Issue No.2 December 2013

IN THIS ISSUE

Stade News

Clubcall Carlisle

Sparta Rotterdam

Wembley Torch

Destination Berwick


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STADE NEWS

OLD FIRM TO STAGE SCOTTISH FA CUP TIES

The Scottish FA have confirmed Celtic Park will host the 2014 Scottish FA Cup Final, with Ibrox scheduled to host both of the competition's semi-finals.
With the traditional venue of Hampden Park being unavailable due to redevelopment work and preparations for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, the Final on Saturday 17th May will be held at the 60,355 capacity home of Celtic for the first time since the Hearts v Rangers Final in 1998.
Rangers Ibrox stadium with a capacity of 51,082, will host both semi-finals over the weekend of the 12th and 13th April.

NEW LONG TERM LEASE FOR MOSS LANE

Altrincham have secured a new long-term lease for Moss Lane, with re-development plans and a return to the Conference Premier on the club's agenda.
The 6,085 capacity stadium, home since 1910, has been secured for the club on a new 34-year lease with Trafford Borough Council.
Plans include a new sports hall alongside the main stand, in a bid to involve more of the local community with the club.

BRENTFORD URGE FANS TO SUPPORT RE-LOCATION

West London club Brentford have called on fans to lobby Hounslow Council in a bid to obtain final permission for the re-location to Lionel Road.
The site, close to the M4 and Kew Bridge railway station, would see a new 20,000 all-seater stadium and residential development.
The club's current Griffin Park stadium would also be re-developed for housing.


FURTHER DELAY TO NEW YORK CITY STADIUM

Work on the community stadium, due to be the new home of both York's football and rugby league clubs has been further delayed.
Whilst work on the flagship John Lewis store, anchor tenant for the scheme which was scheduled to open in 2014 continues apace, there is still no definitive timescale for the new 6,000-seater stadium's opening.


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CLUBCALL Carlisle United

Brunton Park,Warwick Road,Carlisle CA1 1LL.
Founded - 1904
League - Football League One
Capacity - 18,202
Record Attendance - 27,500
Nearest Railway Station - Carlisle Citadel
Club Website - www.carlisleunited.co.uk

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EUROSTADE REPORT Sparta Rotterdam

Sparta Stadion home of Sparta Rotterdam, boasts one of the most iconic facades in European football, Het Kasteel (The Castle).

Originally named Stadion Spangen, the district where the club are located, the ground has greatly evolved over the years and is now an 11,026 all-seater stadium.

Sparta, formed in 1988 and currently celebrating their 125th anniversary, moved to the ground in 1916.
The castle was originally behind the goal at the south end of the stadium, but as part of a major re-devlopment in 1999 when the pitch was turned 90 degrees, now runs along the south side of the ground opposite the main Tony van Ede stand.

Rotterdam itself is a fine city, re-built in a modernist style following its decimation during the Second World War, but if you're en-route to Sparta take time out and head to Delfshaven, just one stop away on the efficient metro.
Its like being transported back in time - a large inland harbour lined with townhouses, quaint bars and restaurants, also home to the excellent De Pelgrim brewery.
Forever in the shadow of huge near neighbours Feyenoord, Sparta are a homely club with a fine tradition, and with The Castle as part of its architecture the ground will always be of interest to the followers of stadium history and design.

Het Kasteel Info
Spartapark Noord 1, 3027 VVV Rotterdam.
Nearest Metro Station - Marconiplein
Rotterdam 1 day travel card for metro/buses costs 7 euros.
Club website - www.sparta-rotterdam.nl





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FAMOUS FOOTBALL PUBS 
The Torch Wembley

Large open plan pub built in 1956 and named after the torch from the 1948 Olympics.
Situated at the junction of Bridge Road and Forty Lane almost in the shadow of the National Stadium,the pub has an impressive gallery of old photographs showcasing both the stadium and the surrounding Wembley area.
Extensive food menu and usually two cask ales available.


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DESTINATION Berwick upon Tweed

The most Northerly town in England just two and a half miles from the Scottish Border, Berwick upon Tweed is an attractive walled town full of history and interest.
One of the most fought over Border towns in the UK and possibly Europe, evidence of the military history of the area is very prominent, from the fortified medieval town walls to the historic Barrracks which date from 1721.
Attractions include the Town Hall on the main street of Marygate, where most of the shopping is also to be found, the historic Quayside which offers fantastic views of the Tweed with its famous three bridges, and you can follow the LS Lowry trail - there are several famous Lowry paintings of the town.
Berwick is an ideal base for visiting the Northumberland National Park and coastline, where you can take a boat trip out to the Farne Islands or buy fresh kippers from Craster, and a must see is the beautiful island of Lindisfarne - be sure to check the causeway tide times though !

