Rugby Union Pitch Fencing for Clubs | Pro Pitch by The Outdoor Look

Overview
Product Spec
Club Tier Guide
Pricing
Installation
Test Reports
FAQs
Funding
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White PVC perimeter fence around a rugby union pitch with H-posts

Professional Pitch Fencing for Rugby Union Clubs

The Pro Pitch PVC perimeter fence system — designed for every level of the English rugby union pyramid. From community club to National League, we supply a professional white pitch perimeter barrier that enhances your ground and protects players, officials and spectators. Two ways to buy: supply only or fully managed supply & install, nationwide.

✓ Meets RFU Ground Guidance ✓ 15-Year Warranty ✓ SGS Certified ✓ Zero Maintenance ✓ Funding Available

Two ways to buy

Whether your club has a capable groundsman or wants a professionally managed installation, we have an option to suit every budget — with delivery included on all full pitch orders.

Bundles of white PVC sports fence posts, rails and mesh panels strapped on pallets, ready for delivery

Supply Only

Complete product kit delivered direct to your ground — posts, rails, mesh panels, gates and all hardware. Delivery is included on all full pitch orders. Full installation guide and phone support included throughout.

Best for: Clubs with a capable groundsman or volunteer team

Why Rugby Union Clubs Are Installing Perimeter Fencing

A permanent pitch perimeter barrier is increasingly expected at all levels of the rugby union pyramid — for spectator safety, pitch protection, and the professional image of your ground. World Rugby regulations recommend a perimeter of at least 5 metres wide to prevent injuries, and the Pro Pitch system creates a clear, safe boundary between spectators and the playing enclosure. Three product variants available: Double Mesh (highest spec), Single Mesh (mid-tier), and Post & Rail (community level). See pricing by tier →

Funding Available for Rugby Clubs

The RFU Rugby World Cup 2025 Impact Programme includes a £7 million facility investment fund. The RFU also operates a free Grant Finder tool with thousands of grants available to clubs, and Sport England funding is available too. See our full Funding Guide →

Why Pro Pitch over traditional fencing?

Feature Pro Pitch System Traditional Steel Rail Timber Post & Rail
Maintenance required None — ever Repaint every 2–3 years Regular treatment & replacement
Player & spectator safety Solid infill barrier, no sharp edges Can have exposed edges Can splinter over time
Independently tested SGS UV, temp & factory certified No independent certificate No certificate
DIY installation Yes — guide & support included Requires specialist welder Possible but skilled work
Warranty 15 years Varies 1–5 years typically
Appearance Bright white — permanently Can look industrial Greys and weathers over time
Ball retention Double mesh keeps ball in play Depends on infill No infill — ball exits easily

Our fence system range

Three product variants to suit every budget and level of play. All three share the same posts, rails and finish — the difference is the mesh infill.

Three white PVC pitch fence systems side by side showing post and rail, single mesh and double mesh infill options

Left to right: Post & Rail, Single Mesh and Double Mesh — the three Pro Pitch infill options.

Single Mesh

Single-layer welded mesh infill. Provides a solid spectator barrier at a more accessible price point. Suitable for Regional and community clubs.

Suitable: Regional leagues and community level

Post & Rail

Three-rail system, no mesh infill. Creates a clear pitch boundary at an entry-level price. Ideal for community and junior clubs.

Entry level: Community and junior clubs

Pro Pitch System — Full Specification

Complete technical specification for the Pro Pitch PVC pitch perimeter fencing system. Three product variants available — see the tier guide for our recommendation at your level.

⚠ Recommended Pitch Setback — 2,250mm

We recommend positioning the fence a minimum of 2,250mm (2.25 metres) from the edge of the playing area on all sides. World Rugby regulations specify the perimeter should be at least 5 metres wide to prevent injuries — our 2,250mm minimum is the barrier setback from the field of play. For National League and Championship grounds, always check your competition’s specific ground requirements.

