in the UK. The first EcoCycle fully working demonstrator model in the UK is located between Southwark and Waterloo station with plans to expand across the country.

Apex Lifts Enquiry 59

Eurocell offers labour-saving alternative to timber fencing

Composite Fencing from Eurocell provides an attractive, environmentally friendly a maintenance-free alternative to timber fencing.

Manufactured from WoodGrain, a composite comprising

75% recycled material, Eurocell Composite Fencing offers the look and feel of timber without the hassle, and the durability of concrete without the weight and health and safety concerns.

Wood-Grain consists mainly of recycled PVC-U, with a premium

wood composite surface, and is guaranteed for 20 years against rotting.

Simple and easy to install, Composite Fencing consists of panels weighing less than 5kg that are slotted into place and

stacked to the required height. Replacing wooden panels in an existing fence is simplicity itself: just remove old panels and slot into the existing concrete posts.

Composite Fencing WoodGrain fence posts are also very easy to install as, like the panels, they can be sawn to measure and fixed using the system’s ‘SupaSpike’ – whereby the spike is driven into the ground and the post fitted over the top.

For surfaces such as driveways and pavements, a bolt down version is available.

Independent tests have shown that the Composite Fencing components have greater tensile strength than concrete.

Once erected, Eurocell Composite Fencing will not require maintenance to protect it against rot and decay, offering a considerable saving over timber in labour and materials.

FES achieves substantial energy savings

Future Energy Solutions (FES), the leading energy performance solutions provider, has announced the successful completion of a LED lighting installation for Spire Healthcare.

The 38-site project was finished on time and within budget, and Spire Healthcare is now able to significantly reduce its energy spend while enjoying excellent

levels of illumination in its external car parking areas.

The new LED luminaires have achieved in excess of 73 per cent energy savings, while also providing 25 per cent better light output. Furthermore, they have an enhanced rated life of up to 20 times better than the previous luminaires in some cases.

New graphic fences from woven steel

LaceFence, a new fencing product which builds graphic design into woven steel has been introduced in Kings Cross London for the first time.

Argent Property Development selected LaceFence from Structiv to provide decorative security and brand image at the Gasholders’ sales gallery, which opened in February.

Simon Dexter-Jones, owner at Structiv, said: “LaceFence is a

real ‘see it to believe it’ product. I remember when I saw the prototypes thinking ‘chain link fencing will never be the same again’.

“You can literally replace any length of boring, intimidating ‘keep out’ chain-link with a graphical system which is welcoming, underlines brand values, and yet provides the same level of security.”

Vital safety advice for stately homes

A leading heritage consortium has called in the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) when it put the spotlight on security and safety at their conference.

Treasure Houses of England represents Blenheim Palace, Castle Howard and Chatsworth and many other much loved stately homes, palaces and castles. It says the security and safety of staff and visitors is a vital concern to them, which is why they hosted the best practice conference.

Over the two day event, security specialists from Treasure Houses of England were given presentations by the police, CCTV and alarm providers, insurers and specialists in asset management.

The DHF’s Neil Sampson, who is managing director of Solar

Gates UK Ltd, spelled out the safety risks posed by incorrectly installed and poorly maintained automatic gates and barriers.

Powered gates and automatic perimeter access control systems are an increasingly common sight at large heritage sites. But many older installations are not compliant with current safety standards and pose a serious risk to human life, Sampson told delegates.

The DHF is the UK’s leading authority on powered gate safety. Training is compulsory for member companies’ personnel. Members comply with a rigorous and binding code of conduct and comply with, or exceed, all current safety standards.

Structiv Enquiry 62

Eurocell Enquiry 61

McConnel puts customers in control with ROBO range

McConnel’s recent ROBO2016 experience days marked the full working debut of ROBOMAX, the 80hp new all-terrain work platform.

ROBOMAX can tackle slopes of up to 55 degree and delivers twice the power of the company’s bestselling ROBOCUT machine.

Other machines on display included:

• ROBOCUT – the world’s best-selling remote control tool carrier. Comes with a range of 17 different work attachments from a stump grinder to a fixed-tooth forestry flailhead.

• ROBOPOWER – part of the new wave of unmanned tractors, this innovative

140hp machine has front and rear three-point linkage for universal compatibility.

• ROBOLOAD – features a 40hp Isuzu diesel engine, a powerful loader bucket capable of lifting more than 300kg, and is compatible with the full range of ROBOCUT attachments and accessories.

• ROBOMOZ – a highperformance all-terrain slope mower with a Yanmar 33hp engine and six different attachments

• ROBOZERO – the world’s first commercial remote control zero-turn mower

McConnel general manager

Christian Davies said: “For the

Kubota springs into action with new walkbehind launch

first time customers have not only been able to see our full range of remote control machines in action, they have also had the opportunity to try them out.

“The event has enabled us to showcase the entire range and

show both customers and dealers the huge benefits in safety and productivity our products can deliver.”

McConnel

Enquiry 65

Four Allett mowers for Exeter City

Estates manager and head groundsman of Exeter City FC, Clive Pring, has been with the club for about nine years.

Makita self-propelled mower has 51cm cut

The Makita PLM5121 selfpropelled mulching mower has a 51cm cutting width and five, easily adjusted cutting heights between 25mm and 70mm.

Kubota UK, the market leader in professional lawnmowers, has launched its brand new W819RPRO, the latest addition to its professional walk behind range.

Equipped with the same engine as its big brother (W821), the W819-PRO is ideally suited to landscaping professionals looking for a light, nimble and easy to operate walk behind.

The W819R-PRO is incredibly comfortable to operate due to

its ergonomic handle design and streamline shape, boasting a 19” cutting width, which makes it easier to trim areas around trees or other obstacles.

Available in a wheeled and rear rolled model, this self-propelled walk behind mower has a blade brake system that stops the blade when not in motion. This feature allows the user to safely empty the roomy 75-litre grass bag, without stopping the engine.

Kubota Enquiry 66

The mower is powered by the 190cc 4-stroke Briggs & Stratton 675 ready-start engine. The single speed drive to the large 280mm rear wheels is controlled by the flat lift up operator control adjacent to the handgrip and engine run control lever.

A large starter grip is within easy reach of the normal operation walk-behind position with the throttle control also conveniently placed on the handles which can be double folded for compact transport.

In addition to the mulching action of the double sided rotary blade, the heavy duty

steel deck also has an optional side discharge flap.

The Makita PLM5121 mower has a specially shaped blade that holds the grass clippings in the deck of the mower so it can cut them into fine pieces. The clippings then settle on the lawn, quickly decomposing, adding to the growth and overall health of the lawn.

Makita Enquiry 67

Until recently the mowing and pitch cleaning regime at St. James Park was done solely with ride-on mowers.

Looking to improve the soilbased pitch, Clive and his team of three spent a considerable amount of time trying various walk-behind mowers to achieve that end and making sure they made the right choice of mower to suit the surface.

