The Cornish Pirates have announced further details of their plans for the immediate future.
The Pirates revealed last December that for the next three years, at least, they would have to plan to continue playing rugby at their Mennaye ground in Penzance, and they announced plans to improve facilities, but without going into much detail.
While plans for a new stadium just outside Truro were approved by Cornwall Council last week, there is still a long way to go with many obstacles to overcome before the Pirates’ dream becomes a reality, with owner Dicky Evans predicting construction completion in time for the 2016/17 season, at the earliest.
In the meantime, the club is to significantly improve existing facilities at the Mennaye, to include a new permanent steel structure stand to replace the existing stand which will be demolished.
It will also, subject to planning, install new floodlights at the ground and build a “semi-permanent” entertainment/bar complex where the current marquee is located.
The club will also poll supporters on which day they should play their regular league fixtures. The Pirates currently play on Sunday afternoons, but this could change to Saturdays or even Friday evenings, which would be possible once the new floodlights are installed.
A strategic plan is being put into place, too, involving community and marketing work, as well as ensuring the playing squad can compete at the highest level in the Championship.
