Stadium

Ballast Nedam Construction Limited were appointed the design and build contractor for Northampton Borough Council's new Sixfields "Community" Stadium in December 1993. The design was carried out in close liaison with Northampton Borough Council and was completed in October 1994, the first match took place on 15th October against Barnet Football Club.

The Taylor Report has created a situation whereby clubs are seeking an innovating, cost effective way of meeting the demanded recommendations. In many cases clubs will chose to redevelop their existing ground where possible, although in some cases this is not possible and therefore the need arises for clubs to relocate. Football Clubs and Local Councils now appreciate that what appeared to be problem in achieving this can, with sound advice, become an exciting opportunity resulting in the Community having an attractive new facility which can be utilised for numerous sporting fixtures and entertainment events such as pop concerts.

Northampton's Sixfields Stadium is an example of such a development. A multi-use facility which can accommodate in excess of 7,500 seated spectators, with provisions for the disabled. The stadium is also used for American Football, Rugby League and Athletics and has hosted various Semi-Professional International Rugby matches.

The Main West Stand can accommodate 4,000 seated spectators and incorporates a glazed upper concourse for supporters with refreshment facilities. The ground floor includes changing facilities, provisions for First Aiders, Stewards and Match Officials, there is also a Supporters bar complimented by several Executive Lounges and a Restaurant.

The Dave Bowen Stand (North) and South Stands are identical, each containing just under 1,000 seats and both are capable of future extension. Similarly the Alwyn Hargraves Stand (East Stand) is also capable of extension, and incorporates modern changing facilities for the Athletics Club, an All Weather track and provides space for the Football in the Community office.

Access to the Stadium can be obtained via 14 turnstiles which in one hour can access over 9,000 spectators. The Taylor report suggests that the maximum exit time for a Stadium should be eight minutes, Sixfields has been designed to allow spectators to leave the Stadium in five and a half minutes. The aisles, staircases and exit gates have flow rate capabilities to maintain this standard.

As recommended, 1% of the Stadium capacity is allocated for wheelchair users. Wheelchair spectators have the choice of viewing matches from any Stand, there is also an elevated section in the East Stand solely for wheelchair users which is accessible via a lift. All wheelchair spaces have accompanying companion/carer seats.

Ballast Nedam have designed and built Stadiums and sports facilities throughout Europe and in the United Kingdom. The current track record and reputation of the company paid dividends when they were awarded the coveted contract to build the 50,000 all seater multi-purpose Stadium (with sliding roof!) in Amsterdam which was completed in 1996 and is the home ground for Ajax Football Club.