With both the Blues and Principality Premiership side Cardiff RFC playing regular rugby on the ground, the standard of the pitch did suffer at times last season.
As a result, the Blues have followed the approach of Aviva Premiership side Saracens in implementing an artificial pitch with the hope it will provide a more entertaining game of rugby.
The new surface is designed to allow rainfall to drain straight through the system and will see an end to the heavy sodden pitches seen last season.
With Blues Director of Rugby Phil Davies looking to play an expansive game with a youthful side, the Blues’ hierarchy are hopeful the new conditions will see the region move on to bigger and better things.
“Having a new artificial pitch installed at the Arms Park is fantastic news,” said Davies.
“It will allow us to play the expansive game that we want which will hopefully be attractive to the supporters.
“This wasn’t always possible last season due to the playing surface and dreadful weather conditions we suffered last season. I know all the players are looking forward to playing on it for our friendly match against Sale Sharks.”
Cardiff Blues Chief Executive Richard Holland added: “This is very exciting news for all Cardiff Blues supporters and indeed Cardiff Blues and Cardiff RFC players in the region.
“The new surface will allow games to go ahead no matter the weather and hopefully enable us to play a more expansive and attractive game for supporters to enjoy.
“There is also the wider community to consider and our aim is to make the pitch available for teams in the Blues region to play and train on.
“We’ve put a great amount of effort into researching the different surfaces available and I have no doubt that the new artificial pitch will be a hit with players and supporters alike.
“There are many benefits of having the artificial pitch which will also be available to host a number of national events such as the National Sevens tournament and potentially women’s and age grade rugby internationals.”
Launched in 2011, the FieldTurf Optimum fibre, which will be used at the Arms Park, is the result of innovative science, engineering and technology. It will provide a fit for purpose rugby surface, one which will be in place for a number of years.
With the safety of players of paramount importance, the new pitch will have plenty of give and because of the combined shock pad and carpet system, both teams can challenge for the ball in the air with no more risk than playing on grass.
Work on installing the new pitch will begin in June ahead of Cardiff Blues playing their first match on the new surface against Sale Sharks on Friday, August 23.
WRU Group Chief Executive, Roger Lewis said: “I congratulate and applaud the Cardiff Blues on this initiative.
“It is a positive step forward for rugby both in the Blues region and in our capital city, Cardiff.
“The WRU has received a grant application from the Blues for financial assistance, which I support. The focus of the WRU is based upon creating long term sustainable rugby both on and off the field and our planning is based upon clear, strategic decisions.
“The Blues have met all of the criteria and IRB regulations and it is with great pleasure that the WRU endorses this project”
