The Boulevard (stadium)

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The Boulevard in May 2006

The Boulevard is a multi-use stadium in Hull, England. The venue was saved from demolition and reopened on 25 October 2007 as the home of greyhound racing in the city. It will also be used as a community stadium hosting amateur rugby league matches.^[1]

[edit] History

In the past the ground was used mostly for rugby league matches and was the home stadium of Hull FC prior to the KC Stadium opening. The main entrance was on Airlie Street, giving rise to Hull's nickname as 'the Airlie Birds'. When it closed, its capacity was 10,500 people. It hosted many matches in various Rugby League World Cups.

The stadium has also been used for football with Hull City A.F.C. using the ground at times for their home matches.

The ground consisted of three stands, the most popular being the Threepenny stand, where the majority of singing and chanting occurred. It was given its name when the stadium opened as it was 3 old pence for entry. The ground has a strong connection with the city's former fishing industry being not far from Hessle Road. A plaque was unveiled on the 'new' threepenny stand some years ago by STAND and Hull FC. Now rescued, the plaque will be returned as the Boulevard moves to a new era, not forgetting its past!

On 25 October 2007 The Boulevard reopened for greyhound racing for the first time in 28 months. There was eight races in total. The stadium will also be used for reserve rugby league games.