Environment Agency objects to rugby league stadium redevelopment

Plans for a redevelopment of Castleford Tigers’ Super League Stadium are facing opposition from the Environment Agency. (EA)

An application for the major upgrade to the Wheldon Road stadium was first lodged last year.

But the agency has said: “In the absence of an acceptable flood risk assessment (FRA) we maintain our objection to this application and recommend that planning permission is refused.”

The EA has objected despite a previous response by planners to alleviate its concerns.

Ambitious plans for the site include demolition of the existing main (east) stand and replacement with a new all-seater stand with associated corporate hospitality and entertainment facilities.

There would be a new gym, club management facilities and offices, a refurbished high ball skills and wrestling facility, a fan zone and a 4G training pitch with floodlighting.

And the scheme would also feature selected refurbishment of the Railway End (south stand), as well as refurbishment of the Princess Street (west) and Wheldon Road (north) stands.