Expert insight and practical skills in action
Join leading experts and experienced practitioners from across the UK and beyond for a full day of practical learning, interactive sessions and networking. Hear from top speakers, take part in hands-on workshops, and connect with peers while gaining insight into the latest research and emerging best practice shaping the sector.
Plan your day to focus on the skills and knowledge most relevant to your career. Networking runs throughout the programme, and a guided tour of Edgbaston’s world-class facilities offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at excellence in grounds management.
What to expect
The 2026 programme delivers sessions with actionable takeaways:
- Expert speakers: Hear from industry leaders including Ruth Mann (Agrii), Tony Hanson (Environmental Solutions International), Daniel Ratling (Whitgift School), broadcaster Mark Clemmit, Chris Hunter (GMA) and Will Brierley and Mark Ferguson (AELTC). More speakers to be announced.
- Practical sessions: Gain insights through case studies including:
- A behind-the-scenes look at Lord’s full-scale pitch renovation
- Strategies for future-proofing facilities under new water regulations
- Workshops on soil health, workforce development and leadership skills
- Interactive panels: CPD-rich discussions exploring the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector today
DATE AND LOCATION
Join us on Thursday 12 March 2026 between 09:30 and 15:30 at Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham. Centrally located, the venue is easy to reach by train, car or plane and offers a unique opportunity to see world-class facilities in action.
Join us after the conference to celebrate the GMA Industry Awards and recognise the achievements shaping the sector.
EVENT TIMINGS
09:30: Registration
10:00: Welcome & Conference Content
11:00: Break
11:15: Conference Content
12:45: Lunch
13:45: Conference Content
14:30: Break
14:45: Conference Content
15:30: Event End
18:00: GMA Industry Awards (if attenting both events)
Don’t forget to secure your tickets for the GMA Industry Awards 2026, with ticket bundles available for the conference and awards here. After 15:30, feel free to head back to your hotel or pop across the road to the Midlands Arts Centre to catch up with colleagues over a drink, before joining us back at the Stadium from 18:00, where the Industry Awards will kick off with a drinks reception. To learn more about the awards ceremony, please visit the FAQs page.
CATERING
Light refreshments and lunch will be provided throughout the day. If you have specific dietary requirements, please ensure you notify us in advance to ensure we can accommodate your needs via the booking form or by contacting industryawards@thegma.org.uk.
TRAVEL GUIDANCE
Located in Birmingham, Edgbaston Stadium provides easy access by car, train, or plane, making it an ideal destination no matter where you’re travelling from:
- Birmingham International Airport is located nearby, just a short drive away.
By Taxi: Approximately 20 minutes. - Birmingham New Street Station is the main rail hub for the city with connections from all over the country and is located a short distance from the stadium:
- By Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes.
- By Bus: 45 or 47 to Pershore road (around 20 minutes)
- By Walking: Around a 30-minute walk (1.5 miles)
- If travelling by car, the stadium has lots of transport links from both the north and south, with easy access from M6 and M42 and free on-site parking for Conference & Award delegates.
Sat Nav Postcode: B5 7QU, located off Pershore Road.
ACCOMODATION
This year, we’ve made it even easier to book accommodation with a dedicated Hotel Planner to help you find the best rates and closest hotels for the event.
Sponsors
GMA Industry Awards 