QPR chief exec: We must quit Loftus Road QPR chief executive officer Philip Beard believes the club can compete as equals with the Premier League's elite on and off the field - but would need to build a new stadium to do so. Beard, who was a senior member of the successful London 2012 Olympic Games bid team, joined the west Londoners six weeks ago following Tony Fernandes' recent takeover. With player acquisitions a closed subject until January and a myriad of changes already made off the field, QPR are turning their attention to achieving long-term ambitions. The club are looking to build their brand at home and abroad in a bid to increase revenues, while Beard has revealed a move away from Loftus Road to another part of Shepherds Bush could also be in the pipeline. "Loftus Road has a hell of an atmosphere when there is a game on but we're constrained by the fact we have under 20,000 seats in the stadium," he told Press Association Sport. "So if we are serious potentially about the long-term growth of the club then I think we have to be serious about looking at what I call a new football stadium as part of a hub of a wider entertainment destination. "Literally down the road from us you have Westfield [shopping centre] and you've got great transport facilities. "If we can grow our fanbase, both homegrown and internationally, then I hope the future is very bright for the club." Beard has also revealed plans are under way to raise standards of other aspects of the club to "Premier League level", which may also see them move away from their Harlington training base. "I think we have got to look at ourselves as a Premier League club," he added. "Hopefully for the foreseeable future that is the case and because of that I think we have to look at the facilities and everything we do at the club. "The reality is that the playing squad spend most of their time at the training facility and at the moment we rent Harlington, which isn't as good as a lot of other Premier League facilities. "We're looking at everything at the club and my aim is to look across at other Premier League clubs and feel we are comparable in all aspects of the business. "Both on the pitch and off the pitch, a club that can match most other clubs in the Premier League." While QPR have impressed on the most part since Fernandes and Beard came to the club, last weekend they suffered a 6-0 defeat at near neighbours Fulham. The result was compounded by allegations that Adel Taarabt stormed out of Craven Cottage at half-time and it was reported today that he wants to leave Rangers to earn more money. Asked about Taarabt and today's reports, Beard said: "The honest answer is I've not seen it yet so I need to find out more. "I think probably Sunday was a shock after how we have been playing. "Adel has a huge amount to offer QPR. He is a very, very important part of our squad at the moment. "But it does not matter whether you are part of a management team (or any team) you are part of a team so I don't want to single anybody out. "It is (manager) Neil Warnock's job to look after the playing side. "We've just got over a week until we play Blackburn and the most important thing for me is that the whole squad is working hard to come back fighting and hopefully with a win." iReader http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/new...ief-executive-Philip-Beard-article808802.html
The key is when he talks about an entertainments destination. It's clear why he's been brought in now, he made the 02 the worlds number 1 entertainment facility in the world, but it's only 20,000. If we're looking towards 30-35k then that would make us an alternative and an in between the 02 and Wembley. The fact that Beard was made CEO makes me wonder just how far along the plans are for a new stadium. But by making it an entertainments facility it means it will pay for itself. Also when he mentioned Westfield it's clear we have no intention of moving from White City. I reckon we shall be starting the 2013-14 season in our newly built stadium. Probably sooner than we intended but if the White City plot is up for redevelopment now then I doubt the council will let us put it off.
I reckon that they plan to knock down that big office block, which borders White City Road, Wood Lane & The Westway. It should hold about 35,000. They could name it ' The White City Stadium.' Maybe they could have Speedway & Greyhound Racing there as well, or even the odd pop concert.
where the **** is white city road? and knock down that 15 year old 20.000.000 building. What are you on ?
If we do get a new stadium. Please dont let it be a dull as anything bowl. I love Loftus Road and recognise the need to leave but only for something that recaptures the fact that the fans are on top of the players which means an atmosphere like nothing else can be created. Otherwise great news.
It was a joke! This was the site of the old White City Stadium, which held Speedway &.... oh never mind. You must be a child.
Forgive me M'Lord, had I known your Highness was present I wouldn't have used such vulgarities. Have mercy on me O Mighty One for I am but a slavish Hireling and not worthy of your grace. (North, can you remove my previous comment because our mighty Oracle has spoken. )
Read what I have written read what QPR 999 has written WHERE IS WHITE CITY ROAD ? The Building he is referring to is around 15 years old and cost in excess of 20,000,000 to build, so what is your problem and why call me names. So tell me where is White city road? and do you know the building he is referring to, no you don't because you have probably never been to White city. You keyboard warrior you, go and open another tin.
why dont we build on sheperds bush green.. close to westfield and all those transport links close to the walkabout no one else uses it apart from the odd fun fair or circus..
Hi Kiwi! Shepherds Bush Green looked kind of triangular last time I looked at it ?? Would we have a triangular pitch with the goal we defend always at the pointed end? Would make it easier for our CB's to take care of crosses, I'm for it, great idea
