"The City of Bath is stooped in history, embracing the heritage of the Saxons, the Romans and the Georgian era of architecture and much more. All have left their mark on the city which has made it the delight of visitors and helped to generate the foundations for a wealth of business success.

It is essential that the city should look to the future and that we should cater for the needs of society. The development of sport within Bath should leave us with a future heritage that can be enjoyed by all. The opportunity for a sympathetic development of the Rec, within the centre of the city, for the benefit of Bath Rugby, sport in general and general amenities, is vital to maintain the city as a unique epicentre.

If this development of the Rec does not go forward then the damage to local businesses, and the well being of society, will be immeasurable. Should this opportunity be missed by the city it could well be regretted for generations to come."
Robert Vander Woerd, Managing Director E P Mallory and Sons established for over 110 years www.mallory-jewellers.com

Press contact:
Peter Downey, 07976 664939

The Real Friends of the Rec have expressed their delight at the positive developments announced today by Bath & North East Somerset Council in relation to the Recreation Ground, Bath.

Real Friends Chairman Peter Downey commented: “Ever since the possibility of a land swap was raised and Bob Calleja’s response saying the concept was worthy of consideration, we have felt optimistic that this represented a realistic way towards the outcome that the people of Bath want.

“We’re delighted that the Council has responded quickly and imaginatively, and would like to offer our congratulations to all those concerned for their decisive actions. If the Charity Commission accepts this proposed land swap as a way of balancing the benefits and detriments, then we really do see light at the end of the tunnel. The fact that Bath Rugby also responded so positively to the land swap concept further justifies the view that this is the breakthrough we have all been working for.

“The beauty of this is that the Firs Field will be secured as an open space, the Recreation Ground Trust will have an ongoing source of income that will make the charity financially viable, and the people of Bath and beyond will see world-class sport on the Recreation Ground.”

“We certainly feel sufficiently positive and we hope that the Club is of the same view, to be thinking about the next stage, which will require detailed plans and financing to be put in place. We are well aware that due to the current economic climate we cannot simply expect Bath Rugby to do this on their own and will help in anyway we can.

“We believe it will require a major collective effort to drive this important project forward, but we feel very positive that our motto of ‘All Sports for All People’ is closer now than it has ever been and Bath Rugby can achieve a facility that reflects their status as a leading club in the Rugby world.”