New HQ for SAPCA

The move reflects the growth of the Association and is the next step in its aim of broadening its reach across the industry.

The new HQ, called the Hexangle due to its unusual shape, has undergone a full refurbishment by LaSalle Investment Management as part of an on-going transformation of Stoneleigh Park. The refurbishment has dramatically transformed the building with a modern open plan office space, meeting rooms and storage facilities. The overhaul also included the installation of environmentally friendly systems including the latest energy efficient LED lighting and air source heating.

Chris Trickey, chief executive of SAPCA, said: "It is a coming of age for us. SAPCA has been in existence for 18 years and during that time has been based in a small office in a shared building at Stoneleigh Park, but we have outgrown that space.

"Now we are spreading our wings and moving into our own headquarters for the first time. This is quite a milestone - not only are we taking on bigger premises and under our own steam, but it is also key to our plan to grow and develop the association.

The non-profit-seeking organisation has over 220 members involved in sports and play facilities including contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, consultants and sports governing bodies.

Chris said: "As a trade association we are here to deliver benefits and services to our members, but our most important role is to promote high quality sports and play facilities at all levels, from grassroots to elite, across the country.

"Our plan is to increase our membership by reaching more parts of the industry and continuing to develop standards and guidance for different types of sports and play facilities.

"Stoneleigh Park was always going to be first choice for our new base. As a national organisation hosting meetings and conferences for companies based all over the country, being in a central location with excellent transportation links is key."

Colin Hooper, estates director at Stoneleigh Park, said: "We have brought back to life a building that has not been used for nearly a decade and refurbished it to the highest standards which in itself is more environmentally friendly than a new construction.

"It is particularly pleasing because this building is unique to Stoneleigh Park with a multi-sided design that resembles a hexagon shape, and we have also retained and refreshed the exterior black timber cladding which is another striking feature.

"We are delighted to have been able to provide the first headquarters for SAPCA and support its ambition to move forward as a national association into its third decade here."

Photograph: Colin Hooper, left, estates director at Stoneleigh Park and Chris Trickey, right, outside SAPCA's new headquarters.