FP McCann has successfully completed the installation of a new 14,500m2 3G sports pitch at Lough Moss Leisure Centre in Carryduff, County Down.

The design and build elements of the project included: Fencing (including ball catch netting) and foundations; Floodlighting columns and foundations; 3G carpet and shockpad; street furniture foundations; culvert replacement/repairs; and a retaining wall.

Meanwhile, there was an existing culvert under the existing pitches that required a section to be relaid. These works commenced in August 2023 and on completion of this element, FP McCann prepared a report and issued it to the statutory body for review and approval in advance of the pitch works being permitted to commence. The drainage works utilised FP McCann precast pipes and a headwall.

The new 3G pitch was to replace an existing MUGA pitch and an adjacent grass pitch. The existing MUGA carpet and shockpad was removed then recycled and the existing bituminous base was excavated then recycled for reuse on the project. 

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The old floodlighting and fencing were also removed and the topsoil was stripped from the adjoining grass pitch.

FP McCann completed the earthworks cut and fill operations across the area maximising the reuse of existing materials. They then installed the storm drainage incorporating PVC pipes, FP McCann precast pipes and manholes, as well as the installation of a drainage attenuation tank.

Floodlight foundations and associated ducting were installed prior to the erection of the 18m masts and associated floodlights.

A range of 1.2m, 6m and 15m high fencing was installed throughout the facility with areas off the pitch and adjacent footpaths kerbed and resurfaced with bituminous surfacing. The 3G pitch carpet and shockpad were laid on a prepared stone subbase.

The facility was complemented with a range of team shelters and goal posts to accommodate a variety of users.

Also, due to the anticipated increased use of the facility, the existing car parking was required to be in increased. 

These works included a new coach bay being added and 17 additional spaces. The coach park area included reconfiguring an existing area and was completed in asphalt surfacing. 

The additional carpark area was constructed utilising a permeable paving system (SUDS).

FP McCann engaged with the local community during the project and ensured minimal impact on the weekly Lough Moss junior parkrun through continual communication on logistics with event representatives.

The company also held The Big Bridge Workshop event at Carryduff Primary School in November 2023 and at St Joseph’s Primary School, Carryduff, in October 2024.

The contractors also donated surplus topsoil to the Lough Moss Community Garden for new raised beds in January 2024 and operated a Swap Box next to the site office in June 2024.

Finally, FP McCann achieved 'Compliance' with the project's Social Value Targets and an ‘Excellent’ score for Considerate Constructors Scheme.