Morrisons Stage 1 appointment is near completition and is now all parties to reach contractual agreement before the works can move into the next stage ‘The works’
Section 1 of the project, which is the synthetic pitches, it is anticipated to start in Easter and programmed to be complete in 32 weeks. So not only will the 3G pitches start first but their provision is guaranteed, including the provision of grass pitches on the south side of the river; as formed part of the approved Planning application.

The Archaeological Contractor has started the survey excavation at Broomfield and will finish next week. Any work required near the running track will be carried out after the game on 17th Feb and will only take place on the outside of the pitch in case further games can be played. Morrison’s will be carrying out further survey works, they need to bore on the pitches soon but if the site is still open they will replace the soil.

Work will commence on the south side of the river 2020-2021 which means the grass rugby and football pitches will be ready to play on by 2022. The school technical block will be knocked down first to allow temporary car parking when the school is demolished.
Access to the site will be via the existing bridge route albeit there will be improvements made to allow cyclist and pedestrians to pass.

NETHERTHIRD

There are continuing problems with the above. Consultants have reported that the compact clay soil and damage to the original main drains have not helped the sand banding process that was completed last summer. They have indicated that in order to get the pitches to a good standard, a new full drainage system and better topsoil would need to be put in place. As well as this the pitches would not be playable for a season. Also, cost for this would be prohibitive at above £400,000.

Further drainage work was carried out at the end of last year to divert the run off from the land next to the park. This has helped and it is envisaged the top pitch will be playable as long as there is no continuous rain leading up to match day.

It may also be possible to get the pitch spiked before a game to assist the drainage process.

The Council have suggested a joint meeting take place immediately after our last game in order to discuss further remedial work to both pitches before the summer period.

LAND ADJACENT TO THE CLUBHOUSE

A legal agreement is being compiled for signing that will allow the Council to acquire some land for a pathway and electrical cable to run down the side of Visions as well as land at the front of the clubhouse lawn to allow the widening of the pavement. It is expected the CAT transfer for the remaining land to the Rugby Club will be concluded soon.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The Council will ensure the rugby club will be kept up to date on all relevant matters by them and Morrisons. A drawing of the site perimeter fence will be forwarded to the Club.