The Allett Regal 36 proved perfect for tight turning, the power steering with independent braking provides the exceptional control and turning ability while hydrostatic forward and reverse drive gives infinitelyvariable mowing speeds and cuts per metre.

“We took delivery of two Allett Regal 36 mowers…in July 2015,” says Clive, “and they have been ideal for the work. We also learned that the new Allett RM34 Stadium Rotary Mower was coming into production and naturally, being pleased with the performance of the two Regal mowers, we wanted to see what the RM34 could do for us.”

Exeter started with one Allett RM34 and found it extremely versatile, superior in the clean-up as well as being used as a match preparation mower, with the extra width saving a great deal of time.

So impressed was the club with the RM34 they ordered another and now the clean-up takes as little as three quarters of an hour without stretching the groundscare team.

Allet Mowers Enquiry 68

Pictured are, left, Clive Pring, Exeter City’s’s estates manager andheadgroundsmanandAllett’ssalesdirectorLeighBowers.

The sound case for electric driven mowing

Stadium owners worldwide are recognising the financial rewards and brand value that can be gained by being environmentally friendly.

To cater for the needs of Groundsmen, Advanced Turf Technology (ATT) have developed 30” and 34” versions of its popular INFiNiSystem; a ‘true hybrid’ that can be driven either ‘hybrid electric’ via an engine generator configuration, or fully electric via dual DCLA batteries, or one single LiPo battery.

Not only is there the cost saving element, the INFiNiSystem also operates with a significantly reduced carbon footprint compared to that of a petrol mower. CO2 emissions based on the fuel usage discussed above is 2.4kg per litre of petrol – and the number of trees required to offset the monthly usage would be 1.437, or 17.25 annually.

Two regulations within the Health and Safety at Work

Act 1974 are of critical importance to groundsmen and employers when it comes to mowing - ‘Hand arm vibration’ and ‘Noise at Work’. Both conditions are more relevant to engine driven machines as opposed to electric ones.

Many organisations therefore have been tasked to find equipment that transmits less vibration and noise but at the same time still performs the job effectively and efficiently. This market demand was the impetus behind the redesign of the INFiNiSystem into a dual power source machine.

Operating the machine with the battery set-up reduces vibration to 0.85m/s2 and enables the operator to carry out functions at 77.5dBA, reducing noise for themselves and the general public. It is these attributes that has seen the ATT INFiNiSystem being awarded Quiet Mark status.

ATT Enquiry 72

The Spider gets upgraded

Ransomes’ Spider remote controlled slope mowers are ideal for maintaining steep banks and inclines.

As the operator has no physical contact with machine, they can control the mower in complete safety.

All machines in the range have 4-wheel drive and steering, enabling banks to mown in any direction. Unlike some competitors’ tracked versions that use skid steering, Spider mowers

have cleated tyres that significantly reduce ground disturbance. The recently upgraded Spider Mini is ideal for the smaller groundscare contractor or high-end consumer. The Spider 1 and Spider 2 offer greater productivity with cutting widths of 0.8 m and 1.23 m respectively and are frequently used by local authorities, groundscare contractors, golf course operators, the Environment Agency and Ministry of Defence.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry 71

Cut, collect and stripe with more Etesia models

Following the successful launch of the rear roller kit for their 41cm pedestrian rotary models last year, Etesia has announced that the kit is now also be available for 46cm models in their range.

Etesia pedestrian mowers have become world renowned for cutting and collecting in all weather conditions – even the wet, but before last year were not available with a rear roller kit for that all important presentation.

With the launch of the rear roller kit for the 46cm cutting width models, which are Etesia’s most popular models, users will be given much more choice in

their cutting requirements - cut, collect, stripe and by fitting the mulching insert, mulch –making this particular range of rotary mowers a must in anyone’s armoury.

No tools are required to fit the roller kits to an Etesia machine –just simply hang the free floating roller on two locating pins behind the grass box.

The roller has been designed so that it will operate freefloating at any height the machine is mowing at –ensuring perfect striping no matter the weather or height of cut required.

Etesia

Innovation is key to success of Jacobsen Eclipse2

The Jacobsen Eclipse2 differs from most other pedestrian mowers in so much as it features electric drive to the traction roller and the cutting units.

The electricity to power the system is supplied either in a stored form, from a battery pack, or is produced while the mower is moving from a

Honda petrol engine powering a 48-volt generator (hybrid) Available in three cutting widths 45.7 cm (18”), 55.9 cm (22”) and 66 cm (26”), all with an optional petrol engine or drop-in battery pack, they can be specified with fixed or floating head cutting reels with 11 or 15 blades.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry 74

Enquiry 73

Husqvarna provides a professional solution

The Husqvarna WB 53S E is a reliable and dedicated BioClip mower, designed for tough, professional use.

The machine has been designed to primarily provide the best possible ergonomic conditions for the operator along with achieving extraordinary cutting results, even in wet weather.

With a self-propelled front wheel drive system the WB 53S E is ideal for all day usage without strain on its user. The robust, heavy-duty cast aluminium BioClip cutting deck has 5 steps of height of cut easily adjusted by a mechanically assisted single lever.

The BioClip cutting method means the grass is cut twice and finely chopped before

being returned to the lawn as a natural fertiliser.

Drive is provided by a 4.8km/h commercial transmission and traction by aluminium wheels.

Specified with an easy-start Honda GCV160 engine along with a comfort grip, LowVib (3.3 m/s2) adjustable handle the Husqvarna WB 53S E weighs 36.7kg. With a cutting width of 53cm met by a cutting height of 65mm you’ll find this machine is fully capable of tough tasks.

The robust, rugged deck ensures a long life span and the lightweight 8 inch aluminium wheels with rubber tyres provide deeper tread depth for increased traction and a more comfortable drive.

Husqvarna Enquiry 77

Turfmaster professional pedestrian mower from Toro

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

The machine is powered by a reliable, durable Kawasaki commercial engine and features a 3.8 litre long range

fuel tank to further increase operating time.

Increased productivity and excellent manoeuvrability, combined with the versatility of collection, recycling or side discharge options, make this machine perfect for busy contractors working large grass areas.

Dennis Razor has ‘every feature needed for a fine turf mower’

Richard Maryan, head groundsman at Eastbourne College, has just purchased a new Dennis Razor after recognising that it had every feature he was looking for in a fine turf mower.

Seven years ago, Richard took on the role as head groundsman at Eastbourne College after an impressive 14 years working as part of the grounds team.

One of the first management decisions he decided to make was to refresh the turf maintenance machinery, purchasing two Dennis FT610’s mainly because of the interchangeable cassette system.

Richard and his four members of staff carry out all of their work

in-house - the College has five sports grounds - and Richard decided it was time for another machine to assist them.

“We put the Razor up against everything else, there wasn’t anything we didn’t like about it,” he said. “It had everything we wanted and because of our experiences of using the FT610’s, we knew we couldn’t go wrong with another Dennis mower.”

Superbly balanced and ideal for golf greens and tees, cricket pitches and other fine turf surfaces the Razor features a 560mm (22in), 11 blade cutting cylinder for a perfect finish.

