http://www.thenational.scot/sport/rugby ... ises.13683
AN ARTIFICIAL surface looks certain to be installed at Scotstoun Stadium this summer, following talks between all the stakeholders.
For the first time, the discussions included Victoria Park Glasgow athletics club.
It is understood that both Glasgow Life, who manage the facility, and Glasgow Warriors recognise that VPG have legitimate concerns about the rugby club’s activities, which will now be addressed.
If the £550,000 3G pitch is installed, there should then be no further postponements of Warriors’ home matches. Heavy rainfall means the club have not been able to use the pitch since December 12, and next Friday’s Pro12 game against Munster has already been switched to Rugby Park.
It is understood that the athletics club would prefer to retain a grass infield/rugby pitch, and also remain unhappy about the temporary stands which sit inside the all-weather track for nine months of the year.
However, and subject to written guarantees, they have decided to accept the artificial surface in the spirit of compromise.
The new surface will not be suitable for hammer throws, and javelin throwing will also be restricted. To compensate, it is understood that Glasgow Life and sportscotland will consider erecting a small stand on the back pitches for throwing events at major meets – and possibly also provide cameras which would enable the hammer and javelin competitions to be shown on big screens inside the main stadium.
It is further understood that lanes one and two of the running track will be replaced as they have been damaged in the last couple of years.
Scottish Athletics, who have also been involved in the talks, planned to hold a major championship at Scotstoun this summer – but that has been put on hold because of the expected pitch installation.
Meanwhile, a 1,100-signature petition has been sent to local politicians over the problems large crowds are said to cause in the stadium’s environs.
