Gloucestershire County Cricket Club has named a site for the potential development of a new home ground.
The announcement marks the first major development in the club’s efforts since it first announced its intention to explore alternative sites for a possible relocation in December 2023.
Gloucestershire said it has now signed a non-binding heads of terms agreement which will enable it to explore an area of land at Swanmoor Stoke. This is situated near local landmarks such as The Wave, Bristol Golf Club and Wild Place Project in South Gloucestershire and is less than a mile from both Junction 17 of the M5 motorway and a proposed new junction off the M49.
It is also less than a mile from Pilning railway station, although the club has conceded this would require modernisation, while the wider area has undergone material residential development of late and more is planned.
The site is located under five miles from Gloucestershire’s current home, Seat Unique Stadium (pictured), which it has occupied since 1889. Whilst the club said it will continue discussions with the owners of other possible sites, its primary focus for the coming months will be in developing opportunities at Swanmoor Stoke.
However, Seat Unique Stadium at Nevil Road will continue to serve as the county’s home for the foreseeable future, with the club having secured international match-hosting rights each year in Bristol from the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) until 2032.
The club is finalising plans to upgrade areas of the ground over the coming seasons to ensure compliance with ECB major match host requirements, with member and customer experience being prioritised.
Club chair, Peter Matthews, said: “We know that the subject of a prospective ground move is important to our members, local residents and stakeholders, and we are committed to communicate any developments with all concerned at the earliest possible opportunity.
“Whilst this announcement shows continued momentum in our search for a possible new home, it doesn’t materially change the status quo. We are not tied into any legal deal and whilst the board-appointed team will continue to work up the club’s options in line with the non-binding heads of terms, the entirety of our executive team will remain focused on running the club and making the Seat Unique Stadium a welcoming and enjoyable year-round destination for matches and events.
“It is important to stress that there is much detailed work to do before we can put specific proposals to the board for its consideration. So, whilst this looks like a tremendous opportunity, the project is still at concept stage.”
