Torquay United

Torquay United have announced ambitious plans for a new stadium on the site of the town's Recreation Ground.

It would mean the Gulls leaving the Plainmoor ground which has been their home since 1910.

The Recreation Ground, between Torquay train station and Torre Abbey Meadows on Torquay Seafront, is currently the base for Torquay Athletic Rugby Club and Torquay Cricket Club, so new homes would have to be found for them.

However, the rugby club has been at the ground for 102 years and, as sitting tenants, would be reluctant to move unless the new site has a lot to offer.

Torbay Council owns the freehold to both grounds.

Chris Roberts (Pic: Paul Levie)

Torquay's new chairman, Chris Roberts, took over control of the club from previous owner Mike Bateson in October 2006.

He wants the club to have a modern stadium. Three sides of United's Plainmoor ground were redeveloped during Mr Bateson's chairmanship, but the capacity is only around 6,000 and the main stand is not up to 21st century standards.

"We're aiming to create a 21st century facility at the Rec," said Mr Roberts. "It's about what's best for the Bay as a whole. We must maximise the site's potential."

The new football stadium would also include an athletics track.

A meeting has been held between Mr Roberts, representatives of the rugby and cricket clubs, and the Mayor of Torbay, Nick Bye.

After the meeting, the three sports clubs issued a joint statement: "Following several meetings between Torquay United FC, Torquay Athletic RFC, and Torquay Cricket Club, all three sporting clubs have agreed to work together to assess our options and mutual interests.

Torquay Recreation Ground

"We all require new, modern, 21st century facilities to maximise the potential of our sporting clubs and to offer sporting and training facilities to the people of Torbay - particularly for our children.

"We are at an extremely early stage of our discussions and, contrary to some press speculation, no final decisions have been made regarding the locations.

"It is our intention to begin a design process in camera, working in conjunction with the other sports in the bay such as athletics, gymnastics, boxing and hockey.

"Some time in the spring (2007), we hope to be in a position to submit some draft architectural designs to the council for a full and frank debate.

"We have no intention of applying for planning permission on any project without a full consultation process with the local community.

"We have had a meeting with our elected Mayor, Nick Bye, who has expressed his willingness to consider and discuss any plans which would be of long term benefit to the community, the future of our sporting clubs, and the economic rejuvenation of the area."

Earlier, the chairman of Torquay Athletic Rugby Club, Peter Gratton-Davey, said the club - which plays in South West League 2 - needs to learn more details about the proposals.

He added: "We are tenants of the ground and if it suits us to move we will, and if it doesn't, we won't. It's as simple as that.

"We've been here for 102 years, and they can't just push us out."