Proposal for council to back next phase of Edgbaston Stadium masterplan set for discussion

Monday, 17 April 2023 19:06

A proposal for the council to support the latest phase of the masterplan designed to keep Edgbaston Stadium in the elite tier of international cricket venues is to be considered on April 25.

The strategic importance of the venue means that further upgrades are needed to maintain its status, so Cabinet Members are being asked to consider the principle of a £32million loan for the rebuilding of the oldest two stands (the Raglan and Priory Stands) and the addition of new facilities (including a hotel) and related amenities.

Hosting Test Matches, county cricket, The Hundred and T20 Finals Day, a report to Cabinet outlines how in 2019 the stadium attracted 400,000 visitors and contributed £68million to the city’s economy.

Looking ahead, this is expected to increase, with this summer’s Ashes series and the ongoing success of The Hundred competition, with opportunities arising through the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup and the 2030 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

At Cabinet next week, councillors will be asked to note the proposal for a loan or investment facility of up to £32million, subject to the completion of a satisfactory “Green Book” Appraisal, the granting of planning approval and agreement of satisfactory terms, including the provision of suitable security, with the cricket club.

Cllr Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: "Major sporting events provide a huge boost to the Birmingham economy, as we have seen from the likes of the Commonwealth Games, World Indoor Athletics Championships and the annual programme of fixtures hosted at venues across the city such as Edgbaston Stadium.

“Edgbaston is now widely considered to be the country's best cricket venue outside of London, but competition for big matches and major events is fierce and we must stay ahead of the competition.

“That's why further development is essential to grow the economic impact and sporting reputation of the city and strengthen the financial base of the Cricket Club – we are looking at the provision of a loan as one way in which this could be achieved.”

More from Local News

Donate a gift to Walsall care leavers this Christmas

The generosity of Walsall is being called upon this festive season, as the council launches a gift donation drive for the borough’s care leavers.
Free advice and support at Help at the Hub day in Wednesfield

Anyone looking for free support and guidance on money, health and safety matters is welcome to attend an open day in Wednesfield next week, organised by City of Wolverhampton Council.
Fresh advice for those worried about losing winter fuel payments

The City of Wolverhampton Council is contacting nearly 1000 households in the city with renewed advice for pension-aged carers about applying for pension credit without delay.
Final stage of Wolverhampton Local Plan consultation launched

The final stage of consultation on a new Wolverhampton Local Plan to guide future development in the city up to 2042 has today (Monday) been launched.
Tree of Hope in Walsall signifies unity and stands up to violence against women and girls

A ‘Tree of Hope’ has been unveiled at the New Art Gallery in Walsall town centre this week.
Earlier this month, the first phase of a new adult social care initiative was launched by Walsall Council.

Called Pathway to Independence, this initiative introduces a new approach to adult social care which aims to support adults who need social care services to achieve their personal goals and help them live as independently as possible for as long as possible in their own homes.
Completion of designs paves way for Wednesfield High Street transformation

City of Wolverhampton Council has put final proposals in place for the £3.3 million transformation of Wednesfield High Street.
Black Country Transport (BCT) – working with City of Wolverhampton Council and neighbouring local authorities – has secured funding to improve the key route, which incorporates Birmingham New Road and Wolverhampton Road. Proposals include segregated cyc

An exciting new concept in helping residents with anything and everything related to food launches this week in the city with the first stage of the ground-breaking new Pocket to Plate.