Case Study: Horsendale Primary School – 2G MUGA Surface Replacement, Nottingham
- Absolute Play
- Feb 28
- 2 min read
📌 Project snapshot
Sector: Education
Age range served: KS1 - KS2
Key project drivers: Replace a worn and failing artificial sports surface with a new, cost-effective 2G pitch that would restore usability and provide a durable facility suitable for modern school sport.
Equipment type: Existing MUGA retained and upgraded with new sports surfacing.
Surfacing: 10mm sand-filled 2G artificial sports turf with line markings.
Budget: £50k

Project summary - MUGA Surface Replacement
Absolute Play completed a full surface replacement of the existing Multi Use Games Area at Horsendale Primary School, transforming a tired and worn pitch into a vibrant and fully functional sports facility.
The installation of a new 700m2 2G artificial sports surface has restored the area, providing a safe and durable environment for football and general sports use.
The brief
The school’s existing 2G MUGA pitch had deteriorated significantly over time and was no longer providing a suitable playing surface.
The school required:
A cost-effective upgrade solution
Replacement of the failing sports surface
Improved safety and performance
Long-term durability
Minimal ongoing maintenance
The aim was to make the facility fit for use by a new generation of pupils.
Our solution
Our solution focused on replacing the sports surface while retaining the existing MUGA structure, providing maximum value for the available budget. The old surfacing was fully removed and replaced with a new sand-filled artificial sports turf surface installed over a newly prepared sub-base.
Key features
New 2G artificial sports surface
New stone sub-base and regulating layer
New football pitch line markings
Reinstated and improved edging detail
Full removal and disposal of old surfacing

Design Approach
The design prioritised cost-effectiveness, durability and performance.
By upgrading the surfacing rather than replacing the entire MUGA structure, the school was able to achieve a complete transformation while keeping costs under control.
The new surface provides improved playing performance while ensuring long-term usability.
Materials & surfacing
A premium 2G sand-filled artificial sports turf was installed, providing a durable and reliable sports surface suitable for football and general play.
This offers:
Excellent durability
Low maintenance requirements
All-weather usability
Consistent playing performance
A new compacted stone sub-base was installed to ensure long-term structural stability.

Installation
The project involved removal of approximately 700m² of existing sports surfacing, preparation of a new sub-base and installation of the new artificial sports surface.
Edging was reinstated and new football line markings were applied to complete the pitch.
Despite challenging site access, the works were delivered efficiently. One short paragraph - if there was any particularly hard or challenging
Anything worth noting about access, phasing, school hours, or site constraints.
The outcome
The completed surface has completely revitalised the school’s MUGA facility.
Pupils now benefit from a safe, modern and engaging sports pitch that will support PE lessons and play for many years.
This project demonstrates how replacing sports surfacing can extend the life of existing facilities and deliver excellent value.
Looking to create something similar?
Replacing worn artificial sports surfaces is one of the most cost-effective ways to upgrade your sports facilities.
If your MUGA is showing signs of wear, our team would be happy to help.




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