Homepage Green Planet Grass newsroom

Perth Suburbs Prepare for Switch to Artificial Grass Sport Fields

Announcement posted by Green Planet Grass 19 Feb 2013

Perth’s leading synthetic grass company reveals why the switch to artificial turf will become a trend for metropolitan parks and sport fields.
A convergence of factors is causing an increase in the use of artificial grass by Perth suburbs for their sport fields. The Mayors of Melville and Vincent have recently spoken in favour of using artificial grass for sport parks, and a recent government study has projected a major shortage of space for public parks and sport fields within the next seven years.

According to the study, commissioned by the WA State Government, Perth is currently 51.6ha short of having enough park and sport field space to adequately serve the current population. The study goes on to project a shortfall of as many as 510ha over the next 18 years.

Due to the shortfall, most current facilities are being overused. Some facilities are being used constantly from sunup to sundown, and those that have lights are in use even later. This kind of use is not appropriate for a natural grass field, and it renders many of them brown, with little grass. This deteriorates the condition of the field for any sport, whether the weather is dry or wet.

Mayor Russell Aubrey of Melville has most of the pieces in place to turn the hockey and soccer pitch at Len Shearer Reserve, located in Booragoon, into a multi-functional sports area utilising artificial grass. The artificial surface, projected to cost $2 million, is in the final concept planning stages. According to Mayor Aubrey, the council has already produced $1.2 million for the project, with $1 million coming from a grant.

Meanwhile, in the City of Vincent, Mayor Alannah MacTiernan says her city is considering replacing the natural grass at overused facilities in her area with artificial grass. Mayor MacTiernan, along with Mayor Aubrey, are both in favour of more government funding for the projects. Both feel that their cities are providing value for the state at their own expense.

Justin Everley, Director of Green Planet Grass, is happy to see the mayors of two Perth suburbs actively explore the benefits of  artificial grass: “It is encouraging that city governments are now beginning to understand what a great value artificial grass sport fields can be to them. Whilst the initial costs might seem high, the reduced maintenance and increased playability off the venues are tremendous benefits.


Everley concluded, “Possibly the biggest benefit to artificial grass sport fields is the fact that you can play on them all day, every day with no adverse wear and tear. When you factor in water restrictions and rising wages, it makes environmental and economic sense to make the switch to artificial grass sport fields. We’re happy that artificial turf is finally gaining mainstream acceptance.”

Green Planet Grass is the most environmentally-conscious manufacturer of synthetic grass in Perth.

For a free needs analysis or more information on artificial grass, call them at 08 9209 2669 or visit their website today: http://www.greenplanetgrass.com.au/.