South Stand improvements finalised at The Mem - as Bristol Rovers share new image of plans
Bristol Rovers hope the work - which will see the south and southwest stand demolished - should be done in time for the new season
Last updated 14th Jun 2024
Bristol Rovers FC have revealed more about their plans for the South Stand at the Mem - now planning permission has been submitted.
The Gas want to increase capacity at the Memorial Stadium as well as improve facilities, including those with additional needs, with work expected to take place over the summer.
In the plans - of which detailed drawings have now been published - the current South and South West stands will be flattened, and replaced with a solid roof structure instead, wrapping around that section of the pitch.
Club President Wael Al Qadi said: “During my time at the club, we have constantly been looking for ways in which we can improve The Mem and provide a better experience for supporters. It has been a long process to get to this date, but we are glad that we are now at a stage where we can share with you the plans for the new season.
“The new stand allows us to add more seating to the current stadium plan and increase the capacity which, following the success of the past two seasons, is something that will enable us to welcome more supporters to attend games.
“The ability to add more accessible seating options for supporters also aligns with the club’s desire to make our stadium more accessible to all fans where possible.
“For the first time, we can create a concourse area, underneath the stand, offering improved facilities for our home fans, as well as those visiting the stadium.
“The changes will also see the removal of the current Brunel South Stand and MKJ Southwest Stand. The removal of these two tented stands to be replaced by a solid roof structure is something that I am sure will be welcomed by all supporters.
“Given the scale of the development, timelines are tight and we will be doing all we can to ensure that the new structure is in place as quickly as possible, with minimum disruption. That said, as with any development of this nature, there is always the chance of delays that are out of our control, but we have done all we can to look to mitigate this risk.”
With plans in place, and planning permission by the club submitted, the club promises that the developments will take place as soon as the season finishes.
The club say they are working with their Safety Advisory Group to make sure all rules and regulations are covered - so when they get the green light to get building, they can start straight away.
For the new development, Bristol Rovers say they will be working with partners Arena, who are industry experts in projects such as this.
Brendan Williams, from Arena, said: “This is an incredibly exciting project and one which we’re delighted to be helping deliver.
“The Memorial Stadium has a rich footballing history and this project will increase capacity and accessibility, while maintaining the venue’s identity – and ensures fans have the very best view of the action.”
Details will follow in due course on the availability of Season Tickets, but those who have purchased seats in the current MKJ Group Family Stand will be given priority to ensure that they can have like-for-like seats within the new stand.