The free-to-attend event formed part of the wider GroundsFest Academy programme, which continues to provide free valuable learning opportunities for the industry throughout the year, helping professionals and volunteers develop their knowledge through practical, expert-led sessions.

Attendees enjoyed a combination of classroom learning and practical demonstrations, covering key areas including understanding wildflower habitats, site assessment, species selection, construction techniques, maintenance strategies and the environmental benefits of creating diverse habitats.

The day also provided a unique insight into the science behind wildflower seed, with delegates learning about seed production, testing, cleaning, packing and breeding processes from the experts at DLF Seeds.

Bradley Tennant, GroundsFest Event Director, said the success of the event highlighted the growing appetite for accessible, high-quality education within the industry.

“The GroundsFest Academy has gained incredible momentum, and events like this demonstrate exactly why we created it. The feedback we continue to receive from attendees shows there is a real demand for practical, relevant education that professionals can take back and apply in their own environments.

“Our partnership with DLF Seeds has been fantastic, and this event was a brilliant example of bringing together leading industry experts with people who are eager to learn, improve their skills and understand the latest approaches to sustainable land management.

“The Academy is about making education accessible to everyone, whether that’s an experienced professional looking to expand their knowledge, someone new to the industry, or the next generation of talent coming through. We’re delighted with how it has grown and we’re already looking forward to delivering more opportunities in the future.”

Following the success of the DLF wildflower event, the Academy will continue to deliver industry-focused sessions designed to share knowledge, encourage collaboration and support the continued development of the groundscare and landscaping sectors.

The free sustainability assessment tool is now available at www.groundsfestacademy.com

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The initiative, borne from two of BAGMA’s dealer members, is designed to create a space where Health & Safety professionals can share experiences, discuss common issues and, most importantly, come together to find practical solutions that bring benefit to the agricultural and groundcare sectors.

Individuals representing some of the industry’s leading brands including John Deere, Kubota, Case and more recently came together at BAGMA HQ in Peterborough with one shared vision – to find ways to make the industry safer. While it’s clear there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution, the day demonstrated the importance of sharing experiences and the value to be gained from cross-sector discussion.

Besides a number of the country’s leading dealerships, BAGMA were also pleased to welcome a number of industry experts to the event, including the DVSA’s Andrew Donald and Paul Marsh from BAGMA Service Provider SafetyAide.

“The first BAGMA Health & Safety Working Group meeting was both insightful and encouraging” commented attendee Jo Robinson, Group Health and Safety Manager at Farol Ltd. “While we may represent different businesses, brands and specialisms, we all have the same objective: making sure everyone goes home safe at the end of the day. Openly sharing experiences, challenges and ideas in this way is exactly how we continue to improve health and safety standards and drive our industry forward.”

Christia Killen, Health and Safety Manager at Lister Wilder, added “What I found most valuable about the first meeting was realising that we’re all dealing with many of the same challenges. Sharing practical solutions and learning from each other means we can all make progress much faster than trying to solve everything independently.”

On the event, BAGMA General Manager Nick Darking said, “We are well aware that people’s eyes tend to glaze over when you mention Health & Safety, but the startling statistics around injuries and deaths in the outdoor power sector prove that it’s a topic that needs to be tackled head on. This inaugural meeting was incredibly well received by all that attended and it signals an important step towards working collaboratively to improve the safety of those working across the industry.”

The next meeting of the BAGMA Health & Safety Working Group will take place virtually on Tuesday 15th December 2026. BAGMA Members who are interested in attending should contact BAGMA via email at info@bagma.com or by calling 01295 713344

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Bringing together experts from across sport, science and industry, the programme will provide visitors with direct access to the latest thinking, research and real-world experiences shaping the future of grounds management.

Taking place across the Main Stage, Spotlight Stage and Community Sport Stage, Learning LIVE 2026 will bring together some of the most influential voices in sports turf management, environmental sustainability, water stewardship, scientific research, and grassroots sport. Through diverse expert-led sessions, visitors will gain practical insights, cutting-edge knowledge and lessons learned from professionals operating at the highest level of the industry.

Opening the programme is Lee Guerriero of UEFA, who will take to the Main Stage to deliver a highly anticipated session, ‘Review of UEFA Club Season 2025/2026 and a Preview of EURO 2028 Pitch Programmes’. Offering a unique perspective from one of world football’s governing bodies, Guerriero will reflect on the latest UEFA club competitions while looking ahead to the planning, preparation and expectations surrounding UEFA EURO 2028.

