SRC to Get Artificial Turfs by July 2014

Artificial fields expected to improve fields’ conditions, and will be ready in September 2014.

By Ng Jian Yang

The grass will finally be greener on this side, once the upgrading of both fields at the Sports and Recreation Centre (SRC) are completed in September next year.

Both the main and multipurpose fields at the lower level of the SRC will be laid with artificial turfs, replacing the natural grass, and is estimated to cost about $2 million.

Renovation works for the fields will be staggered so as to minimise inconvenience for users, especially sportsmen. Work on the main field is slated to commence in mid-September and expected to be completed by December.

Upgrading of the multipurpose field will be delayed until after the reopening of the main field and the completion of the NTU Sports Inter-Hall Games. It will span from January to September next year.

According to SRC officials, use of the current grass fields after heavy rain is prohibited due to safety concerns and their muddy condition. The installation of artificial turfs is expected to improve the field’s conditions, as artificial grass is more resistant to wear and tear, and dries up more quickly.

“As long as the rain stops and there is no lightning risk alert, [the SRC officials] will allow play to resume,” said Mr Yum Shoen Keng, Senior Assistant Director of Sports Facilities Management.

Mr Yum added: “With more than 10,000 students [in NTU], there is a very high demand for the use of the fields . Natural grass just can’t withstand the damage caused by continuous play.”

Ma Jia Hong, 22, a second-year student from the Nanyang Business School, said: “Though the renovations will take one semester, the wait is worth it as we will have a better field for many years to come.”