The Weir 3G Indoor Hall 

State-of-the-Art 3G Facility in Largs: High-Quality Sports Surface Meets Sustainable Innovation.

SportScotland appointed SPACE&PLACE (S&P) to design a covered 3G synthetic pitch at their Inverclyde premises in Largs. The facility features a flexible layout adaptable to a 66m by 44m seven-a-side pitch or three five-a-side pitches. The 3G surface meets FIFA 2 Star requirements, ensuring high-quality performance for players.

The building is enclosed with a tensile fabric draped over a lightweight steel structure. This semi-translucent covering allows natural daylight to illuminate the playing area, reducing the need for artificial lighting and lowering the building’s carbon footprint. The lightweight tubular truss structure offers a clear height of over 11 meters, enhancing the sense of space and openness.

Amenities include 30 car parking spaces, restrooms, showers, and changing benches. Accessibility was a key consideration, with disabled parking bays close to the front entrance and level access throughout the building. Shower and WC facilities are equipped for both disabled and ambulant users.

Results

Challenges during the project included managing risks associated with contaminated land, such as knotweed and asbestos. To address these issues, the facility was designed with robust specifications to endure the coastal marine environment. Furthermore, the high-standard 3G turf underwent rigorous testing and achieved FIFA 2 Star certification, in line with the latest FIFA Quality Pro standards. Moreover, close collaboration with SportScotland, the Scottish Football Association (SFA), local sports groups, as well as schools was essential to ensure the project met diverse community needs and expectations.

June 2014