Landscape & Amenity Product Update May 2015

Landscape Amenity

Play & Activity

Support grows for campaign to protect green spaces

The Fabian Society report Places to Be highlights green spaces as a crucial community ballasts, and calls for management of green spaces in such a way that empowers citizens and encourages democratic engagement.

Places to Be states the importance of green spaces to communities, but points out that spending on parks is predicted to be reduced by 60% by 2020.

It concludes that the next government is going to have to find ways of keeping our green, outdoor spaces open to all during an extended period of austerity. In the 32-page report, author Ed Wallis argues that there is an opportunity to manage our green

space in such way that empowers citizens, bolsters people’s sense of place and encourages democratic engagement.

Dr Sid Sullivan of The Parks Alliance, the voice of UK parks, said: “It’s a very helpful and thoughtful report that takes the evidence and makes predictions about the impact on health and community cohesion if cuts continue unabated.

“With an increasingly urban nation it makes the point, based on the evidence, that parks provide much needed open space for exercise, for families and the community in general to relax in so as to shakeoff the impacts of the built environment, as well as for much needed climate mitigation.”

Paul Lincoln, Deputy CEO of the Landscape Institute says: “It’s been an astonishing few weeks for parks and green infrastructure, with the release of the CLG Select Committee’s final 2010-2015 Parliament report, National Trust’s 10-year strategy, the HLF’s 12 Years in 12 Places, and now the Fabian Society’s Places to Be,” he says.

“All of these suggest that there is a vigorous debate around the management and maintenance of green spaces from all political parties. We look forward to having a really good discussion after the elections about where to take the parks agenda.”

The Parks Alliance Enquiry 1

New equipment takes centre stage at Plantworx

The second Plantworx exhibition promises to be yet another construction equipment extravaganza, with a host of manufacturers displaying new machines – some never seen before in the UK.

The show has moved venues from the first event – visitors will find Plantworx at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome, Leicestershire from June 2-4 2015.

No matter what equipment you are interested in - you’ll find it at Plantworx – earthmoving equipment, compaction kit, drills and hammers, compressors, attachments and much much more. Some of the exhibitors

will be strutting their stuff on the demo plots and others have taken the leisurely option with impressive static displays.

The event, hosted by the CEA (Construction Equipment Association) is the UK’s largest ‘working’ construction

equipment event spanning over 135,000 square metres and has over 320 exhibitors committed to the show and of these over half of these will be exhibiting at the event for the very first time.

Call for entries for BALI Awards 2015

The starting gun for the 2015 BALI National Landscape Awards has been fired with the announcement of the Call for Entries.

BALI Registered members –designers, contractors and affiliates (suppliers) – who want to be part of the most successful landscape awards in the UK should note the following deadlines, by when their entries must be received at BALI Landscape House: Thursday 4 June – Award categories for Full Contractors and Groups; and Tuesday 14 July – Award categories for Registered Designers, Overseas members, Affiliates, and the Employer of the Year Award (any Registered member)

The Awards ceremony, which last year was attended by over

850 BALI members, guests and industry names, will once again be held at the Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London, on Friday, 4 December. For more information contact

angela.donovan@bali.org.uk or, to register an entry online, visit www.baliawards.co.uk. BALI Enquiry 3

Plantworx Enquiry 2

Welcome...

By the time you read this it is likely we will know which party was successful at the General Election – or which parties are now locked in talks to create a new coalition Government. Whatever the make-up of the new Government, it will have a list of priorities and challenges it must address in both the short and long-term.

Where the environment and green issues fit within that agenda is anyone’s guess. This is particularly true when you consider that on taking power five years David Cameron proudly proclaimed that his party would form the “greenest Government” the country had ever seen. Five years on and the coalition’s track record on the environment does not exactly support that bold claim. Indeed, environmental issues have been slowly pushed aside in recent years and it would be a brave politician indeed who would follow Mr Cameron’s lead and arrange an Arctic Circle photo-call to make a statement on the green agenda.

And yet, the environment and green issues are still a pressing concern for any Government and the new administration will find itself targeted by a number of campaigns.

These campaigns will range from the likes of the Parks Alliance and Landscape Institute calling for greater protection of our green spaces, to those lobbying hard against the multi-billion pound High Speed Rail 2 project which will cut a swathe through a significant part of the English landscape and have a direct impact on businesses, farms and golf courses. It will be interesting to see how successful these campaigners are in pushing the environment and green issues back up the political agenda.

This month we feature Play & Activity Today, a timely snapshot of an industry which is also waging its own political campaign. With the API at the forefront, the play industry is looking to tackle the on-going obesity problems we are facing with calls for greater investment in equipment, play areas and awareness of the causes of such health problems.

We also feature brushcutters, soils, composts and treatments, irrigation and preview the forthcoming Plantworx 2015 exhibition as we look forward to what will hopefully be a busy and successful summer.

Contents:

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

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

Street Furniture & Pedestrianisation

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Play & Activty Today. . . . . . . . . . . 11-18

Water Management. . . . . . . . . . . 19

Soils, Composts & Treatments. . 20-21

Plantworx Preview. . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-25

Brushcutters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-28

Machinery, Plant & Vehicles. . . . . 29-34

Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Product News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Paul Groves Editor

PUBLISHER

David Stiles david@tspmedia.co.uk

EDITOR

Paul Groves paul.groves@tspmedia.co.uk

EDITORIAL

PRODUCTION Charita Lala copy@tspmedia.co.uk

Etesia dealer opens new product showroom

Established for over 30 years, Richmonds Groundcare has been supplying groundcare, forestry and arboriculture professionals, as well local domestic customers, with top-quality products and machinery from world-renowned manufacturers.

The company has opened new showroom and offices in Haslemere, Surrey, and has expanded its workshop facilities.

Among the products Richmonds will be handling from these impressive premises are the Etesia range of ride-on and pedestrian mowers, Attila brushcutters and the complete range of Pellenc battery-powered tools.

New eco-friendly weed control system unveiled

Cardley-Wave, an ecological hot water weed control solution, has been launched in the UK after the success of the system across Europe over the past few years.

The innovative range of manual and machine mounted systems all offer an environmentally friendly, non-chemical weed killing strategy, eradicating the plant and exhausting the root of the weed through 100% hot

water, heated to the optimum temperature of 98°C.

Cardley-Wave units enable the operator to carry out deep cleansing duties when weeds are wiped out with the multi-functional capacity to kill moss and remove gum and dirt making the overall operation very cost-effective.

Cardley Wave Enquiry 8

New SuDS requirements are implemented

New Government requirements for SuDS on developments in England came into force on April 6 and are being implemented through the planning system.

Although the planning system’s ability to actually deliver mainstream use of SuDS is questionable, Interpave welcomes the move towards a design-led approach, developing multi-functional SuDS integrated with urban design.

The DCLG ministerial statement first issued in December 2014 now sits alongside the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) as an additional policy. Meanwhile, existing NPPF prioritisation of SuDS in areas of flood risk and requirements that developments should not make

flood risk worse elsewhere –often by utilising SuDS – still apply to developments of any scale.

Also, permitted development rights for new or replacement hard surfaces, such as drives and car parks, around homes and nondomestic premises still only apply where permeable paving or similar solutions are used.

Under the new arrangements, from mid-April ‘Lead Local Flood Authorities’ (at county or unitary level) will become statutory consultees on surface water management for planning applications. LPAs must satisfy themselves of minimum operational standards and ensure that maintenance is provided for the lifetime of the development

using planning conditions or other obligations such as Section 106 agreements. SuDS designs must also be ‘economically proportionate’ in terms of operation and maintenance.

It is expected that LPAs will now be preparing local-level policies and guidelines, such as ‘Supplementary Planning Documents’, and the Government policy anticipates that stakeholders will be providing more detailed SuDS guidance. Interpave will continue to update its guidelines on all aspects of concrete block permeable paving – a key SuDS technique – available via www.paving.org.uk.

Interpave Enquiry 7

Which? endorsement for John Deere lawnmower

John Deere’s RUN 46 walkbehind mower has been awarded the coveted Best Buy status by consumer review body Which?

The Which? Best Buy endorsement is given to products with high total test scores that perform consistently well in rigorous lab tests and excel in all key areas.

The John Deere RUN 46 lawnmower achieved a score of 82%, the highest of all the Best Buy rated lawnmowers.

The John Deere RUN 46 is a selfpropelled, single-speed lawnmower with a steel deck and a 2.1kW Briggs & Stratton petrol engine. This proven four-stroke ReadyStart engine features an automatic choke system which means it always starts straight away, even on a cold day.

Ideally suited for grass areas up to 1200m2, this lawnmower has a

46cm (18in) cutting width and easily adjustable height of cut from 32-72mm (1.5-3in).

The handlebar height is adjustable for maximum comfort and it folds down for easy storage in confined spaces. The large capacity 52-litre collection bag makes collecting clippings simple. In addition the machine easily converts to a mulching mower with an optional kit.

The Which? report describes the John Deere RUN 46 as: “easy to control, easy to start, good cutting”. The review adds: “This great Best Buy gives a very neat cut on all types of grass. The Briggs & Stratton engine is exceptionally easy to start. It's light for a petrol mower and the large back wheels make it very easy to manoeuvre.”

John Deere Enquiry 11

New Fibreclay alternative launched

Industry professionals were left scratching their heads when the brand owner of the ‘Fibreclay’ planter range decided to cease production late last year. The Pot Company feels it has now sourced a high quality, direct replacement and have already started bringing containers into the UK.

The new Clayfibre range is manufactured using similar ecofriendly techniques and recycled materials that will weather gently and realistically.

Clayfibre – which is made using techniques that require only 10% of the energy needed for ceramic and plastic

equivalents - is available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, including classic Chelsea boxes, troughs and cylinders. It also represents the same excellent value as Fibreclay.

The Pot Company Enquiry 14

Tracmaster’s new team at the top

Tracmaster has announced that Alex Pitt has been promoted to managing director at Tracmaster, the leading UK manufacturer and supplier of landscaping and groundcare machinery.

Working alongside him on the senior management team is John Bates as sales director, Jody Simons as technical director and Antony Pitt as operations director. Founder of Tracmaster, Stephen Pitt, has been appointed chairman of the company.

The family-run business, based in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, has developed two major brands since it was formed in 1984CAMON and BCS - and currently employs 22 staff.

Pictured left to right are: Technical Director Jody Symons, Sales Director John Bates, Managing Director Alex Pitt and Operations Director Antony Pitt.

Tracmaster Enquiry 12

New Hoaf weed burner from Kersten

Kersten offer sweepers and weed brushes to deal with this by removing both the weed and the detritus and new to the range this year is the Hoaf ThermHIT 75.

The Hoaf ThermHIT 75 weed burner uses infra-red technology to deal with the weeds.

The Hoaf weed burner heats the plant to 70°C - at this temperature the proteins in the plant congeal and the plant wilts, repeated treatments will kill the weed.

Burning is also a great preemergence treatment. Most annual weed seeds are in the top centimetre of soil or detritus and burners can kill alreadygerminated seeds. Watering the surface first will improve your results as the water will conduct the heat and kill seedlings below the surface.

BTME 2016 boosted by Kubota

BTME 2016 has been boosted by the news that top machinery manufacturer Kubota will be exhibiting in the fifth Hall – Hall Q - of the Harrogate International Centre.

Space at the equivalent show two years ago sold out well before the exhibition, leading BIGGA to announce that for the first time in several years, the 2016 show will occupy five Halls. Now Kubota have booked just under 100 metres of stand space in Hall Q ahead of what is expected to be a packed show in January next year.

Companies from every corner of the turfcare sector have already rushed to rebook and new manufacturers will also be exhibiting at BTME 2016.

BIGGA Enquiry 15

Kersten Enquiry 13

Winners of the KUHN knapsack competition

The five winners of the competition to win a KUHN Manopul D15 knapsack sprayer we ran in the March issue of Landscape & Amenity Product Update have been chosen. They correctly answered the question: How often should you check your knapsack? (answer –regularly and records kept).

The five winners are: John Wheeler, Moorside Park Bowling Club Liverpool; G Proudman, Stafford; Mark Randall, The Small Bale Company West Sussex; Sam, PBA Consulting Bournemouth; Steve Ewing, Course Manager Clevedon Golf Club North Somerset.

Congratulations to all five winners, who will be contacted in due course by KUHN Amenity Pro to arrange delivery of the prizes. Thank you to everyone else who entered, we had an excellent response to the competition. Also a special thank you to KUHN Amenity Pro for providing the Manopul D15 knapsack sprayers.

Boningale Greensky to consult on installer training needs

Installers of commercial green roofs are being encouraged to shape their training needs and have their say on how it should be delivered.

Boningale GreenSky, which is part of the award-winning Boningale Nurseries, is focusing its efforts on raising industry standards across the sector and plans to introduce a series of highquality practical training sessions to complement companies’ continued professional development programmes.

Maggie Fennell, who heads up Boningale GreenSky, is coordinating its outreach training and is encouraging installers involved in green roof projects to answer a mini survey so that it can draw up appropriate virtual and face-to-face training programmes

that meet the practical and time demands of installers.

“We have presented many talks to architects as part of their CPD programmes on green roofs but we now want to turn our attention to the professional installers,” said Maggie, who

provided guidance for University of Sheffield’s academic research into green roofs. We are very keen to give installers the confidence and knowledge they need to create a high-performance green roof, which means giving them access to the latest best practice advice

from experienced experts.”

