Swansea and Bridgend Councils Discuss Ospreys Stadium Plans
Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart has revealed that any approved plan for the Ospreys rugby team would accommodate the relocation of Swansea Cricket Club, who have played at the St Helen’s venue since 1875. However, Glamorgan have not used the facility since 2019.
“St Helen’s needs to be upgraded to offer a modern sports experience, and the Ospreys need a new home and a plan for long-term sustainability,” said Stewart. The council is prepared to work on the current Ospreys proposal for St Helen’s to become a modern rugby stadium, helping the region to make their home there and remain in Swansea.
“We’re doing all we can to support the Ospreys to stay in Swansea, while also working with all of our sporting stakeholders to provide top-class facilities for them,” added Stewart. The council is already in discussions with the current St Helen’s residents, Swansea Cricket Club and Swansea RFC, regarding the potential changes, including implications, timescales, and funding to develop improved cricket facilities nearby.
Bridgend County Borough Council Support
Councillor Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing for Bridgend County Borough Council, believes an Ospreys move to the area would “provide a massive economic boost.” The council is fully supportive of the Ospreys’ plans to potentially relocate to Bridgend County Borough and looks forward to further talks about the mutual benefits of such a move.
“The Dunraven Brewery Field would offer the Ospreys a unique opportunity to base themselves in the heart of a town centre, with Bridgend being perfectly placed on the M4 corridor and having lots of public transport options with nearby train and bus stations,” said Farr. The Ospreys already have strong community links throughout the county borough, with many of their current players hailing from Bridgend and starting their rugby journeys with local teams.
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