Nanobubbles, hungry foxes and hidden reservoir – Twickenham’s hi-tech turf

Allianz Stadium has had a new playing surface installed, designed to make the pitch more sustainable and resilient as it hosts a busy run of international rugby. The changes matter to grounds staff because they aim to manage water and nutrients more effectively while keeping the turf in top condition for players.

The previous surface, in place since 2012, was replaced after 9,500 tonnes of earth and grass were removed. New turf was grown in Scunthorpe, 200 miles away, and laid in four days; beneath it, a reservoir can hold 1.4 million litres of water for reuse. The new surface is 93% natural grass and 7% plastic yarn, and uses nanobubble technology to help keep water fresh and support soil health.