Manfeild Stadium reopening planned following floor surface works

Manfeild Stadium is expected to reopen within the next few weeks following the removal of its existing equestrian floor.

The stadium was proactively closed when concerns were raised about the existing surface, while air quality testing was undertaken to better understand whether there was an issue. It has remained closed throughout the testing and assessment process.

The results have now confirmed the presence of silica in the airborne dust within the stadium and, following receipt of specialist advice, the decision has been made to remove the existing surface.

Once removed, the concrete base underneath will be thoroughly cleaned and prepared for use. This work is expected to take approximately three to four weeks.

We are working directly with affected staff and organisations with bookings during the closure and appreciate the patience and understanding we have received.

FAQ's:

Why is Manfeild Stadium currently closed?

Concerns were raised about the stadium’s existing equestrian floor and we made the precautionary decision to close the stadium while air quality testing was undertaken.

The stadium has remained closed throughout the testing and assessment process.

Testing has now confirmed the presence of silica in airborne dust within the stadium. Following specialist advice, we have decided to completely remove the existing surface before reopening.

What prompted the testing?

An organisation with an upcoming booking raised concerns about the stadium surface.

There had been no previous indication that the surface presented this potential issue, but we took the concerns seriously. The stadium was proactively closed and air quality testing was commissioned to better understand whether there was an issue.

It has remained closed throughout that process.

What did the testing find?

Air quality testing confirmed the presence of silica in airborne dust within the stadium, particularly when the soil is disturbed. 

We have been advised that for occasional visitors and clients to the stadium, the risk to health is very low.

The potential health risk to individuals depends on factors including the level, frequency and duration of exposure.  While the advice we have received is that risk from exposure to the undisturbed soil is very low, we have decided to completely remove the existing equestrian surface which, in its current form, requires working of the surface prior to events.

What is respirable crystalline silica?

Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral found in materials including rock, stone, sand and soil.

The presence of crystalline silica in a material is not in itself unusual. The potential health concern occurs when very fine particles, known as respirable crystalline silica or RCS, become airborne and are inhaled.

Health risks are associated particularly with repeated or prolonged exposure to RCS.

Should I be concerned if I have previously visited Manfeild Stadium?

The advice we have received is that potential health risk relates to factors including the level, frequency and duration of exposure.

For occasional visitors and clients to the stadium, the risk to health is very low.

The greater consideration is for people who have regularly worked within the stadium while the soil is being disturbed and may therefore have experienced more frequent or prolonged exposure.

Do I need to do anything if I have previously attended an event at the stadium?

No, for occasional visitors to the stadium, the advice we have received is that the risk to health is very low./

If you have specific concerns about your health, you should discuss these with your healthcare provider.

What about people who regularly work at the stadium?

Because any potential health risk is influenced by the level, frequency and duration of exposure, we are directly communicating with and supporting staff who regularly work within the stadium.

Removing the existing surface will address the source of the concern before staff and visitors return to the stadium. 

Did Manfeild know there was an issue with the floor?

No.  There had been no previous indication that the existing surface presented this potential issue.

When concerns were raised, we took them seriously, proactively closed the stadium and commissioned air quality testing.

Why is the equestrian floor being removed?

Removing the existing surface provides a clear and practical way forward and addresses the source of the concern, prioritising the health and safety of our staff and visitors. 

Once the surface has been removed, the concrete base underneath will be thoroughly cleaned and prepared before the stadium returns to use.

How will the floor be removed safely?

The removal will be undertaken by suitably qualified professionals, using appropriate controls.

The stadium will remain closed throughout the removal and cleaning process.

When will Manfeild Stadium reopen?

We currently expect the removal, cleaning and preparation work to take approximately three to four weeks.

We will confirm a reopening date once the work has progressed and we are satisfied the stadium is ready to return to use.

What will the floor be when the stadium reopens?

The stadium will initially reopen using the concrete base that is underneath the existing equestrian surface.

The concrete will be thoroughly cleaned and prepared before the stadium returns to use, in accordance with the advice we have received.

Will another floor surface be installed?

Any future flooring options will be considered separately.

As part of that process, the materials and their suitability for the stadium environment will be assessed before a decision is made.

What happens to events already booked at Manfeild Stadium?

We are contacting affected organisations directly and working with them regarding their bookings and alternative arrangements where possible.

We are grateful for the patience and understanding our clients have shown while the stadium has been closed and look forward to welcoming everyone back.