Creating the world's most sustainable sports venue

THE CHALLENGE: Setting new standards for sustainable sports venues

Forest Green Rovers, recognised by FIFA as “the greenest football club in the world,” has set out to create the world’s most sustainable football stadium in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire. This ambitious vision includes a 5,000-capacity venue crafted primarily from timber to minimise its carbon footprint. The project aims to establish a global benchmark for sustainable sports infrastructure while strengthening accessibility for the local community.

OUR RESPONSE: Expert planning and transport solutions

We provided vital planning consultancy services to support Forest Green Rovers in securing reserved matters application approval from Stroud District Council. Our team ensured full compliance with regulatory and environmental requirements, with key contributions in transport planning and civil engineering to enhance accessibility. We designed a new signal-controlled access junction on the A419, incorporating pedestrian and cycle crossings, and developed a combined foot and cycleway connecting the stadium to local and regional transport networks. Recognising the importance of sustainable travel, we also planned matchday bus services linking the site to Stroud and nearby railway stations. The council’s decision follows the approval of two training pitches on the south side of the A419, now in use by Forest Green Rovers, and a temporary training marquee.

THE RESULT: A stadium like no other

With reserved matters approval secured, the vision for Eco Park Stadium has moved closer to reality. The design by Zaha Hadid Architects will feature a groundbreaking timber structure, surrounded by lush parkland and state-of-the-art facilities, including both grass and all-weather pitches.

THE IMPACT: Leading the charge for sustainable sports

Our work is paving the way for a sports complex that sets a new standard for sustainability. The stadium will serve as a global model for low-carbon construction, inspire the next generation of eco-conscious sports facilities and strengthen the community by enhancing connectivity and promoting green travel options.

Find out more about Town and Country Planning, Transport Planning and Civil Engineering expertise at Ridge.