Whilst the pitch was rightly receiving primary attention, there was a lot of concern as to whether the pitch flaps [Ooooh err, Missus] were working/designed propely as there seemed to be a gap between tray and flap, whereas they should meet with no gap. Again, one of the posters on SSC contacted the manufacturers and Hey Presto - an answer...
Hi Sam,
Thanks for posting your question.
When we were developing the multipurpose pitch solution, this was one of the biggest challenges we faced......so what did we do!
The pitch surround flaps are attached to a large steel structure, which also goes up & down. The operating height being approximately the same height to that of the retractable pitch. This way, we then ensure the angle that the players have to get on & off the pitch, is consistent whether it’s for football, or for NFL mode.
We use a similar principle for the tunnels as well.
As a result of this design, we ensure the angle that the players will have to negotiate, will be no greater than for any other premiership football ground.
Hope that helps clarify any future discussions on the subject.
You have an amazing football club, with visionary leaders & you’ll soon be experiencing the best football stadium anywhere in the world; we’re very proud to be part of it.
Thanks again Sam for taking the trouble to contact us.
Regards & good luck for the new season.
Nice answer. A little bit more from the club would be nice, if anyone's reading this?
Hi Sam,
Thanks for posting your question.
When we were developing the multipurpose pitch solution, this was one of the biggest challenges we faced......so what did we do!
The pitch surround flaps are attached to a large steel structure, which also goes up & down. The operating height being approximately the same height to that of the retractable pitch. This way, we then ensure the angle that the players have to get on & off the pitch, is consistent whether it’s for football, or for NFL mode.
We use a similar principle for the tunnels as well.
As a result of this design, we ensure the angle that the players will have to negotiate, will be no greater than for any other premiership football ground.
Hope that helps clarify any future discussions on the subject.
You have an amazing football club, with visionary leaders & you’ll soon be experiencing the best football stadium anywhere in the world; we’re very proud to be part of it.
Thanks again Sam for taking the trouble to contact us.
Regards & good luck for the new season.
Nice answer. A little bit more from the club would be nice, if anyone's reading this?

