BATH were this week given the go-ahead to temporarily expand their Rec home for the next two seasons.

The Aviva Premiership outfit, who had hoped to have work completed on their stadium in time for their 150th anniversary next year, have been granted planning permission to increase the capacity at the Rec from 12,000 to almost 14,000 for the 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 campaigns following a Bath and North East Somerset Council development control committee meeting.

Their expansion plans include the addition of five rows to the East Stand, an extra tier to the North Stand, and additional boxes in the South Stand.

Bath Rugby chief executive Nick Blofeld said: “We are delighted that our temporary proposals have been approved.

“As we gear up for a year of special events to celebrate our 150th anniversary, this extra capacity will allow more people to get closer to the action during a landmark year in our club’s history.

“We are particularly excited about welcoming new spectators to the Rec to enjoy the unique experience of watching Bath Rugby play at their spiritual home, and look forward to providing all our supporters, old and new, with a superb couple of seasons ahead, both on and off the field.”

The club say that they remain focused on securing their long-term future at the Rec and this temporary application is separate to the club’s main plans to redevelop their ageing facilities.

 

 

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