$1.25-MILLION INJECTION TO BE ANNOUNCED FOR HUNTER STADIUM TURF UPGRADE
Work on the much-maligned Hunter Stadium playing surface will begin as soon as the Knights’ season is over, which could be as early as September 8.
The stadium will be completely resurfaced including levelling the ground, removing the camber and drainage improvements.
The state government is set to announce a $1.25-million injection late this afternoon ahead of January’s Asian Cup.
The rest of the money will come from the Cup’s Local Organising Committee and Venues NSW.
The work will disrupt the Jets’ season, who’ll be forced to play more away games during the period.
The resurfacing is expected to be complete by early November.
The surface was recently ranked the poorest of the 10 A-League venues.
Bicci Henderson, General Manager Hunter Venues today told NBN News “he’s been sweating on this announcement by the government.”
CEO of the Asian Cup Local Organising Committee Michael Brown says he’s delighted with the plans.
“This decision is a fantastic legacy for football and a legacy for Newcastle.
“A new pitch means Newcastle fans and the Asian Cup’s huge international television audience will see world-class football on a world-class pitch.
“This means the standard of the pitch will match the standard of the rest of the venue.
“This ensures the Asian Cup games in Newcastle will be a great showpiece for the tournament.”
A spokesperson from the FFA said he knew about the disruption and said the Jets won’t be disadvantaged.
The season draw will be released in the next fortnight with the Jets expected to play more home games later in the season to make up for the away games during the resurfacing period.
We’ll have more details in NBN News tonight at 6.
