Bristol City to Renovate Ashton Gate

Championship football team Bristol City have accelerated plans to redevelop Ashton Gate, which would see the stadium host rugby as well as football.

This comes as an alternative to building a new ground at nearby Ashton Vale.

The redevelopment process would be staggered over time and would see new stands where the current Wedlock and Williams stands are currently situated.

The capacity of the ground would also increase from 21,497 to 26,000 and would host Bristol FC and Bristol Rugby, who are both overseen by Bristol Sport.

A full redevelopment of the stadium is estimated to cost £40m and plans would be submitted in the summer.

City are still looking at the possibility of building a new 30,000 capacity stadium at Ashton Vale, but the redevelopment of their current ground is likely if the landowners fail to build the new stadium.

Speaking on behalf of the Bristol City FC board, Jon Lansdown said:  “Ashton Gate has been the club’s spiritual home for more than 100 years and these plans would improve and enhance the facilities ready for the next 100 years.

“The stadium would be designed with supporters in mind; there would be full engagement and consultation to ensure we represent the history and heritage of the club as fans would like.

“Modern stadium facilities are a key pillar for the club, closely aligned with our community engagement and the importance of financial prudence. This redevelopment plan is testament to all of that.

“These plans give us a viable alternative to Ashton Vale.”