Commenting on the project Tony Thorne, Gerflor Sales and Specification Manager, South Wales said, “The refurbishment of the school’s sports hall flooring was a proven example of how Gerflor’s Taraflex Evolution SL sports flooring was able to supply the ideal solution for the client, with the minimum of fuss and disruption to the schools’ day-to-day activities. Specifying the Taraflex SL sports floor covering also pressed a number of eco buttons which was high on the school’s agenda.”

From a sustainability perspective, the project incorporated the Taraflex Evolution SL product, a loose-lay flooring solution selected for its environmental benefits. By removing the need for adhesive, this option not only reduces the environmental impact but also allows the floor to be recycled at the end of its 25-year life cycle. Installed using double-sided tape, the floor can be easily removed, enabling minor repairs to the undercarriage before a new floor is laid. In contrast, using adhesives would have compromised the undercarriage, making Taraflex SL Sports Flooring the natural choice as a more sustainable and practical solution.

Delivering a solution that was both visually striking and highly practical for a demanding sports facility was a challenge expertly met by Cardiff-based Trefoil Interiors. Dan Townsend, Commercial Director at Trefoil Interiors said,” It was clear that there are very few products on the market that could meet the specific requirements for this education project. Due to time and cost constraints, a screed system simply wasn’t viable, With the Taraflex SL sports flooring solution and also with the exceptional support throughout the process from Tony Thorne at Gerflor, the end result would not have been possible, a successfully delivered fit for purpose sports floor for the school and the variety of its users.”

The Taraflex^® sports range of products continue to be a popular choice for community centres, sports, and leisure facilities, as well as education sports halls across the UK, Republic of Ireland and worldwide. Taraflex^® is the Name Under the Game… it’s where Champions Begin, Learn, Train, and Play.

When Headingley required a major refurbishment of their indoor cricket training facilities, the design team led by GCP Chartered Architects introduced Gerflor, the international flooring expert, to deliver the ideal sports floorcovering solution for this critical and much needed facility upgrade. Taraflex® Performance SL (Sustainable Looselay) Olympic pedigree sports flooring was specified on this iconic project. The renovation was completed ahead of the England vs India Test series to deliver performance, precision, and pace thanks to the innovative looselay solution, which reduced installation times and cost on site.

Commenting on the project, Wayne Andrews, Gerflor Key Account Manager for Sport and Education said, “This highly prestigious project came to us via The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and their longstanding advisor GCP Chartered Architects. The Taraflex Performance SL flooring that was installed was the natural choice for Headingley, as it is approved by the ECB and meets their rigorous requirements on performance. They were seeking a world class sports surface that would ensure players can perform at their best while staying protected.”

Taraflex Performance SL can withstand high impact ball bounce, support quick movement and repeated use, whilst keeping athletes safe and comfortable with all the benefits of:

• True and consistent ball bounce, essential for realistic play and skill development

• Excellent shock absorption, reducing stress on joints during batting, bowling, and fielding drills

• Durable and high-performance surface, built to handle intensive play and heavy use across all levels

To meet the stringent criteria set by both YCCC and the ECB, the installation of the new Taraflex® Performance SL vinyl sports floor needed to be both innovative and completed to a very high standard. Established in 2008, Durant Cricket specialises in the design, manufacture, and installation of cricket facilities including scoreboards, ground equipment, non-turf pitches, and netting systems.

All installations are carried out by their expert in-house team, managing projects from planning through to completion.

Cristian Durant, Owner, and Managing Director explained, “This project was delivered on behalf of Construction North Group Ltd CNG and GCP Chartered Architects. Our role focused on surfacing and safety within the stadium’s high-performance zones. The programme began with over 800 m² of sub-floor remediation, including extensive grinding and profiling to create an optimal base for new finishes. It was critical to get this stage right, ensuring the surfaces would perform to elite standards over time.”

Inside the indoor training facility, Durant installed 351 m² of ECB-approved Gerflor Taraflex® Performance SL in ‘Mint Green’, a durable and striking option for cricket training and was complemented with153 m² of ‘Clay’. Taraflex® Performance is also available as a fast track loose lay solution, and with it being specified in this format for the project, no adhesives were required on site, which simplified the process and significantly reduced installation time and cost.

Cristian Durant went on to add, “As a finishing touch, we marked out fresh crease lines, making the space fully compliant and match-prep ready. These upgrades don’t just modernise the space, they support a broader health and safety strategy by aligning with the latest ECB technical guidance.”

The colour scheme was developed by GCP Chartered Architects’ Matt Bonney with specialist input from YCCC coaching staff and the ECB. GCP Chartered Architects have worked with the ECB for over 15 years setting the standard for indoor training facilities, which include the development of design guidance. The goal with this project was to deliver the most inclusive flooring solution in the country.

This was achieved by testing the contrast of 17 colour options against the red, white, and pink ball and with consideration given to the three most common forms of colour-blindness. The testing process culminated with a site review at the Gloucestershire County Cricket Club Bristol Cricket Centre indoor training facility, also remodelled and refurbished by GCP in 2019, demonstrating performance under similar LED-ECB compliant lighting.

Matt Bonney, Project Architect and Sustainability Lead at GCP Chartered Architects, explained that “Health and safety are primary concerns for the ECB within indoor cricket centres. From considering LED light flicker to material reflectivity, being able to track a ball travelling at 90 mph is critical. Historically, players with red/green colour blindness have had difficulty picking up the red ball on a green floor. Through analysis of the Gerflor colour range we could ensure that the Headingley facility achieves the highest standards for all users.”

Headingley is no stranger to iconic cricket moments, such as the dramatic 1981 Ashes comeback when England, led by Ian Botham and Bob Willis, overturned 500/1 odds to beat Australia. This legacy, combined with its modern facilities, cements its reputation as one of the most famous cricket grounds in the world.

Wayne Andrews concluded, “The client is extremely pleased with both the performance and the aesthetics of the Taraflex Performance SL sports flooring that was installed at Headingley Cricket Club. It’s worth noting that this facility is where the England Cricket Team also train. Being specified for this elite training venue underscores the speed, resilience, and high-performance standards that Gerflor sports flooring consistently deliver.”

Cristian Durant ended by saying, “It was an honour to help raise the already high standards at such a prestigious venue and to deliver it on time for a historic Test series. We are proud to work in collaboration with Gerflor and GCP Chartered Architects and specify Taraflex sports floorings, thanks to their sporting surfaces being of exceptional quality and their reliability when it comes to performance for cricket play and other sporting applications.”

