How we have listened

Our designs have evolved following consultations on previous proposals, and more recent feedback from stakeholders including local residents.

We confirmed in April 2021 that future design proposals would not include an under-pitch car park. This has enabled us to maintain the current pitch level – with a small adjustment to the pitch level as noted below – thereby lowering the heights and roofs of the current proposed West and East stands.

Whilst the majority of feedback has consistently supported redevelopment of The Rec, concerns have focused on heights, views, massing and footprint. These concerns have informed the design approach along with key contextual influences, in particular our approach to heritage.

Height of West stand reduced by 6 metres since previous proposals

West stand x-section compared to previous scheme

West stand x-section compared to existing stadium and previous scheme

The height of the leading edge of the roof has been reduced by approximately 6 metres since the previous design proposals. This has partly been achieved through the removal of the under-pitch car park.

The height reduction has also been achieved through the design of the seating rake and pitch levels as shown below. The height reductions shown are measured, but approximate due to the existing pitch level changing over the length of the pitch (it is lower to the southern end towards the Leisure Centre).

Minimum rake of seats and sightlines at “C90” in accordance with health and safety legislation (Guide to safety at Sports Grounds – Green Guide). This is to minimize the need to stand during matches.

Pitch raised by 0.4m enables lowering of stand and roof height whilst maintaining required sightlines for health and safety.

Utilisation of parabolic seat rake enables further lowering of stand and roof.

Footprint of current proposals compared to previous proposals and existing stands

Footprint of Proposed Site Plan vs Existing Stadium Footprint

Footprint of Proposed vs Grimshaw

The footprint of the current proposals has been heavily influenced by the historical context, together with the importance of finding the right balance between riverside, stadium and outfield.

The footprint of the current proposed scheme is reduced compared to the previous proposals, with the eastern edge of the current proposed scheme now located 13.4 metres to the west – towards the river and away from the outfield – compared to the previous design proposals.

The eastern edge of the current proposed scheme is located c. 37 metres to the east of the existing stands, to accommodate the new facilities and the enhanced riverside public realm including more space for the existing trees to flourish.