Key Facts:

  • Pitch reconstruction
  • 3G hybrid pitch
  • Drainage and irrigation installation

Project Summary

EFL Championship club West Bromwich Albion FC appointed Carrick to reconstruct one of the pitches at their training ground.  This included replacement of the existing natural turf pitch with a new 3G hybrid pitch. Construction began after the 2023/2024 season came to an end.

The objective was to improve the standard of playing surface to aid the grounds team with maintenance, and for the players to have a high-quality surface to train on regularly. The switch to a hybrid surface provides access to a more resilient pitch, able to withstand increased hours of wear – perfect for a training facility.

The challenges

Weather and time pressures present challenges to for all projects, particularly when balancing the needs of a professional club. This means effective communication is required throughout.

To ease pressure on logistics, a compound for site access needed to be established in the car park adjacent prior to work commencing.

grass being stripped off at West Brom training ground

The solution

The compound meant materials could be removed easily and delivered without causing disturbance to the surrounding area.

The formation surface was trimmed and graded, which allowed for the pitch profile to be established, and a geotextile membrane installed to protect the ground, followed by a 125ml gravel drainage raft.

We supplied and installed a new drainage and irrigation system to prevent waterlogging of the pitch which can cause the playing surface to become uneven.

This was followed by final surface grading, seeding and soil amendments throughout construction.

The 3G artificial surface was installed with a concrete kerb surrounding to increase stability of the surface, and we began seeding. Three weeks later, the hybrid system was complete and ready for final surface grading.

sand being spread and levelled on pitch

The results

West Bromwich Albion FC have an elite level pitch to train on throughout the season, without the concerns about waterlogging disrupting play in any way.

Carrick has carried out annual renovation works on the site, and we hope to continue to work alongside West Bromwich Albion in the future.

The build was completed within six weeks, ready for the 2024/2025 season to kick off.

completed hybrid pitch at west brom

‘Getting the pitch done allows us to not worry when it rains, and training is available on both pitches. It’s been excellent, and I can’t fault anyone who’s worked on the project. You’ve done brilliant’

Jim Bunting, Head Groundsman WBA

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