Building a sports field isn’t just about location—it’s about what’s beneath it. Sewer lines, stormwater systems, and gas pipes often run through parks, complicating design and construction. Identifying these utilities early and planning around them is key to avoiding costly delays. In this post, we’ll explore how existing utilities impact sports field projects and the best strategies to manage these challenges efficiently.

The Hidden Complexity of Sports Field Locations

One of the most common challenges when designing sports fields in developed areas is navigating existing utilities and services.

Our Civil Engineering Team explains, "These utilities often run through parks, which are ideal locations for sports fields but have infrastructure that complicates the design and construction process." The issue isn’t just about fitting a field into a space—it’s about ensuring underground services won’t interfere with surface-level functionality or future upgrades.

How Utilities Impact Project Timelines and Costs

Underground utilities can significantly influence project timelines and budgets, especially when unexpected conflicts arise. If a sewer line runs directly through a planned field, for example, relocating it could require extensive approvals and expensive engineering solutions. Similarly, stormwater systems and gas lines may impose restrictions on grading, excavation, and drainage design.

As our Team points out, "The key to managing this effectively is to identify it early." The earlier these constraints are mapped out, the more flexibility there is to adjust designs and avoid costly delays. Late-stage discoveries can result in time-consuming redesigns, regulatory hurdles, and unplanned expenses.

Strategies for Minimising Utility Conflicts

Successfully integrating a sports field with existing utilities requires proactive planning and strong communication with utility providers. Key strategies include:

• Early site investigations – Conducting detailed site investigations, including reviewing historical plans and using ground-penetrating radar, helps uncover potential issues before they impact construction.
• Flexible design approaches – Adjusting field layouts, incorporating alternative drainage solutions, or using protective measures around utilities can allow projects to move forward without major disruptions.
• Coordination with authorities – Engaging with local councils and utility companies early ensures compliance with regulations and speeds up approval processes.

Successful SPORTENG subgrade inspection led at the Chelsea & District Netball

While existing utilities can present challenges, they don’t have to derail a project. With careful planning, sports fields can be designed to coexist with essential infrastructure, ensuring smooth delivery and long-term functionality.

Want to ensure your sports field project stays on track despite underground challenges? Our experts at SPORTENG specialise in designing fields that seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure. Contact us today to discuss how we can help navigate these complexities and deliver a high-performing sports facility.