Decision details

Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Growth, presented the report which sought approval for the Council to engage in negotiations with the Bury Football Supporters Society in relation to a proposed financial contribution in the Gigg Lane Stadium site. Councillor O’Brien and all those present thanked supporters and community groups for their work, as well as James Daly MP for Bury North, local Councillors, and Council officers.

Members discussed the report, praising the work and response from the people of Bury, and confirmed their cross-party support for the proposal. It was noted that this was just the beginning, with more work required to ensure the stadium was safe and suitable and ongoing conversations to ensure a one-club, fan-owned club with a successful governance system.

Decision:

Cabinet:

1.   Agreed in principle to work with the Bury Football Supporters Society to explore how the Council can provide financial assistance to bring football back to Gigg Lane; and

2.   Agreed that a further report be submitted to a future meeting of Cabinet seeking approval to any funding proposals.

Reasons for the decision:

Gigg Lane is an important community asset, and the Council has been asked to help with the process of re-commissioning and re- developing the facility.

The proposals to re-commission Gigg Lane as a football venue are complex and the plans involve a considerable amount of risk and challenge. Given the community benefits associated with the project it is right that the Local Authority play a proactive role in working with the various stakeholders.

Other options considered and rejected:

The alternative option is for the Council to not offer support however a solution must be found for the future of the Gigg Lane site, as it currently sits an abandoned building in the middle of a residential neighbourhood.