Luton Town v Blackburn Rovers – 29th January 2022
Talking about acoustics at Bramall Lane …
“… we noticed that you were quieter than usual, which we found difficult to understand as there were nearly 2,000 of you there. Then we noticed that hanging from the roofs of the away stand were drapes of material, which, it seems were significantly deadening the sound. Not sure if that was the intended purpose, but we couldn’t see the same materials in any other stands. We take a completely different view and believe that it is often the away end that makes the atmosphere for home fans to bounce off. This leads me on quite nicely to the next piece, which is about stadium design. I was very pleased to be invited to a meeting late last week with those involved prior to Gary and Mike submitting their plans for costing. The amount of detail and things to be considered is staggering particularly in the current climate. It’s not just” let’s stick up four stands as steep as we can and close to the pitch”. Following on from my previous comments about atmosphere, we are paying as much attention to the acoustics as you might in a concert hall, which makes a lot of sense if you visit any of the recently built soulless bowls.
In today’s world there are so many things to consider before making a final commitment. What materials will be used in construction? What energy sources are economically viable? How do we achieve sustainability? How far can we go in using technology to future proof? There are rules fixing the rake of the seats and distance from the pitch. How can we fit within these and still achieve our desired result? Site, location and size of space for Press and Media. Location of cameras. Then deciding where to put offices, matchday space including dressing rooms, medical facilities, space for officials, hospitality including cafes, bars, restaurants etc, and museum, classrooms etc. All of the above are, of course, conditioned by affordability and practicality. Gary and Mike and all the advisors should be applauded for the care and passion with which they are handling this project. It’s going to be magnificent. Further to the recent news of the agreement to sell our asset at Junction 10 to an investment fund advised by Morgan Stanley REIT and Wrenbridge, we were delighted that late on Wednesday, both revised planning applications for Newlands Park were finally recommended for approval at the Council’s development management committee meeting, having been deferred earlier in the month. This is great news for both the Club and our town as we continue to prepare for Power Court.”