Rowley Park Stadium Upgrade Project

In the heart of Stafford, the Rowley Park Stadium underwent a transformative three-year project starting in early 2011. The goal? To elevate its facilities and create a more vibrant sporting hub for the community. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:

1. Funding Sources
The project’s financial backing came from a mix of streams:

• Sale of On-Site Caretaker Bungalows: Two bungalows on the premises were sold and the stadium boundary re-aligned and fenced. 
• Football Foundation : A sports-focused charity that invests in grassroots facilities.
  
• Section 106 Contributions: These are developer contributions made as part of planning agreements.
• Council Funding: Stafford Borough Council capital and revenue funding. 

The total funding package amounted to an impressive £1 million. 

2. Project Management

As the principal project manager for the Council my responsibilities included:

• Design Specification: Crafting a detailed plan for the upgrades.
• Tender Process: Managing bids from contractors.
• Planning Permission: Navigating the bureaucratic maze to secure the necessary approvals. 
• Development Oversight: Ensuring smooth execution.
  Community Consultation: Addressing concerns from nearby residents—a critical aspect of any large-scale project.

3. Phased Approach
To minimize disruption, the project was carefully planned and delivered in phases: 

• Car Park Expansion: A 150-space car park was created on previously unused land. Drainage, tree work, and landscaping were part of this phase.
• Principal Entrance Revamp: Fencing, gates, road humps, and signage were upgraded to enhance accessibility and security.
• Pathway Illumination: New LED bollard lighting now guides visitors along the main walkway.
• 3G Football Pitch Installation :  The grass athletic infield became a state-of-the-art 3G rubber crumb fill football pitch, complete with fencing and mast lighting.
• Infield Relocation: The former throwing area found a new home in an adjacent field. 
• Tennis Court Resurfacing: The existing courts were given a fresh surface, and any necessary fencing repairs were carried out.
• Storage Yard Improvement: An old, defunct and semi derelict timber tennis pavilion being used as storage unit was replaced with a shipping container and new fencing.
• Entrance Lighting: LED street lights now illuminate all entrances and main pedestrian paths. All lighting was installed with a timer ensuring the site was not illuminated when closed. 
• Reception Area Refurbishment: Welcoming visitors with a spruced-up reception.
• Point of Sale System: Modernizing transactions with an electronic system.
• Athletic Track Repair: The polymetric athletic track was resurfaced and lined.

4. Community Impact

• T​hroughout the project, the stadium remained operational, allowing sports enthusiasts to continue enjoying the grounds. The wider public also benefited from improved access.