The Swedish municipality of Strängnäs recently had a supply and demand issue: So many athletes, so few usable playing fields.
The city’s existing synthetic turf pitch at Vasavallen was at full capacity, while its natural grass pitch at the Larslunda IP sports facility was in need of repair.
Polytan was tasked with converting the natural grass pitch into a synthetic turf pitch using its LigaTurf Legend Pro with sand/rubber infill.
To reduce the spread of infill, Polytan proposed ringing the pitch with synthetic turf instead of asphalt, which is standard at most sports fields. The synthetic turf on the non-playing surface helps retain any dislodged infill from the pitch, even during bad weather and snow removal. It also acts as snow storage during winter: When the snow melts, any displaced infill remains in the area. Besides this function it is also used as warm-up area for the athletes.
The pitch is outfitted with sluices, where players are encouraged to brush off any infill before exiting the area, as well as a drainage system for rainwater that protects against water settlement and frost damage. A collection chamber filters microplastics from the water before it is released into the natural environment.
An excellent example of Polytan’s commitment to and expertise in sustainable solutions, the LigaTurf Legend Pro at Larslunda IP is both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly thanks to its unique design and features.
With its 2,000 functional hours (compared to just 300 of natural grass), the synthetic turf has extended and improved the football season in Strängnäs. The pitch has been well received and is in steady use by the community, in particular the youth teams of the local IK Viljan club.
