IPSWICH’s return to the Premier League has led to a huge overhaul at Portman Road.
Kieran McKenna has led The Tractor Boys into the top flight after 22 years away following back-to-back promotions.
Over the summer, they have brought in six new signings to bolster their squad and give themselves the best possible chance of avoiding relegation at the first time of asking.
They are Omari Hutchinson, Jacob Greaves, Liam Delap, Arijanet Muric, Conor Townsend and Ben Johnson.
But while work is going on in the boardroom, the main focus has been on getting the stadium ready to meet Premier League regulations ahead of their opening game against Liverpool on Saturday.
In a tour with managing director Mark Ashton, that includes a number of key transformations such as the refurbishment of the referees’ changing rooms.
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Separate rooms for male and female officials are being developed and will have space for masseuse facilities.
A new lounge is also being built for players’ loved ones to relax in before and after games.
This is because the existing one is being turned into a 75-seater international media suite.
Other upgrades include the Ipswich crest being taken down outside the Sir Alf Ramsey Stand and being replaced by a new one that will light up for fans to see as they approach the ground.
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A TV studio is being built above a new tunnel and will be in operation after their Premier League opener against Liverpool.
This will house Sky Sports and TNT Sports pundits when Ipswich games are televised at Portman Road.
Five new media suites are being built for broadcasters, the home dressing room is being improved, while facilities for away fans are also being touched up.
A full VAR programme is being installed, while their broadcast operation is being increased from a “five or six camera feed” to a “46 or 47 camera feed”.
Stadium steps have been painted white, entrances painted black, and the floodlights are being upgraded between now and September.
Seats have been re-arranged, while a safe standing area has also been implemented and glass protection installed by the front row.
Advertising hoardings at both ends of the stadium are being digitalised, while a new fan concourse and bar area is being developed.
Draft beer will also now be on offer in the Cobbold Stand.
The main reception and press room have also had major renovations, with the Directors Box in the process of being improved too.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