To take part in the Boningale GreenSky survey, visit http://www.boningalegreensky.co.uk/mini-survey/

Boningale Nurseries Enquiry 19

Third BIGGA Future Turf Managers’ voted a success

Nineteen delegates from golf clubs across the UK visited Ransomes Jacobsen’s European headquarters for the third BIGGA Future Turf Managers’ Initiative (FTMI), made possible by Jacobsen.

This three-day educational event, which took place from 24-26 March 2015, is aimed at up and coming greenkeepers who are focused on making the career leap to Head Greenkeeper or Course Manager.

Arriving at lunchtime on the first day, the group was welcomed by Rupert Price, Ransomes Jacobsen’s Sales Director, before being split into groups and touring the manufacturing facilities. The first day finished with a dinner at a local hotel where BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton officially welcomed the delegates.

An intensive second day began with renowned Golf Consultant Eddie Bullock delivering a class on what it takes to become an effective leader. Lorna Sheldon provided valuable insights into writing a CV, preparing for an interview and the techniques required when in front of an interview panel.

The final day began with an intensive and highly informative interactive presentation by gWest’s Course Manager Lee Strutt, which provided an introduction to the golf course maintenance budget, the use of Excel spreadsheets and how to sell the budget to stakeholders.

Finally, Crystal Mathews, a member of Jacobsen’s HR team, presented tips for their new managerial roles.

Ransomes Jacobsen Enquiry

24

Makita expands twin 18v machines

Makita’s twin-battery power system, that utilises two 18v Lithium-Ion batteries in combination to deliver 36v power, is being increasingly used in the expanding range of Makita grounds maintenance, landscaping and gardening tools for professional grounds care operators.

Two 18v batteries are directly installed on the machines to supply energy to the powerful

36v DC motor. Two new machines now join the range: a twin 18v line trimmer and a lightweight but powerful twin 18v brushless LXT blower. Both new models are supplied in body only format so that owners can utilise the Makita 18v Lithium-Ion batteries that they already own with other Makita power tools.

Makita Enquiry 23

Long Rake Spar acquires new site in Rye

Leading decorative aggregate supplier, Long Rake Spar have acquired a new dock and storage facility in Rye, Kent.

The investment comes as part of Long Rake Spar’s long term

expansion strategy and will allow the company to import and offload materials, via Rastrum Ltd on Rye Wharf.

Key product lines will then be processed, bagged and distributed to landscapers and contractors across the South East, providing a rapid response to customer demands.

The new location offers unparalleled logistical efficiency, giving specifiers in London and the surrounding area the opportunity to source products from a local site, thus

Wood Heating Boilers –Naturally STREBEL

decreasing the cost and carbon footprint of their supply chain.

Once fully developed the site will enable Long Rake Spar to increase their presence as a

Wood as a fuel has been used for generations in countries across the continent; companies such as STREBEL have seen a growing demand for wood fuelled boilers in the UK since the launch of the Renewable Heat Incentive, whereby UK buildings are paid back for the heat they generate when using renewable heating systems – such as wood biomass. Strebel have further enhanced their renowned wood boiler range with the launch of the Strebel Biomatic Nova – a wood chip boiler from Austrian production which is up to 93% efficient; features automatic ash removal and user-friendly touchscreen controls.

Popular throughout Europe, with operations in both Austria and the

decorative aggregate supplier and efficiently meet nationwide customer requirements.

Long Rake Spar Enquiry 25

UK (www.strebel.co.uk); the Strebel Biomass boiler range features a wide portfolio of products which suit many wood fuels and feature outputs which can cater for any building type. Strebel boilers make the most of the many benefits of using a natural, renewable resource – wood offering consumers an environmentally friendly, economic fuel choice which can be sourced locally and easily and cleanly stored.

Various wood burning appliances will be shown at at events, fairs and exhibitions across the UK this summer - including the Confor Woodland Show in September.

Strebel Enquiry 26

Roland McPhearson wins the 2014 IGCEMA

Edwin Budding Award

Roland McPhearson, Equipment Manager at Azalea City Golf Course in Mobile, Alabama, is the 2014 winner of the International Golf Course Equipment Managers Association (IGCEMA) Edwin Budding Award.

The award is sponsored by Ransomes Jacobsen, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, and was presented to him at the recent Golf Industries in San Antonio, Texas.

Roland was nominated by a fellow equipment manager for his invention of a device called the Roller Tamer, which helps technicians to grip a roller safely and without damage during the rebuilding process. It acts like a ‘third hand’ and can accommodate rollers from 2” to 5” in diameter and up to 30” in length.

Ransomes Jacobsens Enquiry

29

Rigby Taylor and Brighton & Hove Albion FC in longterm agreement

All hands on deck

Richard Burbidge offers a wide range of outdoor decking balustrades in a variety of styles and finishes to suit any home.

Richard Burbidge’s FUSION system, combines round hardwood handrails with aluminium rails and newels, along with a choice of four stylish ‘infill’ options.

It’s simple to install, and comes with a choice of sleek and simple timber balusters, slatted timber panels to blend with the deckboard or fences, and glass or acrylic panels.

Rigby Taylor Ltd is pleased to announce a five-year preferred partnership agreement to supply the club with grounds care products for the Amex stadium and their training complex at Lancing.

Commenting on this agreement Paul Rogers, the Clubs Commercial Manager said: “Rigby Taylor has been a valued supplier for many years and we are really pleased to agree this long term contract.

“Such an arrangement provides a continuity of access to the highest quality products which will assist us in producing premier pitch quality surfaces for its players.”

Rigby Taylor supplies the full range of grounds care products for both the Amex stadium and the club’s training complex. This includes grass seed, nutritional products, biostimulants, linemarking paint and applicators as well as sports equipment and, when

required, back up technical advice and support.

Commenting on this partnership agreement, Mike Ring, Rigby Taylor’s Regional Sales Manager stated: “This is a great opportunity and I look forward very much to continuing my working relationship with the club management and Steve Winterburn the head groundsman over the course of this agreement.”

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 30

Richard Burbidge Enquiry 31

Toro Turf Guard improves control on the pitch

As Britain’s football and rugby seasons near an end, irrigation experts at Toro are urging club groundsmen to consider Turf Guard when planning pitch improvements for the upcoming 2015/16 season.

Toro’s newly introduced Turf Guard is a wireless soil monitoring system that effortlessly improves turf, soil, and water efficiency.

Turf Guard sensors monitor moisture and temperature in the playing surface, in real time, helping retain optimum conditions for the surface and root zone.

Robert Jackson, irrigation manager at Toro’s sole UK distributor Lely, explains more about the key benefits Turf Guard will bring to stadiums across the UK and Ireland: “The Turf Guard system is a revolutionary technology that lets you know what’s going on beneath the surface of your pitch, so you can make timely, more-informed adjustments.

“One of the best things about it is that there’s no wires, which means that sensors can be installed anywhere on your pitch without causing major disruption,” Robert says.

Once in the ground, each sensor accurately measures moisture, temperature and salinity levels of your soil at two depths, in real time. That data is then collected and compiled into easy-to-view and understand tables, graphs and dashboards, and can be accessed from any Internet-connected computer by connecting to the system’s web-based interface.

“You can even access your sensor information from a webenabled mobile phone,” Robert adds.

“The reduction in water usage is also a huge benefit. You can improve your playing surface without risking turf quality. It allows you to promote root growth by avoiding overwatering and detects dry areas before the turf’s health is impacted,” he says.

The clear way to sustainability

Sustainability is the watchword at present and it is right that we should all be concerned about harming the environment and depleting natural resources.

One area of concern and which is covered by legislation is that of washing golf course machinery.

The EU Water Framework Directive, due for implementation this year, is fast becoming the driving factor to address inadequacies at many golf greenkeeping facilities throughout Europe and beyond. One recycling system that meets all legal requirements is

ClearWater, a UK-designed and manufactured system from Highspeed Group Ltd.

ClearWater has the distinct advantage of being totally unobtrusive, as it is installed safely below ground.

Unaffected by extremes of temperature and allaying worries over bacterial formation such as Legionella, ClearWater with its stable and low operating temperature is the ideal choice.

Highspeed Group Ltd Enquiry 34

Robert also draws attention to Turf Guard’s ability to provide accurate soil temperature information: “With the sensors, you can identify heat stress conditions to help regulate soil moisture, which improves appearance, and prevents and fights damaging turf diseases.”

Coinciding with the introduction of Turf Guard, Lely is also running a promotional offer with any new purchase.

The offer, available to stadiums in the UK and Ireland, includes a maximum of 16 free Toro perimeter sprinkler heads, which must replace Rain Bird 900 and Eagle Series, and older Toro sprinkler heads only.

Orders must be made before 31 May and include a minimum of one base station, four sensors and one repeater.

Toro Enquiry 33

Granite paving upgraded to meet modern demands

Historic Church Road in Hitchin is home to popular shops, pubs and restaurants, so it is nowadays subject to frequent traffic including heavy delivery trucks and brewery drays.

The historic granite sett paving is incredibly durable and longlasting, but the cement mortar jointing had deteriorated under

this stress and had already been patched and replaced many times.

However, now the road has been refurbished by Hertfordshire Highways Engineers who specified vdw 855 Paving Joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape to be used. This followed a series of visits to other completed

refurbishment projects and trial areas being laid in the road itself with all of the leading jointing products on the market.

The vdw 855 Paving Joint Mortar is a state-of-the-art system specifically designed to accommodate heavy traffic loading and is easily installed as a self-compacting slurry, even at

low temperatures and in the pouring rain if necessary.

It then hardens rapidly to provide a highly durable surface that is fully resistant to mechanical road sweepers and freeze-thaw cycling in winter.

NCC Streetscape Enquiry 35

The FloraNative range has been developed to encompass landscape architects specifications for areas such as local authority green spaces, highways, country parks and estates, solar parks, green roofs, moorland and golf courses.

A full range of wildflower and grass mixtures are available, together with bulbs, plug plants and wild flower turf, and can be selected for sowing or planting in soils ranging from acid to alkaline, coastal to clay and wetland to woodland. Many of the flowering species are selected from the RHS ‘Perfect for Pollinators’ list.

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

stabilisation

www.rigbytaylor.com E-mail: sales@rigbytaylor.com

Secure and durable granite sett re-pointing

The granite paving through the Peace Gardens in Sheffield has been refurbished for Sheffield City Council using GftK's vdw 850 Paving Joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape.

The highly durable granite was becoming loose and subject to damage due to the far less durable cement based jointing mortars used originally and for earlier repairs. Whilst ‘traditional’ these are all highly sensitive to water, mixing and exposure to frost resulting in typical cracking and loss of strength problems.

The Council's Engineers and their Contractor found the ideal solution was the unique, epoxy resin bound sand based, vdw 850

Paving joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape. This also enabled all of the work to be successfully completed without having to completely close any areas of the popular commuter routes through the gardens.

The areas were high pressure water jet cleaned, any loose stone setts re-fixed and then the joints were simply wet-slurry pointed with the vdw 850 jointing mortar, which self-compacts into the joints. The surface was rinsed, dry brushed-off and within a short period of time reopened –also with no delays for cold or wet weather.

Enquiry 38

Townscape Products launches CT collections

Perimeter security specialist, Townscape Products Limited, launched a new prestige collection for its PAS 68 hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) CT Blocks at the recent Counter Terror Expo 2015.

The CT Collections range is a new cladding selection of superior quality natural materials designed to give Townscape’s traditional CT Block a finish of the highest standard.

Jonathan Goss, managing director of Townscape Products, said: “We know the last thing a property owner wants is to turn their property into a fortress. Our CT Blocks have always been designed to enable facilities managers to protect their people and property discreetly and sympathetically to the local environment.

“We’ve listened to the needs of our customers and created the CT Collections range to give a superior finish to our security system which will complement the design of a building, provide a high degree of functionality, whilst still being a strong deterrent to vehicle-borne attacks.”

The CT Collections range is available as full ‘on block’ cladding, planter ‘surround’ cladding or bespoke CT Block seating. Elements can also be added to distinguish each block, such as LED lighting and signage.

The range of natural materials includes; Granite, Quartz and Dekton for the highest quality finish.

Townscape Products Enquiry 39

Pavement shifting is a thing of the past

The London Borough of Southwark is an incredibly busy area within Inner London, boasting some of the city’s greatest landmarks and tourist attractions such as Tower Bridge, London Bridge, The Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, to name a few.

In recent years, Southwark Council encountered issues with pavement shifting due to the heavy usage and the traditional 200x100mm paving products previously installed.

Thanks to the innovative design and strong interlocking capabilities of Tobermore’s City Pave VS5 block paving, pavement shifting is now a thing of the past for Southwark Council!

With consulting engineer, Aecom, and FM Conway installing the paving products on this project, the streets within the borough, including Derwent Grove, Elsie Road, East Dulwich, Matham Grove, Blanchedowne Road, Hillsboro Road and Melbourne Grove, have been refurbished with City Pave VS5 in sparkling Silver, Mid Grey and Graphite.

City Pave VS5 is the ultimate in pavement stability and is ideal for expansive schemes with heavy trafficking. The larger element 300x150x100mm size of the City Pave VS5 block also creates a ‘traffic-calming’ effect which is very important in tourist areas, such as the London Borough of Southwark.

Tobermore Enquiry 40

NCC Streetscape

todayplay&activity

Your essential guide for Sports & Playground Equipment in association with

API freshens up at 31st AGM

Bespoke tennis mesh improved for specifiers and installers

The Association of Play Industries (API) marked its 31st Annual General Meeting with the launch of a fresh new look for its website and a helpful new guide to the association’s services.

