De Boer’s team is in tune at National Eisteddfod

Organisers of the National Eisteddfod of Wales have been singing the praises of De Boer after the company’s efforts helped ensure another glittering success for the internationally famous gathering. 

Vast amount of visitors
This year’s Eisteddfod, which is regarded as one of the world’s greatest festivals, has drawn tens of thousands of enthusiastic visitors to Cardiff, where structures supplied by De Boer have housed stunning concerts, exhibitions, ceremonies and competitions. 

Planning permission
But the 2008 event has presented organisers with particular challenges because of its location – at Cardiff’s Pontcanna Fields. The urban setting – behind Glamorgan Cricket Club – created specific access issues and meant that, for the first time ever, the Eisteddfod required full planning permission for change of use. 

Precise preparations
Eisteddfod Technical Director Alan Gwynant said: “We’ve had to work very closely with De Boer. Planning restrictions meant that we were unable to work after 7.30pm without prior consent or on Saturday afternoons or at any time on Sundays.” 

Accommodating the client
He added: “We also had to ensure that all forklift trucks were fitted with broadband alarms because noise-pollution regulations prevented us from using traditional reversing alarms.” 

The Pink Galaxy
This year’s Eisteddfod has once again involved De Boer providing its distinctive Pink Galaxy structure for use as the gathering’s main pavilion. The product, measuring 77 metres by 60 metres, has been home to a diverse spectrum of performances ranging from choirs, ballad competitions and hymn singing to brass bands, step dancing and scripture reading. 

Broad range of temporary structures
Elsewhere on the site, De Boer has provided around 30 different structures, including its Alu Halls, Chalets, Olympia and Walkway ranges, for a broad range of areas for performers, visitors and organisers. Individual facilities created on the site have included a theatre, art and crafts exhibition, literary tent, Welsh learners’ pavilion, youth tent and a science and technology exhibition. 

Four weeks to complete
The entire build process took De Boer’s team more than four weeks to complete, with the company also providing its client with linings and decking. One of its structures – an Acropolis – was fitted with three-metre extended legs, to maximise the area for performers and spectators. 

Highest standards of expertise
Mr Gwynant added: “We’ve been very happy with De Boer. Everything has gone very well and there have been no problems at all.” 

Oldest festival
With its history dating back to the 12th century, the National Eisteddfod is one of the oldest manifestations of Welsh culture and heritage. It is viewed as playing an important role in the life of the nation by promoting the Welsh language and the arts. 

Wide-range of entertainment
The 2008 event – taking place between August 2 and 9 – has also continued the tradition of offering plenty of evening entertainment, ranging from pop, rock and hip-hop concerts to classical plays and comedy shows.