Rochdale to temporarily move home games relay pitch
National League high flyers Rochdale have been granted permission to completely rebuild their pitch mid-season to stop future games being postponed.
Two matches at the Crown Oil Arena have already been postponed due to waterlogging and the club have expressed concern that they would be unable to play their full fixture list if it continues to deteriorate.
They have been using a temporary cover to help ensure games can still be played but the club stated it wasn't 'a viable solution for a sustained period of time and will ultimately not prevent the continued deterioration of the playing surface over the winter months.'
The re-build will see the club install new drainage and a gravel bed, which will be crucial in ensuring adequate drainage for years to come. The new pitch profiles will then be laid, and finally, a HERO hybrid carpet will form the playing surface, which will then be immediately playable.
Work is set to commence of the 7th December following the club's game against Southend and they plan to have the work completed in time for their fixture against Truro City on the 24th January.
Two games, Hartlepool United (Tuesday 30th December) and Brackley Town (Saturday 3rd January), will be directly affected and the club is working to secure an alternative venue.
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