CITY are hoping the weather remains good so they can stay on schedule with their pitch renovations which began yesterday.

The project, which will cost a significant six-figure sum, is set to resolve long-running drainage issues at Valley Parade that saw several matches postponed last season.

Surface stripping took place yesterday as the top 30-40mm of the pitch was removed, with major drainage work due to start on Thursday.

That will see the primary drains 45cm below the surface – which have been there since 1987 – replaced.

Final grading/finishing is then scheduled for the middle of next week after which a period of between five to eight weeks is needed for the grass to grow.

The forecast looks good for this week and City official Daniel McGeachie said: “It is brilliant that it is really nice weather at the moment because the only thing that could cause a delay is bad weather. We need it to stay nice and dry.

“The work is going on, there is a lot of activity around the ground and a lot of really advanced machinery is on site.

“The contractors (CLS Sport) are really confident that it is going to be a really good job.”

McGeachie also reassured fans who have had relatives’ ashes buried at Valley Parade that they would not be affected.

He said: “Any fans concerned regarding the interment of ashes can be assured that these are located away from the playing surface, and will not be affected by the pitch renovations work."