Our club starts a new adventure this season. Our success means additional stadium improvements are necessary and the club have obtained quotes for the work needed and have also held discussions with our landlord, the council, to gain their support.
At our members meeting in July various options for the ground improvements were put to the meeting. These ranged from a basic increase of the existing north stand, sponsored by Granite Direct Ltd, to a new higher profile stand. The option unanimously voted for was to replace the existing stand with a similar new stand with the required 400 seats. We would also remove the seats on the existing north stand and re-site those stands behind the goals, thereby increasing the covered standing terracing areas.
Promotion to Step 2 also brings with it increased grants available for the improvements needed. The club has budgeted for basic improvements but to take advantage of the increased grants, a new stand plus increased covered terrace standing was the preferred option by the Board and the members.
Doing It Together
We were the country's first senior football club to be owned and run by our fans. Being supporter-owned makes this club different to many others. There is no one person whom the club can rely upon for funding so it is the supporters who can decide the direction the club takes. To realise the ambition of proving a ground that would be fit for Step 2 and beyond will mean additional funds will have to be raised. We are therefore launching a Crowdfunding campaign to raise £35,000 to add to the funds already budgeted. This will allow us to provide a brand new stand, new TV gantry, new turnstiles and increase the covered standing behind each goal. It will improve the look of the ground and provide us with a stadium that will allow our club to progress.
Your generosity
Your generosity in the past has never been taken for granted and we appreciate this is a difficult time for many. Our Crowdfunding is open to all supporters. We also welcome businesses large or small who wish to back our campaign. All donors will be recognised on a board at the back of the new stand and we are also offering for a limited period a name plaque on a seat in the new stand for any donations of £150 or more. This offer is open until 5 October 2024.
If you are unable to donate directly please continue to support the club as you do and perhaps buy an additional item in the Club Shop. It all helps to provide Gavin with the budget he needs to compete at this level and you are safe in the knowledge that all funds raised are used for your club.
It’s our club. Let's meet this challenge and demonstrate how important our club is to us all!
FAQs
-How will the funds be managed?
All funds will be ringfenced within the club’s bank account.
-What happens if there is short fall?
The club may have to re-consider its options including extending the current stand which would not then provide any additional covered standing terracing behind each goal. We would want to ensure Gavin has the budget he needs and not disturb that.
–What happens if the target is exceeded?
A nice problem and one that the board would need to consider. Options include taking forward our plans for a new facility to accommodate a new bar area and increased academy classrooms and increasing Gavin’s playing budget.
–How has the sum been calculated?
Quotes have been received from the companies providing the stands and turnstiles. Additionally our calculations provide headroom for any unexpected or additional costs.
–Will there be any plans to view?
We are currently in discussion with the council’s planning department and awaiting advice on our outline proposals. Once that has been concluded plans will be made available to view. During the planning process there will be an opportunity to comment and support the proposals.
–How will my donation be recognised?
A board at the back of the new stand will be erected with names of those who have made donations. For a limited time, large donations above £150 will also receive a name plaque on a seat in the new stand.
–How do I take up the offer of having a name plaque?
Any donation of £150 or more made before 5 October will qualify for a name plaque on a seat in the new north stand, sponsored by Granite. You can decide on the name. When making your donation please leave your contact details and we shall contact you.
-I already have a plaque in the existing stand. What happens to that?
We shall be in touch with those who have existing plaques to provide options. Some of these plaques have been in place for over 15 years and showing wear and tear. Others that have more recently been put in place will be re-placed in the new stand.