The Challenge: Managing Winter Crowds on Grass Fields
Longleat Safari and Adventure Park is a major UK attraction, drawing large visitor numbers year-round. But during its popular Winter Festival of Light, those numbers soar. To cope with the influx, Longleat needed a temporary overflow car park capable of accommodating 270 additional vehicles. The only available space was a set of grass fields, which posed a serious challenge. Winter rain had already softened the ground, and without proper protection, mud, ruts, and stuck vehicles were inevitable. Health and safety risks were a real concern, and failure to provide suitable parking could impact visitor experience and event capacity.
The GroundGuards Solution: MultiTrack Mats for Winter Resilience
GroundGuards recommended MultiTrack as the ideal solution for this seasonal challenge. MultiTrack mats are lightweight, durable, and easy to install, making them perfect for transforming wet grass fields into safe and functional parking areas. Their high-grip surface reduces slippage and minimises mat movement over soft ground. A total of 2,000 mats were used to cover 6,000 square metres, providing a solid surface for cars without damaging the grass below. Thanks to the mats’ manageable 39kg weight, installation could be carried out quickly without the need for lifting equipment. This allowed the project to be completed efficiently and within the tight timeframe of the event’s setup.
Results & Outcome: A Safe, Mud-Free Car Park
The transformation was a success. The unused field became a fully operational overflow car park, giving space for an extra 270 cars to park safely and securely. Despite the wet weather, there were no reports of slips, trips, or vehicles getting stuck. The solution enabled thousands of additional visitors to attend the Festival of Light, enhancing both customer experience and event profitability. The Park was able to manage peak footfall while protecting its grounds from long-term damage.
Ground Protection for High Footfall Events
If you’re planning an event or expecting a seasonal spike in visitors, GroundGuards can help. Our team specialises in transforming grass fields into safe, functional spaces with minimal disruption. Contact us to discuss your site requirements and find the right solution for your venue.
