BRAEHAEAD chief Gareth Chalmers believes Glasgow’s top ice hockey club can double their Clan as they move even closer to a new home.
It emerged last week that plans to build a new 8000-seater arena had progressed, with it being confirmed yesterday that the proposals had been referred to the Scottish Ministers for their input.
A more detailed application is due to be submitted for the multi-purpose arena that will become the new home of the Gardiner Conference champions when construction is completed in 2020 if the bid is rubber stamped.
SportTimes can reveal images of what owners Intu predict the new facility will look like on the banks of the Clyde on a site adjacent to where the current 3,500 stadiums stands.
Braehead have seen attendances soar in recent years to the stage where they are regularly playing in front of full houses.
A cross section view of the proposals
That will be the case again this weekend in the play-off quarter-final second leg against Fife Flyers, where there has been monumental demand for tickets from both sets of supporters.
A new arena would allow Clan to continue their progression as the fastest growing sports club in Scotland, and hockey and operations director Chalmers is excited by the prospect.
“I had read that planning permission had been given for the new arena, talking about 8000 to 8500 seats which is good,” he said.
“It’s still very much happening from what I understand but we know as much as anybody else does right now. It was very positive news to read.
A new hotel is planned to accompany the arena
“I think there are still a couple of hurdles to go through, but it’s exciting times ahead. We have got a new venue and a bright new future to look forward to.
“That’s the difference between us and Nottingham, Sheffield and Belfast – they have more bums on seats and that’s where there extra revenue is coming from right now.”
The current site at Braehead Arena
Plans submitted to Renfrewshire Council show an impressive dome structure at the side of a new refurbished Braehead shopping centre.
Documents claim the arena will create 'an iconic structure on River Clyde' and it is believed the facility will also house restaurants and will be situated next to a brand new hotel.
Arena, seen her to the left, will provide a striking sight on the banks of the Clyde.
Chalmers also told Clan TV: “It would totally change the dynamic of the club overnight, new buildings always do.
“For us to go from a 3500-seater arena to whatever it will be is a massive step. It certainly makes my job more difficult to try and get bums on seats but it is something we are very focused on. We are looking forward to the challenge.
Braehead Clan could be in their new home by 2020 if plans go ahead.
“If we can continue that growth there’s no stopping us. I’m not saying filling the arena but certainly getting more bums on seats, around six or seven thousand supporters in the building. It’s all very encouraging and positive.”
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