Sky Blue Trust CCFC/BPA Press Statement

Last updated : 19 May 2016 By Moz Baker (Sky Blue Trust)

"We appreciate the need for the club to have access to non-football revenue streams and, if a move to an expanded Butts stadium would encourage financial stability and team development, then it could be worthy of consideration. 

It would also make it easier for some fans to access the stadium by public transport. That and it's central location we believe would be attractive to many Sky Blue supporters.

We therefore welcome the potential collaboration of officials from Coventry City FC and Coventry Rugby Club in exploring the possibilities of such a ground sharing venture.

Not withstanding the likely timescales involved in both the planning and building phases we would also have some concerns that the Butts site would be too small to accommodate a stadium of sufficient size to  serve the Club’s and fans’ ambitions for a return to the top flight of English football.

There would be no scope to replicate the scale of car parking available at the Ricoh, putting great pressure on the surrounding neighbourhoods.  Also, of course, large car parks at the Ricoh are a valuable source of revenue.

“Our view remains that the Club’s focus should be on negotiations with the owners of the Ricoh for a long term deal there, incorporating a substantially greater share of stadium income for Coventry City FC.

Throughout this process we urge both clubs to fully consult with supporters and involve them as much as possible in taking this forward future plans.