Double Mesh Specification

Component Specification
Post dimensions 127 × 127 × 1,800mm — white PVC coated steel
Rail dimensions 50 × 110mm ribbed oval rail, 3 per bay — panels pre-assembled with rails attached
Panel width 2,373mm per panel (determines post centres)
Mesh infill panel Double-layer welded steel mesh, white powder-coated, hole size 155 × 75mm
Fence height above ground 1,100mm
Post spacing (centres) Determined by panel width — confirm exact spacing with our team before ordering
Post installation depth Approximately 600mm into ground via steel ground anchor, set in concrete
Rail expansion gap 10–12mm between rail sections — allows thermal movement
Colour throughout Bright white PVC — posts, rails and mesh infill panels
Hardware All gate hardware Grade 304 stainless steel — will not corrode
Full bay of white PVC double mesh fence showing post cap, three rails and mesh infill from top to bottom

Gate Options

Recommended Gate Configuration for Any Rugby Pitch

We recommend as standard: 2 × 3m double gates for machinery access (tractor, mower, maintenance vehicles) and 2 × 1.5m single gates for player and official access. For rugby grounds, additional single gates at each player tunnel or dugout entrance are also advisable.

White PVC double machinery gate with welded mesh infill and stainless steel hardware, set into a pitch perimeter fence

3m double machinery gate with double welded mesh infill and stainless steel hardware.

Gate Type Specification
Single gate (pedestrian) 1.5m wide — pre-assembled, double steel lattice infill, white PVC coated
Double gate (machinery) 3.0m wide — pre-assembled double panel kit, double steel lattice infill, white PVC coated
Gate posts 127 × 127mm with aluminium reinforcement insert for rigidity
Hinges Grade 304 Stainless Steel, 3.5" — non-self-closing standard; self-closing available on request
Latch Grade 304 Stainless Steel, 3" single latch — will not rust
Drop bolt 24" Grade 304 Stainless Steel — secures double gate in open or closed position

Independent Test Certifications

SGS Certified

UV Resistance

PVC coating maintains colour and structural integrity under prolonged UV exposure — independently tested by SGS.

SGS Certified

High Temperature Performance

No deformation or failure at high temperatures. Confirmed performance across UK summer ground conditions.

SGS Certified

Low Temperature Performance

No cracking or brittleness at low temperatures. Year-round UK durability confirmed.

SGS Certified

Factory Quality Audit

Manufacturing facility independently audited and certified. Product manufactured under controlled, consistent quality conditions.

15-Year Warranty

Product Warranty

Full 15-year warranty — one of the longest available in the sector. Valid when installed using genuine Pro Pitch components.

Meets RFU Guidance

Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds

The Pro Pitch system meets the guidelines in the Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds for pitch perimeter barriers — the standard referenced by the RFU for ground safety.

Rugby Union Club Tier Guide — The RFU Pyramid

The English rugby union pyramid has 11 levels. Unlike the FA, the RFU does not publish a prescriptive tier-by-tier fencing mandate for all clubs. However, perimeter fencing is increasingly expected at all levels for safety, spectator management and ground professionalism.

How the RFU Pyramid Works

The English rugby union system runs from the Gallagher Premiership (Level 1) down through Champ Rugby (Level 2), National League 1 (Level 3), National League 2 North/East/West (Level 4), Regional 1 leagues (Level 5), Regional 2 leagues (Level 6), and county/community rugby below. The top team in National League 1 is promoted to Champ Rugby each season.

