Frustrated Marine postpone 3G pitch switch

By David Richardson

MARINE have been forced to postpone the installation of a new 3G pitch until next summer due to a significant rise in cost.

The Mariners were due to replace the grass surface at Rossett Park next week.

Work had already been undertaken to prepare for the arrival of the new plastic turf, but now the club must repair and ready the current pitch.

Marine chairman Paul Leary said: “We are shocked and disappointed at the late notice received on Friday night by email from the pitch installer of a change to the build method of the new pitch resulting in an increase of 30 per cent to the project cost.

“Construction was to start next week with a completion date of October 1 but this date we believe could also be in jeopardy.

“Our many community and football partners engaged in the 3G project will be as equally disappointed at this very late notice that has affected their exciting plans to move to the Marine Travel Arena for the new season.

“Although we had a groundshare agreed with Bootle FC until October whilst the 3G pitch was being installed, the process of finding an alternative installer, agreeing a specification and build plan and completing the construction could take us well beyond October and possibly towards the end of November which would have such a massive and detrimental impact on our own business as well as Bootle FC. That option, we have decided, is not feasible, practicable or financially viable for all concerned.”