Berwick Info
Travel - from North/South by road via A1,by rail East Coast trains.
Accomodation - many B&B's in town, lots of caravan parks in the wider area.
Pubs - many varied pubs in the town most serving food and real ale.
Brown Bear on Hide Hill and Pilot Inn on High Greens are particularly welcoming.
Tourism Website-www.visitnorthumberland.com

Berwick Rangers FC
Shielfield Park, Tweedmouth, 
Berwick upon Tweed TD15 2EF.
Founded - 1881
League - Scottish League Two
Capacity - 4,131
Record Attendance - 13,365
Nearest Railway - Berwick upon Tweed
Club Website - www.berwickrangersfc.co.uk
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STADE IMAGES

Classic Scottish stadium design at Firhill
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Many thanks for your interest in the blog
All photographs and text copyright footballstadeblog 2013
Any comments/feedback welcome at footballstadeblog@gmail.com
Next issue published Sunday 2nd February 2014

footballstadeblog.blogspot.com
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News Extra November 2013

STADE NEWS

ETIHAD EXPANSION PLANS ANNOUNCED BY CITY

Manchester City have published images of the planned expansion of the Etihad, with new tiers of 6,750 seats to be added to both ends of the stadium.
Following a consultation period with fans, planning permission for the proposals have been lodged with a decision due in February 2014.
Once permission is granted, work is due to be completed for the start of the 2015/16 season.
   

The club are now accepting season ticket applications for the new sections, with prices starting from just £299.00.
The expansion at the stadium, home to City since 2003 following the move from Maine Road, would take the capacity from the current 47,800 to around 61,000, the second highest capacity in England.




DARLINGTON TO RETURN HOME AS FEETHAMS TWIN TOWERS DEMOLISHED

Darlington 1883 FC have announced plans to return to the town from next season, in a ground share with Darlington Rugby Football Club at Blackwell Meadows.
The club, currently exiled at Bishop Auckland, are hoping the return to their home town will boost income with potentially increased attendances and commercial revenue.
The design and capacity of the ground has yet to be finalised.
                                      

The announcement of the Quakers return home co-incided with the demolition of the famous twin towers at the entrance to the club's former home of Feethams
It is thought that the iconic towers, also the entrance to the local cricket ground, will be re-built nearby with new materials after the previous structure was declared unsafe.



STANDING SECTION AT CELTIC PARK ?

Celtic are to consider the introduction of safe standing areas at their east end of Glasgow home.
Following the former Scottish Premier League relaxing its rules on standing in 2011, the club now believes its time to review their policy of an all-seater stadium.
Citing the example of the German Bundesliga, where standing sections within stadiums have been hugely successful, Celtic will now consult with Glasgow City Council and the emergency services to seek approval for the change.




QPR UNVEIL NEW STADIUM PLANS

Queens Park Rangers have confirmed they are in talks over building a new 40,000 seater stadium at Old Oak Common, a site close to the club's Loftus Road ground, currently with a capacity of only 18,360.
The area is planned as a major hub station on the new HS2 railway line, and the proposals include new houses, offices, and shops alongside the new arena.                                        

GATES RETURN TO ST JAMES'PARK

Wrought iron gates originally installed in 1989, have been returned to Newcastle United's St James' Park after a 14 year absence.
Following a long campaign by supporters groups, the imposing gates removed in 1999 as part of the stadium's redevelopment, have been erected outside the main stand on Barrack Road.



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STADE IMAGES

Heysel II in the shadow of the King Baudouin stadium Brussels
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Many thanks for your interest in the blog.
All photographs and text copyright footballstadeblog2013
Any comments/feedback welcome at footballstadeblog@gmail.com
Next issue published Sunday 1st December 2013

footballstadeblog.blogspot.com
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Issue No.1 October 2013

IN THIS ISSUE

Stade News

ClubCall Wrexham

Tour at the Aviva Dublin

Edinburgh Football Pubs

Destination Whitby


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STADE NEWS

BARNET'S HIVE IN PLANNING DISPUTE

Barnet have received an enforcement notice from Harrow Borough Council, issued on the 27th September 2013 with 28 days to appeal regarding the height of the West Stand and floodlights at their new Hive Stadium.
The worst case scenario could see the stand demolished and floodlights removed, although the Club is confident they will be able to meet any additional planning requirements.

The Council's move has somewhat soured Barnet's successful transition into their new surroundings.
Leaving Underhill their home since 1907, ironically after failing to secure a new lease with Barnet Council, the Club moved to the site of their existing training facility and the new 5,100 capacity ground.
The first league match v Chester attracted a crowd of 2,543.



DON VALLEY TO BE DEMOLISHED

Sheffield City Council have confirmed the 25,000 capacity Don Valley Stadium will close and be demolished this year, a move which will save the Council the £700,000-a-year operating costs.
The Stadium, opened in 1990, hosted Rotherham United from 2008-2012 before the Club re-located back to their home town and the New York Stadium.



PLOUGH LANE RETURN FOR WIMBLEDON?

AFC Wimbledon have submitted proposals to redevelop the site of the Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium, a move which would see the Club return to its spiritual home of Plough Lane.
The plans, which include an initial 11,000 capacity stadium which could be expanded to 20,000, and the building of 600 homes, would see the Dons return to the Borough of Merton from their current home at Kingsmeadow in Norbiton.

NEW  NORTH STAND FOR BOUNDARY PARK 

Work is expected to commence shortly on the new North Stand at Oldham's Boundary Park.
The Club have received permission for a £5m project featuring a 2,300-seat stand with offices, a gym, shops and conference facilities.
A new prospective owner is believed to be interested in buying Oldham, and possibly building a new stadium in the town for both the football and rugby league clubs.

