It appears at present that the long term future of the professional club may not be able to be accommodated at the Rec within emerging constraints of the growing public and commercial demand for a 20,000 capacity, better supporter facilities and other commercial revenue streams. It has therefore been deemed prudent to examine a number of other long term options.
The Club wants to keep and extend its lease on the Rec and we have a clear vision to make this the home of the amateur club, hosting the Ladies, Minis and Youth team games. Discussions will continue with a view to submitting formal proposals to the Charity Commission early in the New Year. These proposals will provide for a period of transition while new stadium options are examined.
"The challenge has always been to secure an alternative site in the heart of the City. The Club are actively looking for alternative locations within the City and, as part of this, are exploring as one possibility part of the greater Western Riverside site," said Nick Blofeld, Chief Executive, Bath Rugby.
The initial development programme for a new stadium focused on a 15,000 capacity but the game has moved on considerably and the Club must attempt to remain competitive with other Premier clubs. In fact, any new stadium should have the potential to deliver further expansion in capacity as the game continues to grow in popularity.
Nick Blofeld added: "Should a new arena on Bath Western Riverside be possible, then the Rec would be used to promote other sports as well as becoming home to the Minis, and hosting the Ladies and the most important Youth Team matches. The partnership with the Recreation Ground Trust, Somerset Cricket and Bath Rugby has significant potential for future and appropriate development on the Recreation Ground.
"We are grateful for the way in which the Council and the Recreation Ground Trust have conducted discussions with a view to finding an acceptable way forward on the Rec and that they will be working closely with us as we move forward. We must now progress the process as quickly as practically possible to secure the future of Bath Rugby in the heart of Bath for the benefit of the Club and its loyal supporters."
