Pitch change an expensive step in right direction

There are plenty of uncertainties in the new campaign, but one thing certain is this will be Falkirk’s final season playing on an artificial surface at the Falkirk Stadium.

Top-flight clubs agreed last year synthetic pitches would be phased out, with grass becoming mandatory from summer 2027.

That decision means clubs with existing artificial pitches can continue using them until then, but the direction of travel is clear.

Kilmarnock have already moved ahead of schedule, ripping up their plastic pitch and replacing it with a new hybrid surface which, from the early images, looks extremely impressive.

Falkirk, meanwhile, will continue operating on plastic for one more season before making the switch.

It is encouraging to hear CEO Jamie Swinney confirm that, regardless of what division the club finds itself in next term, a return to grass is planned.

It is a progressive move from Falkirk and one that makes sense whatever happens this season. Even if the worst-case scenario was to unfold and the club were relegated, it would still be logical to lay the foundations for a grass pitch given it will soon become compulsory.

There is also the potential benefit of helping attract a better calibre of player, with artificial surfaces often viewed as a drawback by some.

John McGlynn has been vocal about wanting to see the back of the plastic pitch, while our long-running injury issues – many of which have involved ankle problems – have inevitably led to questions over whether the surface has played a part.

There is no definitive evidence to suggest that is the case, but moving towards a grass pitch feels like the right decision for the club’s future.

It will come at a significant financial cost, but it is another sign we are taking steps in the right direction.