Wednesday, March 09, 2011

Robins could move to Racecourse

Sometime ago Cheltenham Town Football Club revealed that they had talked to the managing director of Cheltenham Racecourse about a possible move from Whaddon Road, pictured, to Prestbury Park.

This evening Town chairman Paul Baker told a meeting of the club's shareholders that a move was still under discussion.

Whaddon Road is owned by the local council and the club has 94 years left on their current lease. It's thought there would be considerable 'asset value' if the club were to leave the ground.

"I like the idea and I think a new stadium always gives a boost to a club," said Baker.

"There are a number of things that would need to happen before we see any firm decisions but we're still in discussions with the racecourse, the Jockey Club and the Borough Council.

"If I was on the council I'd look at this as a good deal for the football club, the racecourse and the town.

"From our point of view we are limited in the amount we can re-develop the Abbey Business Stadium and a new ground could open up lots of possibilities. The Council is in need of land for housing and a move would deliver a large parcel for re-development. The key questions relate to the finances and we have to make sure they stack up."