By John Wimperis, Local Democracy Reporter: People are being urged to have their say on updated plans for Bath Rugby’s new stadium — while they can.
More than 3,600 people commented on the club’s initial plans to build an 18,000-seater stadium on the Recreation Ground in 2023. But now Bath Rugby has made major changes to the plans which it says will help preserve the “unique character” of the central Bath location — and it is urging people to have their say on the plans once more.
The updated plans, submitted in December, have lowered the heights of the west and east stands, redesigned their facades, and introduced a curved roof in order to allow more views of the city and the surrounding hills. The plans also introduce “enhanced landscaping” along the river and “re-engineered and enhanced seating” in the stadium itself. Chief executive of Bath Rugby, Tarqiun McDonald, said: “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. The amended submission showcases an exciting vision for the future, with significant public benefits that will positively contribute to the entire community.”
The plans to build a stadium on the Recreation Ground in Bath’s Georgian city centre have been hugely controversial. The first plans were unveiled in July 2018 but the covenants around the site’s charitable status saw legal challenges. In 2022, the Supreme Court ruled that these would not be a barrier to the plans for a stadium.
After the plans were submitted last year, the local branch of the Green Party warned it would “cause misery for residents across the city” and 313 people subjected objections to the plan. But an overwhelming 3,253 people lodged their support for the plans with the planning department.
The club have warned that continuing with their current facilities may not be sustainable. It costs Bath Rugby about a million pounds a year to assemble and disassemble the temporary stand on the Recreation Ground each year, with floodlights having to be brought in for each game.
Mr McDonald told the Local Democracy Reporting Service in 2023 that establishing a permanent stadium on the site would secure the club’s long-term future. He warned: “If we were not able to redevelop it, it calls into question our ability to stay here long term. […] That would be tragic for the city and the club.”
The window for public consultation is open again until Saturday February 8.
You can have your say here: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/webforms/planning/comment.html?refval=23%2F03558%2FEFUL
You can view and also comment on the planning application here: https://www.bathnes.gov.uk/webforms/planning/details.html?refval=23%2F03558%2FEFUL
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The journalists are funded by the BBC as part of its latest Charter commitment, but are employed by regional news organisations. A total of 165 reporters are allocated to news organisations in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland including Bath Voice. These organisations range from television and radio stations to online media companies and established regional newspaper groups. Local Democracy Reporters cover top-tier local authorities, second-tier local authorities and other public service organisations.
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