RFU Level Competition Official Leagues / Divisions Perimeter Fencing Guidance Our Recommendation
Level 1 Gallagher Premiership PREM Rugby (10 clubs) Mandatory — full stadium compliance required. Safety of Sports Grounds Act applies. Pro Pitch Double Mesh
Level 2 Champ Rugby Elior Champ Rugby (14 clubs) Minimum Operating Standards apply. Permanent perimeter barrier expected. Ground inspections carried out. Pro Pitch Double Mesh
Level 3 National League 1 National League 1 (14 clubs) Permanent perimeter barrier strongly advised. RFU ground inspections at this level. PVC pitch barrier fencing approved by the RFU under Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds. Pro Pitch Double Mesh
Level 4 National League 2 National League 2 North | National League 2 East | National League 2 West (14 clubs each) Permanent perimeter barrier recommended. Clubs aspiring to National League 1 should ensure grounds are inspection-ready. Pro Pitch Double Mesh
Level 5 Regional 1 Six regional divisions (North East, North West, Midlands, London & SE, South West, and other regions) approx. 12 clubs each Permanent barrier recommended. Clubs with promotion aspirations should install a compliant fence. Pro Pitch Single Mesh or Double Mesh
Level 6 Regional 2 Multiple regional leagues below Regional 1 Perimeter fencing recommended for spectator safety and ground presentation. Pro Pitch Single Mesh or Post & Rail
Level 7+ County & Community County leagues, club XVs, junior & mini rugby No formal requirement. A simple boundary helps with pitch protection and club professionalism. Post & Rail
RFU Does Not Publish a Prescriptive Fencing Mandate (Unlike the FA)

The RFU does not have the same tier-by-tier mandatory fencing specification that the FA publishes for football. However, PVC pitch barrier fencing meeting the guidelines in the Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds is approved by both the FA and RFU. At National League level and above, ground inspections take place and a permanent professional perimeter barrier is expected.

League Directory — RFU Pyramid

Full directory of official leagues at each level of the English rugby union pyramid.

Level Competition Name No. of Clubs Fence Recommendation
Level 1 Gallagher Premiership (PREM Rugby) 10 Double Mesh
Level 2 Elior Champ Rugby (formerly RFU Championship) 14 Double Mesh
Level 3 National League 1 14 Double Mesh
Level 4 National League 2 North | National League 2 East | National League 2 West 42 (14 per div) Double Mesh recommended
Level 5 Regional 1 — six regional divisions (North East, North West, Midlands, London & SE, South West etc.) ~72 Single Mesh or Double Mesh
Level 6 Regional 2 — multiple leagues below Regional 1 Varies Single Mesh or Post & Rail
Level 7+ County leagues, club XV leagues, community rugby Thousands Post & Rail

Why install Double Mesh at Regional level and below?

Future-proofing for promotionIf your club gains promotion through the Regional leagues to National League 2 and above, a permanent professional fence is expected. Install once, correctly.
Player safetyThe solid mesh infill creates a genuine barrier between the playing area and spectators — protecting players from encroachment and spectators from the ball.
Grant eligibilityRFU facility grants and Sport England funding are more likely to be approved for permanent infilled barriers than for basic post-and-rope systems.
Club imageA white PVC perimeter fence transforms the appearance of any rugby ground — creating a professional facility that attracts players, sponsors and spectators.

Pricing by RFU Tier — Per Linear Metre

All prices shown ex VAT. Based on a standard rugby union pitch (100m × 70m playing area) with fence at 2,250mm setback — giving a total fenced perimeter of approximately 355 metres.

How Perimeter Length is Calculated for Rugby Union

Standard pitch: 100m × 70m. Fence at 2,250mm offset: (100 + 4.5) × 2 + (70 + 4.5) × 2 = 355 metres. Your ground may vary — use the calculator below.

Recommended Gate Configuration

We recommend: 2 × 3m double gates (machinery access) and 2 × 1.5m single gates (player/official access) as standard. Additional single gates for player tunnels/dugouts are advisable at National League level. Gate pricing is itemised in your full quote.