To prove compliance with ECB standards, GCP commissioned Labosport, international testing consultancy via the main contractor CNG.

Supporting Information

Gerflor Company Overview

Gerflor is a leading manufacturer of contract interior flooring solutions, offering vinyl, linoleum, carpet, and rubber options. Their products are designed to enhance safety, accessibility, and sustainability across sports, leisure, and education environments.

Overview of Gerflor products installed at Headingley Cricket Ground

Taraflex® Performance SL

A new member to the Taraflex® Olympic pedigree sports flooring family, a sustainable choice down to its unique sustainable attributes including its product construction, recycled content, ease with which it can be reused and recycled at end of life, as well as reduced cleaning and maintenance requirements for the lifetime of the floor. The Taraflex® range of products continue to be a popular choice for Community Centres, Sports, and Leisure facilities, as well as Education Sports Halls across the UK, Republic of Ireland and worldwide. Taraflex® is the Name Under the Game… It’s where Champions Begin, Learn, Train, and Play.

Environmental Commitment

Taraflex® Performance SL combines sustainability with high-quality standards. Its adhesive-free installation eliminates the need for glues, improving indoor air quality and laying comfort while reducing installation time. The flooring’s P2 category ensures safety and performance, making it ideal for clubs, competitions, and educational facilities.

Sustainable Design

Crafted with eco-friendly materials, Taraflex® SL features textile fibres made from recycled plastic bottles. Easy to install and remove with Tarafix® SL holding strips, it can be reused or recycled. Manufactured in Europe with a low CO2 footprint, it meets stringent environmental standards, including 100% REACH compliance and formaldehyde-free composition.

Unmatched Quality and Performance

Taraflex® Performance SL delivers superior quality and performance, comparable to traditionally adhered Taraflex® flooring. Its reinforced textile backing and Tarafix® SL strips ensure exceptional durability and dimensional stability, avoiding common issues like inflations and extra thickness.

Time-Saving Benefits

With a 25% reduction in installation time compared to adhered installations, Taraflex® Performance SL saves time and ensures high-quality performance durability. At the end of its lifecycle, the flooring can be reused or recycled, preserving the slab for future use.

Versatile Application

With a legacy of use in every Olympic Games since 1976, Taraflex® is trusted by national and international governing bodies for its world-class quality. Ideal for new builds and refurbishments, it offers exceptional durability and cost-effectiveness for various sports and leisure applications.

Hygienic and Safe

Treated with Protecsol®, Taraflex® ensures easy maintenance, anti-friction burn, and optimal slide/grip. Bacteriostatic and fungistatic treatment enhances hygiene, making it suitable for all ages and abilities.

Overall Taraflex sports flooring range summary

Taraflex® sports flooring has a long-standing legacy, having been fitted at every Olympic Games since 1976. Recognised and approved by numerous National and International governing bodies as a world-class indoor sports surface, it is also extensively utilised within the education, community, leisure, health, and fitness sectors.

Ideal for both new build projects and refurbishments, Taraflex® boasts exceptional durability and cost-effectiveness in maintenance. Over six million children benefit from Taraflex® sports flooring every day, enjoying its versatility for various multi-specialist sports and leisure applications.

With a complete range of shock absorption P1/P2/P3, Taraflex® sports floors from Gerflor, deliver the right solution every time whether it is for exercise or play for all ages and ability.

It’s noteworthy that Gerflor offers a diverse range of sports flooring solutions beyond the Taraflex® range. With first-class leading sub-constructions for increased shock absorption or linoleum playing surfaces such as the DLW Sports range, there is no facility that cannot be improved with the introduction of a sports surface from Gerflor.

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 innovations.

The range of products specified for the project included Gerflor’s Olympic pedigree Taraflex^® Multi-Use sports floors, Taralay Impression heterogenous vinyl, Tarasafe Impression safeties, Powershock rubber tiles, together with GTI Max Technical tiles, and Gradus RT247 anodised aluminium ramp edge trims.

Juliette Chapman Specification Area Sales Manager, Gerflor, Northwest and Yorkshire said, “This was a unique project to work on in that it provided cross-selling opportunities where we were able to provide solutions for each requirement within the building project brief, “ Making comment on the specification decision Juliette Chapman went on to expand, “Pozzoni Architecture chose Gerflor products for several reasons when comparing with other manufacturers in the marketplace, Commenting on the development Martin Bransby, Director at Pozzoni said, “Initial feedback from the centre has been extremely positive. We and our Clients could not be happier with the final result, and in fact we presented completion photographs of Mablethorpe to other Clients who immediately said, ‘we want that’.”

Paynters Contract Flooring ensured that the Mablethorpe Leisure Centre would benefit from the specified range of Gerflor and Gradus products in delivering the high standards of installation that the project so demanded. Rob Dixon, Estimator at Paynters Contract Flooring said,” We specify both Gerflor and Gradus on a host of projects as their innovative products are cost effective, work well, look impressive and are easy to get hold of for fast renovations.”

To read the full press release, please click here

Taraflex®, building a sustainable future…

Gerflor’s new Taraflex® is an eco-designed flooring solution that reduces carbon emissions without compromising on its technical performance. In addition to delivering the highest quality, Gerflor is committed to sustainability and responsible resource management. By 2025, Gerflor aims to achieve a number of environmental targets which includes a 20% reduction in its carbon footprint, together with delivering 10% bio-based content with 30% of their products made of recycled content. The overall aim is to also enable 35% of future installations to be loose laid. This initiative will be bolstered by delivering 60,000 tons of annual recycling coupled with 81% of their products made of bio-content, mineral and recycled material. It’s a bold eco-move to make Gerflor the real champions in sustainability.

Commenting on the sustainability features of Taraflex® David Carter, Gerflor National Sales Manager Sports Flooring said, “Thanks to its high natural and recycled content and comprehensive eco-design, Taraflex achieves an exemplary 43% smaller carbon footprint than the previous version, which is a notable choice for any decarbonising building interior projects. 81% of the new Taraflex® sports flooring is made from salt, recycled content, bio content, and chalk”.

