Campo Maximo cricket ground takes shape in Spain with artificial outfield plans

Construction has begun on Campo Maximo, a cricket ground on Spain's Costa Blanca whose plans combine a specially developed artificial outfield with solar power and water recycling. BBC Sport reports that Australian entrepreneur Daniel Weston is overseeing the project in Playa Flamenca, around 45 minutes from Alicante. The first cricket is expected in 2028, before the venue becomes fully operational in 2029.

The outfield remains in testing, rather than being a finished playing surface. Its designers are working to reproduce the feel and playing behaviour of natural grass using synthetic turf. The proposed system places short artificial fibres over a cushioning pad and drainage layers, without loose infill material. It is intended to cut maintenance requirements and remove the need for fertiliser on the artificial playing areas.

Speaking to the Stumped podcast, Weston described laboratory trials using bowling spikes to simulate the demands fast bowlers would place on the surface. He believes an artificial outfield could offer greater consistency and avoid areas where water collects. Those are his expectations for the technology, which is still being developed specifically for the Spanish venue. Floodlights are also planned to enable cricket after dark.

Energy and water infrastructure form another major part of the design. Weston said roughly 4,600 square metres of solar panels over the car park would charge batteries, supplying power for uses including the floodlights. Plans also include rainwater harvesting and storage beneath the field. He identified water sustainability in Spain as an important consideration in developing the ground, alongside his interest in renewable energy.

Campo Maximo is planned to accommodate 1,000 spectators initially, with additional capacity possible through temporary or semi-permanent stands. Details of its nine-pitch square are still being finalised, with Weston favouring a clay-based pitch. The Western Australian, who played T20 international cricket for Germany after moving to Munich in 2007, is also known for his work behind the European Cricket Network.

Weston's longer-term ambition is to attract Test cricket, but that remains a goal rather than a confirmed fixture. BBC Sport reports that Campo Maximo would need to satisfy international venue requirements to stage such a match. For now, the project's timetable centres on completing construction and bringing the ground into use, while its proposed artificial outfield continues through testing.