Sarries move step closer to Copthall move (From Times Series)

Saracens handed Copthall boost after Barnet Council vote passed

10:13pm Thursday 2nd February 2012 in Sport By Simon Mail

Saracens' hopes of reviving Copthall Stadium as their new home were boosted after a unanimous decision by Barnet Council's planning and environment committee to approve the plan.

The £18.5m proposal for a 10,000-seater stadium was discussed at length this evening at Hendon Town Hall where Saracens chief executive Edward Griffiths outlined their vision for a unique community venue.

The Premiership champions, who currently play at Vicarage Road, want to use the artificial playing surface for 16 matches a season and the Mill Hill site would be available for the community for the rest of the year.

Concerns over transport and parking were raised along with fears over possible harm to the green belt. But it was decided the benefits to the community outweighed the factors against it.

Sarries chairman Nigel Wray said: "After 18 months of engaging extensively with local residents, we are delighted that Barnet councillors have approved our proposals to revive Barnet Copthall Stadium and create a vibrant sports hub for the local community.

“The new stadium will provide both a real home for Saracens and a hugely improved venue for athletics in the south east. It will secure the future of the highly successful Shaftesbury Barnet Harriers and offer great facilities free of charge to local schools.

“Our plans include the installation of an artificial turf pitch, which may well be the future of rugby. It could enable a faster, safer and more entertaining game and will certainly enable the local community to use the pitch for 349 days per year. Copthall will, we promise, be a genuine community stadium.

“We will continue to work closely with the local community and make Copthall an asset that we can all be proud of.”

The plan will now need to be approved by the Mayor of London who will have three weeks to make a decision.