On solid ground (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

On solid ground

IT might seem a paradox to some, but victory on the rugby field does not guarantee progress.

Despite a run of sporting success Swindon Rugby Club has not been able to apply for major funding to improve and develop the facilities at their ground in Greenbridge Road.

Now they are on the verge of securing a long lease, which will enable them to secure their future at the ground and build on their recent promotion to the Southern Counties North division.

In the season that has just finished the club romped to the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier Division title.

Joe Walsh, the club's chairman, said: "We're still waiting for confirmation from the council, but I believe it's going through.

"It will allow us to apply for other development grants.

"Our current lease is too short. You need a lease of 25 or 30 years plus to go for any major improvement grants."

The club is now looking to develop plans for floodlights and new changing rooms and clubhouse.

Mr Walsh said: "The club is moving on. It's always difficult running a sports club.

"At the end of the day it's a question of juggling finances."

Mr Walsh, 42, has been involved at the club for six years, and combines his role as chairman with his job as a BT engineer.

He said: "This is the first stage of our development plan.

"Without the extension of the lease we wouldn't be able to replace old buildings, and would never be able to improve the facilities without this security of tenure."

Mayor Ray Fisher is the local councillor, and he said that it was too soon to comment.

The ground borders the Covingham and Nythe council ward of Coun Glenn Smith (Con).

He said: "This is the first I've heard of it, but if the club can get funding to develop resources and improve facilities that can be used by all the people of Swindon, then in principle I am in favour."

A spokesman for Swindon council said: "The rugby club has approached us to extend their lease, and we are obviously consulting with local ward members and the parish council."