Springfield Closure: "We Didn't Do It The Correct Way"

Thursday, 3 February 2022 14:07

Jersey's Assistant Minister with responsibility for sport has put his hands up and admitted mistakes were made with how the upcoming closure of Springfield Stadium was dealt with.

It will shut for six weeks from 14 February to make sure the ground is at the required standard to allow Jersey Bulls to move up the leagues.

News of the closure was only shared last week and has meant a last-minute scramble to find alternative venues.

Hundreds of children have been left disappointed after the JFA couldn't find somewhere else suitable for the After School Skill Session Programme.

Deputy Hugh Raymond admits they didn't do things the correct way.

"I think we've not been very clever in discussing it with everybody, but we now have to start that and make sure everyone knows what's happening."

JFA CEO David Kennedy told Channel 103 that he was led to believe that programmes could continue at Springfield while the work was being done.

In a statement released by the government last week, a spokesperson said the contractors needed full access at all times given the tight deadline.

The work has to be completed by the end of March.

In response to a request for comment from Channel 103, a Jersey Bulls spokesperson said news of the closure was a surprise, but it's only for six weeks - and they've had worse in the past two years.

Deputy Raymond also took a swipe at the English FA.

He says he finds it difficult to accept the English FA dictating the terms for what should be done with Jersey's pitch.

"I want to support Jersey Bulls, but sometimes we're controlled by people outside that it would be nice now and again to say excuse me, this is our decision, we want your help but don't demand it.

You're going to do it (the work) but they're saying you've got to do it by a certain time."