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Rugby fans get into hot water

Tony Howard
21/ 7/2005

SALFORD rugby fans can swap the terraces of the Willows for the luxury of watching their team from a jacuzzi at the new stadium.

Instead of getting wet in the driving Salford rain, Reds fans can watch their beloved team while getting lathered up in a hot tub on one of the roof terraces that will form part of the £10m hotel complex at the City of Salford Stadium.

The idea was the result of a tour of American sports arenas undertaken by the team behind the proposed new Barton site, and they hope the Salford public will use the facilities during matches.

American baseball's Arizona Diamondbacks, from Phoenix, currently offer the service at their Bank One Ball Park and fans enjoy hot tub parties while watching matches.

The hotel, to be run by MacDonald Hotels, will have eight suites with views of the pitch and a further eight will face Barton airport. Those who'd rather have a lie-in will be able to watch the Reds from their beds.

Over 100 of the 208 rooms will have perfect pitch views and Red City Development's Adam Thomas believes it could revolutionise the way rugby league is watched.

He said: "It's all part of an attempt to offer a variety of ways to enhance the match experience. It's unique for this country and I'm sure fans will take advantage of the facilities with weddings and other similar events."

According to Red City no-one need worry about the inclement weather because the hotel's terraced areas will be fully covered from the elements and the design also means no-one else will be able to see in from anywhere else so privacy will be respected.

Mr Thomas said: "The design is fantastic and means the weather and privacy are not a problem. There is something pleasant about being in warm water while outside, as anyone who's swam in heated outdoor pools will know. I think it will be a success."