PLANS to build a new spectator football stand in Thornbury have been given the green light. 

Thornbury Town Football Club put forward plans in January to install a new covered standing stand alongside its football pitch in Mundy Playing Fields.

According to a planning application submitted to South Gloucestershire Council, the proposed area would accommodate 100 spectators.

To comply with FA rules, the club says it must build a new area to increase its covered capacity to 200 spectators.

The club said the stand needs to be built by March 31, 2024 or it could face "automatic relegation" from the Hellenic League Premier Division.

More than 30 people submitted comments in support of the application with no objections received. 

Residents said the new stand would improve the match day experience and allow older supporters to attend and help improve facilities as the population of Thornbury is growing. 

Other comments said it would also benefit young people, encouraging them to watch, train and play football supporting both their mental and physical health and wellbeing.

One resident said: “Being an ex-player of TTFC I believe it is vital that permission is given for this new stand as the club could be expelled if it doesn't go ahead.

“The town of Thornbury needs a large football club due its rapid expansion and development and it needs facilities that are suitable for people to watch sport in dry conditions!”

Another comment reads: “The new stand is imperative for the progression of the club, without the stand it would face automatic relegation and undo the last few years of hard work.

“The addition of the stand will not only benefit the current adult teams, but also benefit the 300+ youth players, and their families, as they progress through the age groups and go on to play for one of the many adult teams the club currently run.”

The application was approved by SGC on Monday, February 26.

A planning document reads: “The proposal for a covered stand for 100 spectators follows the previous installation of two stands for 50 seated spectators. 

“The design of the proposed structure is considered to be what might be expected to be associated with a football pitch and is considered acceptable.

“Overall the proposal has an acceptable scale and design, which is in keeping with the surrounding area. 

“In dealing with this planning application the Local Planning Authority have worked with
the applicant in a positive and proactive manner on seeking solutions to problems
arising in the following ways: The decision has been issued in a timely manner.”

The club's men's first team currently play in the Hellenic League Premier Division following two promotions from the Gloucestershire County League. 

The 2023/24 season is the club's third consecutive season in the division - the highest level the Thorns has played at in its history.
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You can view the full application quoting P24/00216/F or see here - tinyurl.com/2s42db6z