Football: Dome type pitch cover arrives at the Crown Oil Arena

Dome type pitch cover at the Crown Oil Arena

Following concern about the condition of the pitch at the Crown Oil Arena, and games being postponed as a result, a dome type pitch cover has arrived at the ground, as Dale's preparations continue ahead of Tuesday night’s FA Cup fourth round replay against Millwall.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/4/sport-news/115723/concern-over-condition-of-the-pitch-at-the-crown-oil-arena

The cover was installed throughout Wednesday afternoon and into the evening, protecting the whole pitch.

There is also a heating system in place, which is aiding the drying out of the pitch, as this is essential to allow the next stage of work to take place.

Currently, the cover is acting as a wind tunnel with the air blowing under the cover.

On Thursday night/ Friday, the cover will then be erected into a dome.

This will allow work to take place on the pitch without ground staff/contractors being hindered by the elements.

Ground staff/contractors can work under the cover, enabling them to carry out a drill and fill procedure.