Wedge Group Scores With Soccer Stadium

The UK''s largest hot dip galvanizing organisation has played its part in the construction of a new spectator stand that is set to provide a lasting legacy to a football club’s former president.

Eastleigh-based Wessex Galvanizers, part of Wedge Group Galvanizing, was called upon to provide its hot dip galvanizing treatment to all the steelwork used to build the Harry Mizen Stand at Gosport Borough FC.

Cummins and Pope Ltd, the main contractors on the project, worked in conjunction with Stadium Solutions, a division of PJ Steel Construction Ltd, who used the metal to produce all the structural steelwork, seating components, racking, and railings required to build the 300-seat facility at the semi-professional side’s Privett Park home.

“Harry Mizen was involved with Gosport FC for more than 50 years, and for the four years before he passed away in 2004, he was actually the club’s president, so to name this fantastic, modern facility after him is a permanent, fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to supporting his team,” Richard Whiddett, Commercial Manager for Wessex Galvanizers, commented.

Phil Harris, Managing Director of West Sussex-based PJ Steel Construction Ltd, said:

“We’ve worked with the team at Wessex Galvanizers on a number of stadium projects over the past few years, including upgrades at Havant and Waterlooville FC and Eastleigh FC, and know we can always rely on them to provide a professional, reliable and prompt service. Having the steelwork used to build the Harry Mizen Stand galvanized will ensure it is protected long-term against rust and corrosion.”

The new facility, which was funded with grants from Gosport Borough Council and the Football Ground Improvement Trust, as well as a testimonial match earlier this year between Gosport and local rivals Fareham Town, has increased capacity at the Privett Park ground to around 4,500.

The improvements, which also included installing new turnstiles and replacing security fencing, also ensure that the stadium meets the necessary eligibility criteria if the club, which currently plays in the Southern League, is promoted higher up the football pyramid.

Wedge Group Galvanizing is the largest hot dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, they offer a truly national galvanizing service.