Council in talks over rugby club

The club wants to build a 15,000-seat stadium on the Rec site

Bath council has confirmed it is in talks with the owners of the city's main rugby club in a bid to end a long-term row over its future.

Bath Rugby wants to build a 15,000-seat stadium on the Recreation Ground site, but the proposals have been rejected by the trust that owns the land.

On Wednesday B&NES council confirmed it was in talks about compensation, in return for allowing the club's plans.

A supporters' club spokesman has welcomed the latest move.

Councillor Malcolm Hanney said: "We have indicated to the trust that we are prepared to consider the transfer of additional land to the trust to compensate for the land that would be used by Bath Rugby for its stadium proposals."

A spokesman for the Real Friends of the Rec added: "We're delighted that the council has responded quickly and imaginatively, and would like to offer our congratulations to all those concerned for their decisive actions."

Bath Rugby needs to expand its capacity to meet the demands of the rugby union game's authorities.

The rugby ground on Bath Rec currently holds 9,000 spectators but the club wants to expand this to 15,000.

In order for the club to gain planning permission, the trustees of the Bath Rec site have to be satisfied that the public support the plans, that it is legal and that it is financially viable.

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