The new-look website, www.api-play.org, is a helpful one-stop-shop for API members and public and private sector play buyers, and provides a wide range of helpful advice, resources, information and links about fundraising, planning and project guidance, design, safety and risk.

It also features full details of every member company including latest news, case studies and examples of recent work.

API At a Glance is a brand new resource for members and their customers, highlighting the association’s aims, services, membership benefits and why it pays to use an API member. The API AGM saw new appointments will be made to the API’s Executive Committee. Amongst topics discussed were the state of the UK play industry and latest technical developments.

API Chair Michael Hoenigmann says: “Our mission is to improve children’s lives by providing well-designed, high-quality play spaces and we will be working hard again this year to campaign at the highest levels for policy recognition of the value of play.”

A total of £166.8 million of playground and play equipment orders were reported by for API member companies in 2014, a 2.5 per cent increase on 2013 (£162.7 million). School contract wins funded by Sport England’s £18 million Primary Spaces initiative are cited as fuelling the uplift. But the stagnant local authority market is a major concern.

To receive all the latest API and play industry news, sign up to the association’s monthly e-newsletter at: http://www.apiplay.org/email-newsletter?vie wunapprovedrecord=true

API Enquiry 43

The only mesh fencing system in the UK designed specifically for tennis courts has been improved especially for specifiers and fencing installers in time for the forthcoming summer season. Zaun has cut lead times and prices on its Advantage Tennis system, made available a Super Rebound option and introduced an economy version using Duo6 mesh. Specification of Super Rebound means a tennis court can stage many other games, such as football and basketball, maximising the use of scarce sports facilities and making it ideal for spoorts grounds and leisure centres as well as tennis clubs. Zaun is the only UK manufacturer of bespoke tennis mesh – and will happily take orders for small quantities, unlike its foreign competitors. It has also upgraded its machining capability to drastically reduce manufacturing timescales and so lead times to order.

Zaun’s Advantage Tennis mesh eliminates many of the

downsides of traditional tennis chain link fencing, which deforms over time and is easy to cut, disfigure and vandalise.

By contrast, Zaun's mesh can withstand heavy use while allowing easy viewing of the on-court action. It uses a 200mm x 40mm twin wire mesh, that is small enough to prevent tennis balls passing through thus improving gameplay and ball retention. The use of a dual wire mesh

design results in a strong and extremely durable court perimeter and enhancing the area in which it is situated. Fixings every 200mm and rubber inserts at each fixing virtually eliminate rattle during play. A clamp bar covering the panel ends ensures a safe playing surface with no sharp edges. Gates to match are also available.

Jupiter Play launches new timber catalogue

Jupiter Play has launched an inspirational new catalogue that features Jupiter Play timber range, with a special focus on Robinia play products, the highest quality timber available in the market today (supplied by German manufacturer FHS Holtztechnik). The layout of the new Jupiter Play Timber Catalogue reflects the passion of the company for designing

innovative play areas using a natural product.

Designed in-house, the new brochure aims to help play designers in finding the products they are looking for and to provide some inspiration when in need of it. The catalogue offers CAD drawings, technical specifications, material characteristics and real photos for all the products. A

matching price list is also available upon request.

The catalogue, also available online from Jupiter Play’s website, is divided into the most popular play equipment ranges, such as Bespoke Equipment, Themed Play, Play Towers, Slides and so on.

Jupiter Play Enquiry 45

Zaun Enquiry 44

Wicksteed creates colourful creature for Cambridge

Wicksteed’s creative capabilities know no bounds… breathing new life into a play area is exactly what they do, but breathing fire, surely not? Hard to believe perhaps, but the rumours are true, a huge dragon’s head has been specially created from within the vaults of the Northamptonshirebased company’s young design team’s buzzing hub to emerge on a children’s play area in Cambridge.

Situated in Coleridge Road Rec, one of the largest playing fields in the area, and totally bespoke, the bodyless creature’s wide, jutting jaws seem to be capable of almost spitting out adventurous children as they dare to slide down through its cavernous mouth! With bulging, green eyes and flaring nostrils, the tactile, realistic-looking dragon is a truly eye-catching sight and is already making the play area quite famous.

Constructed using glass reinforced concrete, manufactured in sections and brought onto site for final installation, this is the first of its kind anywhere in the UK. The imposing 4m high Dragon’s head has many facets to it which are obvious from the outset yet some finer complexities are hidden within the inner depths of the massive beast.

It is bound to make all those children - aged 8 years upwards - extra excited about visiting their local playground but it might just have them quivering in their trainers on their first approach! Great

outdoor play provision is all about excitement; challenging those perceived boundaries and offering innovative ways through which kids can develop both physical and mental skills. What could be more fun, more imaginative and more enticing than the sight of a gigantic Dragon rearing its head up through the playground surfacing?! It really has to be seen to be believed!

Dare to visit Coleridge Road Recreation Ground to witness the spectacle of the Wicksteed Dragon’s Head!

For more information on this exciting site, or any other projects, please contact Wicksteed where you can find out more about how to create a bespoke play piece or entire

www.wicksteed.co.uk

AQuadrat from Timberplay makes waves in the UK

Water play is soaring in popularity across the UK as public authorities and leisure companies recognise unbeatable allure waterplay provides.

Timberplay and Richter Spielgeräte have a strong reputation for offering exceptional robust waterplay products, all designed to deliver play value to delight children of all ages.

One of their newest products is the AQuadrat, a flexible, modular system made from solid oak timber, with mushroom pump and metal gutters. This feature item has just been installed at Wicksteed Park as part of the development of their play area, and is proving a popular attraction for visitors, particularly now that the sun is shining.

Richter offer an extensive range of waterplay equipment, suitable for installation at a large variety of

spaces. The AQuadrat dovetails these products well, and can be configured alongside other waterplay products, for example the Archimedes Screw.

Paul Collings, Managing Director at Timberplay comments: “We have been championing waterplay for many years now – nothing beats the play value that waterplay consistently delivers. It is also one of the most inclusive forms of play you can have, all children can share in the play experience, across all abilities and ages.

“The AQuadrat is such an attractive and robust piece of equipment and, as it can be installed as a standalone piece, it is a great way of injecting water play into any play space.”

UK.

Timberplay Enquiry 47

48

The AQuadrat installed at Wickesteed Park is the first within the

Wicksteed Enquiry

School improvements drive upswing in playground sales

The UK play market grew last year despite a fall in final quarter sales, according to the sector’s lead trade body, the Association of Play Industries (API). Latest figures from API member companies show that total UK order values for playgrounds and play equipment rose by 2.5 per cent in 2014 to £166.8 million from £162.7 million in 2013.

Sales in the last quarter of 2014 were £38.3 million - 14.5 per cent higher than in the same period in 2013 (£33.5 million) but six per cent lower than the previous quarter of 2014 (£41.1 million). The API attributes last year’s uplift in total order values to member success in securing contracts to install new outdoor facilities for primary schools as part of Sport England’s £18 million Primary Spaces initiative.

It blames a stagnant local authority market, however, for the decline in final quarter orders. API Chair Michael Hoenigmann says: “Despite well-documented evidence that we are an increasingly sedentary society, we are yet to see genuine political will to address this situation. Physical inactivity, its impact on health and the NHS are a national catastrophe at every level, yet investment in local play facilities

that would address these problems is declining.”

Specifiers are missing opportunities to tackle the inactivity crisis, says the association. Members report a distinct lack of local authority play provision briefs that welcome imaginative solutions to encourage children to be more active.

Michael Hoenigmann says: “Our mission is to improve children’s lives by providing well-designed, high-quality play spaces that meet the specific needs of local communities. Sadly, decisions about public play provision are increasingly made by procurement departments based not on the best play value or wider benefits delivered for local children, but on cost saving.”

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

TigerTurf achieves ISO certification for environmental excellence

Artificial turf manufacturer, TigerTurf UK has announced its Environmental Management System has been certified to meet the requirements of ISO14001 by the British Standards Institution.

The milestone certification comes just 6 months after the manufacturer made the decision to enhance its sustainability credentials. ISO14001 is a globally recognised standard that identifies environmental performance by mapping out a framework that companies can follow to set up an effective Environmental Management System.

Through the development of its Environmental Policy and the supporting system itself,

TigerTurf has reviewed its business activities to identify any associated impact on the environment. Through this, TigerTurf has determined a comprehensive range of objectives and operational controls to effectively manage and reduce environmental risk whilst remaining fully compliant with all relevant legislation.

In light of the recent development of TigerTurf’s Environmental Management System, the business has already further improved its waste management arrangements by introducing an additional waste stream to divert an additional 28% from landfill into recycling, and will now turn its attention to reviewing the business’s energy supply and use.

Paul Langford, Managing Director at TigerTurf UK commented: “As an industry, synthetic turf manufacturers are faced with challenges when attempting to improve environmental performance. We’ve made the issue a real priority and are pleased to now have a clear sense of our environmental performance through ISO14001, also a plan in place to consistently

monitor and measure our business activities to improve our green credentials.”

Additional information relating to TigerTurf’s performance against its objectives under ISO14001 will be announced throughout 2015.

TigerTurf

Enquiry 51

Children delighted after £140,000 playgound makeover

Children at Priestsic Primary School in Sutton, Ashfield are celebrating after the completion of a £140,000 playground refurbishment.

The project, carried out by play equipment specialist, Sovereign, has transformed the school’s grounds into a stimulating and challenging play environment for pupils.

The new facilities include a range of adventure and imaginative play equipment that encourage children to get involved with active play, while supporting their physical development and the practice of creative and social skills.

Andy McKay, Area Manager at Sovereign commented: “We worked closely with the teachers at Priestsic Primary

School to ensure the chosen equipment fulfilled many aspects of physical education and outdoor learning.”

The project was carried out in two phases. Phase one included the installation of a large adventure trail and a stage area for Key Stage 2 pupils to perform and express their creativity. Seating areas and the installation of an outdoor classroom area were also fitted for outdoor learning opportunities. An issue of flooding on the main play area was also resolved with the installation of a sports court area onto a stone base to improve drainage.

During phase two, a shaded seating area was installed for Key Stage 1 pupils to benefit

from outdoor learning, along with a second adventure trail and stage. This was accompanied by a range of imaginative play facilities to encourage role play and colourful safer surfacing to bring the areas alive.

“The children are really enjoying playing on the new equipment,” commented Mrs Riley and Mrs Stamp, joint Headteachers at Priestsic Primary School. “We always aim to provide opportunities for our children to reach their full potential, inside and outside the classroom - and the new facilities are already stimulating play and engagement at playtimes.”

Sovereign Enquiry 56

Orchard meets the needs of village play area

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

A new playground was required to meet the needs of a new housing area and the surrounding village. Sutcliffe Play was challenged with providing equipment for a compact space which would be suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.

The equipment installed included a unit from the Orchard range, a range of environmentally friendly play equipment which encourages physical, challenging play and social interaction.

The wood-based clamber units and trim trails are designed to fulfil many of the developmental needs of children and help improve their balance, strength and coordination. The unit installed at Avonwick Play Area features a climbing wall, fireman’s pole, horizontal climbing net and rope walk.

The play area also features a basket swing designed to encourage inclusive play, a mound tunnel to complement the natural environment and swings with a pod seat and a flat seat to suit a variety of ages.

Play Enquiry 55

Take Miroad for play, sport and leisure surfaces

Miroad Rubber can supply 19 colours of EPDM granulate plus PU binder for fast delivery from UK stock at incredibly competitive prices.

Customers switching to Miroad are routinely saving around 15 per cent on their wetpour. In addition, Miroad offers expert technical advice from design ideas to installation training to help you create showstopping effects.

Miroad also has a comprehensive range of recycled rubber tiles and pavers. Miroad products are tough, impact absorbing and visually stunning.

Miroad already has a worldwide reputation for quality products for play, sport and leisure landscaping, and is now

available in Europe for the first time.

Miroad Enquiry 57

Sutcliffe

Huck Nets acquire All Play

The Dorset based manufacturer and supplier of rope and net solutions, Huck Nets (UK) Limited are pleased to announce their acquisition of All Play Limited based in Northern Ireland.

Established in 1998, All Play, a family run business, is one of Ireland’s leading providers of play equipment and related services.

The fourteen strong firm, under the leadership of Brian McKee, Managing Director, with his wife Jill and daughter

Hollie, are well-known within the industry for their expertise in the design and installation of playgrounds.

The relationship with All Play is not a new one. The Play Division of Huck Nets has been supplying All Play with their innovative rope and net play equipment for some 10 years and Huck’s play equipment is installed in many of the playgrounds that All Play have designed and installed including Loughgall Country Park, and Marine Gardens, Carrickfergus.

Jon Legg-Bagg, Huck Net’s Managing Director (pictured) said: “All Play is a thriving firm that will help to augment our service offering.

Acquiring All Play not only demonstrates our commitment to the Irish market but also our desire to be the leading manufacturer and supplier of rope and net play equipment in the UK.

“We have tremendous respect for Brian and his team, and having them as part of our business strengthens our expertise and position in the

Schools’ outdoor facilities transformed by Playforce

Playforce is to develop new outdoor sports facilities for nearly forty primary schools in Birmingham, Bristol, Cornwall, London and Wiltshire.

Sport England has awarded over £1.1 million of National Lottery-funded contracts to Playforce to help schools with little outside space for children to take part in PE, sport and active play.

A variety of equipment including Multi Use Games spaces, activity surfacing, goal ends, shelters and climbing walls will be installed at 37 schools over coming months. Each new space is designed to ensure that pupils have access to good quality, multi-functional spaces to keep active.

In most cases, extra-curricular sports clubs and the wider school and local community will also benefit from the developments.