RFU Level Fence Specification Est. Perimeter Supply Only
per linear metre ex VAT
Install
per linear metre ex VAT
Supply & Install
per linear metre ex VAT
Level 1Gallagher Premiership Double Mesh — full spec ~355m £56.00 £27.00 £83.00
Level 2Champ Rugby Double Mesh — full spec ~355m £56.00 £27.00 £83.00
Level 3National League 1 Double Mesh — full spec ~355m £56.00 £27.00 £83.00
Level 4National League 2 N/E/W Double Mesh (recommended)
or Single Mesh
~355m £56.00 £27.00 £83.00
Level 5Regional 1 Single Mesh
or Double Mesh
~355m £52.00 £27.00 £79.00
Level 6Regional 2 Posts & Rails
or Single Mesh
~355m £48.00 £27.00 £75.00
Level 7+County / Community Posts & Rails Varies £48.00 £27.00 £75.00

All prices are ex VAT. Final project pricing based on exact ground dimensions, conditions, number of gates and chosen service option.

Calculate Your Pitch Perimeter

Enter your pitch dimensions for an instant indicative material quantity. Fence calculated at 2,250mm setback.

Fenced perimeter (m)
Est. posts required
Est. mesh panels

Indicative quantities — contact us for exact specification and pricing.

Installation Guide

The Pro Pitch system is designed to be installed by any competent, organised team. Every supply-only order includes a full printed installation guide with step-by-step instructions and diagrams. A downloadable version will be available here shortly.

Safety First

Installation should only be carried out by skilled, competent personnel. Wear PPE including protective gloves and appropriate footwear throughout. Use only genuine Pro Pitch components — substituting third-party parts will void the warranty. If in doubt, choose our Supply & Install service.

Post Spacing — 2,500mm Centres

Pro Pitch posts are installed at 2,500mm centres. This is governed by the Pro Pitch panel specification. Contact our team before ordering if you need to confirm spacing for your specific ground conditions or layout.

Pro Pitch standard rugby union pitch layout showing 5 metre run-off and gate positions
  1. Site Survey & Mark-Out

    Establish your fence line at a minimum of 2,250mm from the edge of the playing area on all four sides. Use string lines and stakes to mark the full perimeter. Mark post positions at 2,500mm centres along the line. Identify and mark gate positions — we recommend one double gate and one single gate on each accessible side as a minimum.

  2. Dig Post Holes

    Dig a hole at each marked post position to a depth of 650mm. The hole should be wide enough to accommodate the post with a concrete surround on all sides. An auger or mechanical post hole borer is strongly recommended and will significantly reduce labour time, particularly on large installs and compacted or clay ground.

  3. Set Posts in Concrete

    Place the post in the hole and check it is perfectly vertical using a plumb line or spirit level. Fill the hole with concrete to a level of 150mm below ground level — do not fill to the top. The remaining 150mm is backfilled with soil once the concrete has cured, giving a clean, natural ground finish at the base of each post. Allow a minimum of 24 hours curing time before fitting rails or panels. Do not proceed while concrete is wet.

  4. Install Rails

    With all posts set and concrete fully cured, slide the rails into the mortise holes in each post — 3 rails per bay. Engage rails to the minimum depth specified in your installation guide. Leave a 10–12mm thermal expansion gap between rail sections at each post to allow for movement in hot and cold weather. Work systematically around the full perimeter.

  5. Install Mesh Panels

    Mesh panels are supplied separately. Each panel slots between the rails using the pre-drilled holes in the rails — the mesh clips into position quickly without additional fixings or specialist tools. Work bay by bay around the full perimeter.

  6. Fit Gates

    Gate posts are installed using the same concrete method as fence posts. For additional rigidity and load-bearing strength, gate posts are doubled up — two posts set side by side at each gate hinge and latch position. Fit hinges, latches and drop bolts following the installation guide. All hardware is Grade 304 stainless steel. Check all gates open, close, latch and bolt correctly before sign-off.

