As AECL Secretary, I fell on my blunt, rusty sword on Wednesday night, set the Sky+ for the Champions League final and went along to the Cricket Users meeting at Balgownie 1, AECC (7p.m.). From the Council, ground staff responsible for the Links and the Shed were in attendance (Bill Thompson, responsible for Duthie Park couldn't make it). Val Mackie, the focal point for recent changes made to the payment procedure was also there. The meeting was chaired by Caroline Walker.

Andy Win was present as both cricket user (Bon Accord) and Council representative to discuss the 'Grounds Maintenance Project'. Users were represented by Doug Cruickshank (Bon Accord) and myself (no sign of David Jones who usually attends). Not a great turnout (although advertised on both the AECL and Grades sites), however the timing couldn't have been worse!

A few notes:

1. Grounds Maintenance Project

Andy Win outlined a project that would take place over the coming months. In short, a fresh look by the Council on how to standardise and improve working practices at each location and to get the most from the existing sites. It will also make clear to all what the Council can reasonably deliver. Andy is better placed to expand and I understand there will be an opportunity for consultation. Positive news that this is being handled by someone who plays the game. I expect some of the more detailed pitch issues at each location will be picked up under this project.

2. Pitches

General discussion at each location:

Links

• Only one pitch will be available for this coming season.
• General feedback from Doug regarding the ‘pavilion’.

The Shed

•  £2000 was made available earlier this year to improve the playing surface, in particular the outfield.
• Two pitches would be maintained for the full season.
• No 'Champions Street' at the Shed this year; no impact on cricket as in previous years.
• Only Andy had experience of the Shed this year… thought to be an improvement on last year.
• The length of the wicket was questioned and would be checked by ground staff (interestingly, after receiving feedback last year suggesting the wicket varied from between 17 yards and 25 yards, I measured both wickets one lunchtime - both were 22 yds).

Duthie Park

• Positive feedback on Duthie Park given by myself (not that I ever occupy the crease long enough to comment properly)
• An exercise to revise the boundaries is still to be finalised. It's understood a GPS plan of Duthie Park was sent to David Jones last year for mark-up / consultation. Requires follow-up.
• Removing cricket from Duthie Park not even mentioned.

Harlaw / Rubislaw

• No one present could comment.

3. Fees

• The new AECL payment procedure is up and running. Positive feedback so far. Initial payment was still to be received from a few clubs. A spreadsheet will be maintained by the bookings officer to keep tabs on the number of credits remaining.
• The Council still plans to introduce a consistent charge across all cricket pitches (as outlined last year). This exercise has now been deferred until next year. Cricket users will be consulted on this matter (the Council would address the suggestion of considering a separate fee for an evening match compared to a weekend match at that time).

Next meeting

11th September, 7p.m, Balgownie 1, AECC