Playforce Managing Director, Tim Lacey said: “It’s great to be working with primary schools across the country to improve children’s physical literacy. Recent research amongst our customers found that investment in school playgrounds not only increases children’s physical activity but improves behaviour, attitudes to learning, happiness and wellbeing too.”

Playforce has transformed the outdoor facilities of nearly 70 schools across the country since the launch of Sport England’s Primary Spaces initiative in 2013. It has led the sector in recent years with research on childhood obesity, physical activity in schools and the impact of the 2012 Olympic Games on young people’s desire to take part in sport and PE, and is the Youth Sport Trust’s exclusive Business Honours Club

Partner for playground equipment and facilities.

Playforce is also an active member of the Association of Play Industries (API), the UK’s leading play sector trade body, which campaigns at the highest levels for policy recognition of the value of active play

Playforce Enquiry 61

Play industry. We look forward to working with them all. ”

All Play Managing Director, Brian McKee, added: “Our philosophy at All Play has always been to create the best possible play experience for those who use our playgrounds by producing schemes that are innovative, educational, challenging, stimulating, age-appropriate and above all, fun.

“We have been incorporating Huck’s rope and play equipment into our designs

for some years as it fits our ambitions well. I believe our specific assets will help Huck increase market share in Ireland and our joint expertise will enable Huck to achieve their ambition of being the market leader for rope play equipment in the UK and Ireland.”

All Play will continue to operate under the same name and management but is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Huck Nets (UK) Limited. The acquisition will also give a base in Ireland, at Ballynahnich, County Down,

country.

Huck Nets Enquiry 60

The Soft Brick Company looks beyond the UK

In 2010 The Soft Brick Company completed its first project in China and had no idea how well the British brand of soft play would be received by the export market.

“We have since found that the British brand is strong in Kuwait and China, and they like what we have to offer,” explained National Sales Manager Simon Ward.

“The ‘Made in the UK’ label is proving to be a good selling

point. As a result we are planning to exhibit in Hong Kong later this year at the Asian Attractions Expo –IAAPA in Hong Kong.”

In the UK sector, Ward says that local authority leisure centres are reutilising their spaces. For example, councils are taking out squash courts or using under-used seating areas and putting in indoor play facilities.

“New enquiries from new private operators have

plateaued a little for us and it is local authority and multisite operators where we are seeing the main activity,” he added.

The Soft Brick Company’s order book is very active and its factory is running at capacity to meet demand.

The Soft Brick Company Enquiry 62

BEING THE ONLY ONE OF ITS KIND. UNLIKE ANYTHING ELSE.

for the Huck’s installation team – Huck Tek – whose business is growing rapidly across the

Playworld establishes operations in the UK

Playworld, a leading playground equipment and surfacing manufacturer committed to saving outdoor unstructured play, has announced the opening of a London office. The company established the division to better service customers in England, Scotland and Wales.

The office is equipped to meet the play needs of towns, councils and schools throughout the region. Stuart Pettit will lead the London office with oversight from Andreas V.I. Paaske,

International Sales Manager for Playworld.

“We are excited to expand our presence in the U.K and ready to deliver innovative custom play solutions to market,” said Paaske. “As a global organization Playworld believes play is a powerful, universal language that can transcend time zones and geographies, and bring people together. The playground is the last frontier where children of all ages can be together and play face-to-face.”

From its one-of-a-kind outdoor electronic playground equipment to outdoor fitness equipment for all ages, Playworld offers innovative products to every age group. Playworld brings a selected range of its most popular products to the market including: NEOS, Unity Collection, Cruise Line, and ENERGI.

Playworld’s innovative products are designed to provide optimized play value, with quality and craftsmanship built into every piece. U.K. customers

will also enjoy the company’s unique ability to create custom themed play spaces.

“Having worked in this field for more than 10 years I know that local councils are yearning for new products that engage and inspire,” says Pettit. “I’m excited to reintroduce Playworld into the British market and know that its unique offerings, such as the new Unity Collection, will be a big hit among communities throughout the region.”

Playworld Enquiry 66

Easter parade for eibe’s play area

The Easter Bunny joined the eibe team in Farnham, Surrey for the official opening of the new Crondall Park Playground.

Ready for the holiday weekend, bucks fizz and hot cross buns were served to guests as children frantically ran around trying out every piece of equipment on offer.

Originally conceived in the autumn of 2014, the £95,000 project features an Aba tawa climbing unit, a Rocking helicopter, Ema pick up stick unit and Toddler and Tarzan swings. For the more active and sporty types, a Tarmac bike track with humps will keep kids amused for hours.

Crondall Parish Council’s Mary Harris was particular praiseworthy of eibe’s preferred installer Ray Jones: “Although the work has taken a little longer than planned due to the poor winter weather, it has been very successful and Ray (the contractor) and his team are to be congratulated for a job well-done – carefully.

“It’s a credit to their patience that the boards they placed across Hook Meadow have protected the cricket outfield and grass.”

eibe Enquiry 65

Educational Play Environments launches new website

Educational Play Environments are pleased to launch their brand new company website.

Featuring responsive web design, the new site provides an optimal viewing experience - easy reading and navigation with a minimum of resizing, panning and scrolling, across a wide range of devices.

An online quote builder allows users to build their playground working to a

specific budget. Simply then click send and a member of the team will be in touch to discuss the project.

Many new Products and Case Studies will be added in the coming weeks. Our Play Spaces now allows users to pop in their postcode to see if work by Educational Play Environments has been completed close by.

Educational Play Environments Enquiry 67

Notts Sport chosen for Lord's Cricket Ground

Notts Sport, the world’s leading supplier of synthetic cricket surfacing systems, has installed a replacement match pitch and refurbished two practice lanes at the worldfamous Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.

The work has seen the match pitch on the Nursery Ground at Lord’s completely replaced, with the former synthetic system excavated and removed, and a top-of-therange NottsBase D System NG12 installed over an Envelope Base to provide a performance as close as possible to a covered firstclass square.

The refurbishment of the two practice lanes, also on the Nursery Ground, included extending the length of the areas, rebuilding the base aggregate, adding new NottsBase performance

pads and laying new NottsGrass NG7 carpets.

The work was carried out over four days in March 2015, while Middlesex County Cricket Club were on tour in Dubai. The new match pitch will be used by youth teams, while the practice facilities will be used by Middlesex and national teams before and after a match at Lord’s main pitch.

Notts Sport’s wide selection of synthetic turf systems for cricket includes four products approved by the ECB – which has awarded the company NTP Code of Practice Accreditation.

Notts Sport also offers free condition checks for any existing artificial turf cricket facilities and its first-rate systems can be designed as pitch refurbishments or new installations.

RoSPA calling for better cycling infrastructure

Getting children on their bikes for the journey to school is key to keeping them fit and healthy, as well as getting them more confident and safe on the road.

But parents and guardians are understandably wary of taking their children out on their bikes - that’s why the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is calling for better education, engineering and enforcement to help make Britain’s roads safe for kids to cycle.

Nick Lloyd, RoSPA’s road safety manager, said: "We need a generation of young

people who feel safe and confident enough to cycle.

"We want to see as many young people cycling to school as possible, as the health benefits are huge. If carers are concerned about children cycling on our roads they should ensure they have access to the correct training through recognised training schemes at school or elsewhere.

"We are quick to seek tuition for our young drivers, young cyclists should be no different.”

RoSPA Enquiry 70

Beech Grove play area opens

Proludic has completed work at the Beech Grove Recreation Area.

A new community recreation area that will benefit local civilian and military families in Pirbright and Brookwood, thanks to a partnership project between the Army Training Centre, Pirbright, Guildford and Woking borough councils and Surrey County Council.

Proludic have worked on several military play area schemes in the last year, particularly with the Army and were proud to be a part of this project.

The project has been funded by a grant of £195,000 from the national Armed Forces Military Covenant Grant Scheme, together with a contribution of £40,000 from Surrey County Council's Community Improvement Fund, and support from Guildford and Woking borough councils.

The site includes some of the most innovative equipment we offer. It has an Amazon themed tower with multi play activities – this blends seamlessly into the natural environment of the site and ensures children will love turning ‘explorers’ as they play.

They also have items from the pioneering Dynamic Sport range which replicate exhilarating sensations from extreme sports such as parachuting, these challenging items are great additions for providing equipment for teenagers to use.

Proludic Urbanix which is the only gym equipment to use hydraulic pistons as a resistance has also been installed, giving adults a progressive work out –which they can use while the children play.

The Armed Forces Community Covenant Grant Scheme is there to bring both civilian and military

Children’s hospice gains a new playground

Friends and supporters joined The Donna Louise Children’s Hospice in Stoke-on-Trent recently to celebrate the opening of a playground which has been designed and installed by Sutcliffe Play.

of all abilities can play sideby-side without boundaries. The basket swing is designed to take several young children and is designed like bird’s nest.

communities together to increase integration and understanding between the two communities and we hope Beech Grove with its state of the art play

equipment has done and can be shown as a great example of what can be achieved.

Proludic Enquiry 71

Seminar to reveal secrets of effective outdoor provision

A half-day seminar on Saturday, June 27 at St Edmunds Nursery in Bradford promises to offer valuable insights into creating effective outdoor provision.

St Edmunds Nursery recently redeveloped their own outdoor space, adding extensive sand and water play. This seminar will explore how they achieved these improvements as well as looking in detail at ‘Simply Play’, a freely available tool created to facilitate better understanding of play design.

The seminar has been organised by respected outdoor specialists, Playgarden, which has developed a wealth of knowledge on the creation of inspirational play spaces and have organised this seminar to

pass on ideas and inspiration for Early Years Practitioners. The seminar is priced at £10 and places are limited and refreshments provided. It will include a tour of the St Edmunds site and a presentation from Sarah Gordon, the Lead Practitioner in Early Years Education at St Edmunds.

Beth Cooper will also be guiding delegates through Simply Play, which is a freely available tool created specifically to support anyone in the creation of better playspaces.

To book your place please call Playgarden on 0114 282 1285 or email info@playgardens.co.uk

Playgarden Enquiry 74

The new playground was made possible through the generously donated £150,000 raised from individuals and companies throughout Staffordshire and Cheshire.

The playground equipment installed means that children

A new inclusive roundabout means children in wheelchairs can wheel themselves into the roundabout and enjoy the sensation of spinning, all together, at the same time.

Sutcliffe Play Enquiry 72

South West Play reaches Azerbaijan

This is the second time South West Play has been commissioned to make bespoke ropes, nets and bridges for HS Landscapes.

Using the very popular Polyhemp rope, South West Play made a 4m V bridge along with a range of 24mm polyhemp traverse and knotted climbing ropes the ropework was then shipped to Azerbaijan where HS Landscapes installed it into the brand new playground structure that they designed and built.

South West Play can supply Polyhemp rope, which is a synthetic rope that looks traditional while retaining the modern properties you need in a hard wearing rope, it doesn't shrink or lose colour like natural fibre ropes. It's ideal for Decking, Kids Play, Stair hand rails, In the Home & Ship Rigging. Available in 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 16mm, 24mm and 36mm.

South West Play Enquiry 73

Welcome to the jungle… in Woking

The newly redesigned Woking Park play area is a jungle themed facility created by Russell Play.

Woking Park play area is a natural, visually pleasing space which complements the surround green parkland and its success is down to two main factors.

The first is the large input from consultation involving the community of Woking and secondly, the park is a culmination of Russell Play working in a partnership framework with Woking Borough Council for many years.

An Amazon Jungle theme for the site was selected by the children and the sketches made by the children and the play activities that the children had chosen were incorporated into the design of the site.

To execute the theme, style and designs the main play features were made from Robinia timber by Spielart. The versatility of the timber allowed for themed structures like an Amazonian steamboat and green jungle play towers which are unique to the park.

In addition to that, exotic animals, native to the Amazon, were carved and

placed throughout the park to give even more life to the jungle theme.

As well as the themed play towers a whole range of equipment and activities were included. A cable ride, a large climbing rope structure, tunnels, bridges, a roundabout, a water and sand area, two parallel slides built into the contours of a hill, a swing area.

All ideas came from the public and not a wish list devised by Woking Council. Among other suggestions the long slides and jungle climbing tower came from the children themselves.

The activities are well spaced throughout the site with wide paths that allow good access to all visitors.

Another important aspect of the look and feel of the park is the extensive planting throughout of a large variety of selected exotic shrubs and bulbs.

The placing of the animal sculptures among the equipment and plants adds not just a themed finishing touch but is also a fun ‘spot the jungle animal’ game.

Russell Play Enquiry 77

Notts Sport promotes long-serving employees

Leading synthetic surfacing supplier Notts Sport has promoted four long-serving members of the company to directorship roles.

The four new directors are Steve Foxon (Director of Technical Services), Rebecca Wood (Director of Finance and Operations), Mark Coeshaw (Director of Cricket and Play) and Zec Tomlinson (Director of Export), who have an incredible 65 years of service with the company between them.

They join Notts Sport’s existing directors, chairman Shaun Patrick and Sales Director Duncan Bennett.

Shaun says: “Duncan, Steve, Zec, Becky and Mark have all shown a strong desire to make Notts Sport the number one brand in the sport and play

surfacing market. All five of them are committed to high levels of customer service and supplying top quality solutions for our clients.”

It’s an exciting time for the Leicestershire-based company, which was named as England Hockey’s first ever Official Facilities Partner last year and has been experiencing a great deal of interest in its sport and play solutions.

The business enjoys partnerships and affiliations with a number of leading industry bodies for sports, play and leisure, including the ECB and ICC (International Cricket Council) Europe.