  7. Final Inspection & Sign-Off

    Walk the full perimeter. Check all rails are correctly seated with the correct 10–12mm expansion gap at each joint. Check all mesh panels are fully seated in the pre-drilled holes with no loose sections. Check all gates function correctly. Measure the setback from the playing area on all four sides and confirm it meets the minimum requirement before submitting for any ground grading or inspection.

Tools Required

🔴 Auger / post hole borer
🔴 Spade & cement mixer
🔴 Measuring tape (50m+)
🔴 Plumb line & spirit level
🔴 String line & stakes
🔴 Hand saw / mitre saw
🔴 Concrete & water supply
🔴 Screwdriver / cordless drill
🔴 Protective gloves & PPE
🟢 Wheelbarrow
🟢 Safety boots
🟢 Knee pads (mesh fitting)

🔴 Red = Required 🟢 Green = Recommended

A full installation guide with detailed graphics will be available to download from this page shortly. All supply-only orders include a printed guide.

Test Reports & Certifications

Every performance claim about the Pro Pitch system is backed by independent testing by SGS — the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company.

SGS Tested

UV Resistance Test Report

PVC coating maintains colour stability and structural integrity under prolonged UV exposure across the full range of UK outdoor weather conditions.

Download PDF →
SGS Tested

High Temperature Test Report

No deformation, material failure or dimensional change at high temperatures. Ensures the fence performs in summer conditions.

Download PDF →
SGS Tested

Low Temperature Test Report

No cracking, brittleness or failure at low temperatures. Confirms year-round durability for UK outdoor installations.

Download PDF →
SGS Certified

Factory Quality Audit

Manufacturing facility independently audited and certified by SGS. Product manufactured under controlled, consistent quality conditions for every order.

Download PDF →
15-Year Warranty

Product Warranty

Full 15-year product warranty. Covers manufacturing defects and material failure when installed using genuine Pro Pitch components.

Download PDF →
Meets RFU Guidance

Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds

The Pro Pitch system meets the guidelines in the Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds — the standard referenced by the RFU for ground safety at sports grounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything rugby union clubs ask about pitch perimeter fencing. Can’t find your answer? Call us on 01282 526428.

Does the RFU require clubs to have perimeter fencing?

Unlike the FA, the RFU does not publish a single prescriptive tier-by-tier fencing mandate for all clubs. However, at National League level and above, ground inspections take place and a permanent perimeter barrier is expected. PVC pitch barrier fencing meeting the guidelines in the Guide to Safety at Sports Grounds is approved by both the FA and the RFU. At all levels, a permanent fence improves safety, professionalism and grant eligibility.

How far from the pitch should the fence be positioned?

We recommend a minimum setback of 2,250mm (2.25 metres) from the edge of the playing area on all sides as standard across all levels. World Rugby regulations specify the perimeter should be at least 5 metres wide to prevent injuries — our recommended setback applies to the barrier position within that perimeter zone.

What are the three Pro Pitch fence systems?

Double Mesh — double-layer welded mesh infill, maximum ball retention and the professional standard for National League and Championship level grounds. Single Mesh — single-layer mesh, a solid barrier at a more accessible price, suitable for Regional leagues and community clubs. Post & Rail — three-rail system, no mesh infill, entry-level pitch boundary for community and junior clubs.

Can we install it ourselves?

Yes — the Supply Only option is designed for clubs with a competent groundsman or capable volunteer team. No specialist equipment or welding skills are required. Every supply-only order includes a full printed installation guide and our team are available by phone throughout your installation.

Do you cover the whole of the UK for installation?

Yes. Our Supply & Install service covers the whole of the UK through our vetted contractor network. Supply Only orders deliver nationwide, with delivery included on all full pitch orders.

Is funding available for rugby clubs to install fencing?

Yes. The RFU Rugby World Cup 2025 Impact Programme includes a £7 million facility investment fund. The RFU Grant Finder provides access to thousands of grants and loans for clubs. Sport England funding is also available. See our full Funding Guide →

What warranty does the product carry?

