COLCHESTER United will reduce their pitch dimensions at the JobServe Community Stadium after having an application approved by the EFL Board.
The U's have had three home postponements in the space of the last month, including their clash with Doncaster Rovers on Tuesday night.
It led to independent pitch specialists to assess the playing surface, where it was felt that a reduction in the width and length of the pitch which boost the U's chances of being able to hold games at the stadium, in light of the recent inclement weather.
🏟️ Our application to the EFL to alter the pitch dimensions at the JobServe Community Stadium has been approved.
— Colchester United FC (@ColU_Official) March 15, 2024
There are now no concerns about a postponement of tomorrow's game against Walsall. #ColU | #WeAreUnited
The new dimensions will remove the majority of the problem areas the pitch has.
The new dimensions will come into place immediately, with Colchester hosting Walsall at the Community Stadium tomorrow.
In a statement, the EFL said: 'At its meeting yesterday, the EFL Board approved an application by Colchester United to alter its pitch dimensions, commencing from tomorrow’s Sky Bet League Two fixture against Walsall.
'Following a number of postponements for the Club, including their last two home fixtures due to drainage issues, the League commissioned independent pitch specialists STRI to undertake an assessment of the playing surface.
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It was concluded that reducing the pitch in width and length, and therefore removing the majority of the problem areas, represented the best of the limited options available to complete the season in good order.
'The amended dimensions at Colchester United are now 64 meters in width (previously 68m) and 102 meters in length (previously 105m).
'These are in accordance with EFL Regulations and the Laws of Game and are similar to a number of Clubs across the League.'
Colchester have had four home games postponed due to a waterlogged pitch this season, prompting chairman Robbie Cowling to issue a statement on Tuesday regarding the surface, at the JobServe Community Stadium.
The U's supremo revealed that major work is planned to take place on the pitch, this summer.
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