MUGA Floodlighting Installation for Buckhurst Crescent Playzone

Background information

The Football Foundation PlayZones Programme is a nationwide initiative dedicated to creating safe, accessible, and inclusive sports spaces. In Swindon, the Buckhurst Crescent Playzone MUGA was developed to provide opportunities for football, basketball, netball, and other recreational activities.

To ensure the facility met the highest standards of safety, performance, and compliance, JHP Electrical Services were appointed by fellow SAPCA members, Chiltern Sports and McArdle Sport Tec, working in partnership with Swindon Borough Council and supported by the Football Foundation's Playzone Programme. We worked in partnership with SAPCA approved manufacturer, Powerlite Fitzgerald to provide the light fittings and design.

The fact that the delivery team comprised SAPCA-accredited companies provided reassurance to stakeholders that the Playzone would be completed to industry best practice, with high-quality workmanship and compliance guaranteed.

The new facility, opened ahead of schedule, forms part of the £600,000 Buckhurst Field improvement project—the largest-ever investment by South Swindon Parish Council into recreation. Constructed in just six weeks instead of the expected twelve, the Playzone is now operated by South Swindon Parish Council, with support from the Football Foundation and Swindon Borough Council.

During the summer holidays, the Playzone has been freely accessible to residents, with structured activities and bookings introduced from Autumn. The wider scheme also included restored football pitches, new changing rooms, a rebuilt skatepark, a cycleway, a tarmacked car park, and upgraded play facilities.

Project overview

As the specialist floodlighting contractor, JHP Electrical Services were responsible for the full design, supply, and installation of the floodlighting system for the Playzone MUGA.

Scope of Works

• Power Supply & Cabling – Installation of SWA cabling from the sports hall distribution board to a new feeder pillar beside the MUGA.
• Feeder Pillar & Distribution – Supply and installation of a feeder pillar with a new distribution board to control both floodlighting and access gate relays.
• Floodlighting Installation – Design, supply, and installation of floodlighting columns to ensure consistent, high-quality illumination across the playing surface.
• Testing & Certification – Comprehensive inspection, electrical certification, and lux testing to confirm full compliance with Football Foundation guidance.

Strategic approach

JHP Electrical Services delivered this project through a structured, collaborative approach:

• Precision Design – Developing a tailored floodlighting solution to meet Football Foundation lux level and uniformity requirements.
• Collaborative Delivery – Working seamlessly with SAPCA partners Chiltern Sports and McArdle Sport Tec, alongside Swindon Borough Council, to align with tight construction schedules.
• Quality Assurance – Conducting rigorous testing, certification, and lux analysis to guarantee compliance, safety, and long-term reliability.

Results and achievements

• Successfully delivered a fully compliant floodlighting system that met Football Foundation specifications.
• Provided a safe, well-lit environment for evening and year-round sporting use.
• Enhanced community engagement by supporting football, basketball, netball, and other activities.
• Strengthened partnerships among SAPCA members, local authorities, and national bodies, ensuring quality and confidence in delivery.

Client satisfaction

The appointment of SAPCA-accredited contractors, including JHP Electrical Services, ensured this project was completed to the highest industry standards. The floodlighting system has performed exactly as designed, earning praise from partners and providing a reliable, long-term community asset.

Conclusion

The Buckhurst Crescent Playzone MUGA project highlights the benefits of appointing SAPCA members such as JHP Electrical Services, Chiltern Sports, and McArdle Sport Tec. SAPCA accreditation ensures clients receive expert workmanship, adherence to best practice, and complete compliance with national standards.

By delivering a safe, inclusive, and reliable floodlighting solution in partnership with SAPCA members, JHP Electrical Services has helped create a facility that will strengthen the Swindon community, encourage active lifestyles, and support grassroots sport for years to come.