Bradford City Fans Rally to Secure Historic Stadium Ownership

Bradford City fans are on the brink of a historic opportunity as they have been granted the chance to own the beloved Valley Parade stadium, the club's cherished "spiritual home." The Bantams Supporters Trust successfully applied for an Asset of Community Value (ACV) listing from the Bradford Council, giving fans the first right to purchase the stadium if it goes up for sale in the next five years. Chair of the supporters' trust, Manny Dominguez, expressed the group's desire for the stadium to be owned by fans and the local community, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that the ground ends up in the right hands. The stadium, sitting on land owned by the pension fund of Flamingo Land theme park since 2003, is currently leased by Bradford City at a significant annual cost. The potential for fans to collectively own the stadium has sparked a wave of enthusiasm among supporters. Dominguez highlighted the sentiment among fans to preserve Valley Parade, a place steeped in 120 years of memories for generations of supporters. He noted that the trust is exploring various ideas, including a lifetime membership scheme, to prepare for a potential bid, with the belief that if thousands of fans contributed, a successful purchase could be within reach. For avid Bantams superfan Leonard Berry, who has been attending games since childhood and spent years as the club's mascot, the thought of the stadium leaving their hands is inconceivable. Berry emphasized the importance of preserving the stadium's legacy, especially in memory of the tragic 1985 fire victims, underscoring the emotional attachment fans have to Valley Parade. Another devoted fan, Nick Kitchen, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the significance of keeping the stadium for the community and future generations of supporters. As discussions continue between the supporters' trust, the club, and the current stadium owner, the possibility of fans taking ownership of Valley Parade is becoming more tangible. A spokesperson for Bradford City FC praised the dedication of the supporters in safeguarding Valley Parade, emphasizing the club's commitment to engaging with fans and other stakeholders in any potential sale process. The positive developments have been met with enthusiasm, with the community rallying around the prospect of securing the future of their beloved stadium. As the journey towards potential fan ownership unfolds, the passion and determination of Bradford City supporters to preserve Valley Parade as a beacon of community spirit and unity continue to shine brightly, promising a future where the hallowed ground remains in the hearts and hands of those who cherish it most.