An ultra-short wheelbase ensures easy manoeuvrability

Bosch continues to power on

The Bosch range of batterypowered mowers is aimed at the professional market.

By using highly efficient battery systems and eliminating servicing costs, the mowers effectively pay for themselves in less than three years of regular use.

The British-built products allow for all-day working thanks to low noise and low vibration levels produced by the weatherproof high performance batteries. The batteries take just 42 minutes to recharge, providing enough power to mow an area equivalent to an entire football pitch.

The new professional models are weatherproof and produce significantly lower noise than their petrol alternatives.

EGO quadruples range and introduces steel deck

EGO Power+ is set to challenge beliefs and expectations about lawnmowers in 2016 with its new range of lithium-ion powered products.

Three new lawnmowers have been added to the range which now includes a contemporary steel deck design that is available with a 50cm width with the option of a self-drive feature that runs from an independent motor. This can be operated at variable speeds dependent on the user and grass conditions. Due to the independent motor, the self-drive feature operates separately to the cutting system.

A 52cm poly deck model has also been added to the range to offer a wider alternative to the existing 50cm mower. The new poly model also features the self-drive option. All four mowers in the range are able to be compactly folded for vertical storage and have mulching capabilities. New batteries, featuring EGO’s patented arc design and “keep cool” cell technology, have also been added to the range with a 5Ah and 7.5Ah being introduced to power the mower’s new features.

EGO Enquiry 82

Moreover, the fuel savings that flow from batterypowered technology mean that the mowers could effectively pay for themselves over a few years.

Bosch Enquiry 80

and excellent performance, even on undulating greens. The Dennis Razor encompasses the simple ‘no tools required’ click height adjusters for quick

www.dennisuk.com www.sisis.com

The Mean Green WBX-33 from Overton (UK) heralds a new era in electric commercial mowing. With its Stand-On and Zero Turn big brothers they all use the latest Lithium-Ion battery technology to drive the wheels and power the mower deck. Independent HAV,

a feature which Richard is particularly impressed with.

easy

Low vibration, noise and maintenance with electric mower

WBV and dB tests on all mowers gave very low readings allowing for longer, quieter working times. Maintenance costs and down time are low as they have no belts or filters.

Overton UK Enquiry 81

TurfMaster Enquiry 79

and

operation,

Dennis Enquiry 78

Makita expands water pump range

Makita has added three new clean and dirty water pumps to the range, all powered by a quiet, low emission 4-stroke petrol engine.

The new Makita EW2050H, EW2051H and EW3051H are all powered by a reliable 169cc engine that comfortably meets the latest EPA Phase 3 and EU

emissions regulations running on straight unleaded fuel held in a 3.2 litre tank for long-time running.

All three new Makita EW water pumps are protected by a sump oil level sensor which switches off the engine if the oil level is too low.

Makita Enquiry 84

Spider invades steep banks

Royston Golf Cub, located on the Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire border, has taken delivery of a Ransomes Spider 1 remote controlled mower from their local Ransomes Jacobsen dealer, Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd.

Co. Ltd

Course Manager Ian Coote, said: “We have huge areas of banks that require managing as much as the

rest of the course and cutting these has become more and more of a problem with the current health and safety laws and the sensitivity of the site, so I was tasked with finding a solution.” The Spider uses fourwheel drive and four-wheel steering and proved to be the best option.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry

85

Terex Construction launches site dumper finance offer

Terex Construction has launched a finance offer for its marketleading site dumper range.

Available until July 31 2016, the fixed rate programme includes models from as little as £52 per week (+VAT).

With cost-effective fixed weekly repayments, no initial deposit requirement, the added option of a comprehensive warranty plan and opportunity to purchase

after three years, the programme makes owning the latest compact equipment simple and affordable for construction professionals.

Ranging from one to nine-tonne payloads, each model has been developed with durability and performance in mind, alongside featuring the latest emissionscompliant engine technology.

Terex

Construction Enquiry 86

Flexi Dig adds Volvos to the fleet

Civil engineering and surfacing contractors, Flexi Dig Ltd has added six new Volvo compact excavators to its plant fleet for the first time, taking delivery from Volvo’s utility dealer for the area – Rickmar Plant Sales Ltd.

The six new machines range from the 1.8 tonne EC18D up to the

8.8 tonne ECR88D, the models in between being two EC27C’s, an EC35C and an ECR58D. The new range of excavators join Flexi Dig’s fleet of equipment which includes excavators up to 12 tonnes in operating weight, site dumpers and rollers.

READER ENQUIRY 87

Volvo

International Creative Lawn Stripes Competition sponsored by Allett Mowers

With the winter now behind us, lawnmowers across the country are about to come out of hibernation ready to tidy lawns and return gardens to their former glory.

To mark this, Allett Mowers has launched its search to find the most creative grass stripes and patterns in the world! The quintessentially British striped lawn is idealised across the world and in celebration of this Allett Mowers has opened the competition internationally.

The winner will receive an Allett Kensington 17K lawnmower, along with the complete Allett Lawn Care System of six interchangeable cartridges consisting of an aerator, a scarifier, a lawn brush, a dethatcher, a verticutter and a 10-bladed cartridge. They will also receive two stands to conveniently store the cartridges concerned.

To enter the competition entrants simply have to email a photograph of their creation to sales@allett.co.uk, along with their name and full address.

The competition will close at midnight GMT on the August 31 2016.

TMSystem used on new robot fairway mower

The versatile ATT TMSystem has been used as a third party fitment by an equipment manufacturer.

This time Portuguese firm Turf Lynx has made the cassette system an integral part of its driverless fairway mower. It follows in the footsteps of US brand Cub Cadet that specify it on their Precise Path robot greens mower.

Seen for the first time in the UK at BTME 2016, the Turf Lynx mower is fitted with three individually controlled cutting reels in the form of ATT’s SMARTCut cassettes.

The SMARTCut Cutting Cassette offers an unrivalled level of versatility and ease of maintenance with a bed knife adjustment to a fixed position cylinder to achieve consistency and quality of cut.

Balmers GM opens new premises

John Deere turf machinery

dealer Balmers GM Ltd has opened its new, second outlet on the Monckton Road Industrial Estate in Wakefield, West Yorkshire.

Located just off junction 39 on the M1, the new depot is perfectly placed to serve customers throughout the West and South Yorkshire area.

The Burnley-based dealership announced the expansion of its sales area from Lancashire into Yorkshire last summer.

Established in 1979, Balmers Garden Machinery was originally appointed as a John Deere groundscare equipment dealer in 1992. The family-run business subsequently relocated to its new, state of the art premises

at Dunnockshaw, Lancashire in October 2014.

The company currently employs 50 people across both the Wakefield and Burnley

depots, offering new and used equipment sales, service, parts and commercial hire to a wide range of customers.

