Plans to build a new stadium at Bath Rugby's historic home have taken a major step forward following a victory in court this week for the Premiership club.
On Tuesday (October 18) the Supreme Court refused an application seeking to appeal the ruling of the Court of Appeal of February 4 this year, allowing Bath Rugby to proceed with its planned redevelopment of its facilities at The Rec.
It brings to an end the long-running legal case relating to the 1922 covenants and paves the way for Bath Rugby to bring forward proposals for a new stadium.
The club has played at The Rec since 1894 and currently operates a temporary stand on the land which costs around £1 m a year in operating costs. The Rec can currently hold around 14,000 people but Bath Rugby would like to build an 18,000-seater stadium.
Earlier this year the club was granted a temporary stand extension, meaning it can remain in place for another three years while it develops its proposals for the larger, permanent venue.
Bath Rugby chief executive Tarquin McDonald said: “We are delighted with this outcome. We acknowledge that this has felt drawn out and at times frustrating for the club, our supporters and the city.
“It has been necessary to see this legal process through to its conclusion. Now that the Supreme Court has ruled, we finally have the certainty we need as a club to bring forward comprehensive proposals for a new stadium at our spiritual home, The Rec, located in the heart of Bath."
Mr McDonald said the club would now re-engage with stakeholders across the city regarding the development project, and would bring forward and share its plans with the city "in due course".
He added: "This will regenerate the riverside, and provide outstanding facilities for rugby and the wider community which everyone in the city can be proud of. We would very much like to thank our supporters and the wider city for all their support and patience throughout this complex and lengthy legal process.”
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