Athletics Track Update

Dear Barn Elms User

We are sorry to report that our new running track will not be completed this year. 

After a fast start to the project with the old track removed, drainage works completed, shot put area renovated, and new base installed over the entire area on schedule, our contractor encountered delays meaning work did not start in the anticipated time period.  We have now run into a period of unsettled weather, meaning that our contractors are unable to commence work over the coming winter months.

An explanation from our contractors are below:

To All Facility Users

We regret to advise that the laying of the track during wet or cold weather will be detrimental to the finished surface and could lead to delamination of the surface layers. In agreement with all parties, we have therefore taken the difficult decision to cease further construction works until Spring 2024.

We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused, but hopefully you will appreciate that the finished quality of the project is our primary objective. We look forward to recommencing works as soon as conditions improve, and to providing users with a top class athletics facility.

Mark Davis

Commercial Director, Bernhards Sports Surfaces

Next Steps

The track will re-open in it’s current state (a surface similar to a road, without line markings) for public use from 23 October 2023 until 28 February 2024. During this time, individual, non-commercial use will not be charged, although you can make a donation to the project costs if you wish.

The stadium football pitch will re-open for bookings from 23 October 2024 until 28 February 2024. 

The track will then close again from 1 March 2024 with an update on the opening schedule to be planned around that time.

Needless to say we are extremely disappointed by this outcome and it’s impact on our facilities, most notably depriving us of our best football pitch for 4 months of the season, curtailing the summer athletics use, and preventing all users from enjoying the new track before next summer.

We are currently pushing for a new committed timeline from the contractor and will advise as soon as we have one.  Our next meeting will be in February 2024, but in the meantime we can only offer our apologies for this delay.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding 

Simon Heffernan

General Manager, Barn Elms Sports Trust