By January 2024, several significant works were completed. The project began in early August 2023 with the replacement of the culvert section running under the pitch, which was subsequently completed and documented with CCTV footage sent to the statutory body for a 14-week review and approval period. The culvert headwall required a revised design. The existing carpeted pitch was removed and recycled, and the tar base was excavated using a planer, with the planings left in situ for testing and potential reuse as they comply with the appropriate specifications. Additionally, the old floodlighting was disconnected and the columns were removed. By January 2024, the topsoil had been stripped from the grass pitch.
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By May 2024, significant progress was made on the main pitch works area, the cut and works were completed, followed by the installation of drainage, including precast manholes and new lateral drainage lines under the pitch. An attenuation tank for the drainage system was excavated, a gravel layer was laid and the tank was installed by a specialist subcontractor. Foundations for the new floodlights have been excavated and the ducting installed. Precast concrete piles were installed and a mud mat was poured for the retaining wall and floodlight foundations. The culvert headwall, grill, steps and outer fencing have all been installed, with only the handrail remaining to complete the work on this side of the path. Additionally, the new coach bay in the car park is complete to the base layer and work commenced on the 17 additional parking spaces on the Leisure Centre side of the dog park.
As of June 2024, a progress report has revealed that the new overflow car park works are now complete. The main car park works, which included adding a new coach bay, realigning spaces and resurfacing the area, are also finished. In the main pitch area, all drainage has been installed, the retaining wall has been built and the adjacent path will be reopened to the public in the coming days. Installation of fence posts for the new pitch fencing and ball stop fencing is ongoing.
The project is scheduled for completion in November 2024.
