NORTH BRISTOL RUGBY CLUB – THE OAKLANDS

McArdle Sport Tec are delighted to build another ‘RFU Rugby 365 programme’ World Rugby Regulation 22 3G pitch.

North Bristol RFC held the official opening of their new Rugby 365 pitch on Saturday 15th September. Working with partners TigerTurf, McArdle were delighted to install the new World Rugby Regulation 22 facilities for the club based at the Oaklands in Almondsbury.

Founded in 1993, North Bristol RFC approached the Rugby Football Union (RFU) for funding on the Rugby 365 artificial grass pitch (AGP) programme. The installation of the AGP helped resolve the club’s (and local community’s) problem with maintaining training sessions and hosting matches. The existing natural turf pitches could not withstand the vast number of rugby players especially during poor weather conditions.

The RFU’s main objective when installing artificial pitches is to sustain and grow participation in the game whilst overcoming increasing pressure on natural turf pitches, the impact of wetter winters resulting in postponed matches, changing player expectations and competition from other sports investing in artificial pitches.

North Bristol RFC director David Godfrey said:

“The pitch provides a playing surface which meets modern requirements and is a high-quality surface which will benefit both North Bristol RFC and the wider community as local clubs, schools and residents can hire it.

Not only will games go ahead when the grass pitches are waterlogged, but the amount of rugby which can be scheduled on the AGP means that the grass pitches will receive less wear and the club will be able to keep them in a better condition throughout the season.

We’re really excited to launch the facilities on the weekend. All the events are open to everyone and it is hoped that the local community will come to see the new facilities, meet some of the Bears players, and take part in what should be a fantastic weekend.”