News

GCCC signs non-binding Heads of Terms to explore land for potential development

28 April 2025

Gloucestershire County Cricket Club has today announced the signing of a non-binding Heads of Terms agreement which will enable it to explore an area of land for potential development of a new home for the Club.

The Club first announced its intention to explore alternative sites for a possible relocation in December 2023. Today’s announcement does not tie the Club into a legal arrangement but maintains momentum on productive conversations that have taken place over a number of months.

The site in question – Swanmoor Stoke – is situated near landmarks such as The Wave, Bristol Golf Club and Wild Place Project in South Gloucestershire and is less than a mile from both Junction 17 of the M5 and the proposed new junction off the M49. It is also less than a mile from Pilning railway station (which would require updating). The wider area has undergone material residential development of late and more is planned.

As the crow flies, the site is under five miles from GCCC’s Seat Unique Stadium.

Whilst the Club will continue its discussions with the owners of other possible sites its primary focus for the coming months will be in developing opportunities at Swanmoor Stoke.

Whatever the outcome of those discussions, the Seat Unique Stadium at Nevil Road will continue to serve as the County’s home for the foreseeable future, with the Club having secured international match-hosting rights each year in Bristol from the ECB until 2032. The Club is finalising plans to upgrade areas of the ground over the coming seasons to ensure compliance with ECB major match host requirements and that the Member and customer experience is prioritised.

Club Chair, Peter Matthews, said:

“We know that the subject of a prospective ground move is important to our Members, local residents and stakeholders, and we are committed to communicate any developments with all concerned at the earliest possible opportunity.

“Whilst today’s announcement shows continued momentum in our search for a possible new home, it doesn’t materially change the status quo. We are not tied into any legal deal and whilst the Board-appointed team will continue to work up the Club’s options in line with the non-binding Heads of Terms, the entirety of our executive team will remain focused on running the Club and making the Seat Unique Stadium a welcoming and enjoyable year-round destination for matches and events.

“It is important to stress that there is much detailed work to do before we can put specific proposals to the Board for its consideration. So, whilst this looks like a tremendous opportunity, the project is still at concept stage. We will be hosting a number of Member and resident-focussed events in the weeks and months to come and we will be happy to answer questions that may arise at those sessions.”

• Next