Manchester Regional Athletics Stadium

When constructed in 2002 as part of the larger development in North East Manchester, architects Faulkner Brown had a clear idea of what they wanted to achieve. They aimed to create a state of the art but understated outdoor running track which would be used by not only the Commonwealth Games and other world competitions, but also the local community.

Approaching Architen Landrell in 2001, they asked the company to look at a tensile fabric covering for the 360 degree seating they were proposing to install around the track. Aside from being an attractive addition to the scheme, the canopy would provide shading and rain protection for the spectators in the stands – a necessary component in the British climate!

The 61 canopies of differing sizes and shapes that lined the stadium proved a challenge for the Architen Landrell team. Not only was manufacture completed simultaneously, but so was installation and so project management and organisation were key!

The project was ultimately a success story for the company and in summer 2002 the stadium provided a venue for the warm up for the Commonwealth Games. The arena continues to host national and international athletics events around the year and provides local clubs with a training and competition venue!