Fan park plan to build ‘carnival feel’ before rugby league games

A MAJOR vision has been revealed for the return of rugby to Hull in building a pre-match atmosphere with a carnival feel.

The idea will see live entertainment and local street food vendors in a new ‘Craven Streat’ area at Hull Kingston Rovers, honouring the clubs’ roots in the city.

While many American clubs host such fan parks in the build up to big matches, this would be the first to be held within the stadium bowl.

The vision, said club chief executive Paul Lakin, is for game days to become more than ‘just 80 minutes of rugby’, in building excitement for the whole day. At other times it could be used for weddings or music events.

“We are delighted to bring something new and exciting to the city and the sport,” said Mr Lakin. “We are confident we can create a real family friendly party atmosphere around the stadium where fans want to spend the whole day with us.

“We get five home games in 2021 to really test the concept, with a view of growing it to become even bigger and better over time.”

Craven Streat takes its name from the club’s first ever East Hull stadium on Craven Street, which it departed almost a century ago.

Subject to planning, it will see a marquee and a big screen, and will open ahead of the visit of the Warrington Wolves in July.

Key is a platform for local independent food vendors, in offering more than a ‘meat pie or sausage roll’ and in supporting those who have struggled this year, and the club is now seeking applications.