Despite intense in-house efforts to alleviate severe compaction issues on one of the pitches at Hove Prep School in Sussex, the decision was made to embark on a complete renovation. Grounds and Gardens Manager Adam Bedson sought the expertise of AMS Contracting Ltd, impressed by their outstanding customer service and demonstrated capability to meet the required standards. AMS not only fulfilled expectations but also left the school and students highly satisfied with the results.
As part of Lancing College, Hove Prep School faces constant use of its sports facilities throughout the year. Adam Bedson, who joined the college in 2019, explains, “Years of overuse had led to severe compaction problems that became almost impossible to recover.” In their quest for a solution, the school hired equipment that proved ineffective. Adam turned to AMS Contracting Ltd, where Ashley and Myles Strange provided immediate assurance. Adam recalls, “The level of care and knowledge shown definitely helped to secure the funding we needed to get the project underway in the summer of 2023.”
The comprehensive pitch renovation encompassed surface removal, soil profile enhancement, laser-leveling, seeding, and a nutritional program. A team of four operatives, under the guidance of Ashley and Myles, worked tirelessly from sunrise to early evening, ensuring the project’s completion within the available timeframe. Adam appreciates the team’s commitment, stating, “We felt in safe hands every step of the way.”
The results of the renovation were swift and impressive. “Within seven days, we went from a sandy field to seeing the green hue of germination,” notes Adam. The pitch, nurtured to full strength and coverage, is now enjoyed by the pupils. The enhanced drainage capability became evident during the wet winter, with the pitch becoming playable within an hour of rain cessation, a marked improvement.
Adam expresses satisfaction, stating, “The success of this project signals the start of a fantastic partnership between ourselves and AMS Contracting, and we’re already in touch with the team about what’s next!”