Pompey are insistent work on the North Stand is essential and not a vanity project.

A programme of work has begun which will involved a new roof and cladding system, plus beam and associated works.

Some have expressed surprise at the timing of the work but Pompey say it makes sense to do it now, while the prospect of the next game at Fratton seems remote, and restrictions on people's movements in the coronavirus pandemic are being adhered to.

Chief executive Mark Catlin told the club website: 'These works are substantial and were planned as part of the 2020 summer programme. However, due to the current uncertainty related to the Covid-19 crisis — and the potential of a short close season period — we have had to take the decision to start work now or risk it not being completed for the start of the 2020/21 campaign.

'This could potentially have resulted in the stand being completely closed to our supporters.

'It’s not a vanity project — this is essential work required to keep the North Stand open once football resumes. The decision was a difficult one to take, as the time to complete these works is approximately 14 weeks.

'We have taken a calculated risk that even if football does come back in the short-medium term, there is an assumption that it will be some time before supporters will be allowed to congregate in large numbers in stadiums.

'Having consulted with our board and executive team, we have therefore made the decision to start the works now. We are liaising with the construction company and local council to make sure this is done safely and in accordance with current government Covid-19 guidelines.'

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