This time next year a major operation will begin in Stuttgart. All of the stadium’s membrane will be torn off and replaced by new sheets. It’s hard to believe the current ones are that old already.

Later this year local authorities in Stuttgart will launch a tender for roof surface replacement at Mercedes-Benz Arena. Works won’t begin immediately, they will be launched only after the 2016/17 Bundesliga season so as to not interfere with events.

The operation will see all of the current 34,000 square meters of PVC membrane removed and then replaced by almost identical material. This includes two segments that have been replaced just 5 years ago, following a crane accident. Altogether there are 40 large sheets awaiting replacement.

While the structure still looks fresh, reasoning behind the project is very simple: it’s old. Lifespan of this PVC surface is 20 years, 25 maximum, and it’s been in place since 1993. This means it’s high time to consider a new one.

Membrane replacement will be financed by the stadium operator, jointly owned by the city of Stuttgart (60%) and VfB Stuttgart (40%). Cost is expected to be €7.2 million ($8.15m), though is subject to changes depending on tender outcome.