CHAIRMAN David Buttress believes the Dragons have made strides in tackling a "tolerance of under-performance" during his first year at the Rodney Parade helm, writes Chris Kirwan.

The entrepreneur from Cwmbran was appointed by the Welsh Rugby Union at the start of September 2017 and formed a new board the following month.

The Dragons endured a torrid 2017/18 on the field but the chairman believes some important moves have been made, both by head coach Bernard Jackman and by those in suits.

In the programme for today's derby against Cardiff Blues, Buttress writes: "While some of last season's results and changes were tough, they have only strengthened my, and our, resolve to keep building until we are a winning environment (in every sense).

"Change, in our case was an essential component of removing a tolerance of under-performance and Bernard has been great at helping to step change that mentality.

"In my experience building things is hard and takes time. Patience is going to be key, but so is a sense of urgency to get stuff done.

"On that note, we have made several key improvements during our first 12 months.

"The quality of our squad and signings, the improvement of several of the ground's facilities, we have evolved a new internal culture and built a new set of values for us all to perform against.

"The last point should not be underestimated - it is people, and not process, that build successes."

Buttress reaffirms that the development of the 'cabbage patch' on the northern end of the site is vital to growing "long-term financial muscle" in order to invest more into the playing budget.

He also writes about increasing the number of supporters that come through the turnstiles: "We are becoming and are focused on becoming the professional rugby team that all of Gwent is fired up to support.

"We have a big opportunity to grow in this area. We need you, our fans, and the many successful businesses based in the area to come and see what we are now building."

Buttress writes about the Dragons' relationship with Newport RFC and Newport County, whose agreement to play at Rodney Parade runs until 2023.

"We still have work to do to strengthen the links and co-operation with Newport County and also Newport RFC," he writes.

"I said when I became involved that I would like Rodney Parade to become a sporting hub.

"Mike Davies, our managing director, is doing some great work, supported by the team here to develop a more professional working relationship with our Rodney Parade partners.

"I am hopeful that over time and with good co-operation we will evolve to a great place. Work in progress."

The Dragons, Ospreys, Blues and Scarlets are currently negotiating a fresh agreement with the WRU with the finishing touches being made to the deal, named 'Project Reset'.