Hot off the back of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Greg Whately, Principal Consultant at STRI, will discuss the delivery of exceptional playing surfaces for major international tournaments. Greg will share valuable insights into the planning, preparation and performance standards required to support football’s biggest events, offering practical lessons for turf professionals operating at every level of the game.

Technology and innovation will be firmly in the spotlight during a session from Dr Ruth Mann of Agrii (Envirofield), who will explore ‘The Role of Technology in Turfcare Management’. Her presentation will examine how emerging technologies are transforming decision-making, improving efficiencies, and helping turf professionals deliver high-performing, sustainable surfaces.

Research-led learning will form another key strand of the programme. On the Spotlight Stage, Dr Christian Spring of STRI will headline the European Turfgrass Society Takeover with a session entitled ‘Putting Science and Research at the Heart of Turfgrass Management’. Visitors will gain valuable insight into how evidence-based approaches and scientific innovation are helping shape the future of turfgrass management across Europe.

With water management continuing to dominate industry agendas, Tony Hanson will present ‘From Problem to Resource: Unlocking Alternative Water for Turf Irrigation’ on the Main Stage. His session will explore innovative and sustainable approaches to water sourcing, offering practical solutions for organisations facing increasing pressure on traditional water supplies.

Also on the Spotlight Stage, Dr Kathryn Severn join the SAPCA Takeover session, ‘The Latest Trends in Player-Surface Interactive Research’. Her presentation will examine the latest findings surrounding the relationship between athletes and playing surfaces, providing valuable insight for professionals seeking to balance performance, safety, and sustainability.

GMA Grounds Manager of the Year 2026, Karl McDermott, will lead two Learning LIVE sessions, drawing on his experience at some of the UK’s most prestigious sporting venues. In the session, How Strong Team Culture Ensures Success at the AELTC, Lord’s Cricket Ground, the University of Leeds and Leicester City Football Club, Karl will explore how effective leadership, collaboration and a positive workplace culture underpin consistently high standards across a diverse range of world-class facilities.

The Community Sport Stage will feature expert guidance aimed at helping grassroots sports clubs’ access vital funding and resources. On 12 November, Ruby Armitage, PitchPower Project Officer at the Football Foundation, will present ‘How to Obtain a Machinery Grant’. Drawing on her experience supporting clubs and facilities across the grassroots game, Ruby will provide practical advice on securing funding for essential equipment and improving the long-term sustainability of playing surfaces.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the Grounds Management Association, said: “Learning LIVE has become one of the defining attractions of SALTEX, bringing together world-class expertise and practical knowledge that visitors can take back to their organisations. This year’s speaker line-up reflects many of the key issues shaping the future of grounds management, from major tournament preparation and climate resilience to scientific research, technological innovation, and grassroots facility development. We are delighted to welcome such an outstanding group of speakers to SALTEX 2026.”

As the industry’s leading platform for professional development, networking, and innovation, Learning LIVE continues to provide SALTEX visitors with unparalleled access to the people and organisations driving progress across the grounds management sector.

SALTEX 2026 takes place on 11 and 12 November at the NEC Birmingham, with all Learning LIVE sessions included free as part of visitor registration.

For more information and to register for free, visit www.saltex.org.uk

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Hosted by BASIS, the Knowledge Trail provides a structured way for industry professionals to engage with exhibitors, explore key technical topics and put their knowledge to the test, all while earning valuable CPD points.

Key exhibitors at GroundsFest 2026 are taking part in the Knowledge Trail, including TSP Media’s titles Landscape & Amenity Product Update and Let’s Talk PG on stand 49 in Hall 1. Here you can also pick up the latest copies of both magazines and pick up your free mini football.

The Knowledge Trail is designed to make stand visits more purposeful, encouraging meaningful conversations and knowledge exchange around topics that matter in practice, including turf management, agronomy and best practice.

Rather than focusing on product promotion, the Knowledge Trail is built around knowledge exchange. Attendees visit participating exhibitors, discuss relevant topics and answer a short set of questions.

By linking those conversations directly to assessment, the initiative helps ensure that important principles are understood and retained, rather than simply heard during a busy show visit.

Earn up to six CPD points per day

BASIS members can earn up to six CPD points per day by completing the Knowledge Trail:

2 points for general attendance

1 point for each Knowledge Trail quiz answered correctly

It is a simple way to combine professional development with exploring GroundsFest and meeting exhibitors across the show.