Balmers GM Enquiry 93

The SMARTCut cassette is available with 7, 11 and 14 blade options and gives a cutting height range of 1.8mm to 25mm (0.07in to 1in) to provide superb results in all situations. Using the appropriate chassis adaptor kit the cassette is fully compatible

with all main-stream makes of triplex greens mowers and lightweight fairway mowers, like John Deere, Jacobsen and Toro, to enable a complete replacement of worn out OEM units.

ATT Enquiry 91

New mower helps Eton pull together

The hugely impressive Eton College Rowing Centre, adjacent to the Thames at Dorney, near Slough, includes 310 acres of mainly grass and managed woodland.

It is maintained by a team of just three men headed by grounds manager Paul Outway. Eton College purchased a Jacobsen MP493 last September from dealer TH White.

TH White’s relationship with Eton College goes back quite a few years and the other mower at Dorney – a Wessex RMX Proline 500 was also supplied by the company.

TH White Enquiry 92

Top marks for Etesia from Solihull School

Karl Brotherhood,

Solihull School, has claimed that his new Etesia Hydro 124 DN ride-on mower is ‘perfect’ for helping him fulfil a number maintenance tasks.

Solihull School is a coeducational independent school surrounded by a 50 acre site including a floodlit artificial pitch, five rugby pitches, four cricket pitches, and four junior school football pitches,

which all play host to the school’s successful sporting teams.

The Etesia Hydro 124 DN features a 1.24m cutting width with two counter-rotating blades which provide the ultimate mowing experience.

A cutting deck with rear ejection guarantees a quality finish with excellent collection even in long and wet grass. This multi-

functional machine, which can work to speeds of up to 16km/h, is also extremely versatile – something which Karl is particularly impressed with.

“We use it to cut the cricket outfield and then with the minimal of adjustment; we can use it for the rugby pitches – it’s that easy,” he explains. “We can also pick up leaves, twigs, acorns and other forms of debris - it picks everything up - even in wet conditions.

“In fact, the first thing I noticed was how much better it was compared to the zero turn that we had. I like the fact that the grass box tells you when it’s full and the high lift is a massive help for us too because it saves us double moving everything.”

Allett Mowers Enquiry 90

head of grounds at the prestigious

Etesia Enquiry 94

Honda introduces new cordless handheld

Honda is set to introduce its first range of products in the battery powered handheld market.

Available in dealers now, these high performance products complement Honda’s marketleading Lawn and Garden line up, extending its Handheld offering from four-stroke petrol power for the first time.

Specialist Honda engineers have worked meticulously on the offering, which includes a Lawn Trimmer plus Hedgetrimmer and Blower, to adapt technologies and ensure compliance with Honda’s own high standards as

well as European standards and regulations. The introduction of the range comes during a significant move towards battery powered Lawn and Garden products in the European market place as customers seek lightweight, environmentally friendly alternatives to petrol powered products but still want to avoid the less than ideal tangled cords and messy storage of cords on mains powered products.

By utilising 56-volt DC Lithiumion batteries – the highest performance battery technology on the market – Honda will offer the customer the most capable

products with long run times and quick charge times.

The Lawn Trimmer gives safe, precise cutting through the use of a thick nylon line and automatic feed system – Tap’n’Go. The trimmer is equally suitable for edging or clearing long grass and overgrown areas.

The Hedgetrimmer features a dual-sided steel blade, laser cut for smooth precise operation. The diamond ground blades provide accurate cutting in either direction, for a neat finish - generating healthy regrowth.

The Blower is compact and lightweight, benefitting from a powerful turbine forcing the air out at speeds up to 92mph. With variable speed control and a Turbo setting the Blower is suitable for a range of uses from clearing lawns and driveways, paths and patios or tidying up after trimming the hedges.

To accompany these products Honda is offering the choice of two batteries – a 2Ah and a 4Ah – offering run times of up to 130minutes. Whilst a Standard Charger is included with every product purchase there will a Fast Charger available to purchase

separately - the 2Ah battery can be charged in as little as 25 minutes! Therefore, Honda’s battery range offers the flexibility to appeal to anyone from novice gardeners to the most demanding of horticultural enthusiasts as well as commercial users.

All products carry a two year residential warranty and a one year commercial warranty.

Steve Morris, Honda (UK) Head of Power Equipment said “The Lawn and Garden market in the UK is moving and changing at a promising pace so to be entering a new sector at this time with

such a strong range of products is a very exciting time for us.

“With these lightweight machines that are better for the environment in terms of zero emissions and low sound levels, we are very much looking forward to seeing their success in the market place over the coming months.

“Our customers will really be impressed at how much easier gardening can be with these products.”

Honda Enquiry 97

Etesia launch new pedestrian brushcutter

Etesia has launched a new pedestrian brushcutter - the Attila 51 for taming rough grass areas.

With built-in rugged reliability as standard, the new Etesia AD51 brushcutter has been designed to work in the toughest of conditions - long grass, weeds, bracken and brambles on woodland paths or orchards.

38%. Cutting height adjustment is from 50-100mm.

Off-centred blade for cutting without clogging and a blade disengagement facility gives users a theoretical output of 2800 m²/h. Full folding handles allows for easy transportation from site to site and storage.

Etesia Enquiry 100

Graden helps club achieve grass species change

Rated as ‘Best in County’ and 16th in England, West Sussex is a popular inland golf course located on the Northern edge of the South Downs.

With a reputation like that to uphold, Course Manager Ian Streeter enlisted the help of a Graden for the courses’ scarification requirements - and has benefitted two-fold from his efforts. Five years ago Ian decided to invest in a Graden Swing Wing and a Contour Sand Injector (CSI). Now supported by Charterhouse Turf Machinery, Ian has continued the Graden work on the greens once or twice a year as well as moving onto the tees and approaches.

“Due to the level of thatch on our greens, we started scarifying

with the CSI at a depth of 25mm but this has gradually come up to 15mm as the thatch level has decreased. I would estimate that overall the thatch content has reduced by 70% and continues to reduce with every pass.”

The CSI is a scarifier/aerator with the ability to scarify to any depth between 1mm-40mm, whilst simultaneously backfilling the grooves with either sand or a combination of sand and seed. Its ability to do both jobs in one pass reduces play downtime without causing any detrimental effect to the firmness of the ground.

Not only has Ian achieved better quality greens, now that the thatch level has reduced significantly he has been able to undertake a species

Dealer rescues 1970s mower

The belts, pulleys and blades remain the originals, with the only item actually needing changing being the float in the carburettor.

“We are always happy to hear about the dedication that our dealers show to our brand; as a brand dating back to 1961, we have a lot of history, and have developed a loyal following,” commented Martin Wasley, Cub Cadet’s sales and technical manager.

exchange. Before the Graden work, the greens at West Sussex were approximately 80% Poa. Now able to overseed with bent grasses, they are roughly 70% bent offering a

sustainable surface in terms of required water and chemical input

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Charterhouse Turf Machinery Enquiry

Andrew Bolter, of FN Pile and Sons, has spent the past six months restoring a Cub Cadet International 76.

Cub Cadet Enquiry 102

John Deere opens new training centre

The British turf industry’s first and only purpose-built apprentice training facility has been opened by John Deere and training provider ProVQ at St James Business Park, Radcliffe-on-Trent in Nottinghamshire.

