Worcester Warriors to submit Sixways plans

Warriors says the redevelopment of the Sixways north stand (pictured) will increase capacity

A planning application for the redevelopment of Worcester Warriors' Sixways Stadium will be submitted before Christmas, the club has said.

The plans will include increasing the stadium's capacity by expanding the north stand.

A new hotel, a medical and sports rehabilitation centre, and a multifunctional events venue are also proposed.

Warriors' strategy director Stephen Vaughan said: "We're excited to reveal these new plans for Sixways and set the stage for a sustainable future for the club and its supporters."

A letter has been sent to people living nearby inviting them to give their thoughts on the proposals as part of public consultation work.

"Feedback from our fans and local residents is essential in shaping our plans," said Mr Vaughan.

"We want to know how we can best meet the needs of the Warriors’ community to create a vibrant destination for sport, entertainment, and wellbeing that benefits everyone."

Worcester Warriors last played competitive rugby in 2022

The club said the redevelopment of the north stand would include a new "Watch Tower" viewing platform and a new fan zone, which would increase Sixways' capacity from 11,500 to 12,750.

The plans also include a 120-bed hotel "to boost the Worcestershire economy and encourage city-centre tourism", a multi-storey car park, and improved cycle links.

The club also promised to reinstate a matchday shuttle bus service from the city centre and railway station.

In November, Warriors formally submitted a bid to return to competitive rugby with an application to play in the Championship in the 2025-2026 season.

It came two years after the club went into administration and was banned from the Premiership.

Mr Vaughan said the planning application showed the club's commitment to competing on the pitch once more.

"These new plans for Sixways, alongside the club’s recent application to Join the RFU’s new Tier 2, demonstrates our aspirations to return to playing competitive rugby for the supporters of the club and the wider Worcestershire community alike," he said.

Public consultation on the plans runs between 2 and 16 December.

People are invited to give their feedback via the Sixways website or at an in-person event at the stadium on 10 December.