Hednesford Town FC’s world-leading pitch is one step closer to completion, as a major milestone is marked this week with the final piece of the Formavoid system installed beneath the surface at Keys Park.
This advanced layer plays a vital role in the performance and resilience of the new surface – helping manage water, airflow, and root development to support a stronger pitch year-round. It also signals that the project is halfway through with seeding and stitching to begin next week.
The works are being delivered by SEL Environmental, in partnership with the club, and reflect one of the most advanced pitch systems currently in use – evolving beyond the technology installed at Everton’s Bramley-Moore Dock stadium.
Around 25,000 Formavoid units have now been laid as part of the pitch’s substructure – made from recycled plastic and a carbon neutral material, reinforcing the club’s commitment to sustainability. The Formavoid system also plays a key role in harvesting and filtering rainwater through the layers beneath the surface, reducing water waste and supporting long-term pitch health.
Jack Shuttleworth, Director at SEL Environmental and Founder of Formavoid, explained: “Formavoid works by creating a breathable gap beneath the surface. It allows rainwater to drain quickly, lets oxygen flow to the grass roots, and reduces ground pressure – all of which helps the pitch stay healthier for longer.
“It also supports the Circulate System – a network of smart pipes that manage moisture, air and temperature beneath the pitch. This system improves drainage, boosts aeration and enables water extraction, giving greater control across all seasons. Combined with this next-generation design, Hednesford Town’s pitch will stand among the very best in the world – and we’re proud to be playing a part in that.”
To celebrate the milestone, Hednesford Town FC Chairman, Craig Gwilt, joined members of the project team to place the final Formavoid unit on site. He said:
“It was a proud moment to help place the final piece. This milestone brings real excitement – not just for the pitch, but for what it represents here at the Club.
“This level of technology puts us ahead of the curve across the sport, and we’re doing it in a way that supports both performance and sustainability. We’re creating the right foundations for future success – on and off the pitch.”
Marvin Robinson, Chief Executive of Hednesford Town FC, added: “We’re not just building a pitch – we’re building a platform for ambition. This is about setting new standards in non-league football. The technology we’re installing here isn’t just world-class – it’s future-focused, supports elite performance and has sustainability at its core.
“This is a statement of intent. Hednesford Town is serious about growth, serious about innovation, and serious about becoming the benchmark for non-league excellence.”
Terry McMahon, Club Secretary, said: “Having been part of this club for many years, it’s incredible to see the scale of investment going into something as important as the pitch. For a non-league club like ours to be installing a surface of this standard is something truly special.
“It’s a proud moment for everyone involved and another step towards a stronger, more sustainable future for Hednesford Town.”
With this phase now complete, seeding and stitching will begin next week, bringing the pitch to life ahead of the 2025/26 season. While this is an exciting time for the club, Keys Park remains an active construction site, and only staff or invited visitors should enter while work continues.
