CONSTRUCTION is underway on a new £1.46 million 3G synthetic sports pitch at Clickimin Leisure Complex in Lerwick.
Glasgow-based Allsports Construction and Maintenance is leading the work, with it expected to last for around four months and will see the site’s existing grass rugby pitch removed and replaced with the synthetic grass playing surface, which will include an engineered sub-base and pre-formed shockpad.
With rubber crumb due to be phased out across Europe by October 2031, the pitch will use an organic infill material made from the cob of sweetcorn. Shetland Island Council, which is leading the project, explained that the material was chosen for a number of reasons – including its resistance to weathering and drainage properties. The pitch will be the first full-sized surface in Scotland to utilise the French-produced material.
The local authority added that the pitch will allow for year-round use, with it offering a more consistent playing surface and ball bounce when compared to a grass pitched, as well as enhanced player safety due to improved shock absorption and the absence of worn areas.
As a result, a longer playing season and availability of the pitch in ‘almost all weather conditions’ is expected to support the future growth of local football and rugby clubs for adults and juniors, the council said.
Davie Sandison, chair of Shetland Island Council’s education and families committee, said, “I’m pleased to see the construction work get underway on this pitch, which will be an asset for the community for many years to come. This outdoor synthetic pitch will help to overcome the challenges of our frequently inclement weather, and extend the playing season in the darker months. People of all ages will be able to enjoy competition and recreation, keeping folk physically more active, more often, contributing to better health in our community. I look forward to seeing the new pitch open later this summer.”