The new Taraflex® sports flooring from Gerflor takes sustainability to the next level by also incorporating soya waste discarded by the animal feed industry, significantly reducing the environmental impact of its production. With low VOC emissions and allergen-free properties, Taraflex® fosters a healthy indoor environment. It is designed to support the well-being of everyone, from athletes to spectators, contributing to cleaner air quality and improved safety. Very simply…choosing the new Taraflex® sports floor means making an active contribution to a greener and more sustainable future.

Champions in safety…

The all-important element of safety is also seen as a crucial factor in delivering the high quality synonymous with this world class sports floor, which is crafted for excellent fall protection, helping to minimise the risk of injuries. Taraflex® is supremely versatile and is suitable for a variety of uses—from intense athletic events to community gatherings. As with most end user requirements the durability of any sports floor plays a vital role in the final specification decision. Taraflex® is built to withstand rigorous sports activities, and is suitable for high foot traffic. It has become the leading choice in sports flooring for a large selection of UK sports and leisure venues, as well as in the Education and Public sectors.

David Carter, further commented, “The new Taraflex sports floor is more than just a flooring solution, as it helps to amplify the energy and performance of athletes during every match or game, providing a powerful foundation for success.”

Champions in performance…

Taraflex® is made for all users and usages, from low impact activities to elite and performance sports. Shock absorption properties minimise the force of impact on the body and reduce long term injury risk. Taraflex® technologies ensure long-lasting high performance throughout the product’s lifetime with a warranty of 15 years.

Providing an enriched design capability…

With a wide choice of designs, including 29 colours, featuring both wood and solid finishes, the improved Taraflex® range ensures a perfect match for a vast range of projects and all budgets. Whether specifiers or designers are looking to create a standout sports area or a cohesive design across multiple facilities, Taraflex® allows them to customise their flooring needs to suit their aesthetic preferences.

Paris Games 2024…

As the official sports flooring supplier for the Paris 2024 Games, Gerflor was dedicated to providing three key priorities of safety, performance, and sustainability. Gerflor floors are engineered to support athletes at the highest level, while upholding their commitment to the environment.  Gerflor innovate by combining sporting excellence with environmental responsibility. At the 2024 Paris Games Gerflor supplied over 33,000 m2 of flooring for 8 sports providing 40 sports surfaces.

Versatility and Future Proofing…

Over 8 million pupils everyday enjoy the benefits of Taraflex® sports flooring as it delivers a versatile range that can be used for various multi-specialist applications. Taraflex® is ideal for new build projects and refurbishments and is extremely durable and cost effective to maintain.

The Triple Action Protecsol® surface treatment ensures that no polish is ever required for the lifetime of the floor, it also saves on both water and energy consumption, as part of a cleaning and maintenance regime, excellent news for the planet and future generations.

Taraflex® meets the EN 14904 Standard, which is the minimum performance requirements to be met by indoor sports floors. Its objective is to draw attention to the necessity of installing safe and comfortable floors that will reduce the risk of injuries.

With a complete range of outstanding sports surfaces that can meet specification requirements for compliance with P1/P2/P3 shock absorption Taraflex® sports floorings are perfect for delivering optimal safety and protection for users, regardless of their age and sporting ability. The combination of D-Max™/D-Max™+, CXP™HD foam, ensures that Taraflex® sports floorings are durable, high-performing and stand the test of time. The exclusive Taraflex® technology ensures that the sports floors are longer-lasting …a massive boon, when long-term planning and budgeting are perceived as being two key considerations for specifiers.

David Carter summed up the new Taraflex® sports flooring by saying, “Whether in sports facilities, schools, or commercial spaces, Taraflex adapts perfectly to a variety of environments and applications. This provides unmatched performance and flexibility. The new Taraflex sports floor now gives millions of children the chance to play their favourite sport comfortably and safely every day.”

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 building interiors . Gerflor solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building, whilst also reducing long term maintenance costs. Gerflor works in partnership with the commercial sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

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.

HADO is a sport that doesn’t rely on an individual’s sheer size or strength to determine victory, instead, it’s all about equal opportunities utilising skills that anyone can develop. HADO is an augmented reality experience combining physical activity and e-sport using a head-mounted display & arm senor that connects you to the game. It is a sport with simple controls that relies on the intuitive movement of players. It’s played in 32 countries with millions joining in, making it a truly global sport.

Jim Sephton, CEO of UK HADO commented, “HADO is an Augmented Reality (AR) sport, so unlike Virtual Reality (VR) where nothing is real, in AR you still see the real world. We just add computer graphics into reality with you, which allows the player to move with speed and confidence in the space. Our UK HADO centre is open Wednesday to Sunday for training, matches, parties, and team building.”

Tom Gidman, Specification Manager for Gerflor in the East Midlands, met with Blueprint Interiors who were doing the design work for the project and based off their requirements, he built a specification for them.

Tom Gidman said “It was a unique project, as the HADO Centre is the first of its kind in the UK. They required a floorcovering that would be safe and suitable to play on, ensuring players had confidence underfoot, as they would be moving around while wearing VR headsets. Taraflex Evolution was specified for both its outstanding performance and striking design. It also provided the good indentation resistance needed for various seating and furniture arrangements, whilst also providing players with the shock absorption and impact protection needed for physical activity.”

Commenting on the Gerflor flooring product and installation Jim Sephton said, “We were looking to create a flagship location for the sport of HADO in the UK and as part of that initiative, we wanted an extremely durable, safe and comfortable, indoor sports surface that would allow our athletes to perform at the best of their abilities. Gerflor’s Taraflex sports flooring provided exactly what we were looking for.”

On usage and activities, Jim Sephton also added, “The court areas are used for training and tournaments, so the Taraflex Evolution sports flooring has a major role to play.”

The installation of the new Taraflex® Evolution sports floor at UK HADO would be undertaken by the Solihull-based FLR Group. For more than 40 years, FLR Group has been supplying carpets, luxury vinyl and other high quality flooring products to commercial environments across the UK. Though they started small, FLR are now an industry leader. From their state-of-the-art showroom in Solihull, FLR are dedicated to ensuring every customer gets world class products and superb service.

Adam Kaid, Contracts Manager, FLR Group said, “The Owner contacted FLR Group for recommendations on sports flooring for the first UK HADO centre and were put through to myself where I booked a site survey.”

On specification Adam Kaid commented, “We specified Gerflor Taraflex Evolution for its high durability, compatibility with line marking and its colour bank suited the HADO centres used throughout Europe. After researching HADO and watching a few videos on how it was played, it was easy to see that Taraflex from Gerflor would be the perfect solution.”

