SOME members of Oxford United Supporters’ Panel attended the launch of the stadium plans on Monday. Colin O’Toole shares his initial reaction.

The plans for the new stadium seem very well considered in that they are very applicable to both the current and forecasted size of the club. We don’t want to be playing in a half-empty arena!

The most important points for me were the additional facilities provided for fans, as well as access/ travel arrangements to the ground.

We were assured that there will be plenty of catering options (vendors are yet to be confirmed) and increased availability, as well as a great environment to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, both inside and outside the building.

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Access to the ground is still being negotiated for off-site parking (at Oxford Parkway) but there is a huge push for alternative travel methods, i.e. both traditional and electric bike parks, designated walkways and road crossings, shuttle buses etc.

It was great to see and hear that uppermost in all minds is the need to create a positive and enjoyable matchday atmosphere, as well as making the site an attractive option for non-football fans. This is shown in the mention of facilities for such things as market stalls/ temporary trading posts, promotional areas, green space etc utilising what looks to be a very pretty and useful area of landscaping.

Both of these last two points would encourage fans to arrive earlier/ stay later to enjoy the various facilities, thus reducing the mass exodus after the game, which will help avoid bottlenecks and help traffic flow on event days.

The stadium itself is very striking and modern, and will provide great viewing areas for all fans – it even has four sides – with attention given to details like matchday acoustics and environmental lighting.

There is also great news that the pitch will be available for Oxford United Women games, as well as junior/ youth matches, adding to the fully inclusive and family ethos of the club. As opposed to our current venue, there is a discernible move to make it a more family-friendly environment.

Overall, the designs are powerful and impressive, with no real negatives at this stage – of course everyone has their own personal views and priorities – but from speaking to other attendees in the room there was a very favourable and positive feeling to the presentation.

My only comment is trivial, but I would simply like to see more yellow colour on the outside of the building – but I guess this doesn’t make a huge difference to anyone’s life!