Work has started on the new 3G pitch at Moorways Stadium. Pride Park FC are a partner in the project along with Derby City Council, Everyone Active (which operates Moorways Sports Village and Stadium), Derbyshire County Football Association, Allenton United FC, Derby Athletic Club, Field Lane FC and Rolls Royce RUFC.

The current 2G sand-dressed pitch was installed in 1987, refurbished in 2001 and has now reached the end of its useful life, and is being replaced by a larger 3G playing surface. Beyond the pitch itself, the surrounding fencing will be replaced and new energy efficient LED floodlighting installed. The athletics straight will also be resurfaced.

Most of the £825,000 project is being funded by a Football Foundation grant with Derby City Council also providing funding. It follows the opening of three additional full-size 3G pitches at the city’s new state-of-the-art Football Hub at Derby Racecourse.

James Skinner, Chairman of Pride Park FC said: “The new 3G pitch will provide a much needed improvement in the playing surface. The larger playing area will also provide a welcome boost to capacity and help towards meeting the demand for girls football in the area. We can’t wait for it to open!”