On installation Adam Kaid went on to say, “We had two installers involved. The job was phased, as three courts were required for this centre. Each court was completed over one to two evenings. The Taraflex sports floorcovering is extremely easy to work with and install, our specialist floor fitters have many years of experience with laying Taraflex sports vinyl.”

Tom Gidman finally said, “The feedback from the staff and CEO at HADO has been extremely positive, they are very impressed with how Taraflex has been delivering on both performance and safety. It’s been an incredible project to work on and I’m very satisfied that the client is really pleased with the end result.”

Adam Kaid concluded, “Since our last communication with the client, we know that the Taraflex sports flooring from Gerflor is meeting and surpassing expectations. We are really delighted with the outcome and would definitely specify Gerflor again for sports projects.”

Jim Sephton ended by saying, “The Taraflex sports vinyl flooring is easy to maintain and delivers on the smart look we wanted to achieve for all our court areas. We would definitely specify Gerflor’s Taraflex sports floor coverings again.”

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 innovations.

Taraflex® Evolution, provided by Gerflor, is renowned for its versatility across various sports and leisure activities, making it an excellent choice for Boccia UK’s diverse needs. The flooring’s benefits, such as comfort, safety, and a specialised surface treatment for easy maintenance and optimal performance, align with the rigorous demands of elite boccia players.

This collaboration with Gerflor not only prepares Boccia UK for the upcoming global events but also sets a new standard in the sporting community for facilities that prioritise athlete welfare and performance. The end result, 450m2 Taraflex® installed in Mint Green, a major transformation to their facilities, a world class indoor sports surface…

…it’s where champions begin, learn, train and play!

Boccia stands out as a paragon of inclusivity in sports, designed to accommodate athletes with high support needs. It is a precision ball sport, similar to bocce, that is contested at local, national, and international levels, including the Paralympic Games. Players deliver soft leather balls with the goal of getting closest to a white target ball, or jack. The sport demands strategic thinking, precision, and teamwork, making it not only a test of physical skill but also of mental acuity. Its accessibility allows people of all abilities to compete on an equal footing, promoting social integration and fostering a sense of community and equality. This makes Boccia not just a competitive sport but also a powerful tool for education and social change, especially within school environments where inclusivity is paramount. The game’s simplicity in design belies the complexity of the tactics involved, offering a rich and rewarding experience for all participants.

Boccia is a remarkable example of an inclusive activity that has adapted over time to embrace a wider range of participants. Initially designed for athletes with cerebral palsy, it now offers people with various disabilities the opportunity to compete. The use of ramps and head pointers allows players who cannot throw or kick a ball to participate fully in the sport. With the assistance of a ramp assistant, players can strategically position and propel the ball, aiming for accuracy on the court. This evolution of the sport underscores the importance of adaptability and inclusivity in athletic activities, ensuring everyone has the chance to engage in competitive play and enjoy the camaraderie and challenges of sports.

Boccia, as mentioned is a sport that demands precision, strategy, and control, has seen a remarkable surge in popularity, becoming the fastest-growing disability sport globally. Its roots can be traced back to ancient civilizations, evolving through time to become the sophisticated game it is today. The British Boccia squad’s recent success at the World Boccia Championships in Rio, where they secured a gold and two silver medals, is a testament to the skill and dedication of the players. This sport not only challenges the athletes physically but also mentally, as they must carefully plan each move to place their coloured balls near the white target ball, or “jack.” The game’s inclusive nature allows for individual, pair, or team participation, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of players.

With over 54,000 people playing in England alone, Boccia’s impact on physical and mental well-being is significant, with many players reporting improved confidence and quality of life. As the sport continues to grow, it fosters a competitive yet supportive community that celebrates the achievements of athletes with disabilities on an international stage.

Boccia UK, established in 2007, plays a crucial role in the development and success of athletes in the sport. Through the World Class Programme (WCP), funded by UK Sport, Boccia UK supports athletes in their training and competition needs. The WCP is instrumental in preparing players for major international events, including World Cups, European Championships, and World Championships, ensuring that athletes have the resources and support necessary to compete at the highest levels.

Greg Baker – Boccia UK’s Performance Director said, “We are now finishing our season and gearing up for a full calendar of events next year, in which the squad are all aiming to build up ranking points.”

On the association with Gerflor, Baker added, “We have managed to agree a partnership with Gerflor who are providing us with their Elite Performance sports flooring at our training camps in Glasgow. What is important for us, is that it’s the same flooring that will be used as the playing surface at all the major sporting events we will be attending, around the world in 2024.”

It is clearly evident that this partnership between Boccia UK and Gerflor has marked a significant step in the preparation for upcoming major sporting events. By securing Gerflor’s Elite Performance Sports flooring for their training camps in Glasgow, Boccia UK athletes can train on the same high-quality surfaces they will compete on globally in 2024. This consistency is crucial for athletes to perform at their best, as it allows them to become accustomed to the playing surface, reducing the potential for surprises during competition and enhancing their overall preparedness for the challenges ahead. The collaboration underscores the commitment to providing athletes with top-tier facilities that mirror the conditions of the world’s most prestigious tournaments.

Commenting on the project David Carter Gerflor National Sales Manager, Sports Flooring said, “Funded by Sport England, we have agreed to supply our world class Taraflex® Evolution sports flooring to Boccia UK for their training camps in Scotland. This is precisely the surface on which the team will compete on across all the significant sporting occasions in 2024”.

Claire Taggart from Larne in Northern Ireland and David Smith OBE who lives in Swansea, are both currently world number ones. David Smith is Britain’s best ever Boccia player and is known for his colourful blue and red dyed haircuts. They also came together with another topflight player- Will Hipwell to compete as the BC1/2 Team winning silver at the World Championships in 2022.

Claire Taggart commented, “Training on the Taraflex® sports flooring is incredibly important, mainly because all major tournaments are held on this surface. Competing across many different surfaces means it’s tough to find familiarity and get used to every surface, but having regular access to Taraflex® will mean that at major competitions we are better prepared and can hit the ground running. “

Echoing Clare Taggart’s comments, David Smith OBE said, “Being able to use and train on Gerflor’s Taraflex®  sports flooring is really important for us a squad. All the major international events use Taraflex®  as the preferred surface of choice for World Boccia. Being able to train on Taraflex®  at world class performance camps just gives us that extra bit of practice and confidence.”

