Delivering Precision Infrastructure Within a Performance-Critical Environment
Invicta ANARA’s delivery team was tasked with implementing a trench access solution capable of meeting the demanding requirements of an elite indoor cycling arena. Key challenges included:
- Working within a high-precision indoor environment where real-world performance is critical
- Managing restricted access and manual handling constraints within enclosed internal spaces
- Coordinating installation within a disciplined sequencing programme, alongside multiple specialist trades
- Ensuring long-term durability and operational safety aligned with international sporting standards
- Supporting the project’s sustainability objectives, including end-of-life recyclability
The selected system needed to deliver structural reliability and secure access without introducing unnecessary complexity, risk, or disruption to the wider build programme.
A Composite Trench Cover Solution for Elite Indoor Sports Infrastructure
Following technical review, Invicta ANARA selected d² Dura Slab 45, supplied by Dura Composites, as the trench cover solution for internal service routes within the velodrome. The use of Dura Slab was also supported by d² Dura Profile C-Channel and d² Dura Profile I-Beam. The Dura Composites and Invicta ANARA team provided support to the end client throughout the concept and design stages, including site visits.
Part of Dura’s exclusive d² range of high-performance, low embodied carbon composite products, d² Dura Slab 45 offered a robust, load-bearing solution suitable for indoor trench applications. The closed slab, interlocking pultruded GRP panels were supplied complete with appropriate fixings, ensuring secure, controlled access to services below.
Engineered Performance and Practical Installation
The physical characteristics of d² Dura Slab 45 played a critical role in supporting safe and efficient delivery on site. Manufactured as a closed slab GRP system, d² Dura Slab 45 delivers high structural capacity, durability, and resistance to degradation, supporting long design life performance within safety-critical internal zones.
The low panel weight significantly reduced manual handling risks and allowed installation to proceed efficiently in areas with restricted access, without reliance on heavy lifting equipment. This supported both site safety and programme certainty.
Sustainability and Long-Term Value
In addition to performance and buildability benefits, d² Dura Slab 45 supports the project’s sustainability objectives.
As a fully recyclable composite product at the end of its long design life, the system aligns with circular economy principles and reduces reliance on traditional, carbon-intensive concrete trench cover solutions.
The durability of the GRP panels also helps minimise future intervention, inspection burden, and replacement cycles, supporting long-term operational confidence for the facility operator.
Results and Impact
- Specialist indoor trench covers delivered within a UCI-compliant cycling arena
- Reduced manual handling and improved installation safety in restricted access areas
- Precise integration with pre-cast concrete trench infrastructure
- Secure, tamper-resistant access to services via integrated fixings
- Durable, load-bearing performance aligned with elite sporting standards
- Fully recyclable solution at end of long design life
- Contribution to a flagship facility supporting Abu Dhabi’s global cycling ambitions
