Trent Bridge set for new outfield

	Nottinghamshire are continuing to develop Trent Bridge so it remains a top international venue © Getty Images Enlarge

England wrapped up their series against New Zealand at a new-look Trent Bridge, complete with impressive stands and futuristic floodlights, and Nottinghamshire are ensuring they remain one of the premier grounds in the country with more development plans.

Work will begin in September to lay a new outfield with improved drainage and sprinkler systems, following a grant of £600,000 from the ECB. The project will help to keep delays through rain to a minimum as surface water will drain quicker.

Similar projects have saved huge amounts of time at Lord's in recent years and Steven Pask, who was in charge of the work at Lord's along with similar improvements at Edgbaston and Trent Bridge, has won the contact for Trent Bridge's new outfield.

"We are delighted to be undertaking this work to further enhance our playing facilities," said chief executive Derek Brewer. "After the completion of the new stand and the installation of our permanent floodlights and replay screen, this project is a logical progression.

"We are very pleased to be working with Contractor Steven Pask who has forged a great reputation for his work at cricket grounds across the country and restored part of the outfield following the redevelopment work last winter."

Pask said: "The new drainage scheme will allow the outfield to dry very quickly and we will also install points for the hover and sheet covers to discharge to. Because of the drainage, the outfield will require more water and the modern irrigation system will allow for consistent and reliable watering."

The existing turf will be removed at the end of September and the outfield laser levelled to accurate grades. A drainage scheme will be installed across the pitch at three-metre intervals with a new drainage outlet. The existing soil on the outfield will be improved with the addition of sand, before the custom grown turf is laid in the New Year.

Trent Bridge doesn't host an Ashes Test next year, but is one the three host venues for the ICC World Twenty20 and has two ODIs against Australia next September.