Notts Sport has established itself as one of the world’s foremost specialists in the design and supply of synthetic

surfacing systems for sport, play and leisure.

Thanks to Notts Sport’s unique, no-obligation Design and Advisory Service, all customers benefit from expert advice and assistance from the design stage to installation and aftercare – all at no additional charge to the supply of the surfacing solution.

What’s more, Notts Sport can also help schools, local authorities and sports clubs to work together to provide first-class facilities without the need for upfront funding through its Fast Track Funding initiative.

Notts Sport Enquiry 76

School sport facilities funding boosts play market

Quarterly order values for the UK play market grew by twenty per cent in the first quarter of 2015, according to the play industries’ lead trade body, the Association of Play Industries (API).

Latest figures from API member companies show order values worth £46.2 million for the first quarter of 2015 – a 6.7 per cent increase on the same quarter last year (£43.3 million) and a 20 per cent increase on the last quarter of 2014 (£38.3 million).

Export order values were £1.6 million in Q1 2015, a 38.5 per cent increase on the same

quarter last year (£1.1 million).

The installation of new outdoor facilities for hundreds of schools with no suitable space for sport and PE played a key role in this upswing, funded by Sport England’s Primary Spaces initiative. However budgets for public play provision remain constrained.

Despite evidence of the wideranging developmental, physical, behavioural, social and economic benefits of active play, the play industries continue to report constrained public sector budgets and a lack of political

will to tackle rising physical inactivity levels amongst children and young people.

API Chair Michael Hoenigmann says: “Sport England’s Primary Spaces funding will undoubtedly make a difference to children’s access to school sport and PE but the number of schools affected is marginal. Our wider concern is the lack of recognition of the vital role of children’s play in education, health and local government policy.

“In too many local authorities, children’s play facilities are purchased like staples or

paper clips, without the involvement of child development experts or measurable outcomes for the communities they serve. That is a national scandal.” API Enquiry 78

eibe’s Huge Worth in Littleworth

In a quintessentially English corner of the world, Norton Juxta Kempsey Parish Council has being working tirelessly on a fund-raising mission for several years.

Its aim was to build a new playspace at Norton Parish Hall, on the site of an old park which had been in much need of modernisation for a long time.

The new eibe playground in Littleworth, officially opened in April 2015, has finally come to fruition thanks to a fund of £140,000, raised by a combination of the parish council, Wychavon District Council, section 106 funding, community grants, Norton Toddlers and Norton Charities.

The tender for the work was initially awarded to eibe back in July 2014. Then, with a little bit of tweaking to the original design, the order for the new

equipment was placed in October.

The play area was opened at Easter and the open day staged a couple of weeks later. Some of the children, many of whom were involved in the initial consultation, were invited to take the afternoon off school to go and play.

Parish Council Clerk, Jane Greenway, is delighted with the way things have evolved and eibe’s involvement from start to finish in the project.

"The park is really lovely and we are so pleased with how it has turned out,” she said. “It's a pleasure to see the new recreational facilities being enjoyed by the community.

“The parish council worked hard to deliver this project and we want to thank everyone for their support."

Hampden Park enjoys flexibility with new Toro

It was difficult to tell before –just guesswork.”

The irrigation process can be controlled remotely from Stephen’s hand-held device or directly from a PC, mobile or tablet. With domestic, cup and international football fixtures kicking off now, the system is coming into its stride.

Swift actuation is vital at halftime as a UEFA directive dictates that only five minutes of watering is allowed during the interval.

A string of 16 TS90 turfcup outfield sprinklers line the pitch perimeter - two are Infinity sprinklers, fitted in the 3G synthetic turf technical area with the Smart Access option. This

allows for essential maintenance of solenoid valves and other features, as the stone base cannot be dug up. Eight infield TS90 turfcups are positioned in two rows, down each 18-yard line. Taken together, the sprinkler water canopy covers every blade of turf.

Toro Irrigation Enquiry 81

Hampden Park, one of Scotland’s premier football venues, has reported an increase in flexibility, both in terms of pitch maintenance and water usage, following the installation of Toro irrigation.

Kicking off 2015 with the construction of a new pitch and undersoil heating, the Glasgowbased national stadium complemented the upgrades with Toro’s advanced remotely controlled irrigation.

“I wanted more flexibility than the previous irrigation system

switches on the undersoil heating, the TurfGuard sensors will help him retain optimum conditions for the surface and rootzone.

Despite above-average rainfall in the area, Stephen strives to reduce his mains water bill; a task the new controller can also assist with. “The beauty of Lynx is that it can give me as much data and graphical information as I’d ever need,” he says. “I can go as deep into the data as I want to fine tune it for our requirements, including knowing how much water the sprinklers have applied to the pitch, down to the last litre.

Perfect watering by design

A nursery and garden centre recently asked SCH (Supplies) Ltd to design and build three plant and tree watering units.

It wanted the units to be used for their newly planted seed beds and young trees. In order to protect delicate branches and vines that may overhang the area to be watered, the units were designed to be low to the ground rather than upright. They can also be used to apply liquid feed or fertilizer.

The 400 litre capacity units are supplied with a petrol powered pump as well as six meters of three-quarter inch hose with an on/off tap. The wide profile

wheels on this waterer mean that the unit can be used almost anywhere – compaction and wheel marking are drastically reduced.

The tow bar provided for this customer was a 50mm ball hitch, but SCH say that tongue or clevis hitches could be fitted on request. The customer also has other uses in mind for their unit. One is on standby as an emergency fire extinguisher, and they say during dry summers, the waterers will be used to damp down dusty car parks and pathways around the property.

SCH (Supplies) Ltd Enquiry 82

could deliver, so specified the latest Lynx controller,” explains head groundsman Stephen Bache. “Integrated with TurfGuard sensors that monitor temperature, moisture content and salinity in the playing surface, I have the tools to master the management and maintenance of the playing surface.”

Water percolation through sand construction pitches, such as the one newly laid at Hampden Park, can be swift, cautions Stephen.

“You have to keep a constant eye on them,” he says. When he

Exeter turns to Barenbrug for superior turf regeneration

Tackling Chafer grubs has become an industry priority

Chafer grubs can cause untold damage to sports pitches and racecourses, often resulting in damaged surfaces that will be costly to repair.

Today, the St James’s Park pitch is testament to the hard work of Clive and his team, who are currently working on an extensive renovation programme of their training grounds, using the successful refurbishment of the main stadium as a blueprint.

Every year Clive and his team fraise mow the main stadium pitch to a depth of 10mm. He said: “We literally take the whole surface off and sow a completely new pitch. This allows us to expose the drain lines and ensure the smooth running of the drainage systems.”

The club tested out Barenbrug RPR for re-sowing the stadium

last year. Clive was able to budget for 10 bags – where normally he would go for 15 to 20.

However, despite using less seed than usual, the results were impressive: “Grass was up within the week and we played our first game on it on week nine. It was actually thick enough to play football on in just four to five weeks.”

Next, Clive intends to use Barenbrug RPR on two pitches at Exeter FC’s training grounds. “We want something that will establish quickly and spread out - and from what we’ve seen, we know that RPR delivers,” he added.

Barenbrug Enquiry 85

Aitkens Nutri-Pro aids Keepmoat

where it is being

Between the start of the season and March 20, Davison and his team of

Turf Garlic Spray

two assistants have had 55 games on the pitch played by Doncaster Rovers FC, Doncaster Rovers Belles and Rugby League teams Doncaster Dons and Sheffield Eagles, who often play their games as part of double headers.

The number of matches could go up by as many as 30 depending on how each team performs in their individual leagues, but with so many games on a consistent basis they don’t get the luxury of time to help the sward recover.

With such a heavy schedule and varying areas of damage from the two sports he needs strong turf and quick recovery between fixtures; with the combination of Nutri-Pro and Quadrop doing exactly that.

Nutri-Pro increases the performance of the leaf and root

uptake, encouraging deeper and healthier rooting while it contains amino acids that improve stress resistance, which is all vital for a surface that faces so much damage from rugby league and football on a constant basis.

“The combination of the NutriPro and Quadrop really benefits us in between games because it helps a lot with the recovery and stress resistance, which you need when you have so many games in a season,” he said.

“We use Quadrop every day because it’s a repair tool to help correct our water and help hold turf colour and it does a great job. It has alleviated a lot of the problems we’ve had in the past.”

Aitkens Enquiry 87

The Chafer grub is the larval stage of a range of beetles including the Garden chafer, Summer chafer and Cockchafer. They each have different lifecycles, the Garden chafer is one year, the Summer chafer is two years, and the Cockchafer is three years, but can be longer.

Tell-tale signs of Chafer grub activity are the turfgrass displaying drought stress symptoms, whereby the grass plant’s leaves go a straw colour and die back (referred to as primary damage). “This is due to the grass plant not receiving adequate water in dry conditions as the grubs sever the root system as they feed upon it, however drought stress symptoms may be masked by supplemental irrigation during dry periods,” explains Dr Colin Mumford, of Bayer.

“Loose turf is another indicator, whereby you can literally lift the turf away from the soil as it has no root structure to anchor it to the ground. Birds pecking at the surface also indicate Chafer grub activity, as the birds are feeding on the Chafer grubs.

“Merit Turf (imidacloprid) is currently the only approved insecticide that will successfully control Chafer grubs in the amenity sector. It works in two ways, firstly by direct contact with the grub, and secondly, which is the main control method, it is taken up by the grass plant as it is a systemic product. When the grubs feed on the roots they ingest the imidacloprid and are controlled.”

Merit Turf can only be applied once per year, so it is important to apply it at the right time to achieve the maximum control possible.

Sussex CCC bowled over by Sherriff Amenity

Sussex CCC has praised on Sherriff Amenity’s range of Marathon fertiliser products, noting a vast improvement in the turf of its famous cricket pitches.

Andy Mackay has been head groundsman since 2008 and his team of twelve look after the County Cricket Ground in Hove, as well as the grounds at the Academy Ground, Horsham CC, and Preston Nomads CC.

In order to keep the pitches to a standard of a top tier County Cricket club, Andy chooses the finest products from leading supplier Sherriff Amenity - the UK’s market leaders in providing turf care and amenity solutions.

Marathon Allround is a versatile long release fertiliser for use on all outfield areas that provides a reliable growth response with good colour for up to three months. The patented nitrogen complex ensures steady growth,

using nutrient sources that avoid excess leaching and help prevent soft growth that can bring on unwanted disease attack.

Marathon Sport Summer has an analysis with zero phosphate and additional magnesium to provide fresh summer colour. The methylene urea content provides the extended release characteristics required to keep turf well supplied with nutrients for 12 to 16 weeks after application.

Sherriff Amenity Enquiry 90

Bayer Enquiry 86

James Davison, Head Groundsman at the Keepmoat Stadium, Doncaster, has been using Aitkens Nutri-Pro along with Quadrop to keep the turf in great condition during a season

used by four different teams in two different sports.

Clive Pring, Exeter City FC’s estates manager, joined the club in 2006 as head groundsman.

Pride Park benefits from Limagrain’s MM60

Notable for being one of the 12 founder members of the Football League in 1888, Derby County FC plies its trade at the aptly named Pride Park stadium.

The stadium’s pitch is something that the club take particular pride in, and that in part, is thanks to Limagrain UK’s MM60 grass seed. Head groundsman, Andy Croft, is certainly playing his

part, with Pride Park regarded as one of the Championship’s finest playing surfaces.

“I’ve been working with Limagrain for about four seasons now and haven’t looked back since,” he said. “MM60 just comes into its own in winter with the colour, the vigour and how it plays. It offers good resistance to disease and stands up well to all

the battering that it gets, and that’s what you want as a groundsman.”

The MM60 grass seed is a 100% Ryegrass formula which is perfect for renovation and divot repair. It is also treated with Headstart GOLD, which is a further development of the wellrecognised Headstart treatment which has been developed using

the latest scientific findings and field experience.

It is a natural revolutionary grass seed treatment that ensures rapid germination and is perfect for enhancing performance on grass seed coatings for sports fields and amenity turf.

Limagrain Enquiry 91

Showground boosted by Headland’s Multigreen

Graeme Balmer has been working on sports pitches his whole life and these days he works for the Three Counties Showground and Gloucester Rugby Club, as well as managing to slot in being an ECB Pitch Advisor.

In two years he has managed to turn round the quality of the grass at the Three Counties to a very acceptable level.

“The Managing Director of the Rugby Club moved to the Three counties Showground,” he explained, “and that’s how I became involved.

“The problem was a real lack of maintenance on the sports arenas with no renovation work ever being carried out. The grass was very poor quality and the clay like soil was quite compacted. I started with an Autumn programme after consultation with Headlands’ Adi Masters.

“Fertiliser can only be put down before events take place so we decided to put Multigreen 6 month controlled release fertiliser on at the start of the year as it would work throughout the show period.”

When the effect of the spring/summer fertiliser started to

Port Vale pitches in peak condition

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

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

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

“The entire area will be overseeded with Germinal’s A30 sports pitch renovating mixture, with Galleon included to add a creeping perennial ryegrass to the standard A30 mixture,” he explains.

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

“We only have an eight week window to get all three pitches ready for the new season, so rapid germination and vigorous establishment are essential,”

Steve states. “We’ve found that both A20 and A30 take really well and continue to grow well for three years or more. They also give a really deep green colour even through the depths of winter.”

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

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

Germinal Seeds Enquiry 92

Terex brings compact construction to exhibition

Leading equipment solutions provider, Terex Construction, will showcase its latest range of compact construction machinery at this year’s PLANTWORX exhibition.

