Winter weather can wreak havoc on outdoor events. Soft ground, frost, snow and rain can damage the venue, disrupt event setup, and inconvenience attendees. By implementing proper ground protection measures, you can safeguard your event and ensure a successful outcome, even in the most challenging conditions.
To help event producers and venue managers navigate the challenges of winter weather, we’ve compiled essential advice on ground protection solutions.
How have trackway systems adapted to increasingly unpredictable weather?
Historically, major events have mitigated weather risks by investing in comprehensive trackway solutions across their sites. However, recent years have seen a significant surge in demand. This trend extends beyond major events, with most outdoor events now incorporating some level of trackway provision. While it might seem like an unnecessary expense, the consequences of inadequate trackway can be severe, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
To address this challenge, a growing range of cost-effective, lightweight trackway systems has emerged. These systems can be easily deployed by event crews, offering flexibility to adapt to changing weather conditions and site requirements.
To what extent is climate change contributing to how organisers plan their events?
Event organisers are increasingly cautious about the potential impact of rain, recognising that wet conditions can disrupt event operations at any stage. Additionally, milder temperatures have encouraged the organisation of more outdoor events during off-peak seasons.
As environmental consciousness grows, event organisers are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. By speaking with our team, businesses can quantify the environmental benefits of using our services compared to traditional site access methods.
How/has the industry adapted to wintertime projects?
Recent years have seen a surge in the number, scale, and complexity of autumn and winter events. This includes occasions like Halloween, Bonfire Night, Oktoberfest, Christmas Markets, and New Year’s celebrations. While the core products and services offered for temporary access solutions remain consistent with summer events, the increasing demand presents new challenges and opportunities.
Are clients and suppliers now planning for year-round adverse weather conditions, regardless of the season?
The traditional distinction between winter and summer events is becoming less pronounced. We’ve noticed a significant increase in year-round demand for our services, as clients prioritise weather resilience for their events..
What are the latest trackway systems available in terms of lightweight and heavy-duty solutions for winter events?
We’ve expanded our portfolio with two innovative products: the AmP panel, our 3m aluminium access panel, and Stadia XHD, a rapid install, hand-laid ground protection solution for pedestrian through to heavy weight vehicle traffic. Both systems can support up to a 12.5 tonne axle weight and 150- 180,000kg per m2
How can The Box Group’s temporary access solutions help event organisers with their commitment to preserve green spaces year-round?
Our trackway systems enable event organisers and venues to eliminate the financial and environmental liabilities associated with land restoration. Nevertheless, the successful implementation of trackway access and ground protection also depends upon robust on-site traffic and crowd management strategies, particularly in challenging weather conditions.
Consider the below examples using our AmP aluminium panel system and Stadia XHD in comparison to aggregate or stone:
|
Aggregate / Stone |
AmP Panel system |
Stadia XHD / HDXL |
|
4,285kg of aggregate required to cover 7.35sqm Aggregate is laid at a depth of 250mm |
Single trackway panel (104kg) covers 3.45 sqm of ground |
Single full panel (30kg Stadia XHD or 36kg Stadia XHDXL) covers 1.4 sqm of ground |
|
22.14 tonnes (38 sqm) of aggregate transported on one vehicle |
20.8 tonnes / 250 panels (690 sqm) AmP panels transported on one vehicle (40ft truck) or 180 panels (621 sqm) Hi Cube container |
25.97 tonnes / 867 panels (1200 sqm) Stadia XHD panels or 26 tonnes / 722 panels (1011 sqm) Stadia XHD XL transported on one vehicle (40ft truck/Hi Cube container) |
(figures are based on a max cargo weight of 26 tonnes)
By choosing portable trackway solutions over aggregate or stone road, you could save on money and time. You can read more here about our easy to install trackway and ground protection systems.
Our friendly team are always happy to advise and help you decide. From heavy-duty driveable trackway and flooring to lightweight temporary structure flooring, pedestrian walkways, and staging areas, The Box Group has over 20 years technical expertise to ensure we supply the most suitable, timely, and cost-effective solution to every operation’s unique requirements. Contact us today on +44 (0) 203 286 7463 or email hello@theboxgrp.com to explore how we can support your next project.
