The curtain coming down on the current season at Pittodrie will signal the start of a flurry of on pitch activity with the current sand based surface undergoing a major upgrade.
Incorporating Fibresand which has polypropylene fibres in concentrate when delivered mixed through the existing rootzone to a depth of 100mm will stabilise the upper rootzone without having a detrimental effect to the natural drainage capabilities that the pitch presently enjoys.
Pittodrie Head Groundsman Paul Fiske is delighted with what is planned following a difficult season in terms of adverse weather. "The current surface is eight years old and has served us well, as we've never had a game postponed. However, this season we saw three inches of rain on the day of the St. Johnstone match in December and that caused the most damage."
"The laying of a Fibresand reinforced pitch will prevent it from breaking up and causing bobbles and while, come February, aesthetically it may look a bit thin, it will not cut up in the manner of the current surface."
In addition to the new surface, irrigation will also be improved with the fitting of an inbuilt multi sprinkler system and Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes is delighted at the major investment by the Club.
"As has been the case with many pitches throughout the country, since the turn of the year the surface has been a major concern. The Club has recognised this and has taken the best advice possible in order to have a better playing surface which will improve the product for the fans. Paul and his team do a fantastic job and work tirelessly to maintain the pitch and this investment will be money well spent and will make their job a bit easier too I'm sure."
The work will see the new surface ready in approximately eight to ten weeks.
