SUPPORTERS of Kidderminster Harriers have welcomed the mooted purchase of its historic Aggborough Stadium- but want assurances the site will always be used for football.
Wyre Forest District Council was set to consider selling its freehold interest at Aggborough, the ground the Harriers have played at for more than 130 years, at 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.
As well as the stadium, the club is looking to buy the Hoo Road car park and the social club.
The Kidderminster Harriers Independent Supporters Trust has issued a statement welcoming the principle of the freehold being brought under the ownership of the club.
However, the Trust said it believes that any sale must include robust covenants that guarantee the stadium and surrounding land remain protected for football use for generations to come.
The statement added: “While the current ownership has expressed a genuine desire to preserve Aggborough’s future, future owners may not share the same values or long‑term vision.
“Without legally binding protections, this historic site, the home of Kidderminster Harriers Football Club since 1886, would be vulnerable to redevelopment pressures that risk displacing the club.”
Trustees have urged Wyre Forest District Council and the club to ensure any transfer of the freehold includes the necessary safeguards to preserve Aggborough as the permanent home of Kidderminster Harriers.
A response from the authority to the Tust, seen by the Standard, said: “The question of safeguards, including the possible use of covenants or other protections, will form part of the terms to be negotiated with the relevant bidder.
“These considerations will be addressed as the process progresses to ensure that any future arrangements reflect the Council’s responsibilities and the community value of the site.
“We do reference overage within the report, but no further specifics, as these will form part of the individual negotiations and are subject to legal advice on the best possible routes.”
Kidderminster Harriers chairman Richard Lane 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 welcome and thank the Wyre Forest District 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.”