The Terex team will be on stands 7C4 and 7D6, showcasing the company’s 2015 compact machinery range. Alongside the latest models from its backhoe loader, site dumper and compaction roller portfolios, Terex will exhibit its ‘Generation 2015’ wheel loaders and excavators portfolio.

With new engines, updated design and a refreshed operating system for greater productivity, each model is produced at company’s Crailsheim facility in Germany and features the latest in ‘Smart Control’ operating systems.

Alongside static displays, a live demonstration stand will see a selection of Terex equipment being put through its paces. Additionally, those with PPE and

machine operating licences will be able to try out the latest compaction construction machinery for themselves.

“As the UK’s largest ‘live action’ construction show, PLANTWORX provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of our latest equipment to the industry’s leading professionals,” commented Neal Nowick, General Manager of Terex Construction.

“Used by construction firms, local authorities and owner-operators across the world, each Terex model is designed with the user in mind and provides a reliable, efficient and productive solution for site workers and owner-operators alike. Perfect for a wide variety of on-site, contract and earthmoving applications, Terex equipment is specifically developed to excel in the toughest conditions and deliver optimum efficiency at a highly cost-effective price point.”

96

Construction machinery takes centre stage at Plantworx 2015

PLANTWORX - the UK’s largest ‘working’ construction equipment machinery exhibition is just weeks away (June 2-4 Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome, Leicestershire).

The PLANTWORX team and the show’s host, the CEA (Construction Equipment Association), is inviting all LAPU readers to come along to the event to check out the very latest machinery on the market.

Visitors to the show, which spans over 135,000 square metres, will see the very latest plant and machinery operating in ‘real’ site conditions – compact plant will feature alongside mid-range equipment, tools, landscaping products and services.

The exhibitor list reads like a ‘who’s who’ in the CE market with all the key OEM’s exhibiting.

Many exhibitors will be encouraging visitors, who present the correct operator’s licence, to try the kit first hand and put the machines through their paces on one of the many demonstration areas. Visitors will also see hundreds of brand new products including many world-firsts!

Rob Oliver, chief executive of CEA said: “Walking the PLANTWORX trade show site at

Bruntingthorpe is an impressive experience. We are offering exhibitors the ultimate “level playing field’– exhibits will occupy an area equivalent to all of the Premiership football teams’ pitches added together.”

The UK’s largest ‘working’ construction event has at last count 320 exhibitors committed to the show and of these half will be exhibiting at the event for the very first time.

In terms of size and exhibitors numbers the 2015 show has already exceeded the 2013 exhibition by 20%. Only a few stands remain and the show organisers report that the show is expected to be a ‘Sell Out’.

The undercover Pavilion is already full and a very small amount of demonstration area is available. The 2015 Plantworx event is looking like the hottest ticket in town and a spectacular action packed 3-days.

Visitor registration is now open for PLANTWORX and entry is free for more details and to see a full exhibitor list visit www.plantworx.co.uk. Put June 2, 3 and 4 in your diary and we’ll see you at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome, Leicestershire.

Plantworx Enquiry 97

Lifting show visitors to new heights

Compact multi-purpose tool carrier manufacturer Avant Tecno, will use Plantworx to showcase a new offering from its sister company Leguan Lifts together with a comprehensive line-up of the very latest Avant machines and attachments.

The Leguan 135 access platform raises standards by introducing many new features designed to make operation easier, safer and more efficient. The new model is of compact design but without compromising on stability or reach.

Powered by a choice of either its 13 hp Honda petrol engine or electric motor depending on internal or external use, the 135 provides automatic levelling with up to 13.2 m vertical and 6.8 m horizontal reach with a safe working load in any position of 140 kg.

From the company's growing range of compact tool carriers will be examples of the revised 700

and 500 Series machines, both static and on demonstration, which incorporate a number of new features.

In particular the Poclain drive motors fitted to the flagship 760i model are now carried over to all 700 and 500 Series units and there are also new canopy and cab options as well as improved service points.

In addition there will be a selection of the latest attachments, now numbering over 150 in total, including a concrete mixer and powerful breaker.

Tarexe Enquiry

Diversity is the name of the game in the Pavilion

Plantworx 2015 will provide visitors with an incredibly diverse range of equipment, technology and services, and nowhere is that more evident than in the Plantworx Pavilion.

The popular Pavilion sold out early in March and once again promises the most varied line-up of exhibitors yet seen at a Plantworx exhibition. These are just some of the highlights on offer.

While the external demonstration areas at Plantworx provide a chance for visitors to see the latest equipment at work, the Pavilion allows both end users and manufacturers to get under the skin of that machinery. Component suppliers provide an essential role in the back-up and service of existing equipment, while their continual evolution and innovation offers equipment manufacturers a chance to improve and advance the design of their machinery.

Companies like Flowfit, Gates, Losi and M&R Hydraulics offer both replacement hydraulic components and a service backup facility. Losi will have a range of its M+S hydraulic motors on show, delivering a high torque drive solution for such compact motors. The motors are intended for wheel and conveyor drives and can be had with a wide range of pressures and flows.

As well as hydraulic component supply, there will be equipment

capable of testing and maintaining hydraulic systems. Hydraulic measurement and control specialist Webtec will show a new range of testers, control valves and positive displacement flow meters.

The DHM series of portable hydraulic testers will allow service engineers to create and send a certified certificate of up to 12 logs of pressure, flow and temperature directly from their mobile in the field. Being able to provide validation from the job site will save time on administration, cut time on site and increase the level of service available.

On-site hose replacement specialist Pirtec will be demonstrating its hose cleaning service, that can overcome the problem of in-line contamination. The firm will also show its Pirtek Xflex hose range, developed to withstand the harshest operations conditions on site.

If you need to clean more than the hoses in a hydraulic system, Environmental technologies has the answer with its Cardev 4S-E mobile filtration system. The 4SE is said to remove particles and water contamination from oil, extending service life and reducing the risk of breakdowns.

UK fire suppression expert Nobel Fire Systems will exhibit its StatX range of automatic condensed aerosol fire suppression systems

in the Pavilion. Designed to protect vehicles, mobile equipment and electrical components from fire, Stat-X uses eco-friendly and non-toxic generators. The system can be thermally, manually or electrically activated and provides economic fire suppression for the construction equipment industry.

Right Lines will show the recently announced Lazer range of diamond core drill bits and blades. Available in 22-162mm diameters, primarily for the plumbing market, the Lazer core bits are said to be suitable for concrete cutting where reinforcing bar is present.

Diatech will also have a range of professional, premium and standard grade diamond blades on offer, designed to meet the needs of customers in a variety of industry sectors.

Italian manufacturer Ghedini will be at Plantworx for the first time this year. The firm will show a range of attachments, including augers, bush cutters, submersible pumps, compactor plates and weed cutting buckets. The attachments are available to suit mini excavators, skid steer loaders and backhoe loaders.

As well as machine-mounted attachments, there will be plenty of hand-held technology on offer at the show, from the likes of C.Scope, Leica and Scanprobe.

C.Scope in particular will show a range of cable avoidance tools and signal generators. Recent advances include multi-frequency signal detection, data logging, inbuilt GPS and a fully automatic self-diagnostic function. The firm’s XL2 range now requires no annual service or calibration work, only needing to be returned to a service centre if it is damaged.

While there might be plenty of larger site dumpers on the external working plots, Nu-Star Material Handling has chosen to show its MUV electric wheelbarrow in the Pavilion. With a tipping load of up to 350kg, the MUV has a pushbutton electric dump function as well as electric drive.

The machine comes with a choice of 800W and 1,200W elecric drive motors and is virtually silent, as well as being zero emissions. The company claims that there are no handlebar vibrations either.

Powered by two 12V batteries, the MUV has an on-board charger for 110V or 220V connection. Maximum speeds are 4.6km/h for the 800W model and up to 6km/h for the 1,200W version. A tortoise mode switch cuts maximum speed by 50% for easy positioning.

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) will be demonstrating how its machinereadable Smart PAL card can be used to prevent unauthorised use of access equipment. The Smart PAL card has an embedded data chip with information concerning the holder. Card readers can be installed on machines and set to only allow correctly trained operators to use the platforms.

Nobel Fire Systems

Ghedini

Electronics are playing an increasingly important role in the equipment business, with tracking and telematic systems from the likes of TrakM8, Enigma, Plant-i and Trackunit fast becoming the norm for larger rental and contracting companies. One of the latest additions to this growing sector comes from Trackunit, with the launch of the Trackunit DualID.

DualID is designed with two separate units, a visible identification device, that accepts either a PIN code or a personal ID card such as the Smart PAL card, plus a hidden tracking unit. By controlling

both machine access and by tracking operating performance, the DualID system can improve site and operator safety, while delivering a theft prevention and recovery component.

Enigma Telematics will launch Skyline Mobile Performance Guru (MPG) at the show. Skyline MPG allows the fleet manager to see the same on-board machine data as the operator or driver, including engine temperature, revs, fuel consumption and journey distance for on-road vehicles. The system is said to use contactless, non-invasive technology to extract CANbus data.

ATE is announcing the Towman tracking system, that keeps managers in touch with towed equipment. Towman delivers tracking data via a cloud-based system with live reports on equipment location, mileage and running time.

The AMI Nexis Fuel Pro takes a different approach to tracking, monitoring fuel use and alerting the customer to any fuel theft. The unit can be installed on both powered and non-powered assets, monitoring fuel levels in the tank and reporting any sudden heavy fuel drainage or loss through the AMI Nexis software platform, that provides GPS location and time and date data. The company says that the system can pay for itself within 2-3 months, thanks to fuel savings.

Of course in the event that plant is stolen, rental companies and contractors will be looking to their insurance companies for replacement equipment. TL Dallas will be offering a new plant insurance product at

Plantworx, with discounted rates for those customers with proven security measures in place. The company is including a free security health check for any visitor to the show.

Plant and tool hire fleet management systems are also a popular draw at Plantworx, with the likes of Higher Concept, MCS and inspHire regular exhibitors at the show. Higher Concept’s Syrinx Hire Management system is now available with a driver app that will be demonstrated on the stand.

Designed for Android mobile and tablet devices, the driver app allows jobs to be sent directly from the Syrinx system in the office to the driver’s device in the cab. On completion of the job, the details are automatically uploaded and saved in Syrinx, allowing office staff to check the status of the job in real-time.

There is no longer a requirement for printed delivery and collection notes and the system frees up more time for the driver,

adding to productivity. Office staff can also spend less time on paperwork and more time dealing with customers.

Rental software firm inspHire has also updated its system, adding workshop functionality within the inspHire mobile app. This allows the customer to add parts, capture fitter signatures, record job completion times, add labour costs and notes to workshop reports directly from a portable Android device. Regular safety examinations can be completed and logged using a phone or tablet with signatures and GPS location data to assist with legal obligations.

An exhibition such as Plantworx not only provides today’s workforce with an opportunity to see the latest machinery in action, but also allows youngsters to

investigate potential careers within the construction machinery business. The Construction Equipment Association (CEA) will of course be promoting careers in plant operation and maintenance. There will also be a host of educational providers offering careers advice, including Wiltshire College and Myerscough College.

For those already committed to a career in the plant business, there are also plenty of training and registration opportunities, with Emerson Training Services, materials handling and access specialist Mentor Training and NPORS (National Plant Operators Registration Scheme) on hand to talk to new entrants to the industry.

Mentor in particular will introduce its first IOSH accredited safety management course, for those overseeing forklift operations.

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) will be at Plantworx this year too, to demonstrate and discuss with visitors HGV fleet compliance and mechanical handling equipment inspections and audits.

Plantworx Enquiry 102

Heavy duty display from Hyundai

Hyundai Heavy Industries Europe will use Plantworx to unveil a raft of new machines which have not been seen in the UK before.

These will include the new HL960 wheeled loader and the new HX260L heavy line excavator both of which will be put through their paces in Hyundai’s demo plot.

Other attractions from Hyundai will include the new R17Z-9A zero tailswing 1.5 tonne class

mini excavator and at the other end of the scale the new 30 tonne class HX300L heavy line excavator. There will also be a UK debut for the new 16 tonne class R160W-9A wheeled excavator. Other machines to look out for include the 2.6 tonne R25Z-9AK mini excavator, the 8 tonne class R80CR-9A midi excavator, the 12 tonne class R125LCR-9A compact radius excavator, the 14 tonne class R140LC-9A excavator and the 18.5 tonne HL760-9A wheeled loader in waste handler configuration.

Hanix H55DR digs deep with new long arm option

Plantworx 2015 marks a welcome return to the demo circuit for Mini-Digger manufacturer Hanix Europe.

The company, renowned for its Japanese design and rugged build-quality, and now fully operational from a new sales, distribution and service centre in High Wycombe, will be demonstrating its full range of micro, mini and midi excavators on Stand 3F7.

Hanix machines rightfully deserve the favourable reviews they always receive on test; from the extremely versatile H09D –weighing in at just 980kg, yet loaded with big-machine features, its retractable tracks make it an ideal machine for work on access-restricted sites –through to the H55DR with one of the greatest bucket digging forces in its class. In its standard

format, the H55DR is a true zerotail swing excavator and, at Plantworx, Hanix will be demonstrating a new long arm version of this high performance digging workhorse – claiming an impressive digging depth of over 4 metres.

Since relocating in High Wycombe, Hanix have developed and consolidated a respected dealer network across England, Wales and Ireland, with machines available ex-stock. Further plans for 2015 include the eagerly awaited introduction of a new 8 tonne machine later in the year – a development which gives Hanix a formidable range to suit all users. Alongside their demo area, Hanix staff will also be available to provide hospitality and technical advice on stand 3F8.

