Major update on new stands at Stourbridge FC after safety concerns
Dudley planners have given the go-ahead for new stands at Stourbridge FC to replace facilities condemned for being unsafe.
The existing central south stand at the War Memorial Ground in Amblecote was found to be unstable because of its proximity to a sandstone cutting.
The club is built on land owned by Dudley Council and after protracted negotiations the framework of a new lease has been agreed. However a deal to retain the existing stands proved elusive.
A design and access statement from Design to Build in support of the application said: “Despite prolonged discussions with the landowner (Dudley Council) on potential works to the cutting/embankment, a mutually acceptable stabilisation scheme has not been agreed.
“The club therefore proposes to demolish unsafe/compromised structures and re-site new stands in safe zones, whilst retaining usable standing areas that are unaffected.”
Along with new seating for 2,613 fans the approved scheme will also provide new floodlights and a new fence at the historic stadium.
The ground is shared with Stourbridge Cricket Club which supports improvement of the stands by the football club but has concerns about when the work will be done.
In an objection to the application, the cricket club said: “The cricket club has sole use of the ground from May 1st to August 31st and cannot allow any disruption to our membership’s usage and enjoyment of playing cricket during that time.
“In the absence of any reasonable request or detailed programme of works, Stourbridge Cricket Club has to unfortunately object to the above application in the interests of its membership and members of opposition clubs who will be playing on the ground.”
Stourbridge FC believes the total cost of the redevelopment will be around £800,000 and has already started fund raising.
The club has already secured £10,000 towards the £100,000 it needs for new floodlights and is collecting donations in a variety of ways including a gofundme page.
A statement from Stourbridge FC said: “The board as a committee appointed by the members will continue to work tirelessly in the hope we can secure the prospects of Stourbridge Football Club for the near and distant future.”
