'Something needs to be done' - Wrexham co-owners Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney have a problem as residents complain of matchday traffic amid soaring attendances at SToK Racecourse

After Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took over the club, it has experienced a significant surge in popularity, drawing in larger crowds to their home games with attendance figures reaching north of 13,000. While this increase in support has been a boon for the club, it has also brought with it a set of challenges, particularly concerning traffic congestion in the surrounding areas.

The influx of fans attending matches has led to severe traffic problems in the vicinity of the SToK Racecourse, with surrounding streets frequently clogged and parking violations becoming commonplace. Some residents have reported that matchday visitors are blocking driveways and parking on double yellow lines, exacerbating the traffic woes. The closure of a section of Crispin Lane, both two hours before and after kick-off, intended to reduce congestion around the stadium entrance, has also had a knock-on effect, particularly impacting the nearby Plas Coch Retail Park.

In an interview with The Leader,a resident on condition of anonymity revealed: "I can't understand how this situation has been allowed to arrive. It was gridlocked for over half an hour coming out of the car park. God forbid if there was any type of incident or emergency, I can't image any emergency services could be able to get through. A lot of people were sat in their cars fuming, it wasn't just me. Something needs to be done, whether it's an alternative exit at the back of the retail park or something similar, as it can't carry on like this."

Cllr Mark Pritchard, leader of the council, has acknowledged the traffic issues and assured that measures are being taken to address the situation.

“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," he said.

Wrexham have got off to a strong start to their League One campaign, winning two of their first three matches while drawing the other one. They will be in action next against fellow promotion-hopefuls Peterborough on Saturday.