New TRUXTA range at Plantworx

Landscapers might have seen the new TRUXTA powered wheel barrows from Tufftruk Ltd at Saltex last year. At PLANTWORX there is the opportunity to come and have a go. See the Truxta powered wheelbarrow in all action, up a ramp, on uneven ground with a full load.

The new TRUXTA BENDI powered wheelbarrow or micro

dumpers. An attractive looking machine, but be in no doubt, it is designed for the toughest rigours of hire and heavy materials handling.

The machines are designed for 300kg skip capacity and the 450 skip option will be on display.

Very easy to manoeuvre and requires no operator strength –

perfect for any type of hire customer professional or DIY. The BENDI, does what it says, it quite literally bends around a doorway. It easily manoeuvres in restricted areas without the requirement to lift – the articulated chassis just steersno need to lift or reposition.

With simple squeeze and go controls (no mechanical gearboxes) it is very easy to use.

Available in 3 power options come and see how it performs, including the very quiet TB300E electric battery powered, with enough charge for a full day use on site alongside the Honda and Yanmar powered options.

Tufftruk Enquiry 105

BLEC to put products on display

BLEC will be displaying their Power Box Rake at Plantworx in various configurations. The Power Box Rake is the ideal landscape construction tool for cultivating, earth moving and raking and comes as a quick fit attachment to suit skidsteers, compact tractors and the majority of European two-wheel tractors from 6-18hp. At the heart of the unit is a powerful contra rotating carbide tooth rotor which penetrates hard ground, pulverising and separating debris from the soil, while levelling and grading to leave a clean, raked finish. The hydraulic bi-angling rotor windrows unwanted stones and debris and by folding down the side plates all the raked material can be gathered up to be easily collected into a pile. The Power Box Rake has a quick, removable rotor system for optional rotors and an optional laser kit can be fitted for accurate levelling and raking on sports turf areas.

BLEC Global Enquiry 107

Hanix Enquiry 106

CAMON’s 4-stroke brushcutters prove a hit

Trimming up after the mower, edging lawns, clearing vegetation from trees, posts and the base of hedges and mowing in areas that can be inaccessible for bigger machines, the brushcutter is an indispensable tool for professional landscapers and homeowners.

CAMON brushcutters from Tracmaster are designed to satisfy the needs and working demands of all users. Features include anti-vibration and adjustable handlebars for perfect weight distribution, market leading

engines, safety goggles, bump feed head and grass blade as standard.

Tracmaster also supplies a large range of alternative cutting heads, from clearing saws to the fantastic Nylsaw Speed heads.

Three different models of 4 stroke brushcutter are available, including the Combi HO25 with brushcutter, hedgetrimmer, chain pruner and a 75cm Extension for longer reach.

Tracmaster Enquiry 109

Professional brushcutter BCV5020 has industry busting 5 year guarantee

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

Martin Woodhouse of Woodgrow Horticulture says “Without doubt the most impressive feature is the reduced whole-life cost of owning a Maruyama BCV5020. The engine has an industrybusting 5 year warranty, while the drive shaft and ignition module

carry a life-rime warranty. We found the BCV5020 to be very fuel efficient and the large fuel tank meant fewer fill ups. With a very competitive purchase price, buying and owning the Maruyama BCV5020 is a nobrainer in our opinion.”

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

DMMP Enquiry 110

Mitox is same product with a new name

The Japanese-made Mitox represents a formidable range of commercial brushcutters.

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

Add to this the comprehensive 3year commercial warranty (5-years domestic) and you can easily see why Mitox, already one of the fastest growing garden machinery brands, has staked its claim on becoming a leader in landscaping, groundscare, amenity and forestry. To further stamp this mark there will also be other products in the professional range to come.

At the top end of the brushcutter range is the Mitox heavy-duty 5300UK PRO for the professional who is using a

brushcutter all day in harsh surroundings.

Start with the Mitox 2700LK PRO which offers a commercial grade, lightweight, brushcutter with low noise, low vibration, ideal balance and easy-start for lawn and garden maintenance. There are four more machines to choose from to cover garden, intermediate and heavy duty use.

Mitox Enquiry 112

New backpack brushcutter for difficult terrain

Mowing long grass and weeds on steep or difficult terrain demands particularly well thought-out tools.

They need to be rugged, powerful, easy to handle and ergonomic in use - just the characteristics of the new STIHL FR 460 TC-EM backpack brushcutter.

Carrying the powerful, advanced and fuel-efficient STHIL 2-MIX engine comfortably and securely on the operator's back promotes a balanced work posture and easy brushcutter control.

The softly padded carrying system distributes the weight of the engine ergonomically over the user's shoulders and hips, and a flexible coupling between the engine and tool's shaft makes the

brushcutter more manouevrable, even when working uphill. STIHL has even set a tool bag into the backpack's support frame so accessories like extra cutting tools are ready to hand.

Powering the cutting head steadily through even tough weeds, the advanced STIHL 2MIX engine delivers extremely high torque over a wide engine speed range. The engine is gentle on the pocket and environment too: coupling low fuel consumption with low emissions, it comfortably complies with strict European exhaust emission regulations (Phase II).

The STIHL FR 460 TC-EM is the first backpack brushcutter from STIHL to be equipped with the M-Tronic electronic engine management system as standard.

Work all day with Makita

Makita's four-stroke 43cc brushcutter has low vibrations for all-day working, low emissions and low running costs - and it comes with a professional harness.

Using Makita's MM4 mini fourstroke engine, the EM4351UH uses a nylon-line head and has excellent vibration ratings. The noise generated by the machine is

also low, ensuring operator comfort throughout the day.

The brushcutter has a pressurised lubrication system to protect the engine for use at any angle. The bike handles can be adjusted or folded for transport and storage purposes.

Makita

Enquiry

M-Tronic precisely regulates the ignition timing and fuel mix in every machine operating state, optimizing performance and efficiency even at changing temperatures and altitudes or when running on varying fuel grades.

The STIHL FR 460 TC-EM is fitted with a rugged quadruple grass cutting blade as standard, and a choice of alternative cutting attachments includes nylon line mowing heads, a brush knife and different grass cutting blades. It is one of an extensive range of brushcutters available from STIHL.

STIHL Enquiry 113

Unrivalled

114

allweathers

use Etesia because it’s the best machine on the market for the job we need it for. Derrick

Husqvarna brushcutters

All Husqvarna brushcutters are designed to get your job done effectively and are easy to carry and handle.

The X-TORQ engine in a Husqvarna brushcutter reduces exhaust emissions and increases fuel efficiency.

It will help you reduce the exhaust emissions by up to 75% and will increase your fuel efficiency by up to 20%.

Most Husqvarna brushcutters comes with an auto return stop switch.

machine

turned off, the stop switch automatically returns to the start

position for easier starting. This way your machine will always be ready start when you are.

Operations will feel balanced and comfortable. For instance – the handlebar is adjustable and ergonomically designed for efficient use.

The efficient trimmer head ensures good results and you can easily adjust it by changing type of blade, depending on the task –from fine trimming to heavy work in rough terrain. Thanks to the magnetic locking pin holder, you can switch blade in a safe, quick and easy manner.

Husqvarna Enquiry 117

Take the brush with the smooth

Brush, brambles, weeds and stubborn long grasses stand no chance against the Little Wonder Hydro BRC-26 brushcutter available from Schiller Grounds Care.

Whilst it’s rugged and built for a tough life it’s also smooth with the hydrostatic drive making it easy to operate and less fatiguing for the user. That translates to higher productivity and with a forward speed up to 4.2mph/6.7kmh and 1.7mph/2.7kmh in reverse you can quickly cut through the work.

There is a reversible 26”/66cm tempered steel blade that will rip down sapling growth up to 2”/5cm thick, powered by the Honda GXV 390cc engine with a Noram mechanical blade clutch for instant forward and reverse

drive propulsion. In addition to the hydrostatic transaxle the advanced features include solid rods to connect the operator to the transmission, park brake and cutter blade clutch, with no cables to break or adjust.

The engine base, cutting deck, rear frame and control handle are all heavy gauge welded steel to ensure rugged durability and reliability in the toughest brush and terrain conditions.

The mower blade spindle is supported top and bottom with sealed ball bearings inside a machined steel hub, a heavyduty welded outer flange and grease fitting to prevent moisture ingress.

Schiller Groundscare Enquiry 118

New offering from ECHO is professional's choice

The SRM-420TES is the latest offering from ECHO’s high torque range, designed and built exclusively for professional operators it utilises multiple technologies to enhance user productivity and comfort. With a 1:2.07 gear reduction ratio, the SRM-420TES’s high torque gearbox spins the cutting head one-and-a-quarter turns per engine cycle and delivers 50% more torque than its predecessor. This extra torque means that, when fitted with heavier line, the brushcutter can make short work of even dense bramble or brush without losing head speed. The cutting head on the 420TES has been upgraded too. Now with an extra 7.6cm of cutting radius, operators can cut wider swathes, reducing the number of passes required to complete the job at hand. Coupled with ECHO’s ‘Tap & Go’ quick line release system, the SRM-420TES can quickly work through larger areas

with few stops to load new line. The 420TES benefits from a new engine design. Now stage 2 emission compliant, the 41.5cc engine boasts a power output of 1.78kW, over 10% more than its predecessor. Engine performance has been further enhanced thanks to a new air filter design. Positioned at the rear of the machine, away from flying dirt and debris, filtration has been greatly improved, allowing for smooth and efficient engine performance. Access to the filter is tool-free and the cover can be removed and fitted by hand, even when the operator is wearing work gloves. A newly designed quick hook-up and release harness is features on this U handle brushcutter. This allows the operator to easily detach themselves from the machine quickly should the need arise.

ECHO Enquiry 120

Jacobsen unveils allnew Truckster XD

The all-new Jacobsen Truckster XD heavy-duty utility vehicle serves as a replacement for the venerable Cushman TurfTruckster – setting a new standard for capacity, power, strength and comfort.

The new Truckster XD boasts a massive, class-leading 1,610 Kg standard payload capacity, supported by the toughest bed in the industry, with steel up to 75%

thicker than comparable boxes and 20% more volume. Two classleading power units are available: the diesel version, more commonly used throughout Europe, with 24.8 hp and 71.5 nm of torque and the petrol model, which is used predominantly in the Americas and Asia-Pacific, providing 32.5 hp and 70 nm of torque.

Ransomes

Jacobsen Enquiry 123

Free Hayter work trousers with every Harrier Pro mower

Any professional gardener/landscaper who buys a Harrier 48 or 56 Pro any time between now and the end of June can claim a free pair of Hayter branded work trousers.

For decades now the robust, flexible Hayter Harrier Pro mower has been a favourite amongst professional gardeners and landscapers. The combination of durable die-cast aluminium deck with commercial

Briggs & Stratton engines offers the reliability and performance contractors need.

The new Hayter trousers are hardwearing and comfortable, made from weather-resistant material with reinforced seams, belt loops and Cordura top loading knee pockets. Free Work Trouser leaflets are available in Hayter authorised dealerships.

Swansea Council saves big with move to MAJOR

With extensive green areas to manage, Swansea City and County Council has its work cut out keeping vast swathes of grass looking lush and green.

Five years ago the parks were mown on a weekly basis with gang mowers. But budget cuts prompted a move to folding rotary mowers.

After some tough testing of four different mowers, it was Major Equipment’s 12000GR roller mower that stood out for its overall performance in the tough conditions and its sturdy build quality. Mr. Collins initially put in an order for two units which arrived midway through last season.

With last year’s two machines having proved themselves to be more than capable, this spring the council ordered another pair of mowers. After some tough testing, it was Major Equipment’s 12000GR Roller Mower that stood out for its overall performance in the tough conditions and its sturdy build quality. The 12000GR’s twin swinging blade arrangement is felt to be one of two key factors in producing such a good mulching effect. The second is the fact that rather than using a belt drive, each of the three cutting decks is powered by a shaft and protected by overload clutches.

Major Equipment Enquiry

122

Groundsman highlights turf cutter and aerator

Quick change Hollow Core, Solid and Slitting Tines are available plus Cluster Tine Heads for thatch removal or surface preparation for over-seeding.

Groundsman Industries Enquiry 125

(12”) widths up to 60cm (24”) widths.

A range of blades are available that can work down to 13cm (5”) depth, these include a Trench Blade, Sub-soil Decompactor, Mole-drain and a Cable-pulling Blade.

The TMC26 is the general purpose model in the range, it is extremely capable in all types of grass surfaces and soil conditions, manoeuvrable in work, portable and easy to operate with the lowest handarm vibration levels (HAV) on the market.

Groundsman also specialise in pedestrian turf aerators.

The Groundsman 345HD has a long proven record of rugged reliability and performance second to none.

This compact professional machine has an overall width of 80cm (32”) enabling it to access most garden gates, it can aerate all type of grass surfaces including gardens, parklands, fine lawns and sports greens.

Since 1984 we have been designing and building our CAMON machines at our headquarters in Sussex to survive the rigours of continous use without comprimising on performance.

The result is a range of machinery that is second-to-none in terms of quality, performance, reliability and value for money.

For more information visit our dedicated CAMON websit or call our sales team on 01444 247689 e at .

www.camon.co.uk

LAWN SCARIFIERS

LAWN AERATOR TURF CUTTER TILLER PORTABLE CHIPPER

Hayter Enquiry 124

Groundsman’s two and four wheel drive Turf Cutters cut sod down to 7cm (3”) thick and from 30cm

Three machines rolled into one

A sweeper collector that is a scarifier and a flail collector all rolled into one has to be on the wish list of most turf professionals.