Designed specifically and solely for John Deere dealer apprentices enrolled on the company’s award winning Ag Tech, Parts Tech and Turf Tech training programmes, the

new centre is close to John Deere Limited’s headquarters at Langar.

John Deere appointed ProVQ Limited in summer 2015 as its new business partner to deliver the apprentice training programmes on behalf of its dealers in England, Scotland and Wales (separate training programmes are provided in Northern Ireland and Eire).

John Deere Enquiry 105

Robust mower cuts time as well as grass

Shrewsbury in Shropshire has a record of being a town full of pride and dignity, and rightly so.

It won the Champion Britain in Bloom award in 2014 and takes a very positive stance towards maintaining amenities and parks for the benefit of the local community and visitors.

The largest park, The Quarry, which receives over a million visitors every year consists of 29 acres of grassed area for walkers, pursuits and play areas, to name just a few of the popular activities. Since 2007, for the large expanses of grass which includes The Quarry and all

the school fields, Shrewsbury Town Council had been running a 12ft cut Major mower that has shown excellent service and reliability. But in 2015, Kevin and his team decided that after eight years of service it was time to upgrade their mowing capacity.

“We looked at several of the leading brands of wide-area mower and kept coming back to the simplicity and reliability of the Major mower,” added Kevin. “It had given us so much good service without breakdown issues that in comparing with other products that were more complicated, we decided to stay

with the Major because it was tried, tested and trusted.”

So Shrewsbury Town Council decided on a Major Swift 18ft (5.5m) cut mower, using a geardriven eight rotor and heavy-duty blade design similar in style to their previous 12ft mower. They took delivery in Spring 2015 and it has been used extensively throughout this last season. For transport work the mower folds hydraulically to just 6ft 6inches and is fitted with all the necessary lighting for roadwork applications.

“The wider Major mower has been performing very well,”

commented Kevin. “Because it’s wider, we get over the ground a lot quicker, it’s a very simple, solid, robust machine that leaves a very good cut, regardless of conditions.

“Maintenance is just a few grease nipples and the heavyduty design means that it can take a fair bit of punishment on the rough undulating park areas. This last year, it cut the entire season with just one set of blades, which is testament indeed to the machine’s durability.”

Mercedes-Benz vans reports record year

Mercedes-Benz Vans has reported record sales, revenue and EBIT figures for the financial year 2015.

The Vans division delivered 321,000 vehicles to customers as sales figures outstripped previous totals (previous year’s figure: 295,000, plus nine percent) –despite an inconsistent market environment worldwide.

Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans: “In 2016 we want to further continue our growth path.

“First of all we are focused on systematically reinforcing our position as technology leader. And secondly we aim to continue to strengthen our position in the existing markets and to open up additional potential for growth

worldwide. The next milestone is the launch of the V-Class in China.”

Mercedes-Benz Vans is the first premium manufacturer to introduce a pickup, expanding its product portfolio into a very promising segment. As part of the global growth strategy, the pickup offers the perfect way to unlock new customer segments. These versatile vehicles with all-round qualities and a payload of around one tonne are popular worldwide and, as such, offer good sales potential.

The initial target markets for the new vehicle are Latin America, South Africa, Australia and Europe.

Mercedes-Benz Enquiry 107

Ted Hopkins scores new deal with WRU

Kubota machinery dealer, Ted Hopkins Machinery, has agreed a new supply deal with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), continuing a twodecade long partnership with the governing body.

The latest deal sees the family run business supply Kubota equipment for use by groundstaff at Principality Stadium (formally Millennium Stadium) and The Vale Resort training facility, including items from its market-leading compact tractor range and two machines from its utility vehicle range.

Kubota’s STW40 compact tractor and an RTV-X900 utility vehicle – the newest model in Kubota’s four-strong range – arrived on site in early January. The two will be based at Principality Stadium, and used day-to-day by the facility’s team of three, headed up by head groundsman Lee Evans.

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

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

Part of the Schiller worldwide group of companies

Additional items of Kubota equipment have also been supplied, for use by the WRU, the Football Association of Wales and Cardiff City FC at the

dual-use training facility, The Vale Resort, based in Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan. An RTV500 and an L5040 mid-range tractor completes the line-up of new

machines, adding to an existing G26 ride on mower, which is already based at the facility.

Kubota Enquiry 108

Major Equipment Enquiry 106

Kilworth Machinery introduce remote control mowers

Kilworth Machinery are the sole UK importers of the MDB range of remote controlled mowers.

MDB of Italy have had many years’ experience in remote controlled machinery for commercial and military applications and have now transferred this expertise into the ground care market.

After successful testing in the UK two models were initially introduced, the Green Climber LV and the Mini Green Climber. Both are designed to operate in areas that would be hazardous to an operator walking behind or sitting on a mower.

The Green Climber is available in 40HP (LV400) and 50HP (LV500) versions with Yanmar 3 & 4 cylinder diesel engines providing the power.

The engines have been specially developed for working on slopes and allow the Green Climber to operate safely on slopes up to 60 degrees in any direction. Stability is ensured by rubber tracks which are hydraulically extendable in width from 1300mm to 1700mm.

Engine cooling is by means of a self cleaning “CleanFix” reversible fan system that automatically keeps the radiator and grill clear to prevent overheating.

A 1.3m cut flail mower is fitted as standard. The mower is designed and built for constant use in harsh environments and has 400mm of hydraulic side shift to assist with cutting up close to trees and fencing.

The flail mower is easily removed and other attachments including trencher, snow blower, snow plough, sweeper and hedge cutter can be mounted on the Green Climber.

The Mini Green Climber is similar in principle to the standard Green Climber but is lighter and more compact. It is powered by a 25HP twin cylinder air cooled diesel engine.

The flail mower is 1.0m working width and sits between the rubber tracks to give a total width of 1500mm. In order to maintain the same 60 degree bank capabilities as the larger machine, the engine on the Mini Green Climber is self levelling.

All Green Climbers are radio controlled by a robust and ergonomic hand held unit with

joystick and push button control of all functions. Radio control range is 300m with automatic shut down outside this range.

For the 2016 season, two new models have been introduced. The LV300 fills the gap between the mini green climber and the LV400. It has a 29HP diesel engine and adjustable tracks extendable from 1.15m to 1.55m width. The LV600 is the new flagship model, based on the LV500, with 56HP high torque engine and extra heavy duty track units.

Kilworth Machinery Enquiry 110

Renovations help pitches spring back into life

The

latest techniques and equipment are helping sportsgrounds bounce back from a long, tough winter. Jane Carley talks to leading contractors and machinery suppliers.

Grounds maintenance contractors are having a busy spring, renovating pitches that have seen the worst of the weather, with flooding, waterlogging and heavy traffic taking its toll on the turf. With amenity managers juggling the demand for ever higher standards with tight budgets, the pressure is on to deliver the goods. Using the latest techniques and equipment can help contractors stay ahead.

