A WORKING group is being set up in a bid to address traffic and parking issues in Wrexham on match days. 

Since Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took over, there has been a huge increase in the volume of pedestrians and motorists in the vicinity of the SToK Cae Ras during home fixtures.

Given the football club’s continued growth, more and more fans are visiting the Racecourse Ground, with an average attendance of almost 12,000 last season.

While the authorities have taken action, including restricting access and implementing road closures, residents have continuously complained about inconsiderate parking over the last few years.

After concerns continued to be raised at the start of this season, local councillors held a meeting with the football club's new CEO Michael Williamson in a bid to address the ongoing issue.

Parking issues near the Racecourse.Parking issues near the Racecourse. (Image: NQ)

Cllr Marc Jones said: "Local councillors Marc Jones, Phil Wyn and David Bithell held a productive meeting with the new club chief executive Michael Williamson and we have agreed in principle to set up a working group to improve traffic issues on matchdays.

"Everyone understands the need to address the subject and councillors, the club, the police and council will be looking at a range of solutions to make life better for both residents and fans."

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Sergeant Kelly Lewis from North Wales Police added: “Residents have highlighted their concerns around parking on match days. We have fed this back to WAFC and the local authority with a view to working together to resolve the matter.

“We will deal with any illegal parking or obstructions caused on match days; and are pleased to see that the local authority and WAFC are looking at long term solutions to local concerns.”

Earlier this year the council said they were looking at options to address the issue, with a park and ride option a possibility. 

Cllr Mark Pritchard.Cllr Mark Pritchard. (Image: Wrexham Council)

Cllr Mark Pritchard, leader of the council, said: “We are working very closely with Wrexham Football Club and it is important that we manage match day traffic effectively whilst ensuring the safety of the football fans and the wider community.”

Councillor David A Bithell, deputy leader of the council added: “We welcome the increased attendances at the football club which is good for Wrexham. We also recognise that public safety is paramount.

"The council is working closely with the football club, and we agree that we need to work together to address the impacts of bigger crowds. The council at the last Executive Board agreed to develop long term plans for parking including alternative sites.

"Possible park and ride are something we also need to consider for the future. In the meantime, we will look at the arrangements in place, but these are governed by our safety advisory group who work closely with the police."