Keith Porter, grounds manager at Leigh Sports Village in Greater Manchester, is marking his 18th year overseeing one of the UK’s most dynamic sporting venues. With the recent installation of a Hunter irrigation system — supplied and supported by KAR UK – he’s now seeing the full benefits of precision turf management across the site.
Installed by Irrigation Control in June as part of a major hybrid pitch redevelopment, the new Hunter system features GT-885 and I-80-ON sprinklers, known for their high performance, top serviceability, and consistent pitch coverage. Paired with the ACC2 controller and Centralus software, the technology has significantly boosted efficiency for Keith and his six-person grounds team.
“We’d seen the technology at the BTME event in Harrogate and knew it was a step up,” says Keith. “You can access the heads without digging up the pitch – which is massive on a hybrid surface – and the throw from the heads is brilliant. With the I-80s, even the central sprinklers reach right out to the touchline. We’ve now got 100% coverage, and that makes a huge difference.”
Previously, the team dealt with uneven watering, which impacted turf quality and safety. The new system has eliminated those inconsistencies.
“With the old irrigation system, it was hit and miss – now it’s perfectly even. No dry patches, no burning off. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about performance and safety too. Even in windy conditions, the whole playing surface is getting what it needs. It’s transformed our matchday prep.”
The stadium is home to rugby league side Leigh Leopards and hosts Manchester United Women and Development teams. Its growing popularity has increased the demands on Keith’s small team, who also maintain a wide range of facilities including additional pitches, a leisure centre, hotel, supermarket, and a college campus.
Despite the scope of work, Keith says the right investments have made the difference.
“We’re left to manage things ourselves, and we’ve always had the backing when we’ve made a case for investment. The irrigation system was another example of the council trusting us to choose the right tools for the job.”
One standout feature of the system is the Centralus control platform, which allows the team to manage irrigation remotely via smartphone, laptop, or handheld remote.
“It’s really simple. Any of the lads can pick it up and use it,” Keith adds. “You can run individual heads or sections for spot treatments or liquid feeding. You’re not restricted to a one-size-fits-all cycle – it’s totally flexible. That saves water, time, and effort.”
KAR UK, the UK’s leading supplier of Hunter irrigation equipment, was integral throughout the project.
“Lee Williams from KAR UK has been great,” says Keith. “He was involved right from the start and has always been on the end of the phone. Any advice we needed, he was there. It’s been a smooth process.”
Now with full pitch coverage and improved performance, Keith is already planning to roll out Hunter heads across the venue’s older systems.
“Our external pitches are older systems, but as heads start to go, we’ll be replacing them with Hunter – it’s the way forward.”
As Leigh Sports Village continues its upward trajectory, Keith and his team are keeping standards high with cutting-edge irrigation to match.
“With the Hunter system in place, we’ve got confidence in the coverage. It’s made a big difference,” Keith concludes.