Wrexham Council is set to review proposals to alleviate parking issues on matchdays by opening up a council office car park for football fans. The plans focus on utilising the car park at the local authority’s housing depot on Ruthin Road, addressing the surge in attendance at the Racecourse Ground following its acquisition by well-known Hollywood figures.
Since the change in ownership, the Red Dragons have seen a significant increase in support, with the stadium now able to host over 12,500 spectators. This surge has intensified parking challenges in the area, leading to numerous complaints from local residents about blocked driveways and traffic congestion.
A council spokesperson expressed optimism about the proposed solution, noting its potential to ease parking pressures as the football club prepares for its return to League One after nearly two decades. They highlighted the severe congestion around the Racecourse Ground and Mold Road on matchdays, emphasising that parking in the area is limited and that residents have voiced concerns about inconsiderate parking.
During discussions with the football club, no objections were raised about the additional parking provision. The council intends to implement the parking solution swiftly, although no specific timeline has been provided.
Under the proposal, the 135-space car park would require payment for use, with the generated revenue directed into the council’s housing revenue account. Additionally, minor improvements would be made to pedestrian routes connecting the car park to the stadium, which is about a 15-minute walk away.
Beyond matchdays, the council suggests that the car park could also be used for special events and during busy periods in the city centre. There is also potential for the site to function as a park-and-ride facility, an idea currently under preliminary discussion with a bus operator.
The council representative noted that while discussions about the park-and-ride service are still in early stages, it is important to keep all options open. The anticipated increase in attendance next season, coupled with the completion of the new stadium stand, will likely max out parking availability in the city centre, necessitating long-term planning.
This proposal highlights the council’s proactive approach to managing the expected rise in matchday attendance and its broader impact on city infrastructure. Addressing these parking challenges now is seen as crucial for ensuring smoother matchday experiences for both fans and residents.
The council’s executive board members will review the report at their next meeting on Tuesday, 9 July 2024. If approved, the plan will represent a significant step towards resolving the persistent parking issues and enhancing the overall matchday experience in Wrexham.
As the council deliberates on this important proposal, the community looks forward to a decision that could significantly improve matchday logistics and benefit residents and visitors alike. The outcome will not only address immediate concerns but also lay the groundwork for future developments as Wrexham AFC continues its upward trajectory.
Wrexham Council’s initiative to utilise the Ruthin Road car park exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to urban planning, addressing current challenges while preparing for future growth. The upcoming meeting’s decision will be closely monitored by all stakeholders and could serve as a model for other cities facing similar issues.