How does it work?

Getting involved is easy. Simply visit the BASIS stand (L18) in The Landscape Zone to sign in and collect your Knowledge Trail card.

From there, choose which participating partner stands you would like to visit, take part in the discussion and answer the relevant Knowledge Trail questions. Once you have answered correctly, you will receive a stamp on your card, up to a maximum of four CPD points per day.

Before leaving GroundsFest, return your completed card to the BASIS stand. Your CPD points will then be processed by the BASIS office.

Who is taking part?

A wide range of organisations from across the industry are participating in the Knowledge Trail at GroundsFest, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to explore different areas of expertise and discover new information.

Participating organisations include:

Agrigem, Amenity Forum, Askham Bryan College, Boningale Nurseries, CXCS, DLF, DSV Eurograss, Ezyassett & Ezytreev, Germinal Amenity, Grasshopper Turf Equipment, GreenBest, Groundsfest Academy, HortWeek, Hozelock, Husqvarna Group, ICL, LAPU, Lubbe & Sons (Bulbs Ltd), Phoenix Amenity, Plantex UK, TechNeat, The Gardeners Guild and Trimax Mowers.

The Knowledge Trail offers an excellent opportunity to broaden your knowledge while discovering more of what GroundsFest has to offer.

So, if you’re attending GroundsFest this September, make your visit work even harder for you. Sign in at the BASIS stand, collect your Knowledge Trail card and start earning CPD points while you explore the show.

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Designed to help clubs improve and maintain better playing surfaces throughout the year, these practical events will provide expert advice, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities for everyone involved in sports pitch maintenance.

The workshops are ideal for:

• Grounds staff
• Volunteers
• Club officials
• Facilities managers
• Schools
• Community clubs

The events are open to all clubs, not just those currently receiving funding.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• Hear from GMA Pitch Advisors and industry experts
• Watch practical machinery and product demonstrations
• Learn the latest maintenance techniques and best practice
• Gain seasonal pitch maintenance guidance
• Ask questions and receive practical advice
• Discover support available through the GMA and County FAs
• Network with clubs and grounds professionals from across the region

Whether you’re responsible for a football pitch, community sports facility or school playing field, the workshops will provide practical knowledge and solutions that can be applied immediately at your own venue.

Workshop Dates and Venues

St Albans FC

Date: Monday 14 September 2026

Time: 18:00 to 20:30

West Riding CFA

Date: Wednesday 16 September 2026

Time: 18:00 to 21:00

Hebburn Town FC

Date: Thursday 24 September 2026

Time: 10:00 to 16:00

The workshops are free to attend, but places are limited, so early booking is recommended.

Anyone interested in attending can secure their place by visiting: https://thegma.org.uk/events

These workshops offer a unique opportunity to learn from leading grounds management professionals, discover the latest techniques and equipment, and connect with others dedicated to improving grassroots playing surfaces.

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In its report into school and community sport, the committee called for Sport England to be retained as a statutory consultee in the planning system, preventing playing fields from being lost to development and protecting them for future generations.

The Government announced last week that it would retain Sport England as a consultee. It would also strengthen its proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework so that where recreational land is lost it would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quality and quantity.

Chair of the Culture Media and Sport Committee, Dame Caroline Dinenage MP said: “I am pleased the Government has listened to the Committee’s call to retain Sport England as a statutory planning consultee. The preservation of playing fields is vital to keeping the nation active, which in turn brings a whole range of economic, social and health benefits. Sport England told us it protected more than 1000 playing fields each year. Under the revised system Sport England must maintain this strong record of protection whilst redoubling its efforts to turn applications round swiftly.

“I also welcome the Government’s change of heart on protections in the revised National Planning Policy Framework to ensure any replacement of lost recreational land results in improved space in terms of both quality and quantity. This again reflects the Committee’s recommendation that playing fields must be preserved as vital assets for future generations.”

The Culture, Media and Sport Committee published its report Game On: Community and school sport in April.

It found persistent financial pressures, limited facilities and a lack of prioritisation in the school curriculum was damaging participation in sport. It called for a new focus and funding to get the nation moving more.

The post MPs welcome community and school sport planning protections appeared first on Professional Groundscare.

Since 1987, BIGGA has been at the forefront of supporting greenkeepers through professional development, education, networking opportunities and industry advocacy.

