Not every arena project starts from scratch. At Royal Arenas, we work with plenty of horse owners across Meath, Kildare and Dublin who already have arenas but need improvements or expansion. Perhaps your arena has served you well for years but is starting to show its age, or maybe your needs have simply outgrown your current facilities.
Knowing when to upgrade can be tricky. If you’re constantly battling drainage issues, dealing with an increasingly uneven surface, or finding your arena unusable after rain, these are clear signs that something needs attention. Sometimes the footing has simply reached the end of its lifespan and needs replacing. Other times, the underlying drainage system may have failed or was never adequate in the first place.
Surface replacement is one of the most common upgrades we carry out. Arena surfaces don’t last forever, and after years of use, even the best materials break down. The good news is that if your base and drainage are sound, replacing just the surface layer can completely transform your arena’s performance. We can assess your current base and recommend whether a simple surface refresh will do the job or if more extensive work is needed.
Drainage improvements often make the biggest difference to arena usability. If your arena was built without proper drainage or the system has degraded over time, retrofitting better drainage can be a game changer. Whilst it’s more straightforward to install drainage during initial construction, experienced contractors like ourselves can add or improve drainage systems in existing arenas.
Expansion is another option we’re frequently asked about. Perhaps you started with a smaller training arena and now need competition dimensions, or you want to add a dedicated lunging area. Expanding an existing arena requires careful planning to ensure the new section integrates seamlessly with the old, particularly regarding surface levels and drainage.
Fencing and safety features are often overlooked during initial construction but become priorities as facilities develop. Upgrading to safer fencing materials, adding proper gates, or installing arena lighting for winter riding can significantly enhance your arena’s functionality and value.
Whatever improvements you’re considering, a professional assessment is invaluable. We can identify what’s working well, what needs attention, and help you prioritise improvements based on your budget and needs.
At Royal Arenas, we understand that arena improvement projects need to be carefully planned to minimise disruption to your routine. We’ll work around your schedule and get the job done efficiently. Fancy a chat about your arena? Give us a call. We’re always happy to offer honest advice about whether repair, upgrade or replacement is your best option.