David Smith OBE concluded, “The playing surface does make a huge difference on how the balls react and having that extra training on Taraflex® sports flooring means that we are not going to be found wanting, when it comes to competing on the bigger stages around the world in 2024.”

David Carter ended by saying, “Gerflor have agreed to cover the cost of the install and removal for four camps to ensure that the team get the very best preparation possible.”

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 03332 412901, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.

Coleg y Cymoedd was formed in 2013, following the merger of The College Ystrad Mynach and Coleg Morgannwg. Over 10,000 learners’ study at Coleg y Cymoedd each year. The college offers a wide range of Full and Part Time courses from Entry to Degree Level in over 15 Curriculum areas. The college has invested significantly in its facilities in recent years, with standout projects including the Nantgarw Campus building (a £40 million award winning campus).

Commenting on the project Tony Thorne, Specification Manager, Gerflor, South Wales said, “Carpet Services are a well-known flooring contractor in Wales. who I visit regularly to review and discuss projects with as well as new pipeline opportunities.” Tony Thorne added, “I went to see Carpet Services and was in the right place at the right time with the discussion focusing on the library refurbishment of the Nantgarw student Campus. The client wanted to replace the flooring in the library, and required a floorcovering that would match their black and green colour scheme. The recommendation was to use Streetwise Design with Emphasis, and Stratus as a flooring solution which the client was delighted with.”

Tony Thorne also said, “Whilst the initial requirement was for approximately 300m2 flooring for the library, the end user was so pleased with the final result they chose to work with Gerflor and Carpet Services for other areas of the refurbishment programme across the entire campus.”

The Nantgarw student Campus project provided Gerflor with the perfect platform to showcase a raft of other high-quality flooring solutions ideal for the demands of the modern-day education environment. The project would amount to an immense 5300m2 of Gerflor products being specified for not only the library, but also the communal areas, changing rooms and their sports hall.
The design and specification of the Nantgarw Sports Centre of Excellence would fall to Cardiff-based architects Austin-Smith: Lord, who provide award-winning Architectural, Interior Design and Landscape Design services across multiple sectors across the UK. They have a growing portfolio of refurbishment work in the education sector, spearheaded by their growing specialist team of Interior Designers.

Jonanthan Jones, Associate at Austin- Smith: Lord commented, “We have a long-standing and successful relationship with the College, having previously designed a new campus for them in Aberdare and also helped them to re-purpose and improve much of their existing campus in Ystrad Mynach. The College were keen to explore what was possible on a prominent parcel of land to the south of the existing Nantgarw campus, with a view to creating a high quality, flagship sports facility, and engaged us and Mott MacDonald Project Management to complete a feasibility study. The study was greatly assisted by our UK-wide experience in the Further Education and Sports sectors, not least the recently completed Forge project for Coleg Sir Gar.”

On specification Jonathan Jones said, “We originally specified Gerflor for the sports hall flooring, given their proven quality and range of products to suit a variety of requirements when it comes to sports vinyl, and we have delivered several other successful projects, where we have specified Gerflor’s Taraflex indoor sports surface. The black sports flooring was selected as it complimented the overall concept, providing a striking feature in the main sports space and appeared in our very earliest Twin motion visualisations and flythroughs, which captured the enthusiasm of the client and stakeholders. With the internal colour scheme based around the college’s colours of greens, teals, greys, and blacks, we saw an opportunity to combine that and reflect the external black cladding in the sports hall floor, creating a bold contrast with the teal walls, and coloured sports line markings.”

The installation of such prestigious and large flooring project would be the responsibility of Carpet Services Flooring, Cardiff. The company is a leader in contract commercial flooring and domestic flooring, and it is a family run business, which prides itself on its delivering exceptionally high standards of service, quality products and affordable prices.

For the Sports Centre of Excellence (which is a new build), Carpet Services installed 720m2 of Taraflex Performance in ‘Black’, 90m2 of Powershock 300 Gym Tile and 400m2 of Tarasafe Ultra ‘Opal’ in corridors and changing rooms. The installation would also supply flooring for the main college building refurbishment which would include Gradus Stratus ‘Jetstream’ on multiple floors and corridors, together with classrooms, library, and office with pockets of Gradus Streetwise in ‘Green,’ ‘Orange’ and ‘Blue’ along with Gradus Emphasis Loop in the same Green, Orange and Blue on separate floors. To date the project has used approximately 4000m2 of Gradus Stratus and 300m2 of Gradus Streetwise. Other areas of the college that would benefit from Gerflor and Gradus products would be the wood-working area where 100m2 of Gerflor’s’ Tarasafe Ultra safety flooring in ‘Granite’ would be used, together with 100m2 of Gradus Boulevard Stripe matting in 1Raven1 and 100m2 of Boulevard 6000 in ‘Nightfall’.

Commenting on specification and products Ray Gallivan, Contract Manager at Carpet Services said, “We have already had ongoing work from the college and have ourselves specified and installed Gerflor for many years. They are extremely helpful and provide an excellent product portfolio of flooring products.” On the actual installation itself, Ray Gallivan further added, “We had two fitters which makes up one team which is then bolstered with extra teams as required. The installation began at the end of May which meant that we would be ready and completed for the new term which was on the 2nd of September. All the Gerflor and Gradus flooring products that we used were extremely easy to lay as they are fantastic products to work with.”

Tony Thorne concluded by saying, “This project is so prestigious that we have entered it into the ‘Refurbishment of the Year’ award at Education Estates Magazine.
Very simply, this award recognises either a school, college or university refurbishment project that has made a difference to the educational or research experience. In our opinion the Nantgarw student Campus project delivers on all the criteria that the judges will be looking for which includes the overall quality of design and manufacturing, which is extremely high, as is the client engagement and their satisfaction with the service and solution they received.”

In conclusion Ray Gallivan said, “The Gerflor flooring products that were specified for this iconic project are really meeting the high standards required for the end user. We would continue to use Gerflor on a weekly basis. The final result at the college is extremely impressive.”