The Pro Pitch system carries a 15-year product warranty — one of the longest available in the sector. The warranty covers manufacturing defects and material failure and is valid when installed using genuine Pro Pitch components throughout.

What gates do you recommend for a rugby ground?

For any full pitch installation we recommend: 2 × 3m double gates for machinery access and 2 × 1.5m single gates for player and official access as a minimum. Rugby grounds often benefit from additional single gates at player tunnel or dugout entrances. Gate positions and quantities will be advised as part of your free quote.

Do I need planning permission?

At 1.1m height, planning permission is generally not required. However, always confirm with your local authority before installation. Some funding bodies require confirmation that planning permission is in place before approving a grant application.

Funding Your Rugby Union Club Fencing

There are several active grant streams available to rugby union clubs for facility improvements including pitch perimeter fencing. Here is the complete guide to what’s available.

Can clubs use grant funding to purchase from The Outdoor Look?

Yes — absolutely. The RFU grant finder directs clubs to reputable suppliers and there is no exclusive preferred supplier list. We can provide the full specification documents, site drawings and cost breakdown needed to support your grant application — all free of charge with any enquiry.

RFU World Cup 2025 Impact Programme

£7 Million Fund

Between 2023 and 2027, the RFU delivers a £7 million facility investment fund as part of the Rugby World Cup 2025 Impact Programme. Supports clubs to enhance facilities including fencing and ground improvements.

  • Access managed through your Constituent Body (CB) facility planning process
  • Club needs established via the CB Facility Audit
  • Contact your CB or local RFU Facility Development Team
  • Primary focus on enhancing facilities for female players
RFU Funding Page →

RFU Grant Finder

Thousands of grants

The RFU provides a free grant search facility allowing clubs to search through thousands of grants and loans covering facilities, equipment and ground improvements including fencing.

  • Free to use — search by project type and club location
  • Covers RFU grants, Sport England, local authority and charitable funds
  • Regularly updated with new funding opportunities
  • Contact your County RFU for additional local funding guidance
Search Grant Finder →

Sport England — Places & Spaces Fund

Available to rugby clubs

Sport England funding is available to rugby clubs for facility improvements. The RFU directs clubs to Sport England as part of its standard funding guidance.

  • Available to clubs registered as charities or community interest companies
  • Covers capital improvements including fencing and ground infrastructure
  • Use the Sport England Fund Finder tool at sportengland.org
  • RFU Facility Development Team can assist with applications
Sport England Funding →

How to Apply for Rugby Funding — Step by Step

  1. Contact Your Constituent Body (CB)

    Your County RFU is the first port of call for facility funding. They manage access to RFU facility grants through the CB Facility Audit process and can advise on what’s available in your area.

  2. Use the RFU Grant Finder

    Search the RFU’s free grant finder at englandrugby.com/run/club-management/club-support-tools/funding to identify grants relevant to your project type and location.

  3. Get a Specification & Quote from Us

    Most grant applications require a specification showing the proposed works, dimensions and cost. Contact The Outdoor Look — we’ll provide everything you need at no charge, including a site plan if required.

  4. Check Planning Permission

    At 1.1m height, planning permission is generally not required. Always confirm with your local authority and include confirmation in your application if required.

  5. Submit Your Application & Place Your Order

    Submit via the relevant fund’s portal. Once approved, place your order with The Outdoor Look. Do not purchase before grant approval — retrospective applications are rarely accepted.

We’ll Support Your Grant Application

The Outdoor Look provides the full specification sheet, drawings, measurements and cost breakdown needed for your RFU, Sport England or other grant application — free with any enquiry. Contact us and we’ll have everything with you within 24 hours.

Get a Free Quote

Tell us about your club and we’ll provide a detailed, no-obligation quote within 24 hours — along with any specification documents needed to support a grant application.

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01282 526428

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info@theoutdoorlook.co.uk

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