CITY would think very carefully before ever swapping their Valley Parade grass pitch for an artificial one.

A final vote will take place next month to allow clubs in the lower divisions to install 3G surfaces following widespread support from chairmen.

They are set to be allowed in Leagues One and Two while Championship clubs have indicated they are willing to play on them in cup competitions – as have the Premier League.

The Football League will draw up regulations surrounding installing and using the pitches, which will cost between £300,000 and £500,000, ahead of the vote.

City joint-chairman Mark Lawn said: “We think the quality (of the artificial surface) is good enough now. Russia play international matches on it and even England have done so.

“But it needs very careful calculations. It may still cost you the same to maintain as a grass pitch.

“You have to be very sure about the projected income and it may only have a life-span of 20 years.”