Edgbaston cricket ground plans refused

Organised community groups from both Moseley and Edgbaston claimed success yesterday in stopping what seemed like a fait accomplis regarding Warwickshire County Cricket Clubs application to refurbish Edgbaston Cricket Stadium.

Increased traffic problems on two of the city's main roads, appropriateness of permanent floodlighting and the potential for over-developing the area were cited as reasons for halting the £32 million development. Councillors agreed and refused to grant planning permission. Deferring a decision they urged the club to engage with local residents about ways the proposal may be moved progressed. Previously the council cabinet had agreed to lend £20 million to the WCC for the work. This loan angered residents who thought the move, announced just two days before the planning committee meeting was timed cynically.

Club officials and the City leader Mike Whitby have targeted improvements to Edgbaston as integral to bring more international sport to the city and to enable profitable Twenty20 evening matches to be held.