Salford Council Makes Historic Move to Secure Future of Rugby in the City
In a landmark decision that is set to shape the future of rugby across Greater Manchester, Salford City Council has officially completed the full takeover of Salford Community Stadium. This strategic move solidifies the Council’s commitment to supporting the growth and development of rugby in the region, particularly for the beloved Super League rugby league club Salford Red Devils and Premiership rugby union team Sale Sharks.
The approval of this acquisition deal, which was finalized today following months of negotiations, marks a significant milestone for the city. The Council will now take over full ownership of the stadium and associated development plots of land, positioning Salford as a key player in the sports and leisure industry in the region.
The deal involves the Council purchasing the remaining 50% of the Peel Group’s shares in Salford Community Stadium Limited, effectively transitioning the ownership to the Council. This move aligns with the initial vision of creating a “community stadium for the city and its people,” a goal that has been at the forefront of the Council’s agenda since the beginning.
Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, expressed his excitement and optimism about the acquisition, stating, “It is a momentous and truly exciting day for the city. This landmark decision is the beginning of a new future for the stadium and the clubs that call it home. It helps to secure their future, in particular Salford Red Devils, but also the future of rugby across the city.”
Beyond the realm of sports, Mayor Dennett highlighted the broader benefits of the acquisition, emphasizing its role in strategic redevelopment, regeneration, skills development, job creation, health and well-being initiatives, community engagement, and support for grassroots sports. By taking sole ownership of the stadium, the Council aims to unlock new opportunities for redevelopment and regeneration of the surrounding land plots, paving the way for economic growth and social impact in the local communities.
The acquisition of Salford Community Stadium is at the core of the city’s new Rugby Strategy and Sports and Leisure Strategy, which are currently in development. These strategies will provide a roadmap for the future of sports in Salford, focusing on enhancing community engagement, fostering talent development, and promoting a culture of health and wellness through sports participation.
Both the Salford Red Devils and Sale Sharks have called the 12,000-capacity stadium their home since it opened in 2012. However, the future of the venue, formerly known as AJ Bell Stadium, had been in question following Peel Holdings’ announcement of its intention to sell its stake in the facility.
In response to the uncertainty surrounding the stadium’s ownership, Salford Red Devils had previously expressed concerns about the impact on their future. However, with today’s announcement of the Council’s full acquisition of the stadium, a sense of stability and optimism has been restored within the rugby community in Salford.
Paul King, the managing director of Salford Red Devils, welcomed the news of the acquisition, stating, “It’s great news that the Council have now taken the decision to fully acquire the Stadium. It’s been a long road to get to this point, and the decision is another step towards a sustainable and bright future for Salford Red Devils.”
Looking ahead, King expressed eagerness to collaborate with the Council and Sale Sharks to secure a tenancy deal that benefits all parties involved and ensures the long-term viability of rugby league in the city. This collaborative spirit underscores the shared commitment to promoting rugby as a unifying force in Salford’s diverse community.
The acquisition of Salford Community Stadium represents more than just a financial transaction; it symbolizes a new chapter in the city’s sporting legacy. With the Council at the helm, the stadium is poised to become a hub of activity, innovation, and community engagement, serving as a beacon of hope and opportunity for generations to come. As rugby takes center stage in Salford’s cultural landscape, the future looks brighter than ever for the sport and its passionate supporters in the city.