Dave Gibson, Contracts Director at Fairways Sportsgrounds has seen the effects of the long winter on the pitches that he renovates and says: “Mostly I deal with pitches in Scotland and the north so sustained rainfall has been a constant issue. Without doubt grass pitches that coped best were ones with proper piped

drainage systems, which had been regularly aerated with a deep spiker like a Wiedenmann and hadn’t been over-used.”

He suggests that there are many situations where poor construction, lack of maintenance and too much player traffic means that re-construction is the only way to achieve acceptable playing conditions in the future. “If the surface doesn’t allow for rapid drainage or is blighted by ‘run-off’ from adjacent areas of land there simply isn’t an easy fix. But not everyone has the money.”

“Just today I heard from a local authority which has closed a number of pitches until further notice due to the risk of injury to players. Uneven levels, patchy

grass cover, areas of bare soil, and a high level of weeds present rendered them all unplayable. Tight budgets mean that all that can be afforded is twice yearly aeration in tandem with some top dressing and sand spreading followed on with overseeding and fertilisation.”

“So you’ve got to work with their financial constraints. Decompaction is essential and as we work closely with Wiedenmann UK we have access to a fleet of Terra Spike aerators which can go down to 40 cm.”

“Depending on the conditions and soil type we would expect to use a 20mm diameter tine and take it down to 400 mm on the first outing. For the second time around we would change

the profile, possibly 25mm tines going to 350 mm deep with an adjustment for heave.”

For sand spreading Fairways Group uses Pro-Cast bulk top dressers with powerful twin spinners which achieve a spread of up to 16m at 2m³ per minute, and Dave comments: “When specified a top dressing with organic material such as fine graded (10mm) composted green waste could also be applied using the same equipment at a rate of 1 tonne per 200 m². All works would be carried out ideally in dry conditions. Follow ups would be about roughly four months later.”

Overseeding should be carried out with a quality perennial rye grass seed mix designed for

winter games pitch use, he states. “We’d use our Wiedenmann Terra Seed and choose to make several offset passes. Finally, where fertilisation is concerned, we’d aim for spring, summer and autumn always with a slow release granular fertiliser.”

“We can’t stress enough to clients that all new builds need to accommodate the best of drainage but also include provision for regular ongoing maintenance. You need to factor both into your plans, as this winter has proved.”

Recent site visits by decompaction specialist Terrain Aeration to a number of municipal playing fields provide a good insight into the problems facing many council-run sports pitches.

“One site, which slopes to a small stream, was low lying and frequently waterlogged,” explains managing director David Green. “On inspection it was found, using bird’s eye views, that areas of the field

showed multiple use as a cricket and football pitch as well as sprinting lanes marked out, with considerable overlap.”

“In this case the area of the six yard box, penalty box and the halfway circle, usually heavy wear areas on any soccer pitch, showed little or no grass with the ‘turf’ consisting almost entirely of broad leaved weeds. These invasive weeds are destroyed very swiftly by play on the pitch, leaving the relatively heavy soil exposed to being churned into mud when conditions are wet.”

To restore the turf, drainage needed to be improved followed by destruction of the broad leaved weeds and reseeding with a suitable sports turf grass mix. David comments: “Removing the weeds presents the additional problem of bare turf which, when it goes dry becomes bonehard, waterlogged and leads to footballers’ skinned knees.”

Terrain Aeration’s Terralift machine was able to treat the affected areas in one day.

Promote spring growth with Plugr

The colder months can have a significant impact on turf and, if not looked after properly, grounds could struggle now spring is here.

Plugr aerators from Billy Goat offer a solution to this that can improve drainage and promote new growth by making holes throughout the turf that allow air circulation through the roots. The results being healthy grass growth and stronger turf. The Plugr aerator range consists of four products. These are the

PL1800 (with either a 205cc Briggs & Stratton engine, or an 118cc Honda engine), or the PL2500 (with a 163cc Honda engine, or a 196cc Honda/Hydro Drive).

Billy Goat products are exclusively available in the UK through Henton & Chattell dealers nationwide.

& Chattell Enquiry 114

TerrainAeration

FairwaysSportsgrounds

Henton

“The machine is very effective in relieving compaction panning and waterlogging to one metre depth due to the dried seaweed injected with the compressed air. It is the only machine which reaches one metre depth and the treatment is effective for five to seven years,” explains David.

The Terralift machine uses a JCB road breaker gun to hydraulically hammer the 1.5in diameter probe into the soil before it releases a blast of compressed air to fracture and fissure the soil. On the tail end of the air blast, dried milled seaweed is incorporated which sticks to the walls of the fractures and over a period of time, swells and contracts with the moisture content in the soil. This process helps to keep the fractures open.

The probe is removed, the machine moves forward and the process repeated using two metre centre spacings on a staggered grid pattern. Probe holes are then backfilled with aggregate to provide an aeration/ventilation shaft allowing air and water to percolate into the fissures.

David adds: “Approximately 1kg or 1 litre of backfill is required for each hole and the turf will grow back over the hole, given reseeding of bare areas, with healthier roots and a better sward.”

Campey Turf Care Systems, in partnership with Dennis, Sisis, ICL, Limagrain, Pitchcare and New Holland, are launching the UK and Ireland Grassroots Pitch Renovation Tour 2016 - a series of full pitch renovations aimed at improving the quality of grassroots natural turf sports pitches across the UK and Ireland.

For too long, those responsible for the maintenance of nonleague clubs, local authority sports facilities and other grassroots level, training and playing fields, have had to struggle with restricted budgets and limited access to knowledge and training.

The cry of ‘games cancelled due to unplayable surfaces’ could be a thing of the past, with a bit of help and guidance from the leading manufacturers in the sports turf industry, suggests managing director Richard Campey.

An end of season pitch renovation was carried out in June 2015 at Stafford Rangers Football Club, conducted by Campeys, using contractors Fine Turf Surfaces and was used as an educational opportunity for local groundsmen who were invited to the event.

“Stafford Rangers’ pitch was in a poor state at the end of last season so they invested in a visit from one of our FA pitch advisors to see how they could improve the surface.”

Gareth Thomas, adult football development officer at the Staffordshire FA, explained.

“Initially they had planned to buy an aeration machine from Campeys; Richard came down to look at the pitch and said the machine would make little difference because of the state of the pitch.

“With the club playing in the national league system they have a slightly bigger budget than most grassroots football clubs and decided to invest in a modern end of season renovation, which has resulted in a fantastic playing surface.”.

“We took the opportunity to invite clubs from all across the county to see a live renovation. Richard also brought along other smaller machines for the clubs to look at which could assist them in maintaining their pitches.”

CampeyTurfCareSystems

Duncan Ross

Gareth believes the partnership between the advisors and Campeys was key to the success of the project and hopes that they can continue to provide educational opportunities going forward with another demonstration for local groundsmen.

“Many of the groundsmen at grassroots clubs aren’t qualified and are mainly volunteers with limited knowledge and resources, so the advice they get from Campeys is absolutely invaluable to them,” he said.