Today, the association represents a thriving community of more than 6,000 members across the UK, Europe and beyond.

Over the past year alone, BIGGA has launched two new educational programmes, enhanced its exclusive member benefits package, taken over the management of the prestigious Golf Environment Awards, and delivered the largest BTME (BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition) in the event’s history.

Visitors to the stand can learn how BIGGA supports greenkeepers at every stage of their careers, helping to raise the profile and credibility of the profession while providing access to valuable resources, training opportunities, wellbeing support and exclusive discounts on a wide range of products and services. Benefits available to members range from free Mental Health First Aid training to exclusive career development opportunities across the UK and internationally.

As part of its partnership with GroundsFest, BIGGA will also host a programme of educational seminars across both show days. Covering topics such as emerging technologies, turf health, leadership, and water management, the sessions are designed to provide practical insights for attendees from across the grounds management and sports turf sectors.

Visitors to Stand 25 can learn more about BIGGA membership, BTME and Continue to Learn, and the Golf Environment Awards. Whether you’re already a member or interested in finding out how BIGGA can support your career, the team looks forward to welcoming you.

The post BIGGA returns to GroundsFest 2026 to highlight career development for greenkeepers appeared first on Professional Groundscare.

The move marks a further step change in the government’s response to the continued threat posed by wildfires and drought and follows the COBR meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Andy Burnham.

The expert group – which includes the Met Office, government, regulators, water companies, farmers, Canal & River Trust, anglers, and conservation experts – met this afternoon as part of the heightened response to help safeguard people, livelihoods, and our environment. They focused on the current drought and weather situation, actions each sector is taking and will continue to take over the coming months.

The whole of Wales is also covered by drought restrictions. This week, as the heatwaves and drought conditions continue to place untold strain on Wales’s rivers, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has applied to the Welsh Government for a Drought Order on the River Severn.

If granted, the Order would reduce the minimum amount of water required by law in the River Severn, which is regulated year-round by releases from Llyn Clywedog and Lake Vyrnwy reservoirs, as well as groundwater sources. The Environment Agency in England has also applied for a related Drought Order for the Severn in England.

Last week, a £65million package was announced to help farmers while significant work also continues on climate adaptation, including increased flood funding and nine new reservoirs.

Rural Communities Minister, Jenny Riddell-Carpenter, said: “These have been some of the driest conditions in decades, and l have seen the impact it is having on communities, and I know the real pressure on farmers and the environment.

“We have acted in lock-step with fire services, local authorities and across government to provide support and protect people and nature.

“Drought conditions are worsening and yet we now face the risk of flash flooding. As extreme weather becomes more frequent, this government is working to adapt to our changing climate – including through our work with the National Drought Group and building nine new reservoirs to secure future supplies.”

This week has seen rainfall and cooler temperatures which, while welcome, will not make any significant impact on our water resources.

Almost three-quarters (71.3%) of England is in drought, and it will be later this year before we see meaningful signs of recovery.

Drought is only over once rivers, reservoirs and groundwaters are completely replenished. This can take months of significant and sustained rainfall, while the impacts on our wildlife can last for years.

There is also currently a risk of surface water flooding, which can arise from heavy rain running off the hard ground rather than being absorbed by the soil.

The government is investing at least £10.5 billion by March 2036 to construct new flood and coastal erosion schemes and repair existing defences.

Meanwhile, the EA has completed 250 projects in the last two years, meaning almost 62,000 properties are better protected from flooding.

Environment Agency Chief Executive, Philip Duffy, chaired the National Drought Group and said: “This summer has been extremely challenging for farmers and for wildlife, and the rain we have seen this week is desperately needed.

“This current rainfall isn’t enough to change the overall drought picture, and it is possible to have simultaneous drought and flood as heavy rain falls on compacted soils.

“We are monitoring the flood risks, while also working with industry, agriculture, and the government on the ongoing drought response.

“In the meantime, we really do need everyone’s help make our current water reserves last. Every drop saved is an extra drop for your local river, lake, or farmer.”

No new areas have moved into drought status today – with the south and midlands in drought and the north remaining in prolonged dry weather.

The driest July in 190 years, a dry start to August, and five widespread heatwaves have resulted in rapidly diminishing river and reservoir levels over the summer.

The weather has also had a marked impact on soil moisture, which is essential for the recharging of groundwaters and vital for agriculture. There is always a delay of a couple of months for soils to respond to any rainfall.

