Holyport College

Construction of Eton Fives Courts at Holyport College

Sector: Education, Sports + Leisure
Client: Holyport College
Value range: Under £500k

Morris + Blunt undertook the construction of three new Eton Fives courts for Holyport College, designed to replicate the unique features of the original court at Eton College, including the iconic buttress, ledge banding, and step within the court.

Scope of work

Foundation and Groundworks:

  • The project involved extensive structural foundations and groundworks, addressing complex drainage issues and a high water table on-site to ensure proper drainage for the courts.

Superstructure Construction:

  • The courts’ steel frame, brick, and blockwork walls were erected with precision to meet the stringent regulatory dimensions required for Eton Fives courts.
  • The external brickwork was carefully selected to match the surrounding buildings at Holyport College, blending seamlessly with the existing campus architecture.

Specialist Finishes:

  • A Kiem mineral render system was applied to the internal surfaces, followed by a Kiem mineral paint finish, which included fleur-de-lys detailing.
  • The application of these finishes was scheduled during the summer months to ensure optimal conditions, crucial for achieving the desired player performance and experience.

Roofing and External Features:

  • Roofing panels were installed to provide weather protection, complemented by bespoke metal gutters and downpipes, enabling play in all weather conditions.
  • Lighting systems were installed to allow for nighttime play, enhancing the courts’ usability.

Construction Challenges:

  • The construction took place in the heart of the Colleges active environment, requiring meticulous planning and tailored safety procedures to protect staff and students while ensuring the safety of construction workers.

Precision and attention to detail were critical throughout the project, with the Eton Fives Association conducting an inspection near completion. Both the Association and the Client were delighted with the accurate representation and functionality of the final courts.

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