: Fri May 08, 2009 11:27 am
From memory the new 6,350 tonne roof covers an area of over 45,000 square metres (11 acres), 4 acres (16,000 m2) of which are movable and rise to 52 m (170 ft) above the pitch. With a span of 317 m (1040 ft), the arch is the longest single span roof structure in the world and is 134 m (440 ft) above the level of the external concourse, and is designed not to cast a shadow on the pitch. Contrary to popular belief, the stadium's roof is not fully retractable, meaning it cannot cover the playing surface in inclement weather.