Industry News

Swindon closes in on approval for new arena

Plans to build a new arena on the site of a speedway and greyhound stadium in Swindon, UK, have moved forward, with sources close to the matter saying that the initial planning phase is almost complete.

Announced last year, site owner Gaming International said it was keen to replace Abbey Stadium with a new facility, which would be built at a cost of around £6m (€6.9m/$8.5m) alongside the current stadium.

Swindon Borough Council is yet to sign off on final approval for the project, but Gaming International and its subsidiary, Stadia UK, said they are “in the final phase of detailed planning”.

Abbey Stadium is home to the Swindon Robins speedway team, which has home fixtures at the venue from March until August.

According to the BBC, Gaming International chairman Clarke Osborne, said the project presents “logistical and organisational challenges” but the venue, would only be out of action for “a maximum two weeks”.

Osborne added: “We are ready to start work as soon as we receive the green light and have a realistic programme to have the Robins racing on their new track this season.”

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