A positive impact on
members, both old and new
With a goal to enhance their scholarship and
professional services, the University of Kent
devised a strategy to expand and modernise
facilities. Sport was certainly no exception. Despite sport-specific specialisation, the new
facility would also need the versatility to
accommodate other sports during exam season,
and whenever the main facility was out of action.
Kent Sport had been managing sports facilities at
the University of Kent since their initial multi-use
sports hall was constructed back in the 6o’s. But,
with student numbers growing, the demand for
sports space had dramatically increased. So, the brief was decided. Kent Sport did their
research and soon found that by opting for a clear
span tensile membrane structure, they would
get far more for their money in comparison to a
traditional build.
Not only was the existing facility needed for all
sports, it was block booked for six weeks at a time
during exam season, leaving teams and players
frustrated.
The conclusion? Facilities were quickly earmarked
for expansion.
The project was significant. Particularly in demand
was indoor space for tennis and netball—existing
facilities for these sports were outdoors and,
given the relentless wet weather the previous
year, it was decided members should be offered a
dedicated centre for tennis and netball.
collinson.co.uk
Several manufacturers were contacted. Quotes
and designs were scrutinised to ensure they
gave best value for money, within budget without
compromising on quality.
After careful scrutiny, a Challenger™ facility
by Lancashire-based family firm Collinson was
chosen. Their proven track record in designing and
delivering quality sports facilities convinced Kent
Sport that a Collinson facility was the high quality
product they needed.
With everything in place, a loan from the
University of Kent was secured and build could
commence.