My attention has been drawn to an announcement from Bath Rugby – just before Christmas – that it has submitted amended plans to B&NES for a new ‘state of the art’ stadium at the Rec.
To quote from their club release:
“The new stadium design boasts significant improvements, including lowering the heights of the West and East Stands. These enhancements are not just aesthetic; they aim to elevate the match day experience while preserving the unique character of the surrounding area.
“This submission is another important milestone for the club and the city. We’ve listened closely to the community and our stakeholders, as well as the numerous statutory consultees that are invited to comment on planning applications, and we are committed to delivering a stadium that not only meets the needs of our fans but also respects the rich heritage of Bath,” said Tarquin McDonald, Chief Executive of Bath Rugby.
“The amended submission showcases an exciting vision for the future, with significant public benefits that will positively contribute to the entire community. We now look forward to the Council bringing the proposals to a planning committee in the New Year.”
Key benefits of the new stadium design include:
- A new curved roof form which reduces the heights, resulting in increased views of the city and surrounding hills
- Enhanced landscaping to the river
- Redesign of East and West Stand facades
- Re-engineered and enhanced seating bowl
The resubmitted plans still retain all the key benefits included in the original application from 2023:
- 18,000 capacity stadium with significantly enhanced accessibility provisions
- Contemporary and sensitive design
- Significantly increased community use with new stadium facilities
- Regenerated riverside including the new Spring Gardens Walk
- Retention of mature trees, as well as further landscaping and bio-diversity measures
- A host of sustainability measures to support a target of net zero operational carbon
- Riverside café/restaurant, Club shop and museum for non-matchday use
The amended plans which have been submitted will be publicly available on the B&NES Council planning portal in the New Year. The club will confirm once the amendments have gone live so members of the public can comment on the plans.“
Have a look at the details via https://www.bathrugby.com/stadium-for-bath
It’s going to be an interesting New Year on this particular sporting front.
A hideous monstrosity! Let’s hope the plans are rejected!