Worcestershire begin New Road repair work

Groundstaff have begun the major job of restoring New Road © Getty Images

Worcestershire have begun the long process of renovating New Road after the ground was hit by two floods this summer. The club are taking the opportunity to lay new drainage in an attempt to help in the event of further flooding.

The surface of the square has been skimmed to remove all the unwanted grass, thatch and contaminants before it is scarified and seeded. The practice area will receive the same treatment. The top layer of the outfield will also be removed and 250 tonnes of top dressing and 1000kgs of seed will be applied. While the work on the outfield is being undertaken, additional underground drainage will be installed at the pavilion side of the ground.

"The severity of the deposits left from the second-highest flood at New Road has actually given us the opportunity to carry out some very extensive renovation to the entire playing area," head groundsman Tim Packwood said. "It is very strange to see the ground looking like a ploughed field at this time of year but we have to take a long term view and try to repair it in time for the 2008 season.

"The cost for this work alone will pass the £50,000 mark but I do believe we will end up with better wickets and a quicker drying outfield in the future. We need to take advantage of the growing period over the next three months and establish a strong grass growth before the winter sets in."