On client expectations, Jonathan Jones ended by saying, “The Gerflor flooring products specified are absolutely meeting the high specifications set for the education project and client’s brief. The main circulation spaces were actually a last-minute alteration to the Gerflor products, and so to achieve the performance and appearance requirements with their alternatives in such a short space of time was absolutely vital to us. Again, the monochromatic palette is accentuated by the subtle concrete effect, providing a high-quality finish to all vinyl spaces. We would definitely specify Gerflor again. The sports hall especially looks fantastic with the diffuse light and silhouettes reflected off the black vinyl, so we are incredibly delighted with the final finish. “

Gerflor products overview specified for Coleg Y Cymoedd Nantgarw

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 education interiors. Gerflor solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gerflor works in partnership with the education sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.
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Gerflor Vinyl Sports Flooring

Taraflex Performance

Taraflex® Performance is available in 17 all over colours and 4 wood-effect designs as standard, with an addition of 110 solid colour options available.

It offers a P2 category shock absorbency of 35% to 45 and has a Triple Action Protecsol® surface treatment so that no polish is ever required for the lifetime of the floor and makes it easy to clean and maintain. Taraflex® Performance offers maximum hygiene with bacteriostatic and a fungistatic treatment and comes with the Triple Action Protecsol® surface treatment which provides easy maintenance, friction protection and ‘intelligent’ sliding coefficient. The surface reinforcement which delivers durability and abrasion resistance is provided by a unique D-Max fibreglass grid.

Taraflex® sports floorings are available with a complete range of shock absorption P1/P2/P3 ratings, so that the right solution can be specified every time, whether it is for exercise or play or both and for all ages and ability. The family of Taraflex® sports floorings are sustainable solutions thanks to their unique product construction.

Taraflex® sports flooring has been fitted at every Olympic Games since 1976. Approved by many National and International governing bodies as a world class indoor sports surface, it is also widely installed within the education, community, leisure, health, and fitness sectors. Taraflex® is ideal for new build projects and refurbishments and is extremely durable and cost effective to maintain. Over six million children everyday enjoy the benefits of Taraflex® sports flooring, which can be used for various multi-specialist sports and leisure applications.

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Gerflor Carpet Collections

Gradus Carpets inc. Stratus, Streetwise Design, Emphasis

Gradus Stratus is suitable for heavy commercial environments and provides the ideal solution for commercial office and education environments. It has an Impact Noise Rating of 23dB which means the physical impact of footsteps, furniture moving, and objects being dropped, is reduced by 23dB. Stratus comes with a 12-year wear warranty meaning the carpet is more durable and requires less repair or replacement during the building’s lifecycle. This therefore reduces the operational carbon impact of a building.

Gradus Stratus also scores highly on the environment front as it contains 78% total recycled content, and its yarn is 100% ECONYL regenerated Solution Dyed Nylon yarn which is produced using nylon waste that is recovered from oceans and landfill. The nylon waste goes through a regenerated and purification process and recycled back into its original purity and then used to manufacture Stratus carpet tiles. The Bitumen backing of Stratus also contains 75% recycled material.

Gradus Streetwise Design from Gradus is an attractive textured loop pile carpet tile which is designed to be installed randomly. Available in a range of complementary colours. Streetwise Design comprises Originals and Brights and can be combined with Stratus Jet Stream and the Emphasis carpet tile range to create interesting and contemporary floor schemes. Streetwise Design is suitable for a wide range of environments including commercial offices and education.

Gradus Emphasis collection features a selection of bright accent colours which is available in a loop pile carpet tile. Made from ECONYL® regenerated solution dyed nylon, Emphasis is suitable for use as an accent colour in a wide range of environments including commercial, hospitality, retail, healthcare, and education.

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Gerflor Rubber Tiles

Powershock 300 from Gerflor is a high impact rubber flooring solution that is designed to be both functional and hardwearing. The range is more durable and easier to clean and maintain than standard rubber flooring and provides up to 5 times more resistance to indentation. Powershock 300 is a 30mm thick high impact rubber flooring tile ideal for free weight and heavy weight areas in any gym or fitness facility. Their pre-installed connector pins make for easy installation. Powershock 300 avoids deep-impact damage while providing outstanding sound deadening.

The tiles are made from vulcanised rubber to increase their strength and durability, the non-porous wearlayer is impermeable and odourless. Powershock 300 also delivers fantastic shock absorption qualities and sound installation of 26dB, whilst also providing important protection for the existing subfloor. Powershock 300 is the ideal solution for an array of fitness which include hard-working gyms and leisure spaces where performance and durability are key requirements.

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Gerflor Vinyl Safety Flooring

Tarasafe Ultra

Tarasafe is a range of slip resistant sheet flooring that meets HSE guidelines. It is constructed from vinyl with deeply inlaid mineral crystal particles (patent pending) and coloured chips for a decorative design. Contains no Carborundum. Tarasafe is reinforced with a glass fibre grid and is suitable for use in all areas of heavy traffic where slip-resistance, durability and hygienic conditions are required.

This safety flooring benefits from Sparclean® surface treatment for extreme resistance to soiling and staining. It is also treated with an anti-bacterial and fungicidal treatment. This particular product comes with a 12-year warranty and is 100% recyclable, when the product is at the end of its’ life.

Benefits of Tarasafe SparClean® Treated Vinyl Safety Flooring

1. Easy to clean and maintain compacted nonporous surface.
2. Enhanced colour, design, and brightness of mineral crystal particles
3. Stain and chemical resistant SparClean® surface treatment, no polish for life!
4. Maximum hygiene with bacteriostatic and fungistatic treatment
Gradus products overview specified for Coleg Y Cymoedd Nantgarw

Gradus is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior solutions, including stair edgings, floor trims, barrier matting, lighting, and wall protection. Gradus innovations help to create attractive and functional environments, as well as enhance and protect education interiors. Gradus solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gradus works in partnership with the education sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

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Gradus Accessories Secondary Barrier Matting Boulevard

Boulevard 6000 is a tufted cut pile, high performance barrier matting manufactured from ECONYL® regenerated solution dyed nylon. It features a patterned designed to disguise the effects of soiling and incorporates a heavy scraper for optimum dirt removal and moisture retention. It is easy to maintain and resistant to bleach solutions. Boulevard 6000 is suitable for use in most contract environments including retail, education, healthcare, and commercial office and is ideal for use in heavily trafficked circulation areas e.g. foyers & receptions, lift lobbies, staircases, corridors and walkways, vending & canteen areas, and service points.

Available in two easy to install formats – 2m sheets with impervious pvc backing and 500mm x 500mm tile with bitumen backing – Boulevard 6000 is BSEN13501 Cfl-s1 fire rated and has also been tested for colour fastness and to BSEN1307 for wear resistance. Boulevard 6000 has a 10 -year wear warranty (subject to terms and conditions). It can also be used in conjunction with Esplanade 6000 primary barrier matting and Access 6000 and Mat-in-a-Box 6000 hybrid barrier matting to provide a cost-effective, coordinated system at entrances and access points.