Dr Katie Facer-Childs, senior hydrologist at the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), said: “After this exceptionally hot and dry summer, it will take several months for river flows and reservoirs to get back to normal. A little rain will not end the drought.

“Autumn and winter is a crucial period for replenishing our water resources. If this autumn is wetter than normal, river flows may recover by December, but current forecasts suggest this is unlikely and river flows will therefore generally remain low into the new year, especially in the south east.

“A dry winter could leave parts of the UK vulnerable to drought again next year.”

The post Coordinated drought response intensifies amid extreme weather appeared first on Professional Groundscare.

As the grounds management industry continues to invest in developing future talent, GMA NextGen will take centre stage across both days of SALTEX 2026, providing aspiring and early-career professionals with the knowledge, inspiration and connections needed to build successful careers in the sector.

The packed programme will highlight the importance of education, apprenticeships and continuing professional development (CPD), while offering attendees the chance to hear directly from young professionals who are already forging careers at some of the UK’s leading sports venues.

Flynn Good, GMA NextGen Committee member, said: “We’re thrilled to be returning to SALTEX and showcasing the opportunities available to the next generation of grounds professionals. SALTEX provides the perfect platform to bring people together, share experiences and build valuable connections across the industry.

“This year’s programme is focused on supporting career development at every stage. Through our Learning LIVE sessions, we’ll be exploring how education and CPD can help professionals progress their careers, while also highlighting the apprenticeship opportunities that are opening doors for new talent across the sector.

“We’re looking forward to meeting visitors, hearing their experiences and helping the next generation take the next step in their careers.”

On Wednesday 11 November 2026, GMA NextGen will host “Understanding Apprenticeship Opportunities for your Facility” on the Spotlight Stage.

An apprenticeship could be the first step into the world of professional sport. This session will explore how apprenticeships enable individuals to earn while they learn, gain valuable workplace experience, and develop the skills needed to build long-term careers in grounds management.

Visitors will hear how apprentices are thriving at football clubs, tennis venues, golf courses and other leading sports facilities, while learning more about the application process and what to expect from an apprenticeship programme.

Speakers:

• Flynn Good, First Assistant Pitch Manager, Leicester City Football Club, GMA NextGen Member
• Sonny Keywood, Sports Turf Technician, Brighton and Hove Albion FC, GMA NextGen Member
• James Williamson, Development Partner, Cricket Wales, GMA NextGen Member
• Bojan Jovanovic, Learning Programme Lead, Grounds Management Association
• Paul McGrail, Executive Director / Assistant Principal – Apprenticeships, Skills & Employer Engagement, Mysercough College
• Jonathan Knowles, Head of LCFC’s Sport Turf Academy, Leicester City Football Club

The session will provide practical guidance on how to apply for apprenticeships, what candidates can expect throughout their learning journey and the career opportunities available within the industry.

On Thursday 12 November 2026, attention will turn to professional development with “Future Managers: How to Progress Your Career Through Education and CPD” on the Main Stage.

This interactive session will provide practical advice on how grounds professionals can use the Grounds Management Framework alongside national and bespoke educational opportunities to achieve both pitch performance goals and personal career ambitions.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into developing themselves and their teams through structured learning, CPD and professional development opportunities.

Speakers:

• Dan Prest, Head of Technical and Learning, Grounds Management Association
• Jack Langley, Deputy Head Groundsperson, Bristol City FC, GMA NextGen Member
• Ollie Mahon, GMA NextGen Member
• Gary Barwell, Head Groundsman, Edgbaston

Alongside the stage programme, visitors are encouraged to attend the GMA NextGen Clubhouse Meet-Ups, offering an informal setting to connect with fellow young grounds professionals and members of the NextGen community.

Whether you’re just starting out in the industry, considering an apprenticeship, or looking to expand your professional network, the NextGen team will be on hand to share advice, answer questions and discuss ways to get involved.

Clubhouse Meet-Up Times:

• Wednesday 11 November | 1:00pm – 4:00pm
• Thursday 12 November | 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Whether attendees are considering an apprenticeship, seeking career development opportunities or simply looking to expand their professional network, the NextGen team will be on hand to offer advice, support and guidance.

From aspiring apprentices to future industry leaders, GMA NextGen’s programme at SALTEX 2026 demonstrates the wide range of opportunities available within grounds management. Through expert-led discussions, real-world career stories and networking opportunities, visitors will gain the knowledge and connections needed to take the next step in their professional journey.

