Seaford College MUGA
Seaford College MUGA
Seaford College, Petworth
Earlier this year, at Durant Cricket we had the privilege of designing and constructing a premier outdoor cricket practice facility for Seaford College, an esteemed private school set in the South Downs. The criteria we were given was as follows, to convert the empty space into a multi-purpose outdoor cricket and multi-sport training facility.
Our team oversaw each stage of the project with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the facility would meet both high-performance standards and durability requirements. Continue reading for an overview of each element of the project.
1. Excavation and Ground Preparation
After an initial discussion with Chris Adams—former England, Derbyshire, and Sussex player and now Head of Cricket at Seaford College—we scheduled a site visit to assess the potential for the new facility. The first step of the project involved a detailed and thorough excavation of the designated area, ensuring a strong foundation essential for the high-quality facility we envisioned. We began by clearing away any vegetation, rocks, or other natural debris that could compromise the stability and longevity of the structure. This step was crucial, as even minor inconsistencies in the foundation could impact the overall performance and safety of the practice area.
Once the site was cleared, our team began the intricate process of digging and grading the area. This wasn’t simply a matter of creating a flat space but involved precision excavation to create a stable, balanced surface that would support consistent play. Our team took particular care to consider the specific geological and environmental factors unique to the South Downs terrain. The region’s soil type, natural slopes, and drainage needs all informed our approach, as proper drainage is vital to prevent water pooling, which can damage the surface and disrupt gameplay. With this in mind, we adjusted the grading of the land to facilitate efficient runoff and maintain surface integrity, even during heavy rains.
To enhance soil stability, we also conducted soil compaction where necessary. This helps to prevent any future settling or shifting, which can result in an uneven surface. By reinforcing the ground and creating a solid, level foundation, we ensured the longevity and reliability of the site, which would ultimately support the advanced surfacing and netting systems we planned to install.
With a clean, stable, and expertly prepared base in place, the site was ready for the next steps in construction. This initial phase laid the groundwork—literally and figuratively—for a facility that could withstand extensive use and provide Seaford College students with a safe, high-quality environment for cricket training.

2. Installation of High-Performance Surfacing
With the ground perfectly leveled, we proceeded to install the high-performance synthetic surfacing, specifically selected to meet the demands of cricket practice. This specialised surface was chosen for its exceptional resilience, weather resistance, and realistic bounce characteristics, essential for creating an authentic training experience. Designed to mimic the behavior of natural turf while delivering enhanced durability, this surface ensures a consistent performance regardless of weather conditions, making it ideal for year-round use.
In addition to enhancing the players' experience, this surface significantly reduces ongoing maintenance requirements. Its durable design minimizes wear from regular use, making it a practical choice for a high-traffic environment like Seaford College’s cricket facility. Our installation team worked meticulously to achieve a smooth, seamless finish, ensuring the entire surface was even and free from imperfections. This attention to detail resulted in a top-quality, professional-grade facility that will reliably withstand frequent and intensive use by Seaford College students, supporting their development in cricket for years to come.

3. Fitting our Retractable Netting Systems
The final stage of the project was the installation of Durant Cricket’s renowned retractable netting system, a feature celebrated for its durability, ease of use, and versatility. This cutting-edge system allows for highly adaptable training sessions by enabling the nets to be quickly retracted or deployed based on the specific needs of each practice. Whether students are practicing individually or engaging in group drills, the retractable nets provide seamless flexibility, allowing the space to transform instantly to suit different coaching and training setups.
Constructed from high-strength, weather-resistant materials, the netting system is engineered to endure the repeated impact of cricket balls, ensuring it remains sturdy and reliable through countless training sessions. This robust design not only enhances the facility’s longevity but also adds an essential layer of safety, effectively containing balls within the practice area and minimizing the risk to players and bystanders.
Our installation of the retractable netting system created a safe and controlled environment that supports focused practice while preserving the open space's usability when the nets are not needed. This feature ensures that Seaford College’s new facility is not only built to high-performance standards but is also a highly versatile and adaptable space, capable of meeting the diverse needs of their cricket program for years to come.

Seaford College Gallery
Our Other Case Studies

22 Yards Cricket Centre
Durant Cricket embarked on a substantial installation project at what is now recognised as The 22 Yard Cricket Centre, a specialised Centre, dedicated to cricket enthusiasts.

PA Sports Indoor Centre
PA Sports, with the help of Durant Cricket, underwent a remarkable transformation with the installation of a state-of-the-art indoor centre. The area was refined making it suitable for sports.

Millfield School
Durant Cricket worked with Millfield Director of Cricket, Mark Garaway, to complete a five-lane netting system, including retractable wings. The finished facility allows for flexibility.