BORO RE-CONFIGURE THE RIVERSIDE

Middlesbrough have re-configured the Riverside Stadium, moving the visiting supporters and installing a TV screen in the South-East corner of the ground.
Away fans are now housed in the East Stand, with the South Stand now populated by home supporters.
The changes at the stadium have resulted in a reduction in capacity to around 34,000
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CLUBCALL Wrexham 

Racecourse Ground,Mold Road,Clwyd LL11 2AH
Founded - 1873
League - Conference Premier
Capacity - 15,500
Record Attendance - 34,445
Nearest Railway Station - Wrexham General
Club website - www.wrexhamafc.co.uk

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STADIUM TOURS Aviva Dublin

The old and much admired Lansdowne Road in the leafy suburbs of South-east Dublin was an archetypal stadium mix of ancient and modern.
The re-built and somewhat controversially re-named Aviva Stadium on the same site, now provides Ireland's football and rugby union fans with a hugely impressive state of the art arena in which to enjoy their sports.
Leaving the new stadium tours office on Lansdowne Road, the tour begins at the players entrance in the underground roadway.
A modern media centre is the first port of call including a large lecture theatre style interview room,
and an impressive fully equipped UEFA standard suite for the event journalists and photographers.
The stadium boasts four players changing rooms with the finest medical and sports science facilities available.
The first sight of the actual stadium is quite breathtaking !
On exiting the players tunnel, the huge stands tower over the playing surface, with the exception of the North End of the ground which is restricted to 3,000 seats due to the proximity of the houses behind.
This end of the stadium is in itself quite spectacular though, as a huge transparent screen end shelters spectators from the often inclement Dublin weather.
The informative tour ends high on the upper tier of the South Stand -
what an incredible view to watch a match !
The 51,700 capacity stadium is fully completed with no further expansion plans, although there is a possibility a museum could be added in the future in what would be a fitting addition to a fine historical sporting venue.

Aviva Info
Times - tours depart daily 10.00-16.00 from the stadium tours office on Lansdowne Road.
Prices - from 10 euros adult, 7 euros concessions and 5 euros children - party discounts available.
Contact - tours@avivastadium.ie or telephone 01 238 2300.
Travel - take the Dart from Dublin City Centre, return fare from Connolly Station 3.50 euros













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FAMOUS FOOTBALL PUBS Edinburgh
Tynecastle Arms

Deceptively spacious one room corner bar on the Gorgie Road entrance to Tynecastle, home of the maroon half of Edinburgh football Heart of Midlothian.
The decor of dark wood panels and large decorative windows compliment the range of Jambos related photographs and framed shirts adorning the walls.
Full range of McEwans beers and lagers available although no real ale or food.



Four in Hand

Since the closure of the Albion Bar, the Four in Hand is now the nearest pub to the home of the green football half of the Capital, Hibernian.
Situated on Easter Road 2 minutes walk from the stadium the Four is a rather basic one room bar, but the Hibees memorabilia and photographs makes the pub well worth a visit.
Good range of Belhaven beers and lagers, no real ale or food.
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DESTINATION Whitby

Nestling on the beautiful Yorkshire coast of North-East England, Whitby is a traditional and bustling fishing port steeped in history, and is a haven for visitors keen to experience both the town itself and the surrounding North Yorkshire Moors National Park.
Rising up steeply from both sides of the River Esk, the east side of the town is home to the famous abbey (with its 199 steps), and a host of quaint individual shops lining the narrow cobbled streets.
The west side of the town has a slightly more modern feel, with the main shopping areas and the inevitable amusement arcades along the harbour side.
Attractions in the town include the Dracula Experience (author Bram Stoker is reputed to have visited the town), the RNLI Lifeboat and Captain Cook Memorial museums, and a replica of Cook's ship Endeavour which takes visitors on trips out of the stunning harbour into the bracing air of the North Sea.
Whitby is an ideal base for touring the vast expanse of the National Park, and also for travelling on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway to Pickering via Grosmont, whose stops include the village of Goathland which was the setting of Aidensfield in the popular TV series Heartbeat.

Whitby Info
Travel - by road via A171 from the North/South, by rail from Middlesbrough.
Accomodation - mainly B&B, also lots of self-catering/cottages available.
Pubs - many fine pubs with the Elsinore on Flowergate and the Black Horse on Church Street particularly recommended.
Tourism website - www.visitwhitby.com

Whitby Town FC 
Turnbull Ground,
Upgang Lane,Whitby YO21 3HZ.
Founded - 1880
League - Northern Premier
Capacity - 3,200
Record Attendance - 5,267
Nearest Railway Station - Whitby
Club website - www.whitby-town.com
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STADE IMAGES

The New Den Millwall from South Bermondsey railway station

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Many thanks for your interest in the blog

All photographs and text copyright footballstadeblog2013

Any comments/feedback welcome at footballstadeblog@gmail.com

Next issue published Sunday 1st December 2013

footballstadeblog.blogspot.com

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