Bristol City make public protest against World Cup stadium snub

By Duncan Mackay
British Sports Internet Writer of the Year

October 2 – Bristol City used today’s Championship match against Norwich City at Ashton Gate to launch a counter-protest against plans to stop them building their new stadium which could host World Cup games if England’s bid to host the 2018 tournament is successful.

The club is trying to challenge a Town Green application for the proposed site for the new £92 million ($146 million) venue in Ashton Vale.

Last month an independent inspector made the recommendation that the status for the 42 acre site should be granted, which would put an end to the club’s plans.

Bristol City have until the end of next week to gather evidence to challenge the ruling.

At today’s game with Norwich, the squad wore specially designed T-shirts before kicked off promoting their campaign – “A City United – Bristol Wants a World Class Stadium – Not a Village Green”.

Three petitions have been set up for people to show their support for the stadium plans with the target of reaching 30,000 signatures – one for every seat in the proposed new ground.

So far nearly 20,000 signatures have been registered, including all of Bristol City’s players, the most high-profile of whom is goalkeeper David James, who appeared for England during the World Cup in South Africa earlier this year.

Guy Price, Bristol City Football Club’s business development director said: “The general public, politicians and the business community across the city are showing unprecedented and overwhelming support for the benefits that a new world-class stadium will unlock for Bristol.”

But a counter petition has also been launched by people in support of the land being saved from development.

Residents near the site argue claim that is a highly valued green space that’s been used for decades by the local people.

Once the new evidence has been submitted, Bristol City Council will ask the inspector to consider a review.

If she agrees, it could lead to another hearing and a further report.

The council is not obliged to follow an inspector’s recommendation but it is rare not to do so.

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