ASHLEY Giles says the board of Worcerstershire County Cricket Club wants to stay at New Road.
In a statement read out at a county council meeting today (Thursday, July 11), the club’s chief executive said the board is waiting for a report looking at “potential options for redevelopment and flood mitigation” to allow it to stay at the ground.
Concerns have been raised over the future of the flood-hit club since the board said in April it was looking at “every option” including moving away from the iconic venue.
STATEMENT: Worcestershire CEO Ashley Giles (Image: Worcestershire CCC)
Mr Giles’ statement was read out at the meeting by Cllr Adam Kent, the county council’s cabinet member for economy and skills.
He said: “We at Worcestershire County Cricket Club are facing significant concerns about our sustainability due to the increasing volume and regularity of flooding at New Road.
“These flood events have had a severe impact on our cricket operations, businesses and revenues, posing a serious threat to the future of the club.
“It is important to emphasise this point that these issues pose a threat to the long-term viability of the club, not just the ground – an important distinction to make in this matter.
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“As we navigate these very real challenges, the board of Worcestershire County Cricket Club is awaiting the delivery of a comprehensive report that aims to provide an evidence-based assessment of the current situation, moving beyond emotional responses to present clear, factual insights and look at potential options for redevelopment and flood mitigation that would enable an economy viable continued presence at New Road.
“As per its previous statement in April, the board thinks it’s only right and responsible as part of the process to also look at what alternative options there may be if at some point the club was forced to move away from New Road.
“This would not be the preferred option for anyone involved with the club. But given the worsening situation and the club’s location on a flood plain it would be reasonable to argue that the board and executive would not be carrying out their roles responsibly if they didn’t consider these options.
“We remain committed to addressing these issues head on and will use the findings of the report to inform our decisions and strategies moving forward.
“Once the board has had the opportunity to digest this report it is committed to keeping its members and other stakeholders informed as a sustainable plan is developed that helps ensure the long-term viability of Worcestershire County Cricket Club.
“We welcome all forms of support that both the city and county council can offer in this very serious matter and ask that they work closely with the club’s board and executive in any future decision making and communication.”
Cllr Mel Allcott said: “You can’t buy history but you can throw it away – and that is something we want to avoid. We have every reason to be proud of the history of cricket in Worcester.”
Cllr Richard Udall reminded members of the “economic power” of the cricket ground.