Wakefield's new blue track: a game changer for local athletics

Wakefield Council recently commissioned the refurbishment of the existing track and field facilities at Thornes Park Athletic Stadium. This is fantastic news for Wakefield Harriers, who can now train on a vastly improved facility – it is also set to benefit other public groups, local schools, and Wakefield Triathlon Club.

The project aimed to introduce a more accessible athletics facility with year-round access. The ageing red track has been upgraded to state-of-the-art blue Stobitan surfacing, complemented by new LED floodlights, a dedicated throwing cage with tie-down points for seated throws, and a host of other enhancements designed to elevate the athlete experience.

England Athletics official facilities partner, Labosport, oversaw project management and quality control services. SIS Pitches were tasked with the job of stripping the old track and equipment, replacing it with an eight-lane texturised spray system track, including ten-lane 100m sprint lanes. On the ground, athletes will discover much improved areas for shot put, long jump, high jump, pole vault, javelin, and steeplechase, ensuring a comprehensive training and competition environment.

Wakefield council praised the work, stating:

"SIS Pitches carried out the works to a very high standard. The end result, not only met but exceeded, our expectations in every aspect of cost, quality, programme and output."

Safety has also been a key focus. The new P.A. system can be heard almost all the way around the track, significantly improving communication and safety for everyone, a benefit further enhanced by the new LED floodlight.

A renewed sense of pride

The facility has already made a huge difference to the Wakefield Harriers. We spoke with some of their committee members, who highlighted the pride they see from stadium staff in the facility they manage.

“They are proud of the facility they own, and this has fostered stronger relationships between the club and staff. We now have regular meetings and communications are greatly improved”

Jean Jackson, the club's Secretary and a winner of England Athletics' 2023 Inspiring Official regional volunteer award – as well as a member of the Yorkshire and Humberside Regional Council – shared a particularly exciting development:

"The new pole vault equipment means that we are now able to offer pole vault again after a break of four years; this is attracting new people."

Boosting local athletics and community engagement

This year, the revamped venue is set to become a familiar hub for competitive athletes and officials, as it will host seven West Yorkshire track and field events and district-level competitions.

Beyond competitive sport, the facility is also fostering community engagement. A new Couch to 5k programme, led by LiRF-qualified Louise Galloway, is already seeing success. This initiative has provided a clear pathway for local people to get involved in exercise and has successfully strengthened their partnership with the athletics club.

Jean concluded with a positive outlook:

"The current members have provided a lot of positive feedback, and this should help with club member retention in the long run. Even after just a few weeks of using the new track, there have been more enquiries and young athletes coming for trials.  Plus, members who have not been for years have been returning to train in the much improved facility."

The refurbishment of Thornes Park Athletics Stadium marks a new chapter for athletics in Wakefield, promising enhanced opportunities for training, competition and community participation.