York City FC submits planning application

[acombred]

PRESS RELEASE BY YORK CITY FOOTBALL CLUB:

York City Football Club has today submitted a planning application for the alteration and extension of Huntington Stadium.

The application is based on the redevelopment plans that were shown by architects CAD at the Club’s Open Day in July.

The comprehensive application, which was initiated soon after the Trust takeover in March, has been submitted accompanied by several additional reports including; a sequential test, traffic impact assessment, travel plan, archaeological desk top study and an environmental statement.

York City Stadium Development Director Ian McAndrew said, “It has taken several months of hard work to be in a position to submit the application. We have approached the application in a professional manner and have produced a comprehensive report which covers all areas.”

The anticipated capacity of the redeveloped Huntington Stadium will be 6,185. This includes a new North cantilevered covered stand for 1,654 away supporters with 10% disabled capacity. A new South cantilevered covered stand for home supporters comprising of terracing for 2,068 fans, catering outlets, toilets, offices, club shop and social club. The current Main stand will remain unaltered and the plans also include converting the West Stand from terracing to seating.

Stadium Development Director Ian McAndrew said, "The redevelopment will bring Huntington Stadium up to Football League standards which will hopefully also benefit the York Knights in their quest for Super League status.”

McAndrew added, "There are a number of challenges ahead and now the application is submitted we can try to overcome these obstacles and find solutions. It is only now that the true consultation process begins and we hope we can work together with all parties concerned. In turn, we hope they will support our application and the continuation of professional football in the city."

Time remains the biggest obstacle for the Club in their pursuit for a permanent home. York City's current lease on Bootham Crescent expires at the end of May 2004. It seems unlikely the Club will be in a position to gain planning permission before April 2004 and even then, the application could be called in by Government Office, which would delay construction further. In order to maintain their Football League share and play next season, the Club may have to consider requesting an extension to the current lease from landlords Bootham Crescent Holdings.

The Football Club will continue to discuss the plans with all parties concerned including the sports clubs, local residents and the local Monks Cross business community. A meeting with representatives from the York Knights, the Council and York City FC took place on 18th November and a meeting with York City FC, the Council and UK Athletics is scheduled for 25th November.