In reality there is one in the shape of several models in the Wessex ProLine STC range. No longer are there the restrictions and costs of having individual machines to do each job, with the STC easily converted using the optional change kit.

As a scarifier, the STC is fitted with with verti-cutting knives for a professional operation on the sports field or lawns. Semimounted to the tractor, the STC runs on its own four wheels,

totally independent of the tractor, allowing it to follow contours, while the front wheels are fully castoring and repositioned by a simple pin mechanism to adjust the working height.

A large diameter steel drum with flails and paddles converts the Wessex STC to a flail collector. It features four rows of closely spaced flails, and two rows of draft

paddles to create the suction for collecting the grass. In the autumn you can take the STC to the park in sweeper collector mode. The brush rotor comprises four banks of hardwearing polypropylene bristles which lift leaves, grass clippings and litter with ease into the hydraulically operated hopper.

Wessex International Enquiry 128

Makita machines give Glendale fuel saving

National green services provider Glendale has cut operational fuel consumption by 20% by switching to Makita’s 4-stroke blowers, line-trimmers and pole hedge trimmers.

Mark McKinnon, Glendale’s company engineer, said: “The 20% fuel saving has been recorded in comparison to 2stroke machines in the same arduous working locations. Oil costs have reduced by 78%.”

The majority of Glendale’s business is centred on fixed term contracts and so improving operating efficiency is central to successful service delivery.

129

Dennis G860 tops groundsman’s wish list

A recent change of ownership at Charlton Athletic FC means that Christmas has come early for head groundsman Nathan Chapman.

After the new owners revealed their intentions of a significant investment at the stadium and also in the turf maintenance machinery, Nathan was asked to compile a machinery wish list.

At the top of his list were two Dennis G860 mowers complete with a range of interchangeable cassettes. “They are very lightweight, you can brush, you

can scarify, you can verti-cut; you can pretty much do everything with just one power source,” he explained. The G860’s also stripe the pitch perfectly for presentation.”

With an interchangeable cassette system including scarifiers, verticutters, brushes, spikers and slitters as well as 6 or 8 bladed cutter cassettes, the mower provides a significant amount of versatility.

Makita Enquiry

Dennis Enquiry 130

ShockWave scores top marks at Glasgow High

Since introducing the Imants ShockWave aerator to his maintenance programme, head groundsman at Glasgow High School David Miller has not had to cancel a single rugby match through water-logging.

David is responsible for five natural grass pitches at the prestigious Glasgow High School where the predominant sport is rugby.

Following a demonstration arranged through local Campey Turf Care dealer Double A, David had no hesitation in buying the machine.

The Imants ShockWave is a linear decompactor designed to remove surface water and revitalise heavy wear areas by relieving soil compaction, improving aeration and removing

surface water. The blade action has a unique double function; it slices through the soil profile creating a slit while at the same time pushing the soil from left to right as it travels.

New zero-turn mower handles toughest conditions

John Deere has enhanced its commercial mower line-up with the launch of the new ZTrak Z997R, the biggest model in the zero-turn range.

Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 132

This machine offers users a powerful zero-turn option that will maximise acres mowed per hour, without skimping on operator comfort and cut quality.

It is designed to excel in the toughest mowing conditions, while providing the fuel economy and durability commercial customers value.

The Z997R features a 37.4hp Stage 4 diesel engine, and provides a workhorse solution for customers needing a large zero-turn mower to work in all conditions, including tall and wet grass.

The mower is available with a choice of 1.5 or 1.8m (60 or 72in) 7-Iron PRO side discharge rotary decks, or a 1.5m (60in) 7-gauge steel fabricated rear discharge deck.

John Deere Enquiry 133

Wiedenmann Terra Spike guests at wedding

Three years on from their purchase of a Wiedenmann Terra Spike XD 8, the team at York race course couldn’t be more delighted with its output, agility and coverage. In fact so delighted – it got an invitation to the boss’s wedding in February.

Course manager, Adrian Kay said: “We wanted a new aerator that would work comfortably at 275 mm. We factored in ten hectares of race track and couple of hectares of lawn area so it pointed to something both deep and quick. We needed it to be at least two metres wide hence the XD 8

virtually picked itself and it’s as good now as the day it arrived.

Adrian Kay, who worked previously at Aintree before coming to York in 2006 is well acquainted with Terra Spikes, using two models at the Liverpool course. So it was entirely appropriate that at his own wedding in February to his wife, Nicola he had his photographs taken on York’s fine lawns with his trusted XD 8 and its tractor in the background.

Wiedenmann Enquiry 134

Three machines in one from Etesia

The Etesia Hydro 124 and Hydro 144 models, which are available with high-tip, ground tip or fourwheel-drive options are living proof you can have three machines in one working all-year round for you.

One minute they can be the best cut and collect ride-on mowers on the market, the next it they be a scarifier for use in sportsturf, parkland and amenity areas.

The scarifier attachment means that your investment goes a long way in dealing with a whole range of tasks - for which you would usually need to buy and store several machines.

Debris can be collected in just one pass and working depths are variable. The units can also be lifted for transport between sites or retracted for passing through narrow entrances.

Other attachments are available such as mulching decks, deflectors, blowers, spreader, sweepers and snow blades making these models a 365-daysa-year workhorse for the maintenance of amenity turf, golf courses, parkland and large gardens.

Etesia Enquiry 137

School chooses SISIS TM1000 for renovations

Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Shrewsbury School, one of the country’s leading independent schools, has recently purchased a new SISIS Rotorake TM1000 complete with a range of interchangeable reels to complete end of season renovations.

The new machine, which was delivered by Jim Clarke

Kilworth Machinery introduces remote control mowers

Kilworth Machinery has signed up as sole UK importers of the MDB range of remote controlled mowers.

Two models have been introduced, the Green Climber 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 and 50HP versions with Yanmar 4 cylinder diesel engines providing the power. 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 can be mounted on the Green Climber. 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.

139

Machinery, will be used by Andy and his team of grounds staff on not just the football, rugby and lacrosse pitches for end of season renovations but also the cricket wickets.

The SISIS Rotorake TM1000 is a tractor mounted heavy duty scarifier and linear aerator which removes and controls thatch on fine and other quality turf.

“We are starting our autumn renovations on our cricket squares and have decided to fraise mow the surface to remove the organic matter. To do this we’ve been using the SISIS TM1000 with the fraise mowing reel,” said Andy.

“We will also use it on our lacrosse pitch and our rugby pitch to verticut and thin out unwanted

growth and not only do we fraise mow our cricket squares but we also scarify our junior squares. All of this is possible with the TM1000 because of the new interchangeable reels; meaning one machine can carry out a number of different jobs.”

Kilworth Machinery Enquiry

New improved TYM tractor arrives at Lely UK

Lely UK has introduced the new T754 to its extensive line-up of TYM tractors available in the UK.

With a 74hp industry-leading Deutz engine and improved emissions standards, the T754 offers enhanced performance and engineering excellence.

Suitable for a wide range of markets, from golf and fine turf, groundscare and landscaping to schools, colleges and small holdings, this heavy-duty vehicle has a solid chassis and a spacious, fully air-conditioned cabin, ensuring all-round comfort.

Lely’s national sales manager Jeff Anguige explains more about the new tractor’s key benefits: “The T754 is a great addition to our range of TYM tractors here at Lely. The chassis is the same size as our 60hp models, but has a

larger horsepower and a hitch capacity of 2,327kg. Emission standards are also greatly improved on this model, with the T754 meeting Tier 4.”

Other features include a dual air cleaner, an intuitive digital instrument panel and a position/draft control and onetouch PTO on/off control.

Now available for delivery, the new model has been building up interest among greenkeepers, groundsmen, contractors and landscapers alike since it went on show at last year’s Turfcare Live event, run by Lely.

Offering customers and prospective buyers the chance to see all the latest turf maintenance equipment distributed by Lely –including Toro, Otterbine and TYM – Turfcare Live visitors were able to test drive the T754

and gain valuable advice on operating techniques from Lely’s experts.

“Since the event, we’ve seen enquiries ranging from small holdings, landscape contractors and hire companies, right the way though to golf and racecourses needing to aerate large areas,” says Jeff.

The T754’s tyres can be ordered to spec, with options including turf, industrial and agricultural (pictured).

Lely’s comprehensive range of TYM tractors, including the T754, is available for free demonstration, offering buyers full evaluation of the product at their own site conditions before purchase.

Lely UK Enquiry 143

New distributor for backpack spraying

The new high quality Guarany backpack spraying range has been recently introduced with Professional Sprayers People (part of the Spray People Group) appointed as the UK’s exclusive distributor.

Primary products include professional backpack spraying

equipment which includes a wide variety of booms, nozzles, flow regulators and lance extensions. This wide range of options means that these sprayers are suitable for all types of spraying.

Many innovative Guarany products are now available in the UK for the first time - for

example, backpack dust applicators, for applying powdered products, knapsack granule applicators and spreaders along with motorised nebulisers.

Professional Sprayers People Enquiry 142

Effective turf rejuvenation with the Eliet overseeder

PSD Groundscare is the exclusive distributor for the Eliet range of products throughout the UK. The DZC 600 overseeder from Eliet makes high tech overseeding possible at an affordable price. It renovates tired and thin turf in no time at all by adding new grass to the existing turf and is even ideal for refurbishing smaller areas that have heavy use, such as football goal areas.

The DZC 600 is simple, takes little time and guarantees a visible result in less than a month.

PSD Groundscare Enquiry 144

STM announce high-end domestic mower from SCAG

To

Zero-Turn

with a fabricated and welded deck, hydro transaxles, ground speed up to 7mph and a 3-year / 500 hour [non-commercial use] warranty.

As regards the machine in use, the operating position is excellent, due to a combination of comfortable high-back seat with lumbar support and adjustable height operating levers.

As well as being comfortably positioned, the operator has no trouble changing the deck cutting height from the driving seat –from 35mm to 155mm in 6mm increments.

Tullet Machinery Enquiry 147

Polaris sponsors the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation

Utility ATVs and UTVs from Polaris’ extensive range are popular workhorses for keepers, and now with this new partnership arrangement, NGO members

have Polaris expertise on tap at a variety of shows, open days, and other NGO events across England and Wales.

Polaris is the world leader in ATVs, the Polaris Sportsman being one of the best-selling ATVs of all time. As the All-Terrain specialist, the company also offers the widest range of UTVs with the Ranger Diesel 1000 and six-seater, Ranger Diesel 1000 Crew featuring as working and sporting vehicles for outdoor and

recreational pursuits, especially keepering and shooting.

“We

many of our customers. We look forward to a long and prosperous partnership for all.”

Tracmaster launches compact CAMON aerator

Designed and manufactured at Tracmaster’s UK-based headquarter, the new CAMON LA25 lawn aerator builds on the success of the LA20, but is a more compact machine with faster operation.

Ideal for removing sub-surface thatch and relieving compaction on a lawn, the CAMON LA25 aerator is built to Tracmaster’s exacting standards, ensuring it delivers a high level of performance and has the ability to survive the rigours of a professional working environment.

At only 66cm (26”) wide, the streamline CAMON LA25 aerator fits easily through all garden gates and is fitted with

foam-filled tyres to eliminate punctures and to reduce tread marks on the lawn.

An added advantage of the LA25 is that it is supplied with both hollow corer tines and solid spikes as standard, while the ‘offset’ crank operating system allows the power of the engine to punch the tines deep into the ground, resulting in perfect aeration. Another convenient feature is that the tines are located at the rear of the machine, ensuring they are easy to access and can be changed in less than 5 minutes.

Tracmaster Enquiry 148

Simon

Gamekeeper’s Organisation,” says Sarah Johnson, Polaris Marketing Specialist. “As a main sponsor there

Polaris Enquiry 149

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

MAY 2015

Landscape Amenity

PRODUCT UPDATE

Koro FTM proves radical solution for the Vipers

New website highlights quality products

Agronomic Services Ltd has unveiled a new website to help with its aim of providing sports turf professionals and growers with the tools to create the best playing surfaces and the strongest healthiest plants.

The company supplies foliar nutrition, quality liquid fertilisers, oxygen products, soil

conditioners, micronutrients, nutrients, bio stimulants, turf strengtheners and wetting agents, as well as a full range of organic and synthetic fertilisers. The new website provides an interactive resource and showcases the full range of products available.

Agronomic Services Ltd Enquiry 167

The Koro by

Top Maker (FTM)

Turf Care Systems has played a major role in the renovation of the Vipers Rugby Football Club training pitch, at Whetstone, Leicester.

Ian Reid, owner of Matchfit Sportsturf, a Leicestershire contractor working with the Vipers, set the Koro FTM fitted

with the Universe rotor to not only remove organic matter from the pitch surface (another cause of poor surface drainage) but also to restore the surface levels by Koro-ing off the entire surface in one pass.

“The beauty of the Koro FTM fitted with the Universe rotor is in its versatility and effectiveness over its full working width,

allowing a single pass operation,” he said. “The Koro FTM with Universe Rotor may appear a radical approach, but a few weeks later, when the grass has regrown and the pitch is effectively re-born - it’s amazing.”

Good surface hygiene is the key to eliminating the spread of poa annua. The success of the Koro FTM has been built on this

premise. Alongside the Universe Rotor is the new Terraplane which uses carbide tipped blades on the rotor to remove organic build-up. This leaves the top surface not only more hygienic than ever before, but crucially more durable.

Campey Turf Care Systems Enquiry 166

Imants Field

from Campey