A new-build sports complex in Jersey is providing high-quality multi-sport facilities for the island’s community following the specification of over 2,400m2 Gerflor flooring and Gradus accessories throughout the development. The state-of-the-art centre has been designed to support a diverse range of sporting activities while creating an inclusive environment for users of all ages and abilities. By combining performance-driven sports flooring with durable supporting products, the facility is well-equipped to meet the demands of both competitive and recreational use.
Developed as part of the Government of Jersey’s Inspiring Active Places Strategy, Oakfield Sports Centre has been designed to support the transition of sports provision from Fort Regent, while accommodating a wide range of activities for schools, colleges, sports clubs and the wider community. Operated by Active Jersey, the facility is used by local schools and colleges alongside community groups and sports organisations.
At the heart of the development was a 2,000m² multi-court sports hall designed to accommodate badminton, netball, basketball, volleyball and indoor cricket and which would require a world class Olympic pedigree sustainable indoor sports vinyl surface. Supporting areas at the facility, including storage spaces and circulation areas, also required durable flooring solutions capable of performing under consistent daily use.
Chris Pursey, Gerflor Key Account Manager, added: “The specification for the sports centre came through Morris Architects which followed on from a successful Gerflor project at nearby Beaulieu Convent School with a similar specification. We were delighted to be given the opportunity to work again with the Architect on another iconic project in Jersey”
Meeting the Specification Challenge
The Oakfield Sports Centre project presented several key challenges. The main sports hall was significantly larger than a standard facility, requiring a flooring solution capable of delivering consistent performance across a substantial footprint.
In addition, the project was delivered within a demanding construction programme, placing pressure on installation timescales. The subfloor also incorporated a number of movement and expansion joints, requiring careful consideration to ensure long-term performance without compromising installation efficiency.
Working closely with Morris Architects, Gerflor provided a solution that addressed both the technical requirements of the project and the construction programme.
Gerflor’s Taraflex® Performance SL (Sustainable Looselay) was specified for the main sports hall. The innovative adhesive-free loose lay sports vinyl flooring system enabled a faster installation process while also accommodating the project-specific subfloor requirements.
In total, 2,000m² of Taraflex® Performance SL in Light Cherry was installed throughout the sports hall, providing a high-performance surface suitable for a wide range of sporting activities.
Peter Garforth, Director at Morris Architects, commented: “The hall featured a number of movement joints within the screed. The importance of tolerances and achieving an SR2 level was agreed with the contractors, which meant the Taraflex SL flooring could be laid over the screeded floor. This reduced downtime on site and ensured a faster installation to meet the project and client needs.”
Alongside the sports flooring specification, 400m² of Tarasafe Ultra safety vinyl flooring was also chosen for the stairways and ancillary areas. The product was selected to provide durable, slip-resistant performance in areas subject to moisture and high levels of footfall.
Installation and Technical Support
Installation of the flooring was carried out by MC Floors, a Jersey-based contractor experienced in sports flooring installations. Their specialist knowledge and attention to detail were instrumental in achieving a seamless installation across the various sports and support areas, helping to create a facility built for long-term performance.
The presence of movement and expansion joints within the subfloor represented one of the project’s primary technical considerations. The loose lay installation method of Taraflex® Performance SL provided a practical solution, enabling the floor to perform effectively while supporting programme requirements.
Malcolm Crowe, Managing Director at MC Floors, said: “The real challenge on the project was the expansion joints in the subfloor. Using Gerflor’s loose lay Taraflex SL flooring provided a practical solution and allowed us to complete the installation efficiently.”
The adhesive-free system also offers long-term flexibility, allowing the flooring to be removed or replaced or repurposed in the future without causing damage to the underlying substrate. This approach also helps to support circular economy principles by helping to reduce waste associated with refurbishment or new build projects.
Coordinated Flooring and Accessories Solution
In addition to the flooring specification, Gradus accessories were selected to provide safe movement throughout the building and deliver a coordinated finish across key transition points.
Products specified included:
- ADXT1R stair edgings with slip-resistant inserts to the main staircase
- ELAR950 transition trims between differing floor finishes
- SO75 flexible PVC skirting to the perimeter of the sports hall
Together, these products help support accessibility, safety and durability throughout the facility
Delivering a Facility for Long-Term Community Use
The completed Oakfield Sports Centre now provides Jersey with a flexible and modern sports facility capable of supporting a wide range of activities for schools, clubs and the wider community.
The combination of sports flooring, safety flooring and accessories has delivered a coordinated solution designed to withstand the demands of daily use while supporting long-term maintenance and operational requirements.
Barclay Harvey, Operations Manager for the States of Jersey, said: “We have a number of Gerflor products at other sporting locations in Jersey. We value the multi-use capabilities of their product, particularly in a facility of this scale where flexibility is essential. We are extremely pleased with the Gerflor sports and safety flooring as it meets our expectations and is delivering consistent performance in daily use.”
The Oakfield Sports Centre represents a significant investment in Jersey’s sporting infrastructure and will continue to support education, community participation and recreational sport for years to come.
Gerflor products overview specified for Oakfield Sports Centre
Gerflor company overview
Gerflor is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior flooring solutions, including vinyl, linoleum, carpets, and rubber. Gerflor innovations help to create attractive and functional environments, as well as enhance and protect a range of sports and fitness interiors. Gerflor solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gerflor works in partnership with the sports, education, and fitness sectors to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.
Taraflex® Performance SL
Taraflex® Performance SL is a high-performance indoor sports flooring solution designed for multi-use sports environments. Its adhesive-free loose lay installation system supports faster installation while providing excellent durability and long-term flexibility. Suitable for both new-build and refurbishment projects, the product is widely specified across education, leisure and community sports facilities.
Tarasafe Ultra
Tarasafe Ultra is a slip-resistant vinyl safety flooring designed for areas subject to heavy footfall and potential contamination from water or other substances. Combining durability, ease of maintenance and long-term slip resistance, it is well suited to changing rooms, circulation spaces and other demanding environments.
Gradus products specified for the Oakfield Sports Centre
Gradus company overview
Gradus is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior solutions, including stair edgings, floor trims, barrier matting, lighting, and wall protection. Gradus innovations help to ensure that buildings are safe and accessible, whilst also providing inclusive environments for all users. Gradus products enhance safety, aesthetics, and sustainability in sports facilities and across other fitness spaces.
ADXT1R Stair Edgings
ADXT1R stair edgings provide a defined, slip-resistant leading edge to improve stair safety in high-traffic environments.
ELAR950 Transition Trim
ELAR950 is a heavy-duty transition profile designed to provide a safe and durable connection between differing floor finishes.
SO75 Flexible PVC Skirting
SO75 flexible PVC skirting provides a durable perimeter finish while supporting ease of cleaning and maintenance.
Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest flooring innovations.
Learn more about Gradus solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing imail@gradus.com, or visiting gradus.com for the latest barrier matting, wall protection, lighting, and flooring accessory innovations.