In modern sports field design, one of the most complex challenges is building around existing trees and vegetation. Trees define a landscape, provide shade, and support biodiversity, but they also introduce engineering, safety, and maintenance considerations that cannot be ignored. Effective tree protection integrates arboricultural science, civil engineering, and stakeholder collaboration to deliver fields that are safe, playable, and sustainable. 

Understanding the Role of Trees in Sporting Landscapes 

Trees and vegetation, from ground covers to canopy layers, form the structural and ecological framework of a sports reserve. They provide shade for players and spectators, filter pollutants, and create habitats for birds and insects. Within a sports field design context, however, trees can influence field performance. 

Shade from large canopies reduces surface heat stress but may also limit turf growth, creating uneven wear patterns. Leaf litter, small branches, and root encroachment can interfere with both natural and synthetic surfaces, increasing maintenance requirements and affecting playability. These interactions highlight the need for tree risk management and early design planning. 

Balancing Tree Safety and Human Safety 

While trees contribute to environmental health and human wellbeing, they can pose serious risks if not properly assessed. Tree failure, whether from decay, root damage, or extreme weather, can endanger players, spectators, and infrastructure. 

Qualified arborists assess each tree’s species, age, health, and structural root zone (SRZ). These assessments inform sports field design decisions, ensuring that new infrastructure does not compromise tree stability. SPORTENG’s engineers collaborate closely with arborists to retain significant trees wherever possible while maintaining safety and field performance. 

Designing New Sports Precincts with Tree Protection in Mind 

For new precincts, it’s important to integrate landscape and civil engineering planning from the outset. The objective is to optimise both sporting layout and tree preservation. Trees are positioned at safe distances from footpaths, spectator areas, car parks, and structures to prevent root conflicts and damage. 

Incorporating water-sensitive urban design principles allows stormwater to be directed into landscaped areas, naturally nourishing trees and reducing irrigation requirements. Root zones are carefully sized to allow growth without disturbing pavements or drainage infrastructure. This approach enhances sports field sustainability and protects long-term investment in both civil and natural assets. 

Working Within Established Landscapes 

Upgrading a field in an existing reserve often brings unique challenges. Mature trees may predate the field, sitting close to playing surfaces, car parks, or change rooms. Removing such trees can create community conflict, particularly if they are listed on heritage or significant-tree registers. 

This needs to be addressed through a comprehensive assessment process. Arborists and engineers evaluate tree type, canopy spread, root zones, and overall condition. With this information, stakeholders can collaboratively decide which trees to retain, which to remove, and where design adjustments are required. 

Engineering Around Root Systems and Unavoidable Tree Conflicts 

There may also be situations where conflict with a significant tree cannot be avoided. In these cases, the field alignment or dimensions may need to be altered, or, in some instances, the assessment of root depth and structure allows the field to be constructed around or even on top of the root network. 

Case Study: Gosch’s Paddock for the Melbourne Demons 

SPORTENG applied this method at Gosch’s Paddock. The solution required all stakeholders to accept compromises for the greater good of the project. In reality, the area affected was only about five per cent of the field, located on the perimeter. 

The turf manager was fully involved in the design process, understanding that this portion of the field would perform differently. Maintenance practices were adjusted accordingly, ensuring safe and playable conditions. This case highlights how detailed planning, technical assessment, and collaboration between designers, arborists, and turf managers can integrate tree protection even in challenging scenarios. 

The Importance of Stakeholder Engagement 

Trees can be a divisive topic among stakeholders. Sports planners often prioritise playable space, while community members and environmental advocates focus on tree preservation.  

For instance, trees nearing the end of their useful life expectancy can be earmarked for removal to free space for field expansion, while healthy, long-lived trees are retained and integrated into the design. This collaborative process reduces conflicts, minimises delays, and delivers socially and environmentally responsible outcomes. 

Consequences of Ignoring Tree Risk Management 

Failing to consider tree risk management can have severe consequences. Disturbing structural root zones can destabilise trees, increasing the risk of collapse during storms or high winds. Such events endanger people, property, and infrastructure. 

Non-compliance with tree protection regulations can also lead to fines, legal penalties, or reputational damage. Councils, developers, and contractors must adopt precautionary measures, including fencing root zones and ongoing supervision, to ensure both compliance and safety. 

Conclusion 

Protecting trees in sports field design is more than a regulatory requirement; it is essential for safety, sustainability, and long-term field performance. Ignoring tree risk management can lead to structural issues, higher maintenance costs, and even safety hazards for players and spectators.  

Every field project with existing or significant vegetation needs careful consideration from the start. Addressing these challenges now ensures a safe, resilient, and environmentally responsible precinct for years to come. Contact SPORTENG today to make sure your project balances performance with tree protection.