A new canopy installed by all-weather specialists, Fordingbridge, is helping Craft Nurseries in Manningtree, Essex maximise the appeal of a recently launched family attraction by ensuring year-round usability. 

The family-run garden centre has invested in a new mini racetrack to complement its popular play barn, widen its family offer, and encourage visitors to stay longer and come more frequently. 

A new bespoke canopy designed, manufactured and installed by Fordingbridge will now ensure the imaginative new facility can be used in all four seasons. A 12m x 19m barrel-vaulted canopy shelters young drivers and spectators from downpours and cold weather conditions, while unique Opal 60 roofing also protects racers and cars from harmful UV rays and prolonged sun exposure in bright summer months. With young drivers now able to take to the track whatever the forecast, the installation ensures family fun remains firmly in pole position throughout the seasons. 

The Craft Nurseries project reflects a growing trend for garden centres to invest in family-orientated attractions that help broaden their appeal beyond traditional retail offers. Fordingbridge is also seeing a growing demand for family orientated design details across the sector including covered walkways, hybrid all-weather indoor / outdoor dining facilities and solar panel car ports with charging stations for electric family cars. 

If you’d be interested in exploring how you can drive year-round family appeal at your garden centre, get in touch with Fordingbridge’s team today.