Bristol Rovers Chairman Confirms Woodlands Site on Stadium Shortlist
Bristol Rovers Chairman Hussain AlSaeed has confirmed that the Woodlands Golf and Country Club site is being considered as a potential location for the club's new stadium. In an interview with ITV West Country, the Kuwaiti businessman also stated that redeveloping the current Memorial Stadium is not feasible.
What did the Chairman say about the new stadium site?
AlSaeed confirmed that the golf course land, situated north of the M4 and east of the M5, is among a shortlist of potential sites. He emphasised that no final decision has been made, with the club prioritising accessibility for supporters.
“Well, I mean, I think it's among the shortlist that we're looking at,” the Chairman said. “But nothing for sure, which one we're going for. But where we want to be, really where our fans is suitable in terms of traffic, suitable in terms of, you know, everywhere, the location, and so, you know, it's a difficult task.”
AlSaeed explained that the club has engaged experts to evaluate each site systematically. The process involves prioritising options and negotiating with landowners one at a time, which he acknowledged takes considerable time.
What are the plans for the Almondsbury area?
The Trench Lane site sits opposite a proposed major housing development near the M4/M5 Almondsbury interchange. Developers have submitted plans for 1,800 new homes, a primary school with nursery, a mixed-use local centre, a sports hub, and an extra-care complex with 100 apartments.
The planning application, originally submitted in March, took nearly five months to be validated by South Gloucestershire Council. The proposal has already attracted numerous objections from local residents.
Why is redeveloping the Memorial Stadium not possible?
AlSaeed described redeveloping The Mem as “impossible,” citing the same concerns he has raised in previous interviews. He noted that all feasibility studies returned negative results, prompting the club to focus on alternative locations since last year.
“Extremely difficult. All the results came back with a red flag, so it was impossible, so since last year, now we concentrated on going outside the Memorial [Stadium],” he said.
What is the current situation with manager Steve Evans?
AlSaeed also addressed recent speculation linking manager Steve Evans with other clubs, including Hibernian. The 63-year-old manager has dismissed these reports, reaffirming his commitment to the club.
Rovers have enjoyed a strong start to the 2026/27 League Two season, collecting 15 points from their opening eight matches. Under Evans, appointed in December 2025, the club has achieved a record 11 consecutive home league victories.
“We're obviously very much pleased with what Steve has done, in terms of the results, and in terms of off the pitch, it's been really terrific in terms of getting the players back,” AlSaeed said.
How does the Chairman view his relationship with supporters?
Reflecting on his time at the club since his investment in August 2023, AlSaeed described his relationship with fans as a “love-hate” dynamic, noting that current sentiment is positive following recent improvements.
What are the club's ambitions for this season?
AlSaeed confirmed that promotion to League One is a realistic objective for the current campaign. He also reiterated his long-term commitment to the club, stating that the work is only just beginning.
“Yes, absolutely. We haven't started yet. We're just in the beginning. Big, massive club. Hopefully more things yet to come,” he said.