WASPS PLANNING LONG-TERM GROUNDSHARE AT WYCOMBE?

from the Bucks Free Press 9 January 2004

Wycombe Wanderers and Wasps are in talks with Sir Edward Dashwood over a new access route into Causeway Stadium, in an attempt to pave the way for a long-term groundshare agreement.

The proposed second entrance to the ground, which would cut through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) owned by Sir Edward, would enable the club to increase the ground capacity.

Wasps chief executive Alistair McLean said: "We've had talks with Sir Edward Dashwood.

"There's been lots of talking but the talks have not gone far enough."

Currently, the stadium's safety certificate only permits 10,000 people because of the planning constraints due to access and parking.

Wasps are eager to increase capacity after a number of near sell-outs during their two seasons in Wycombe.

Their own success, along with England's World Cup triumph, has increased the interest in rugby, and the club are keen to exploit their new fan-base.

Mr McLean said: "If we stayed long-term, something like a new access road would have to be a commitment, otherwise we can't stay."

The current single road access, from Hillbottom Road, has been the cause of many problems, with traffic jams snarling up the Sands area on match days.

Wasps had to delay their match against Bath this season because of traffic delays, while the Leicester team had to walk to the ground last season when their coach was held up.

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