A new athletics track opened at Palmer Park Leisure Centre & Stadium in Reading earlier this year. Funded by Reading Borough Council and its leisure partner, GLL, the new track replaces an ageing surface.
The £500,000 track features a Polytan Rekortan PUR system – supplied by SAPCA member, Polytan. The surface has been designed to provide a smoother and flatter running surface and a consistent rebound and impact absorption, which will both help runners achieve faster times as well as prevent injuries and reduce stress on joints.
“Rekortan PUR’s high abrasion resistance, due to embedded EPDM granules in the wear layer, means it is excellently suited for running shoes with spikes and has an especially long lifespan,” Polytan said.
“It is the ideal surface for records and international elite sports. Its special solid construction allows for optimal acceleration and performance.”
The new track also features Polytan SMART technology, a system which integrates precision timing gates directly into the track surface. This allows athletes to monitor performance in real time, enabling data-driven training and diagnostics.
Palmer Park’s athletics track has been designed with longevity in mind and should last for 30 years. It is home to Reading Athletics Club and Reading Roadrunners, plus other groups.
Councillor Adele Barnett-Ward, Lead Member for Reading Borough Council’s Leisure and Culture, said: “This latest investment in the Palmer Park track reflects our shared commitment with GLL to enhance and safeguard Reading’s leisure facilities for future generations and is a fantastic addition to our town’s leisure offering and part of a broader vision to make Reading a top destination for sport and wellbeing.
“This investment reflects our commitment to ensuring every resident can enjoy high-quality, accessible leisure facilities.
“We’re proud to support facilities that serve everyone, from elite athletes to families and community groups. The new track will support both grassroots and competitive sport, and I’m thrilled that its first major event will be one that celebrates inclusivity and community spirit.”
Earlier this year, Polytan won the Product of the Year category at 2025 SAPCA Awards for its Rekortan Gel GT, non-porous athletics track surface. The track is made using renewable raw materials and certified by World Athletics for high-performance athletics at the competitive level. For more on the surface, click here.