Council backs plans for new Bath Rugby stadium

Bath Rugby has taken a major step towards transforming its historic home at The Recreation Ground, as councillors vote overwhelmingly in favour of the long-awaited 18,000-seater new stadium.

After years of consultation, redesigns and public debate, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s planning committee has granted approval for the ambitious redevelopment.

During the extensive public consultation phase, more than 5,000 people wrote to the council backing the proposals, reflecting the support that Bath residents and supporters have for the club.

Bath Rugby chief executive Tarquin McDonald described the council’s approval as a landmark moment for the city, saying it paves the way for a stadium that will elevate the matchday experience for fans, deliver world-class facilities for women’s rugby and schools, and create a venue with year-round community benefits.

The multi-million-pound project will see the current temporary stands replaced with a state-of-the-art, permanent stadium designed to sit sensitively within the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site setting.

The new venue is designed to serve not only as a world class rugby stadium but also as a year-round hub for community events, leisure, culture and education, unlocking economic growth and new opportunities for the city.

Located at the heart of one of the UK’s most treasured historic cities, the plans have been shaped in consultation with local stakeholders, heritage bodies and residents.

The redevelopment of the Rec will now need to be approved by Secretary of State Steve Reed. Construction is expected to take approximately three years, with Bath Rugby continuing to play at The Rec during the build.

For further information about the project, visit: www.bathrugby.com/stadium-for-bath