FC Hartlepool selected as “preferred operator” of Grayfields

The proposed community asset transfer which is subject to the satisfactory conclusion of negotiations, follows the Council’s decision earlier this year to invite applications from outside organisations to run the site on a 25-year lease.

FC Hartlepool say they are committed to creating a social and sporting hub that will benefit communities in and around Hartlepool for generations to come.

In preparation for the transfer of the Grayfields site, the Council is reinstating the artificial grass pitch and carrying out a range of other minor works as part of a town-wide leisure facility review and investment programme.

Ian Gardiner, the Council’s Head of Leisure, Recreation and Participation, said: “We are committed to improving the quality of facilities and access to opportunities across the town for local people.

“We were delighted to receive a submission from FC Hartlepool which already plays its Wearside League First Division matches at Grayfields Enclosure, and following a robust internal assessment and verification process we are pleased to be able to name them as our preferred operator.

“Whilst some further negotiation is still required, subject to its successful conclusion we look forward to finalising the community asset transfer in the near future.

“We believe that transferring the Grayfields site in this way will represent a positive step forward in terms of increasing participation in football by local girls, boys, women and men.”

FC Hartlepool Chairman Salaam Shaheen said: “The club, our players, coaches, administrators, supporters, partners and all whom are affiliated with us are thrilled to have earned this opportunity to move forward with a permanent home. We are committed to developing this wonderful historic community asset into a social and sporting hub that will serve communities in and around Hartlepool for generations to come.

“As a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) we see our future as more than a community football club - we intend to continue to forge relationships throughout the area and bring communities together through sporting and social initiatives, with Grayfields at the very heart of what we are determined to achieve.

“FC Hartlepool strives to be an open and inclusive club and we are actively encouraging individuals, groups and organisations that wish to join us in this movement to get in touch and explore how we can work together, on any level, in helping to build upon the fantastic work that so many of the good people in Hartlepool undertake in making our town the best it can be - Sic itur ad astra’.”

To enquire about working with FC Hartlepool email info@fchartlepool.com