Richard Campey said “The tour will combine demonstration and renovation with a hand–on educational programme aimed specifically at improving grass root football pitches at the very heart of the game. We can demonstrate ways of sustaining any pitch to ensure it delivers a minimum of up to 450 playing hours per annum.”

The venues included in the 2016 Grassroots Pitch Renovation Tour programme tour have been chosen for the significant role they play in providing pitches for all walks of life and levels of sport. A full list of the venues and dates can be

found on the website: www. pitchimprovementprogramme. com where you can register free of charge.

Egremont Amateur rugby league football club (ARLFC) was finally able to officially open its new pitch at Gillfoot Park, near Whitehaven in Cumbria in 2015 after an ambitious construction project by contractor Duncan Ross Ltd.

The pitch which had been over 18 months of hard work in the making, hosted Egremont Rangers v East Leeds as its first official game in the Kingstone Press National Conference League Premier Division clash. Since then many more games have been played on the pitch that has changed the Club’s fortunes.

“This project is not just about today’s games but provides a legacy for future generations” said Chairman and Club Secretary John Brocklebank, “And we are delighted to have worked with Duncan Ross to make it happen.”

The original pitch was shared with the local cricket club which created a certain conflict

of interest in the summer when both cricket and rugby were vying for play. Boundaries had to be constantly removed and reinstated.

The solution was to re-locate the game of rugby to its own site alongside the cricket pitch in order to help Egremont Rangers to thrive as a club and build on their success of qualifying in the top 12 of the National League.

With the site on a natural slope the first issue that needed addressing was how to achieve a flat surface. This was tackled by Tim Colclough from Tams who created the initial designs for the site.

The site had to be excavated, graded, drained, (sand) ameliorated, seeded and a retaining wall erected to protect the pitch from natural erosion and slippage.

Consultation and close liaison was required throughout the implementation of the scheme with architects, planning committees, consultants as well as the club officials in order to meet the aspirations and requirements of all.

Additionally, Duncan Ross Ltd agreed to design and build a spectator stand on what used to be a small training area alongside the new pitch, as well as stripping out soil, carrying out earth works, installing drainage infrastructure, cultivating and grading the tilth, importing sand and seedbed, fertilising, seeding, installing sand grooves and putting the rugby posts in place.

The project was finished with fencing and floodlighting to complete a facility for Egremont Rugby Club to be proud of.

“We won this tender on many levels of offering quality, knowledge, expertise and good price,” explained Duncan Ross, “But more than that this club deserved something special. They have coped with some very

challenging conditions to win huge recognition in their sport. I am delighted to have been instrumental in delivering them first class facilities to help them achieve even greater successes in the future.”

Machinery Classen has introduced the new HTS-20H hydrostatic overseeder, a self-propelled

Wiedenmann

Schiller

machine, with hydrostatic drive for smooth, consistent power flow. An 18kg capacity floating seed box is designed to follow the contours of undulating terrain or to lock in place in any of ten depth settings for seeding on hills and slopes.

An important concept of the HTS-20H overseeder is to produce more seed rows placed closer together for improved germination. There are 13 double-bladed shafts, making 26 blades in all, spaced 3.8cm apart to give carpet-like seed coverage even on the bumpiest terrain. The 26 heat-treated blades have cutting edges on both ends and can be rotated through 180deg to double the blade life.

The Honda GX270 engine provides speeds up to 4.8kph

going forward and 2.4kph in reverse, selected via a single lever.A speed dial and onboard instruction chart allows exact selection of seed size for precision seeding without seed waste.

Fitted with turf tread flotation tyres, the Classen HTS-20H offers improved balance and stability on slopes and in straight lines, with reduced soil compaction and tyre ruts. A folding handle makes for easy transportation and storage.

Classen has also announced the introduction of optional solid tines for the RA21 aerator. This gives the groundsman the choice of hollow or solid tines, depending on their preference for the type of work being done.

The Classen RA21 reciprocating aerator is designed to punch clean holes in tough, hardened soil without additional weights. Now the groundsman can choose to solid tine on areas which have a low level of compaction or perhaps need treatment during periods of hot weather.

In situations where hollow tine aeration will be more beneficial, for example more heavily compacted lawns or amenity areas suffering from a lot of wear and tear, a longer lasting effect can be achieved. Tines can be quickly and easily changed to suit the application.

With core tines the RA21 can cover up to 26,000 sq. ft. per hour at 450 reciprocating revolutions per minute, says distributor Schiller Grounds Care.

Large, pneumatic tyres front and back give the machine

a good flotation on turf and manoeuvrability is said to be similar to a walk-behind mower. For transportation there are lifting and tie-down handles, with a folding handle to save space, and with a width of just 80cm (31.5in) the RA21 is designed to fit neatly through gates.

The Graden Contour Sand Injector, distributed by Charterhouse Turf Machinery, is a valuable tool in the greenkeeper or groundsman’s shed.

With its ability to reduce organic matter content and to also provide a stable, healthy and free draining surface, it has been a welcome help to sports turf professionals who have been battling against the very wet weather in recent seasons, suggests Charterhouse.

The reduction of organic matter is the CSI’s main benefit but it can also be utilised for accurate

and effective overseeding on many surfaces.

By using 1mm thickness blades and disabling the sand inject function, the Graden can be help to get seed in to the groove left by the cutting blade and giving that seed the crucial soil contact it requires, while remaining below the cutting height of mowing equipment.

Establishment times can be greatly reduced, allowing surfaces to be brought back to playing conditions earlier. Different thickness blades (1, 2 and 3mm) can be fitted and the machine be used on many different areas of the course, as well as different types of sports turf, makes the CSI excellent value for money, suggest Charterhouse.

SCH (Supplies) Ltd has upgraded its ‘D’ Turf Care system to include an option of a

slitter with replaceable tines. The system comprises of a category one three-point linkage carrying frame mounted on the back of the tractors, to which a variety of implements can be attached.

A hollow corer and de-thatching rake are available for the ‘D’ Turf Care system, and now SCH has added an aerator attachment and a slitter, ideal for groundsmen dealing with the after effects of the wet winter.

The slitter features nice heavy duty star shaped discs fitted to a steel axle. The replaceable tines can penetrate the soil up to 150mm deep, improving drainage without tearing the surface or leaving divots. Replacement tines are easily bolted on, extending the life of the unit and making it an economical option, ideal for smaller clubs and organisations.

SCH also supplies a standard tractor mounted slitter.

Schiller

CharterhouseTurfMachinery

SCHSupplies

3G pitches workshop a great success

Football clubs from all over the Country attended a recent 3G pitches workshop arranged by sports construction specialists S&C Slatter.

With delegates travelling from as far away as Tyne and Wear, the conference room at Sutton United’s Borough Sports Ground was full with club officials eager to learn more about 3G football turf.

An invited panel of experts contributed presentations featuring topics such as 3G football turf technology, pitch design and construction, the FIFA Quality Programme, creating a successful business plan, funding and maintenance.

