Project includes stadium improvements
A scheme to build a new Tesco store on land behind Fratton Park has taken a huge step forward as a planning application was submitted to Portsmouth City Council today (February 10).
The eagerly anticipated plans – which have been in development since the summer – include early improvements to the stadium.
The land deal between the club and the site’s owners will also help Pompey secure their long-term success at Fratton Park.
Local residents and fans were widely consulted over the summer, with more than 90 per cent of those asked supporting both the store and the improvements to the ground.
Point Estates, the company behind the scheme, is owned by Stuart Robinson, who has been working closely with the club for more than 12 months as its property partner.
Getting the plans finalised has taken longer than originally anticipated, but Stuart is delighted they are finally ready to be considered.
He said: “These plans are a win-win for everyone. The football club will be able to improve Fratton Park and its surroundings, which is a key benefit of what we are doing, and the local community will benefit from having increased choice and competition for their weekly shop.”
In addition, around 300 jobs will be provided at Tesco and the brownfield site will undergo much welcomed urban regeneration, including environmental enhancements and improved pedestrian and cycle routes.
Ashley Brown, director at Portsmouth FC and chairman of the Pompey Supporters' Trust, has led the club in negotiations and backs the plans.
He said: “The club is supportive of this application. We are very pleased with the agreement we have reached with the developer and over time the club, and in particular Fratton Park, will experience a real benefit.
“All Pompey fans know the importance of this development for the regeneration of not only the club, but also the community as a whole and I hope they join us in supporting it.”
The application is now to be considered by the City Council. If approved, work on improvements to the land behind the North Stand could begin during the summer of 2014. The store is scheduled to open in 2015.