The new National Sports Centre has run up against a $1.5 million hurdle -- the synthetic running track has to be ripped up yet again.

Teething troubles with the rubber track at the new complex began when rain seeped underneath the surface.

The track, laid in 1987, was resurfaced in 1993 and repaired again in 1995.

Now workers rushing to finish the stadium by December 1999 are building a four-and-a-half foot trench and a new system of pipes and hoses to improve drainage.

But the track will still have to be ripped up next summer, when a new one will be laid.

Diggers will also move back onto the site of the northern sports field at the stadium today after a break of several weeks.

Excavation work has been put on hold at the Roberts Avenue stadium because of heavy rain, road works and testing on site.

But the stadium's board of trustees insisted the work was going ahead as scheduled and digging machines would be back in action today.

Spokesman Charles Marshall said: "The problems with the running track are now being solved.

"We have had the consultants and experts in and they say the surface has been lifting off the concrete because of poor drainage.

"We're now laying a new drainage system but unfortunately there is blistering on the track so it will need to be replaced.

"We appreciate the difficulties runners will face but we will try to get the school season and big events out of the way before the new work begins.'' The "Rekortan'' international-class track will be out of use for between a month and six weeks next summer -- probably in July or August.

Mr. Marshall added: "We have kept the Bermuda Track and Field Association fully briefed with the problems but there are no short cuts and ripping up the track is the only solution.'' Director of Youth and Sport Brenton Roberts said the need to replace the track was "regrettable but necessary''.

He said: "Unfortunately, this is the only quality running track in Bermuda but we just won't be able to attract world class athletes unless it is in tip-top condition.

"We were told the problems were caused because the initial track was laid incorrectly.

"Now we have learned that the Canadian firm which did the work has gone out of business so there is no recourse for us.'' The multi-million-dollar stadium development involves the track, indoor sports and pool complex and a pitch for soccer, rugby, hockey and night cricket.

Mr. Roberts added: "The cost of the new track will be around $1.5 million and we spent $600,000 to have it laid in the first place.

"It's also the only track of its kind in Bermuda so to lose it for even a short while is a great shame.''