The North Field and walking track at the National Sports Centre will be closed from October 5 to 27 as the floodlight system is being replaced.

Work is scheduled to take place every day except for this weekend, when the field is being used for the Athene Kickstart youth Football tournament. Walkers, joggers and all other recreational users will not have access to the 600 metres walking track, outdoor gym and surrounding grassy areas during that time.

The closure will continue from October 28 to November 19 to prepare for the World Rugby Classic.

The event will feature Classic Canada, Classic Eagles, Argentina Legends, Italian Classic, France Classic, Canada and Classic Lions. There will also be a match featuring Bermuda mini-rugby.

The 400 metres track at Flora Duffy Stadium will be available during these times for a nominal drop-in fee, provided the field is not closed off for an exclusive booking.

Craig Tyrrell, the operations manager, outlined the reasons for the extended North Field closure.

“We are always excited when hosting events like the World Rugby Classic, but this year is a little different as we are first improving the lighting system on the North Field, a project which will benefit all users in the future,” Tyrrell said.

“We must ensure that we can complete the tasks safely and, unfortunately, that means restricting use for all recreational users until the work is complete. We do apologise for any inconvenience, but look forward to everyone returning after the capital works and Classic have ended.”

• Anyone interested in using the facility can check out the schedule at bermudanationalsportscentre.com and regular updates are posted on Instagram @nscbermuda.