Bath Rugby’s bid to increase capacity at the Rec for the next two seasons has been given the green light by council planners.
Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) Council approved the club’s temporary planning application which raises capacity in the stadium by 2,000 to 14,000 for the 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 seasons.
The scheme will also provide improved facilities for supporters in the lead up to the club’s 150th anniversary.
But the club said it remained focused on securing its long-term future at the Rec and pointed out that the temporary application was separate to its main plans to redevelop the ground’s ageing facilities.
Bath Rugby chief executive Nick Blofeld said: “We are delighted that our temporary proposals have been approved.
“As we gear up for a year of special events to celebrate our 150th anniversary, this extra capacity will allow more people to get closer to the action during a landmark year in our club’s history.
“We are particularly excited about welcoming new spectators to the Rec, to enjoy the unique experience of watching Bath Rugby play at their spiritual home, and look forward to providing all our supporters, old and new, with a superb couple of seasons ahead, both on and off the field.”
Temporary increases in capacity will be made to the existing seasonal East and North stands and more hospitality boxes will be added to the South (IPL) stand.
Pictured: The Rec at night. Photo courtesy of Bath Rugby
