Parking for just 50 at planned football stadium
FOOTBALL fans could get free food and drink in exchange for getting the bus to matches, as part of proposals to avoid traffic problems at a proposed new stadium at Victoria Avenue.
They will also be encouraged to use Town car parks, such as Salerie Corner and the piers, and then walk to the match.
The ideas were revealed as part of the planning application for the £2m. project, which has been put forward by Guernsey FC and the Guernsey FA, but some residents fear it will not be enough to avoid problems.
The stadium will have seating for 450 spectators, with a capacity for 2,500 fans in all.
But the site will have parking for just 50 cars.
In the transport impact assessment, it was stated that they had planned for the worst-case scenario.
‘The assessment concludes that the junction that provides the main access into the site will operate within capacity for the future scenario with the proposed stadium,’ the assessment states.
‘The proposed development is not anticipated to have a material adverse impact on the local highway network. Public transport and walking/cycle will be promoted as part of the relocation plan to reduce trip generation associated with the development.’
GFC fans who go to matches at Footes Lane currently park in the park and ride, the rugby club and the Grammar School.
But if the new stadium is approved, they will be encouraged to use Town car parks, a mile away.
‘As the car parks are mainly used by commuters during the week, it is expected that there will be available capacity to accommodate any additional demand before the match kick-off at 7.30pm,’ the report states.
‘Salerie Corner also provides unlimited stay on Saturdays.’
A check of Salerie Corner on a Saturday last November between 1 and 2pm found that just a quarter of the 400 spaces were in use.
Public transport would also be promoted.
‘Incentives to encourage spectators to use public transport will be developed by the football club,’ the report states.
‘This could include a free programme/food/drink on production of a bus ticket.’
It is proposed that the stadium will be ready in time for the 2021 NatWest Island Games and will be used for the Games, as well as GFC matches and the Muratti.
The site will also include a 3G pitch and host the GFA academy.
n The plans can be viewed at Sir Charles Frossard House.
Victoria Avenue residents’
traffic fears Page 2
