Crown Oil Arena pitch rebuild enters final phase ahead of Truro clash

Thursday, 8 January 2026 19:25

By David Murphy

Work to replace the pitch at Rochdale AFC’s Crown Oil Arena is ahead of schedule, according to Managing Director Andy Duff.

Despite recent frost-related setbacks, Duff confirmed that around 80% of the upper root zone – the final layer before turfing – is already on site, with the remaining material expected to arrive by the end of the week. The surface will then be levelled between Saturday 10 and Tuesday 13 January.

The turf, currently being prepared for harvest at a specialist farm, is scheduled to be delivered and laid from Wednesday 14 to Saturday 17 January. If the timeline is maintained, the rebuild will finish two days earlier than planned, allowing for a full week of bedding-in before the home fixture against Truro City on Saturday 24 January.

Duff explained that the installation of a Hero carpet hybrid system gives the club additional flexibility. Should delays occur, the pitch could still be ready by Thursday 22 January without affecting the scheduled match.

“We’re on track and confident,” said Duff. “This timeline puts us in a strong position to complete works early. Even if we face minor disruption, the nature of the new surface means we remain well placed to host the Truro fixture as planned.”

Rochdale AFC has promised to keep fans updated on progress throughout the next fortnight as the final phase of works continues.