SAVE Coventry Speedway and Stox campaign group said it was thoroughly prepared for next week’s ‘vital’ planning inquiry as it looks to ensure thrown-out plans to build on the iconic stadium site aren’t overturned.
The planning inquiry hearing into the controversial plans for Brandon Stadium, unanimously refused by Rugby Borough Council’s planning committee last November, gets underway at 10am on Tuesday, September 19.
The thrown-out plans for 124 homes, reduced from 137, included access to the site from Rugby Road, with 20 per cent of the houses built being affordable.
Proposals also included open space, infrastructure, a 3G football pitch, a pavilion and a car park.
Brandon lodged its objection to the decision on May 12 and the inquiry will now take place over eight days featuring speakers and witnesses for and against the plans.
The campaign group, which has been fighting for the venue’s future since it was closed back in 2016, will be represented in the inquiry having been granted Rule 6 status by the planning inspector.
A decision will not be expected until several weeks after the inquiry.
Rugby council’s reason for refusal stated the development would result in the loss of a sporting facility with both local and national significance.
It added although an alternative sporting provision, the 3G pitch, was proposed, there was not a ‘clearly identified need’ for it.
The authority considered the proposed benefits of the new facility to not clearly outweigh the loss of the stadium.
Brandon Estates’ appeal claims evidence provided demonstrated a demand for additional 3G pitches.
It claims data collected relating to Coventry City and Rugby Borough Council’s playing field assessments showed the number of existing pitches in both authorities areas was insufficient against demand generated by existing local clubs and their teams.
Other appeal points included claims of declining attendance at speedway events, both at Coventry Stadium and nationwide, as well as the number of active teams, and events held across each site.
It also argues the capital costs of reinstating the stadium, alongside the operational costs, meant it would be ‘completely unviable’ and was ‘clearly outweighed’ by the benefit offered by creating the proposed sports pitch.
Visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=Quacfny1d3c to watch the inquiry.
