Architect: Gillespies Landscape Architects
Sector: Recreational
Client: RFU (Rugby Football Union)
Contractor: FM Conway

THE RFU commissioned a site wide master plan study to inform the phased redevelopment of the concourse and surrounding car park areas. A key part of this redevelopment was the South Stand plaza, a significant area of public realm for accommodating the large crowds associated with match days and other major events.

Gillespies Landscape Architects specified the highly aesthetic yet functional Ultrapave flag paving for the front of the stadium, providing the aesthetic look of granite but at the fraction of the cost. Being reinforced, the paving allowed emergency vehicles to mount the pavement for all important access.

Woburn Rumbled block paving was also used to create complimentary delineation areas around tree pits and other features in the scheme. Within the car park area, over 8,000m2 of Infilta permeable block paving was used to drain surface water run-off away from pavement level.

The new plaza, stadium concourse and west car park encourages pedestrian movement whilst significantly improving visitor experience.