Hosting a concert or a large scale event on a football pitch is an exciting venture, but it’s vital to ensure the playing surface remains in top condition.
Here at The Box Group, we understand the importance of preserving your valuable pitch. Let’s explore effective strategies to safeguard your pitch while delivering an unforgettable event experience.
1) Shield Your Pitch with a Protective Flooring System
The cornerstone of pitch protection is a temporary protective layer. Several options exist, each with its unique advantages:
- Heavy-Duty Ground Protection Systems: These interlocking tiles or mats, such as Stadia XHD, are purpose-built for large events. They offer a robust and even surface while shielding the grass from foot traffic and heavy equipment.
- Temporary Flooring: This can range from durable plastic panels to “Aluminium panels” systems. Prioritise flooring that allows light, air, and water to sustain the grass below in areas where it is safe. Event coverage for 5-7 days is possible, with the grass returning to good condition after the event.
- Trackway Systems: These heavy-duty systems are ideal for plant access routes, preventing damage from concentrated traffic and heavy vehicle movement.
2) Manage Audience Flow and Designated Zones
- Clear Zones: Clearly demarcate areas for the audience, stages, backstage, and vendor kiosks. This helps control movement and prevents overcrowding on specific pitch areas.
- Barrier Systems: Use crowd control barriers to guide audience flow and protect sensitive pitch areas.
- Strategic Stage Placement: Consider the stage’s weight and footprint, and position it thoughtfully to minimise stress on the pitch. Large concert stages weigh 500 tonnes to 750 tonnes and so need careful preparation to mitigate the down forces to a manageable load-bearing capacity
3) Minimise Equipment Impact
- Ground Mats: Use ground protection mats under heavy equipment like generators, lighting rigs, and sound systems.
- Limit Vehicle Access: Restrict vehicle access to the pitch and utilise appropriate trackway systems when necessary.
- Distribute Heavy Loads: Distribute heavy loads across a wider area using larger ground mats or platforms. Sometimes, multi-layering of panels is needed to achieve the goal in specific areas
4) Prepare for Weather Conditions
- Rain: Anticipate heavy rain with additional drainage solutions and waterproof covers for sensitive equipment.
- Sun: If the concert is during hot weather, prepare the pitch thoroughly beforehand and consider shading structures to protect it from excessive heat and sunlight.
5) Post-Concert Pitch Restoration
- Thorough Cleanup: Carefully and promptly remove all protective systems and equipment after the concert.
- Pitch Inspection: Conduct a detailed inspection of the pitch to identify any foreign objects or areas requiring attention.
- Remedial Action: Address any damage swiftly with aeration, seeding, fertilisation, or other appropriate measures. Take advice when needed from Grass experts.
Partner with the Experts
Collaborating with experienced professionals specialising in pitch protection and large-scale event management is crucial. At The Box Group, we can assist in selecting the appropriate protective systems, planning for contingencies, and ensuring the pitch is restored to its prime condition after the concert in conjunction with our partners.
Prioritise Sustainability
Consider the environmental impact of your event. Choose sustainable materials and practices whenever possible.
Why The Box Group for protecting your pitch?
Safeguarding your football pitch during a concert is achievable with careful planning and the right protective measures. At The Box Group, we’re committed to helping you deliver outstanding events while preserving your valuable assets. From heavy-duty driveable trackway and flooring to lightweight tent and 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 event’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.
Remember: By implementing these strategies, you can confidently host a memorable concert without compromising the integrity of your pitch.
Let’s make your event a success!
