Festival ground protection: How to plan for your upcoming event

Event organisers must meticulously plan their festival ground protection to ensure safety, preserve the venue, and facilitate smooth operations. A comprehensive guide helps identify appropriate matting types, assess quantities needed, and coordinate logistics, reducing the risk of unforeseen issues and ensuring the event runs smoothly.  

What’s the best type of ground protection to use for festivals? 

Overall, the optimal choice for festival ground protection is heavy-duty ground protection mats, often referred to as trackway mats. These mats are designed to support heavy foot traffic, vehicle movement and also plant machinery, making them ideal for areas like pedestrian walkways, temporary car parks, and access roads. Manufactured from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or composite materials, they offer durability and can withstand the rigours of outdoor events.  

However, it’s crucial to note that the best matting solution can vary based on specific event requirements. Factors such as terrain type, expected foot traffic, and weather conditions play a significant role in determining the appropriate matting. Aluminium trackway is also a very popular choice for UK festivals for several reasons. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with a specialist trackway hire supplier like us to assess your unique needs and receive a tailored quote.  

5 ways to plan and implement festival ground protection requirements 

1. Understand the matting types you need 

Different areas of the festival site may require different types of matting. For instance, pedestrian walkways might need lighter mats, while access roads for vehicles require heavier-duty options. Assessing the specific needs of each area and planning the configuration ensures the right matting is used, enhancing safety and efficiency.  

2. Assess the amount of ground protection matting required 

Accurately estimating the amount of festival ground protection needed prevents shortages or excess. Consider the size of the event, expected foot traffic, and areas requiring protection to determine the appropriate amount. This assessment helps in budgeting and ensures timely installation. For every hire, we will take this assessment off your hands. One of our project engineers will give you a baseline quote over the telephone based on the type of trackway required and the square footage of the area, then conduct a full, comprehensive assessment on-site for a more accurate view of the configuration required. 

3. Weather and predicted foot traffic assessment 

Weather conditions can significantly impact ground stability. Anticipating potential rain or high foot traffic areas allows for proactive placement of mats, reducing the risk of mud and damage to the venue. Regularly updating this assessment ensures adaptability to changing conditions. Similarly, preparing for ice in the winter months, placing extra mats where necessary, is key to preventing slips, trips and falls, and also vehicle skidding. 

4. Obtain a quote based on matting amounts and the hire period 

Engaging with suppliers (like us!) early to obtain quotes for your festival ground protection based on the estimated matting requirements and hire duration helps in budgeting and planning. Always ensure your quote includes delivery, installation, and removal services to avoid unexpected costs.  

5. Discuss logistics requirements with a trackway hire specialist 

Coordinating with a trackway hire specialist like our team at Davis Trackhire, ensures that logistics, such as delivery schedules and installation times, align with the overall event timeline. This collaboration helps to avoid conflicts with other contractors and ensures a seamless setup.  

Our expertise

Having a detailed guide for ground protection planning is essential for festival organisers to ensure a safe and successful event. By understanding the specific requirements, assessing needs accurately, and coordinating logistics effectively, potential issues can be mitigated.

For more insights and case studies on festival ground protection, visit our event and festivals sectors page. Reach out to our friendly hire desk team for more information on ground protection.