The Challenge: Creating Safe Access Without Damaging the Park

As part of Bradford City of Culture 2025, event organisers faced the challenge of transforming Bowling Park into a safe and functional site for performances and public gatherings. The event required temporary staging, designated walkways for pedestrians, and access routes for vehicles, all while preserving the integrity of the park's grass and public spaces.

With high footfall expected and limited setup time, it was essential to find a fast and effective solution that would prevent damage to the green space and ensure a safe experience for staff and visitors.

The GroundGuards Solution: 313 FastCover Mats Installed

GroundGuards supplied and installed 313 heavy-duty FastCover mats to meet the event’s needs. At 32 millimetres thick, these mats provided robust and reliable coverage while being quick to deploy and easy to reposition if needed. Their overlapping edge design allowed for a neat and secure layout across the staging and walkway areas.

Installation was carried out efficiently by the GroundGuards team, with mat placement planned carefully to align with the event infrastructure. The solid surface of FastCover helped keep operations smooth and ensured the ground underneath remained protected throughout.

Results & Outcome: Protected Ground and a Successful Event

Thanks to the FastCover system, the event went ahead without issue. Staging areas were stable, pedestrian routes were clearly defined, and access for light vehicles remained safe and functional throughout the event, with no damage to the park’s surface.
The organisers were pleased with the result, and GroundGuards were proud to contribute to such a significant cultural milestone for the city. The mats will continue to support further events in Bradford’s City of Culture programme, showing how practical ground protection helps public spaces host major celebrations.

Planning an Event in a Public Space?

If your event needs temporary access or pedestrian walkways without damaging the ground, GroundGuards can help. Our team offers expert advice and proven ground protection systems to ensure your site stays safe and presentable. Get in touch to find out how we can support your next project.