Council approves Hull KR’s regeneration plans
HOW IT COULD LOOK: A computer-generated image of the planned development
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
Hull Kingston Rovers has received planning approval for the regeneration and redevelopment of land surrounding Sewell Group Craven Park.
Hull City Council’s planning committee approved the plans yesterday, giving the go-ahead for significant regeneration and commercial development, with Aldi and Home Bargains each set to deliver purpose-built retail stores on the site.
Hull KR has also instructed its solicitors to work with Costa Coffee regarding the delivery of a coffee outlet as part of the development.
The proposals also include investment in sport and leisure infrastructure. Plans provide for three new training pitches, including one designated for community use, additional outdoor sporting facilities, and the refurbishment of the Waudby Centre. The development also includes plans to work with a national operator to introduce a padel facility in east Hull.
Rovers chief executive Paul Lakin said: “We are delighted to hit this major milestone in the project. This allows us to press ahead with our ambitious plans, and apply for pots of funding to complete the development of the community side of this project.
“The club has achieved so much on and off the field in recent years, but changing the heart of east Hull for the better, forever, will certainly be one of the prouder moments for us all.
“The club facilities in particular will set up our on-field teams with an elite training facility, fit for purpose for a world-class sporting environment. This will allow us to not only to further develop our own talent, but continue to attract the best of the rest for around the UK and overseas.
“It is a significant part of the jigsaw to ensure we create a legacy from everything happening around our great club at the moment.”
Work could begin on-site later this year.
The approval forms part of Hull KR’s wider programme of development both on and off the field. This year the club will host NRL Premiers the Brisbane Broncos in the Betfred World Club Challenge and will travel to Las Vegas to face Leeds Rhinos at Allegiant Stadium – home of the Las Vegas Raiders – as part of the 2026 NRL opening round.
Hull KR will also feature in Renaissance: A Hull KR Story, a seven-part documentary series scheduled to air on Sky Sports in the UK and Fox Sports around the world. The series documents the club’s 2025 season and organisational development from the perspectives of players and supporters.