Glentoran have confirmed that talks have taken place over plans to install a 3G pitch at The Oval - but .have ruled out any potential switch until next summer.
Speculation has been mounting in recent weeks that the East Belfast club could be set to join the likes of Larne, Crusaders and Cliftonville in adopting an artificial surface.
The Glens revealed discussions have taken place, but said that concerns over a potential flood risk meant further investigations were needed before any decision is made.
"The club is aware of speculation in recent weeks about the possible installation of a 3G pitch and training facility at The Oval," the said in a statement.
"We can confirm that such discussions have taken place. However expert advice has stated that further investigation is required on potential flood risk, given the location of the Oval.
"This investigation will be fully undertaken but is likely to take several weeks."
It had been thought a new 3G pitch could have been installed at the start of the 2019/20 season.
Glentoran had agreed in principle to switch a number of their early-season games for the installation to take place.
But now any potential switch will not take place until next summer, at the earliest.
"The recent well publicised delay in completion of the investment into the club renders this timescale impractical for Glentoran’s immediate football needs or for the needs of our loyal supporters as we enter a new season," the statement added.
"Therefore, the installation will not take place this season.
"We would like to thank Coleraine, Institute and Larne Football Clubs for agreeing in principle to move our early fixtures in the Danske Bank Premiership but we can confirm to our supporters that our fixtures will be completed as published on www.glentoran.com.
"Other improvements within the stadium will be announced through official club media channels in the coming weeks."
Keep up-to-date with all the very latest news, what's on, sport and everything else in Belfast and beyond with the Belfast Live app.
Only select news that interests you by picking the topics you want to display on the app's homepage. Plus, our enhanced user experience includes live blogs, video, interactive maps and slick picture galleries. Download it now and get involved.
Click here to get it from the App Store or here for Google Play .
