Collapse of Rams takeover ‘only serves to compound misery’ of people across the city, says Chamber boss
The collapse of Chris Kirchner’s Derby County takeover bid “only serves to compound the misery felt by many people across the city”, one of the region’s most prominent business figures has said.
East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles described the Rams’ current predicament as a “sour episode” and said it was vital that the EFL and administrators work together to find a solution to safeguard the Club’s future.
US businessman Kirchner, who seemed on the verge of taking control of the Club just two weeks ago, has withdrawn his offer.
Knowles said: “The saga surrounding Derby County has already gone on for far too long and this latest chapter only serves to compound the misery felt by many people across Derby and the surrounding area.
“The football club is an integral component of the city’s heritage, make-up and economy, with the prosperity of both intrinsically linked.
“A successful team competing at the top of the sport creates a healthy atmosphere across the whole area and this will always have positive economic consequences.”
Administrators at Quantuma say they are still in negotiations with a “growing number” of interested parties looking to take over the Club – and that they are running a competitive bidding process in order to reach a sale.
Knowles said: “Companies located in and around the city benefit from the tens of thousands of people who turn up every match to support their club – pubs, cafés, restaurants and shops will be packed before each game, while local transport networks rely on the increased number of passengers to remain viable.
“But it’s also much more than that. Derby County is a part of the city and county’s fabric.
“So fans, communities and businesses alike have understandably been hoping for a positive update from the joint administrators. This latest takeover setback creates more uncertainty for an area that is desperate for some good news on securing the future of a sporting institution they rely on.”
He added: “It’s vital the football authorities and administrators work together to finally put an end to this sour episode and find a positive resolution that secures the long-term future of Derby County Football Club.”