Maidstone United and Sutton United also discussed their

own experiences in converting stadium pitches to 3G football turf. It was very interesting to learn just how strong a commercial case can be made for making the switch, particularly if incorporates a greater engagement with the local community.

Delegates also had the opportunity to view a Sutton United training session and watch a maintenance demonstration.

The workshop closed with an extremely interesting and expansive ‘Question and Answer’ session.

Bobcat launches new sand cleaner attachment

Bobcat has launched the company’s new SC200 Sand Cleaner attachment for use with the Bobcat compact tracked loader (CTL) range.

Designed for work on wet and dry surfaces, the new SC200 Sand Cleaner is compatible with both the standard and high flow versions of the Bobcat T590, T650, T770 and T870 CTL models.

Adding to over 70 different attachment families already available from Bobcat, the new Sand Cleaner opens up an array of new applications to the already wide portfolio that can be carried out by Bobcat Tool Carriers combined with Bobcat attachments.

With a working width of 1900 mm, a working depth of up to 200 mm and a bucket capacity of

350 l, the Bobcat Sand Cleaner is a high performance attachment which allows the loader operator to quickly sift sand/soil and collect debris as small as cigarette stubs.

As well as cigarette stubs, the Sand Cleaner can also pick up other small debris such as bottle caps, broken glass, pieces of wood, cans, rocks, plastic bags,

syringes and seaweed. The Sand Cleaner is therefore ideal for use on public and private beaches; holiday resorts; playground maintenance; sports fields (including beach volleyball and beach soccer); horse racing tracks; farms and in the recycling/ sorting industry.

Enquiry 120

Qualibra use extends with cost effective new options

New packaging and new recommendations for Qualibra now makes the leading innovative wetting agent more affordable and fully justifiable for fairway and large scale sports turf treatments.

This season Qualibra is now available in a 500 litre IBC, offering a great value option for bulk purchase to treat larger

areas; the existing 10 litre S-pac bottles and 200 litre drums are still available. Syngenta Business Manager, Daniel Lightfoot, highlighted that the benefits that Qualibra delivers in improving surface playability on greens and optimising water use efficiency was equally applicable for fairway management.

Enquiry 123

Simplicity is the key to Noblat’s success

With 30 years’ experience of manufacturing high quality topdressers Noblat has an impressive track record in making the groundsman and greenkeeper’s day-to-day job easier.

The range comprise dedicated drop and spin dressers from 400 to 4,000 litres (flush), with the two larger models SAB 3000 and 4000 boasting the ability to swap via a “cassette” system from drop to spin dresser in a matter of minutes. It is also possible to fit a conveyor making the range a versatile cost effective proposition.

Noblat also manufactures a range of aerators/slitters up to 5.5 meters wide, either on a solid chassis or in pods to follow the contours of undulating fairways. Newly added to the range are the PATURIN and FETUQUE rotary mowers with an adjustable height cut from 120 to 20mm. They can be either front or mounted able to cope with rough-cut. The whole range is designed and manufactured in the Limogesbased factory in France and is available through UK importer AllezGrow Ltd.

AllezGrow Ltd Enquiry 122

New UK deal for Kioti range

The UK distribution of all Kioti products, which includes compact tractors, utility vehicles, mid mounted and out front mowers, has been taken over by the Dutch-based Pols Group. RECO who had successfully distributed the Kioti product range since 2001 has discontinued their operations in the UK. The Pols Group successfully operate as the importers for the Kioti business in Benelux, Holland, France and Romania and have built a strong and reliable after sales service team and reputation. The Kioti UK team are very experienced having had involvement with the Kioti product over a number of years. All of the team have transferred directly from RECO to Kioti UK.

Spare parts supply will be handled from the Pols Group headquarters in Holland. They have already been supplying Kioti spare parts throughout Europe since 2006.

Kioti

S&C Slatter Enquiry 121

Bobcat

Syngenta

APRIL 2016

Landscape Amenity

PRODUCT UPDATE

Trailflex improves grip at golf club

Trailflex, the highly flexible porous paving system from Langford Direct Ltd., has recently been installed at Heysham Golf Course to improve safety for its members.

Created using recycled car tyres, Trailflex proved to be the ideal solution for the golf club’s requirements to stabilise a steep pathway, adding extra grip for pedestrians and golf trolleys.

Trailflex has proved to be an ideal paving solution for a wide range of public applications due to its highly porous and flexible qualities. The rubber and stone mix material is intelligently designed to flex to 90° without damaging the performance or appearance of the surface and is particularly suitable for applications to public footpaths, cycle routes and car parks where tree root intrusion is present.

Trailflex will simply adapt to the contours of the terrain and will flex to allow the movement of the roots in search of moisture, whilst maintaining a solid and attractive surface.

The porous material is also fully SUDS compliant with the ability to accept up to 50,000 litres of water per square metre per hour.

Trailflex is a one-part cold pour system and can be laid extremely quickly on new or existing landscapes using minimal equipment. Once applied surfaces and areas can be reopened and used within 16 hours to keep public and business disruptions to a minimum.

Harry Kane opens new 3G at boyhood club

Spurs striker Harry Kane took part in an impromptu training session after officially opening the new artificial grass surface at his boyhood sports club in London.

The £578,000 3G pitch installed at the Peter May Sports Centre in Walthamstow, North London, is the club’s second from global sports leader SIS Pitches and Harry was suitably impressed as he toured the grounds where he started his career with local side Ridgeway Rovers.

The project was made possible thanks to a £368,696 grant from the Premier League & The FA Facilities Fund, which is delivered

by the Football Foundation and provides grants towards developing new or refurbished grassroots football facilities. The facility, which also received grants from the London Playing Fields Foundation (£135,000) and the London Marathon Charitable Trust (£75,000), now boasts a floodlit, full-size pitch complete with spectator viewing area. It replaces the old sand-filled pitch which could no longer cope with the high demand from local grassroots football clubs lacking a quality venue for training and matches.

Dates for Dennis and SISIS bowls seminars announced

Dennis and SISIS have announced they will again be teaming up with Bowls Scotland to deliver a number of informative seminars, all designed to help club greenkeepers and volunteers maintain their bowling greens.

To conclude each of the seminars, an open question and answer session will take place – presenting all delegates with the opportunity to ask any pressing questions relating to their own situations.

The dates and venues for the seminars are:

• 4 May 2016 – Fraser Park Bowling Club, Inverness, IV2 3LJ

• 5 May 2016 – Perth Bowling Club, Perth, PH1 5HS

• 10 May 2016 – Priorscroft Bowling Club, Paisley, PA1 1JY

• 11 May 2016 – Lockerbie Bowling Club, Lockerbie, DG11 2AR

• 12 May 2016 – Gala Bowling Club, Galashiels, TD1 3JS

All the seminars start with registration at 9am. To register for the free and highly informative seminars, please contact Roger Moore on 01332 824777 or email roger.moore@dennisuk.com.

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Sudstech Enquiry ????

SIS Pitches Enquiry ????

Dennis Enquiry