Football club scores homecoming deal
Worcester City Football Club is on course to be playing back in its home city in time for the 2020/21 season.
The club, exiled since 2013 following the sale of St George’s Lane, is set to establish their new home at the County Sports Ground on Claines Lane in the city.
The site, which is currently being re-developed, is owned by Worcestershire FA and is also the home playing ground for Worcester Raiders FC.
Worcester City FC has been playing at temporary grounds since leaving St George’s Lane in 2013 and currently plays at Bromsgrove Sporting FC’s ground.
Cllr Marc Bayliss, leader of Worcester City Council, said: “I am very pleased that we have reached an in-principle agreement. Having initiated these latest discussions, it has long been our aim to see Worcester City FC return home to the city.”
Steve Goode, chair of Worcester City Football Club, said: “I’m very pleased that we can finally bring Worcester City FC home after living in exile for far too long. We’re very pleased with the level of support, cooperation and commitment we have received from Worcestershire FA and Worcester City Council and look forward to bringing this to fruition.”
Nichola Trigg, chief executive of Worcestershire FA, said: “This will be an opportunity for the two senior ranked clubs in Worcester to play out of a central venue, share resources and opportunities.”
David Wood, Chair of Worcester City FC Supporters’ Trust, said: ‘’We are very excited to have the opportunity to return to the city of Worcester, where we belong. Thanks to Worcester City Council and Worcestershire FA for their agreement to support and implement this next phase of WCFC history.’’
At this stage no formal agreement has been signed, however Worcester City FC, Worcestershire FA and Worcester City Council said they are focused on working closely together to ensure the club can take up residence at Claines Lane at the start of the 2020/21 season.
No increase in capacity at the ground is required to accommodate the needs of the club and steps are being taken to secure additional match-day parking facilities in the area.
Updates will be provided as the proposals develop.
