Exciting news is unfolding at the Nigel Eady County Ground, as the long-awaited fan zone and statue of club legend Don Rogers are officially underway. Work commenced on September 30, with the area in front of the Don Rogers Stand now fenced off, heralding a new chapter in the matchday experience for supporters.
The transformation will not only pave the way for fans to gather before the action kicks off, but it also sets the stage for a monument honoring Swindon’s cherished 1969 League Cup hero. Plans are in place for the unveiling during the home match against Morecambe on November 23, after which the fan zone will be further developed, tapping into the insights of the supporters’ trust.
This vibrant space will be dubbed ‘Statue Park,’ showcasing the much-anticipated statue commissioned by TrustSTFC. Anthony Hall, the club CEO, has voiced ambitious plans for the area, including live music and food stalls to enrich the matchday atmosphere.
“We’ve structured the work in two phases in collaboration with the Joint Venture and the Supporters Trust, aiming to get fans into the ground earlier. Just like fan zones found across the country, this initiative will enhance engagement and elevate the overall experience for everyone who makes the journey here,” Hall expressed.
“Expect a variety of food options along with music, DJs, and plenty of entertainment to keep the atmosphere buzzing for our supporters as they arrive for the games.”
The ambitious plans were initially met with some resistance from the Swindon Borough Council’s environmental team, who rated the first proposal as “not acceptable” due to concerns over the removal of a hedge and tree. However, after revisions, the plans garnered approval in August.
Planning officer James Peck remarked, “The proposed fan zone aims to provide enhanced supporter space and significantly improve the matchday experience. The latest development scheme indicates that this fan zone is part of a broader re-development strategy for enhancing the football scene at the County Ground stadium.
“It’s important to note that the Change of Use for the land will not detract from the public space of the surrounding grassed areas, and these developments promise to deliver substantial community benefits for Swindon Town Football Club and its dedicated supporters as part of the ongoing County Ground re-development project.”
