From the Daily Post:
A PETITION to save Wrexham FC’s historic Racecourse ground has netted more than 8,000 signatures.
But organisers only have until next Spring to reach their target of 10,500 supporters.
The numbers rose above 8,300 as organisers of the Red Passion website met with local MP Ian Lucas in Westminster this week.
Mr Lucas joined their campaign, geared towards making sure the stadium is specifically identified by Wrexham County Council as an area to be used only for leisure, before the county’s LDP (Local Development Plan) is drawn up early next year.
Council chiefs vowed to take their petition on board when drawing-up the LDP, as supporters want assurances the ground will never be demolished in favour of an alternative development.
Petition organisers argue that if the Racecourse was lost it would have a huge impact on the town.
One of the authors told the Daily Post: “Our target is 10,500 signatures, which is the current reduced capacity of the Racecourse ground while the Kop end is closed due to the student housing development.
“The petition currently totals 8,347 signatures, and that includes ex-players from Wrexham FC and football fans from the UK and abroad.”
He added: “Sadly the football club have appeared keen to distance themselves from the petition and have declined our invitations to support it or comment on it publicly.”
Mr Lucas reinforced their appeal, adding: “One of the main things people associate with Wrexham is its football team and the Racecourse stadium – it really is known around the world.
“That’s why I am delighted to back what is a grassroots fans’ campaign. I am also hoping to encourage other MPs to add their backing to the campaign.”
Their concerns came as we reported yesterday how the £40m Wrexham Village development, which now owns the club, is on course to be built by next July.
Meanwhile, Wrexham council revealed how the emerging Wrexham Local Development Plan (LDP) will eventually replace the current Wrexham Unitary Development Plan (UDP) and become the key framework for future development in the county.
They said the current adopted UDP does not contain a policy specifically referring to the Racecourse by name, but does contain general policies to protect all important community facilities, including sports grounds, which are applicable to the Racecourse.
A planning spokesman told the petition organisers they will bring their grievances to the attention of the Planning Policy Panel, overseeing the preparation of the LDP.
If the plan does not provide the Racecourse ground with the level of protection fans think is appropriate they will have the opportunity to submit a formal objection during the six week statutory consultation period.
Lawrence Isted, Chief Planning Officer, added: “The council fully appreciates the strong feelings among many people in Wrexham regarding the future of the Racecourse and we will give the matter careful consideration in the deliberations on the LDP.”
Nobody from Wrexham FC was available at the time of going to press, and on previous occasions when asked for a stance on the petition they have said they wished to make no comment on the matter.
.
No comments:
Post a Comment