Albion are investigating a permanent cure for the pitch problems at Withdean.

The Seagulls and Stadium managers Ecovert South are considering proposals for a new drainage system to be installed at the end of the season. They will be presented to Brighton and Hove Council once they have been finalised.

Chairman Dick Knight said: "Albion are a huge asset to this city and it is vital all the parties involved take a responsible, committed approach to ensuring the club has a decent pitch to play on before we move to our permanent home."

Temporary drainage repairs and re-turfing are now under way on the northern side of the pitch, which was the worst-hit area against Southend on New Year's Day. Drainage and re-turfing carried out on the southern side before Christmas is also being extended.

Last Saturday's postponement of the Lincoln game and the switching of Tuesday's LDV Vans Trophy tie to Brentford gives Ecovert until the visit of Barnet on Saturday week to complete the repairs.

Martin Perry, Albion's chief executive, said: "It is obvious to all that the pitch is now in a very poor state and we are pleased that we have been able to agree quickly with Ecovert the nature and extent of the works that have to be carried out.

"However, we all recognise these are short term measures and if these appalling weather conditions continue we may need to carry out further works later in the season. The situation will be kept under review."

Meanwhile, Ecovert have hit back at flak from fans over their part in the pitch crisis. General manager Mike Hall said: "Everyone agrees that the pitch is unacceptable. It was designed, contructed and maintained for recreational football and had no drainage capable of removing water.

"But prior to the Christmas period there was no problem. In fact the Lincoln game on Saturday was the first match to be postponed.

"The problems started with the excessive rainfall and conditions. Games went ahead like Southend which shouldn't have been played. It would have ensured it did not suffer severe damage to the re-turfing works we carried out before Christmas, but the referee has the final say.

"It has never been our role to install drainage and re-develop. Our job is to maintain the pitch. Yet we do put our hands in our pockets more than we should.

"We are partially funding the current re-turfing and temporary drainage. We are reacting to an extreme situation. We do solve issues and I think the fans will be pleasantly surprised when they turn up for the next home a game against Barnet."

- Andy Naylor and Mike Donovan