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.

Unique to other leisure providers, every penny made by Sport Aberdeen is reinvested back into the communities it serves. Its mission is simple – to inspire more people across Aberdeen to get active, regardless of age, gender, or ability.

The hall at Get Active @ Kincorth is used for multiple sports and exercise activities. The hall is frequently utilised for basketball, volleyball, football, badminton, and netball, however, other activities including fitness classes are also carried out in it.

Maggie Smith, Scotland Team Leader, Gerflor said, “The project enquiry came through from Euan Beggs at MRT Architects in regard to the refurbishment of the sports hall at Kincorth for Sport Aberdeen. Initially, they were considering a timber cradle and baton system (Area Elastic). After various discussions about the project requirements and the specific need for a solution that would be fit for purpose and within the budget and timescale for this major refurbishment, we proposed an alternative solution. This was to be the Taraflex® Combi Elastic system which is a cradle and baton system finished with Taraflex® Evolution point elastic flooring.”

On specification, Maggie Smith went on to further comment, “The existing sports floor was out of action for many months and a new floor was desperately required. The client, Get Active @ Kincorth specified Gerflor for the sports hall flooring after many discussions over the suitability of the combined system which included the users of different ages and ability, who would play in the facility, the types of activities and sports being played, and the additional benefit Taraflex® offers with Index Protection Index (IPI), which would be ideal for both the younger and elderly users, allowing all ages to enjoy the facility and enhance their experience.”

Maggie Smith also added, “The installation went extremely well, with General & Technical Flooring Services being the appointed contractors, with no hiccups as part of the install.”

At Mackie Ramsay Taylor Architects, they hold a commitment to providing a quality service and strive to create buildings of the highest design quality without compromising on the Client’s finances, building programme, and long-term building management considerations. The practice understands that the success of any project lies in the relationship between the client and architect, and therefore Mackie Ramsay Taylor Architects adopts a collaborative, balanced and integrated approach.

Their experience across all sectors allows them to deliver a high-quality design that not only works and functions for the needs of the building’s occupants but is also respect of the surroundings and creates a flexible, modern environment.

Euan Beggs, Architect at Mackie Taylor Ramsay said,” The project was part of our client’s commitment to continually improve and enhance their sport facility offering within Aberdeen city. Part of this programme was the refurbishment and enhancement of the multi-purpose sport hall within Get Active @ Kincorth, by way of a replacement floor covering and general facility upgrade.”

On flooring specification for the project, Euan Beggs commented, “Gerflor’s Taraflex® sports flooring was chosen as a replacement for the existing sprung timber floor for a number of key reasons. By using Gerflor’s complete system of product, we were able to maintain a sprung floor under build and tie back into the existing finished floor level, which reduced the need to carry out additional work and alterations out with the hall itself. The surface provided the required premium performance required for a multitude of sports, whilst providing the client with a simplified maintenance regime over other alternative floor coverings.”

Further commenting on the installation Euan Beggs said, “The project had one unique challenge, which was to retain and re-use the same sports equipment anchor points. Through ongoing conversations with Gerflor’s Specification team, it was agreed that this was possible. Gerflor recommended what their anchor point covers, which could be installed as part of the overall flooring works. The contractor responsible for the installation of these covers had never installed or heard of this product before. When further discussing this with Gerflor, they helped to guide the installer on how to do this correctly and what specific tools should be used to ensure a perfect circle could be cut through the finished surface. When installed in line with these instructions it finished the surface off both aesthetically and functionally. “

Hugh Black, Group Estates Manager at Sport Aberdeen commented, “The flooring at Get Active @ Kincorth was in dire need of urgent replacement and Sport Aberdeen decided not to go for a like-for-like option and to try something unique and different.” On specification, Hugh Black added, “Gerflor’s Taraflex® sports flooring was installed at Get active @ Kincorth and the main reason was for its characteristic of spongy vinyl, as opposed to a natural timber product which gave Sport Aberdeen an option to compare different types of flooring in terms of its performance for cushioning and protection. “

The installation at Get Active @Kincorth would be the responsibility of Aberdeen-based General and Technical Flooring Services. Since 1994, General & Technical Flooring Services has been built on a firm foundation of commercial flooring expertise. Across all coverings, across all sectors & across all of Scotland, their reputation has also been built on working together with their clients to create a world class facility. Led by their installation team of experts, they deliver the commercial flooring solutions all commercial clients need. From commission to completion, they deliver on time, on budget, and with safety as a top priority.

John Morrison, Managing Director, General & Technical Flooring Services said of the project, “We are a locally based flooring contractor and were contacted by KW Contractors who were in charge of the full refurbishment. The client specified Gerflor’s Taraflex® sports flooring, however, we were also asked our opinion and of course assessed the suitability and quality of the system for the purpose of the refurbishment project.”

On installation John Morrison commented, “We had three fitters installing the sprung support system and then a further two fitters installing the vinyl. It took us two weeks to complete the acoustic hardwood system and then a further week to install and weld the vinyl. Gerflor’s Taraflex® Combi Elastic system is a very good system to work with. The sprung floor is relatively simple to install, and we are very experienced with Gerflor’s Sports vinyl and rubber products.”

Hugh Black added, “Another reason Sport Aberdeen chose Taraflex® sports flooring was down to its enviable reputation – the charity realised that Taraflex® is a widely accepted product for competitive sport at a high and professional level. Although Sport Aberdeen’s venues are primarily for recreational use, the charity was still keen to give Gerflor a try with its indoor sports surface. This is a totally new product for Sport Aberdeen, and it has never had Gerflor flooring installed before at its facility. A diverse range of activities take place on the floor including netball, hockey, basketball, volleyball, badminton, football, and fitness classes.”

Maggie Smith concluded, “It was my first time specifying a combined elastic system, so I was involved with all the technical side of the project and product, which was very exciting and interesting too. Hugh Black and his team are delighted with the final finish and results. When we visited to have the photographs taken, the facility staff mentioned the youngest user was only nine months old and the oldest was ninety-six years old, which is the best result you could ask for. It’s lovely to see a facility bringing all ages together to enjoy an active lifestyle. I loved working on this project and found it immensely rewarding.”

