The Supporters Parliament working together with STITC and Shrewsbury Town Football Club are delighted to announce the beginning of the next phase of work on the FanZone/ community football hub (CFH).
The changes have become possible following significant donations from both the Super Blues and the Official Supporters Club (OSC).
We are sure everyone will agree the introduction of the FanZone prior to last season, and then earlier this year Smithy's bar, have been hugely popular amongst supporters and have both been hugely positive additions to the matchday experience. The plan was always to try and incorporate the two together and with the fantastic donations, we have received from the Super Blues and the OSC we are now in a position to move forward.
Work began on Monday and will see the FanZone relocated to the area beside the CFH/Smithy's, which will include a new hard-standing area. This work will allow the stage to be lifted, a larger bar to be installed and access to toilets inside CFH. Going forward a marquee could be utilised on the hard standing area as the weather worsens.
It will also allow the amazing staff at STITC to increase activities in a new kids zone and give the Community team a platform to develop the area further.
As part of the project, we will also be installing a large screen and projector within Smithy's Bar.
Club SLO's Roger Groves and Mike Davis have been working alongside club CEO Brian Caldwell and Community manager Jamie Edwards on the project since the club and community team took over the facility at the end of last season.
"It's amazing to finally get to a point where we can start the work, the OSC and SuperBlues have played an integral part in helping us fund this which will improve both the matchday experience and also give the community team a fantastic facility to encourage the fans of tomorrow with.
"Jamie and Brian have had a vision from day one for the hub and its great to see the work starting", said Mike.
Jamie Edwards commented 'It's very important for the Club, STiTC and SP to work closely with all supporters groups as we did for Safe Standing, this further investment shows what can be delivered when all parties have a good relationship and great communication with each other", added Jamie Edwards.
"We are very grateful to the SP, Super Blues and OSC for their donations and making this happen, the new FanZone will be another huge benefit to fans of all ages on match days going forward"
The club/community and SP will feedback updates to the fans as the work progresses.
You can contact the SP about any fan-related questions by emailing sp@stfcsupporters.com
COYB
Mike Davis
Supporters Parliament