What’s the Deal with the New Screen at the County Ground?
So, there’s a new electronic screen at the County Ground, and the club has officially asked for permission to keep it. But here’s the twist: they already put it up! Now, they’re playing catch-up with the local planning folks.
Two Different Requests for the Same Screen
The club sent in two separate applications. Let’s break them down.
Application #1: Asking for Forgiveness After the Fact
The first request is for “retrospective consent.” That’s just a fancy way of saying, “We built it without asking first, can we keep it now?” It includes photos showing the screen placed near The Don Rogers Stand, right by Shrivenham Road.
Application #2: Setting the Rules for Use
The second application is a bit different. It’s not about where the screen is, but how it’s used. It clearly states that the electronic board should “only be used on match days or events at the County Ground.” This is probably to limit noise or light pollution on non-event days.
Your Chance to Speak Up
If you have thoughts on this—whether you think the screen is cool or a hassle—you need to speak up soon. Comments on both applications must be submitted by March 6. After that, a final decision is expected by early April.
Why Apply After It’s Already Up?
You might wonder: isn’t it against the rules to put something up without permission? Well, it’s not actually illegal to apply for planning permission after the fact. People and businesses do it sometimes. But there’s a big catch: if the council says no, and the club loses any appeal, they could be forced to take the screen down and restore the area to how it was before. That means all that effort and money could go to waste.
Why Should Teens Care?
This isn’t just about a screen—it’s about your local community space. If you go to matches, hang out nearby, or just care about what happens in your town, this affects you. Your opinion matters! Whether you’re into football, worried about traffic, or think the screen adds to the vibe, you can share your view. It’s a real-world way to get involved in local decisions that shape where you live.
Bottom Line
The club is trying to make their new screen official, but it’s not a guaranteed yes. They’re betting that the council will approve it, especially with the promise to only use it during events. But until the decision is made, the screen’s future is up in the air. So, if you have something to say, don’t wait—make your voice heard before the March 6 deadline.
Image Credit: www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk
