KIDDERMINSTER Harriers could soon own Aggborough Stadium, the ground they have played at for more than 130 years, as the council is set to consider selling its freehold interest.
Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet is considering selling its freehold interest in the ground, the car park and sports and social club to the football club, with the report on the proposed sale first being discussed by the authority’s Overview and Scrutiny committee at 6pm on Thursday, February 5.
Any recommendations will then be considered by the Cabinet at its meeting on Wednesday, February 11.
Aggborough Stadium and the car park are listed on the council’s Assets of Community Value register, but the authority published a notification to dispose of the assets in October.
There were no other expressions of interest except for the Harriers before the December 4 deadline.
Kidderminster Harriers is looking to use the stadium purchase as a way to create a modern, welcoming hub that seeks to build a strong connection between the club, its fans and the local community.
Richard Lane, the chairman of Kidderminster Harriers Football Club, said: “Aggborough Stadium has been the home of our fantastic football club for generations and, as far as I am concerned, always should be for future generations.
“We’ve made incredible progress as a club over the last five years, to move forward with the same ambition.
“We have exciting modernisation plans to improve our facilities at Aggborough, providing a better matchday supporters’ experience, support community and business engagement – ultimately to build a sustainable community asset that we can be proud of.
“We welcome and thank the council cabinet members for positively considering our proposal and look forward to a decision where Aggborough remains at the heart of our football club and community for many years to come.”
Coun David Ross, Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet member for finance and capital portfolio, added: “Kidderminster Harriers is a fundamental part of the town with a longstanding relationship with local government.
“We want the club to succeed and be sustainable.“By selling the assets to the Harriers, we believe it will cement their base in the town for years to come.“