For more information and to register for free, visit www.saltex.org.uk

The post Future grounds managers take centre stage at SALTEX 2026 appeared first on Professional Groundscare.

For more than 15 years, Jim has worked to champion the greenkeeping profession, supporting the education, development and recognition of those responsible for maintaining the UK’s more than 2,600 golf courses.

Through BIGGA, he has helped promote continuous professional development, innovation and the sharing of best practice across the industry.

As environmental expectations continue to evolve and the management of green spaces comes under increasing scrutiny, Jim brings a strong commitment to professionalism, collaboration and evidence-based decision making to the Amenity Forum Board.

We spoke to Jim about the importance of professional standards, the future of green space management and why collaboration across the amenity sector has never been more important.

Q&A: Jim Croxton

What attracted you to the Amenity Forum and the opportunity to join its Board?

The Amenity sector is extremely complex, with many distinct subsectors within it – golf, local authority landscapes, sports turf, highways, public spaces etc. Whilst a much smaller sector than agriculture it is critically important to business, travel, leisure and recreation so it is vital that it has a strong representative body that can present a coherent message to regulators and stakeholders.

The opportunity to help ensure we collaborate effectively and are well represented is important to my part of the industry and to me. Coming from a committee-based organisation I felt I had something to offer.

Why are professional standards and education so important to the amenity sector?

Professional standards underpin everything we do. The decisions made by practitioners managing our green spaces have long-term implications for the environment, public expectations and the quality of the landscapes we all enjoy.

Education gives professionals the confidence to make informed decisions based on evidence rather than habit. It encourages continual improvement, supports responsible management and helps ensure that our industry is recognized for the expertise it brings.

Investing in training and continuous professional development is one of the best ways we can strengthen the future of the amenity sector and demonstrate to regulators the professionalism inherent in our approach to landscape management.

What are the biggest challenges facing golf course management today?

Golf courses are expected to deliver exceptional playing surfaces whilst responding to increasing golfer and environmental expectations, climate change and evolving regulation.

Greenkeepers are continually balancing turf quality, resource management, biodiversity, water use and financial pressures. Meeting all of those expectations requires highly skilled professionals who understand both the science and the practical realities of managing living landscapes.

How is the profession responding to changing environmental expectations?

The profession has embraced innovation and continuous improvement. Golf course managers have always adopted Integrated Pest Management practices but the options for this are increasing all the time as technology and understanding improve.

In recent years I’m delighted that golf clubs are seeing the importance of investing in staff development to enable them to make more informed management decisions.

Climate change is also bringing new challenges, particularly around water availability. Longer periods of dry weather mean that making the best use of water resources is becoming increasingly important. The industry is responding by improving irrigation practices, selecting more resilient turf species and taking a more strategic approach to water management, helping courses adapt while maintaining high standards.

There is also a growing recognition that golf courses provide valuable habitats for wildlife, support biodiversity and make an important contribution to environmental sustainability when managed responsibly.

What role does Integrated Pest Management play in the future of golf course management?

Integrated Pest Management is fundamental to turf management. It encourages practitioners to understand the causes of problems before deciding on the most appropriate course of action.

By combining prevention, monitoring, cultural practices and targeted interventions, IPM supports healthier turf, more resilient landscapes and responsible use of plant protection products. It is about making informed decisions rather than relying on any single solution.

Why is continuous professional development so important?

Knowledge never stands still. New research, changing regulations, evolving technologies and different environmental pressures mean that professionals need opportunities to keep learning throughout their careers.

Continuous professional development helps individuals build confidence, improve competence and share experience with colleagues across the sector. Ultimately, it benefits everyone who uses and enjoys our managed green spaces.

What do you hope to achieve as a Director of the Amenity Forum?

I would like to see the Amenity Forum continue to strengthen its position as the collective voice of the amenity sector.

By bringing organisations together, promoting professional competence and encouraging constructive dialogue with policymakers and regulators, the Forum can help ensure that future decisions are informed by practical experience and sound science.

Most importantly, I hope we continue to champion the professionalism of those working across the sector. Our industry is full of highly skilled people who care deeply about the environments they manage, and that expertise deserves to be recognised.

The Board of Directors comprises representatives from a broad range of organisations and disciplines, reflecting the diversity of the amenity sector. Further profiles of Board members will be published over the coming months.

For further information about the Amenity Forum, visit:www.amenityforum.co.uk

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