The government’s approval of Bath Rugby’s new stadium at the Recreation Ground marks a pivotal moment for the historic city of Bath. Secretary of State Steve Reed’s decision not to call in the plans has cleared the final hurdle, allowing the long-awaited project to move forward without a public inquiry.
This development coincided with Bath Rugby’s recent victory over Harlequins, making it a day of double celebration for the club and its supporters. The proposed permanent 18,000-seat stadium will replace the current temporary stands, offering a world-class venue for both players and fans. Despite its location within Bath’s Georgian World Heritage Site, the project has garnered support alongside some controversy.
Earlier this month, Bath and North East Somerset Council’s planning committee unanimously backed the plans, pending specific government authorization. The Secretary of State’s decision affirms the council’s approval, enabling construction to start within the next three years. During this period, Bath Rugby will continue to play home games at the existing Recreation Ground.
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Council leader Kevin Guy described the announcement as a “huge step” toward realizing the club’s long-held dream. He highlighted the stadium’s potential to deliver wide-ranging economic and community benefits throughout the region while emphasizing the importance of conditions set to minimize the impact on local residents.
Bath Rugby CEO Tarquin McDonald praised the robust design and extensive consultation process that included input from UNESCO World Heritage officials. He expressed enthusiasm about moving into detailed design phases and maintaining close communication with the club’s passionate supporters.
The project also promises to boost women’s rugby locally, supporting Bath Rugby’s ambition to launch a professional women’s team and enhancing the city’s capability to host international tournaments.
Public opinion has been overwhelmingly supportive, with over 5,000 letters of support against fewer than 400 objections. To manage the volume of responses, council officers utilized AI to effectively summarize public feedback. Supporters, many clad in Bath Rugby jerseys, filled the council chamber during the decisive meeting, which also attracted notable figures such as former player Jeremy Guscott.
However, not everyone is in favor. Renowned director Ken Loach, who resides in Bath, has voiced strong opposition, arguing that the Recreation Ground should remain an open green space and criticizing the stadium’s scale and location. Despite these objections, the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government has confirmed the Secretary of State’s satisfaction with local determination of the application.
Matt McCabe, the council’s cabinet member for the built environment, stressed that all views were thoroughly considered during the extensive consultation, reaffirming the validity of the planning committee’s decision.
The initial referral to the government, known as an “Article 31 direction,” was issued under former Secretary of State Angela Rayner. However, by the time the decision was finalized a month later, Steve Reed had assumed the role. Both decisions were made under delegated powers by ministerial officials.
As Bath Rugby embarks on this transformative journey, the city prepares to welcome a new landmark with the potential to invigorate its sporting traditions and community spirit for generations to come.