John Morrison ended by commenting, “The client and building users are all extremely delighted. The feedback from all stakeholders has been excellent. We are a partner of Gerflor, regularly supporting each other with specifications and we value the partnership along with their high quality and credible products. It was a legendary project to be involved with for our outstanding clients and revolutionary products to install. The end result has been welcomed by all and is a good testimony for other similar sports facilities of what can be achieved to transform their spaces but also to future proof their building interiors for many years to come and make them fit for the twenty first century for the different types of uses these buildings now have.”

Euan Beggs concluded, “Overall I believe that the finished floor build-up and the Taraflex® sports surface itself satisfies the clients performance requirements, and that was the key aim for the product specification. Going forward, I am confident that the indoor sports surface will stand the test of time and will continue to provide a high-quality playing surface for a number of years to come. Based on the technical knowledge and guidance received from Gerflor and its Specification team through the design and install process for this project, and the product itself, I would have no issue with specifying Gerflor’s Taraflex® products in the future.”

Hugh Black ended by saying, “Sport Aberdeen is delighted with the final result. It has received exceptional feedback so far from customers, members, and sports club users alike, all noting that the floor has a softer under foot feeling. We would definitely choose Gerflor Taraflex® sports products again. Specifying Gerflor flooring, also ensures a much quicker installation process which is also an added bonus and the after sales services from Gerflor has also been really excellent.”

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 03332 412901, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.

At Rushden Academy, they recognise the importance of Physical Education (PE) and the role it has to play in promoting long term, healthy lifestyles and making a
positive impact on physical, mental, and social health.

Installing the new Gerflor flooring would need to be undertaken by a flooring company that could deliver an excellent finish worthy of both the school and the quality flooring specified. Darren Brown, Director Finest Floors Limited commented “Rushden Academy were incredibly delighted with the final result and the Gerflor sports floor system exceeded their expectations. We currently already specify and install a large range of Gerflor products, so are confident in the quality of their materials. Their solutions are competitively priced for all budgets and readily available for all projects.”

Lee Ward from Rushden Academy said, “We are extremely pleased with the overall performance of the Taraflex^® sports product and its durability.”

Taraflex^® Performance is a synthetic indoor sports flooring that can be specified for a wide range of sports applications, in a variety of sectors. It delivers optimal safety, comfort, and performance for users, as well as being available in an extensive choice of vibrant designs, making it the ideal choice for a host of locations.

Tormarton has a population of about 350 people from a wide variety of backgrounds. The village is a very historic place, it roots lying in agriculture. At the centre of village life is the parish hall which provides a blank canvass for a raft of local community activities.

Stewart Waters, Chair of the Tormarton Parish Council commented, “The original tiles had been in place since the mid nineteen seventies and were stained and appeared dirty. The hall is used for a variety of uses including children’s nursery, social events, and badminton. There had been comments regarding the floor being cold and unsuitable for these uses.” Stewart Waters also added, “We specified Gerflor Taraflex Multi Use flooring as it would cater for a mix of uses. The new Taraflex floor is much cleaner and brighter than the old tiles.”

Commenting on the project Chris Pursey, Gerflor Area Sales Manager, Southwest & Channel Islands said,” The project initially came from an introduction by Biddle Sport who were consulted originally regarding line marking. The existing subfloor consisted of old vinyl tiles, which although were well bonded to the substrate, presented a health and safety risk if removed due to possible presence of asbestos.” Chris Pursey added, “For this reason we specified that the installation should ideally be over an Isolsport membrane which left the tiles undisturbed and also enabled the installation to be done quickly with minimal floor preparation.” r

Mark Biddle. Managing Director, Biddle Sport said, “We did recommend that the hall committee in particular Stewart Waters, the Chairman should consider replacing the Parish’s Hall existing floor with Taraflex Multi-Use to provide them with a low maintenance sports floor that looks like wood and can cope with the future multi-purpose use from nursery to meetings and everything in between.” Mark Biddle added, “It’s important that the maintenance cost for them going forwards is minimal and the Taraflex product with its research and development in foam backing and surface coatings offers a durable product that will age well and cope with all their needs.”

On specification Mark Biddle commented, “We put Stewart Waters in touch with Chris Pursey from Gerflor who sent samples, recommended a few flooring contractors to price for installation and kept in touch throughout the whole process from specification to installation. Gerflor are also always there to offer follow-up advice and answer any maintenance questions.”

On the actual installation Mark Biddle further commented, “We prepared a court layout drawing for the committee to agree, we then cleaned and rinsed the floor with our Rotowash machinery prior to court marking with the recommended Taraflex TLD Aqua paint. Our work was done in about four hours, but to the same standard as a multi-million-pound new sports centre.”

Mark Biddle ended by saying, “Stewart Waters’ time and effort in researching and choosing the right floor will serve the Parish Hall well.”

In conclusion Chris Pursey said, “The feedback from the specifyin committee and nursery has been really excellent as the children have a much more comfortable floor to sit and play on.”

Stewart Waters ended by saying, “We have had lots of positive comments and all parties are really pleased with the new flooring. We would definitely choose Gerflor flooring again.”

Taraflex indoor sports surfaces overview

Taraflex® sports flooring has been fitted at every Olympic Games since 1976. Approved by many National and International governing bodies as a world class sports surface, it is also widely installed within the education, community, leisure, health, and fitness sectors. Taraflex® is ideal for new build projects and refurbishments and is extremely durable and cost effective to maintain. Over 6 million pupils everyday enjoy the benefits of Taraflex® sports flooring as it delivers a versatile range that can be used for various multi-specialist applications.

Taraflex^® is treated with Protecsol®, which renders polish redundant and is triple action meaning no polish is ever required, it contributes to easy maintenance and is anti-friction burn and slide/grip. Meanwhile, surface reinforcement which delivers durability and abrasion resistance is provided by a D-Max fibreglass grid.

Taraflex® Multi-Use protects users with excellent shock absorption and impact protection of 25% to 35% (complies with EN Standard 14904). It’s also hard wearing enough to protect itself against non-sport demands often found in many demanding education environments, such as the movement of tables, chairs, and exercise equipment. This is due to improved indentation resistance and recovery through Gerflor’s new innovative CXP HD+ foam technology.

Sport can play a huge part in student life. With a complete range of shock absorption P1/P2/P3, Taraflex® sports floors from Gerflor, deliver the right solution every time whether it is for exercise or play for all ages and ability.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 03332 412901, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.