The Newark Advertiser asked people their thoughts on the plans for the £1.5 million football stadium

We took to the streets of Newark to find out what residents think of plans for a new sustainable £1.5 million football stadium for the area.

A 3D model of the potential new 500-seater stadium was unveiled on Saturday (February 15) for players, coaches and fans to view and ask questions about the plans — and now members of the community have had their say too.

From football lovers and supporters who are eager to see the dream to residents who believe that money should be invested in other areas, opinions varied across the town centre.

“I think it would be beneficial to Newark but not if it is too close to the town because then it would be overrun and some of the businesses would struggle,” said Gemma Nicol.

Susan Smith said: “I don’t know, we probably have got enough things with the YMCA.

“When I go to the park to walk the dog it is full of children playing football on Saturdays and Sundays so I don’t think there is a need for a football stadium.”

The model has been designed by Gusto Group architects, Studio G, and the product design team at Rototek.

The stadium will be made of 66 repurposed shipping containers, with solar panels with battery storage, as well as rainwater harvesting technology, making the new stadium both cost efficient to run and environmentally sustainable.

Kelly Sedgwick said: “I think it is a waste of money, there are a lot of football grounds and playing fields that don’t get used enough as they are supposed to.

“I just don’t think that an actual football stadium is necessary.”

Sandy Nicol said: “I think it will bring a lot of trade into Newark and help bring the economy here up but I wouldn’t want it to destroy the centre part of the town.”

Sheila Layton said: “I think we should prioritise things like a larger pool or a centre for the youngsters, something more inclusive for the wider community.

“It will be wonderful to bring people into town but I don’t think it is a good use of the money.”

Toby Portrey said: “I think a stadium close by for the people who have to travel far for football will be good, but at the same time the money could be used somewhere else.”

Estimated to cost £1.5million to build, the stadium will include enclosed stands, a bar and sponsors area, with balconies overlooking the 3G pitch, changing rooms and facilities, with a training pitch adjacent.

It will also include classrooms and will house the Highwaymen’s Academy.

The location of the stadium is yet to be confirmed.

What is your opinion about the plans for the football stadium? Let us know in the comments below…