Supporters flood council backing Bristol Rovers stadium

Bristol Rovers' new stadium would have 20,000 seats

More than 1,100 letters of support have been sent during a consultation over a proposed new stadium for Bristol Rovers Football Club.

The club, which submitted its planning application in March, wants to build on land owned by the University of the West of England.

As well as the 1,100 supporting letters, South Gloucestershire Council has also received 70 objections.

One of those against the stadium was from Stoke Gifford Parish Council.

In its objection, the parish council pointed to traffic issues on the ring road which passes the stadium.

"In view of significant concerns raised by residents regarding this planning application, the council will be objecting on the grounds of traffic and transportation issues," it said.

'Parking issues'

"The proposed site would be situated in the middle of a residential area and the existing infrastructure already suffers from congestion in and around the A4174.

"The proposals would inevitably lead to congestion and parking issues which would significantly impact on local residents living nearby and neighbouring areas."

But a transport document prepared for the stadium application claimed because the stadium was close to the homes of supporters it could cause an increase in walking and cycling "with a subsequent reduction in the number of car journeys".

The club said it would also provide shuttle buses from nearby railway stations at Filton Abbey Wood and Bristol Parkway.

The report concluded there would be a "negligible negative impact" on traffic.

Many of the objections to the new stadium have come from residents of the neighbouring Chiswick village who said they were worried about parking issues.

The new 20,000-seater stadium is expected to cost about £40m and will also include a club shop, conference and teaching space as well as a jogging track and gym.