MaxiTrack Event Access Mats for TT Races Grandstand Build in Douglas, Isle of Man
In Douglas on the Isle of Man, construction was underway to build the main grandstand for the world-famous TT Races. The project required construction vehicles to access the site, but the surrounding parkland needed to remain presentable for a high-profile event. In addition to vehicle routes, the organisers also needed safe pedestrian walkways and extra parking areas to manage large visitor numbers during race week.
The Challenge: Heavy Construction Traffic on Parkland at a High-Profile Venue
Any rutting or ground disturbance would have affected the appearance of the venue and could have led to costly remediation after the event. The access solution therefore had to protect turf under heavy-duty vehicle movements while also supporting high volumes of pedestrian traffic.
With event timelines fixed, the installation needed to be completed quickly and with minimal disruption, ensuring the grandstand build stayed on programme and the wider venue remained ready for spectators.
Our Solution: MaxiTrack Access Mats for Temporary Roads, Walkways, and Parking
GroundGuards recommended MaxiTrack heavy-duty trackway mats to meet both the heavy-duty access requirement and the high footfall demands of the venue.
Hand-Installable Mats With Grip for Vehicles and Pedestrians
Each MaxiTrack mat measures 2.4m x 1.2m and weighs 40kg, allowing installation by hand without lifting equipment. The SmartGrip tread provided reliable traction for pedestrians and helped support stable vehicle movement across the protected areas.
Locked Joints to Reduce Mud and Protect Turf
Overlapping flange joints locked the mats together to create a continuous surface, helping suppress mud and protect the grass from rutting under repeated movements.
Coordinated Delivery and Full Installation
Working with a local distributor, GroundGuards coordinated delivery and full installation on site. The matting was configured to create temporary roads for construction vehicles, defined pedestrian walkways, and stable parking areas across the event footprint.
Results: Clean Grounds, No Reported Damage, and Programme Maintained
The MaxiTrack system delivered robust protection for the grass beneath, with no damage reported once works were completed. Installation was completed quickly and with minimal disruption, supporting the grandstand programme and broader event preparations.
Thousands of spectators attended across the summer, with the grounds remaining clean, professional, and well maintained throughout. The client was pleased with both performance and presentation, meeting the standards expected at a globally recognised venue.
Key Lessons for High-Profile Events on Public Green Space
- Protect turf early when heavy construction activity is required ahead of public events - repairs and reinstatement are costly and highly visible.
- Use a single matting system that can serve multiple functions (roads, walkways, parking) to simplify logistics and layout changes.
- Prioritise grip underfoot for pedestrian routes, particularly where footfall is high and conditions can vary.
- Locked mat joints help maintain surface continuity, reduce mud movement, and improve stability under repeated trafficking.
- Coordinated delivery and installation planning is essential when event deadlines are fixed and site windows are limited.
Speak to GroundGuards About Event Access Mats for Parkland, Walkways, and Parking
If you need safe access routes, temporary parking, or protection for public green spaces during event builds, GroundGuards can help. We supply and install temporary access mats trusted for events of all sizes and conditions. Contact our team to discuss your requirements.
