Sixfields Stadium's community status renewed

A League One football stadium will continue to have protected status after its listing as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) was renewed.

Northampton Town Supporters' Trust said it had been successful in extending the ACV covering Northampton Town's Sixfields Stadium until 2029.

The ACV also covers the stadium's West Stand car park.

However, land behind the club's East Stand - which is approaching completion after a decade-long redevelopment saga - will no longer be protected.

West Northamptonshire Council determined the land, which was previously a running track, had not been recently used by the community and was therefore not eligible.

Northampton Town Supporters' Trust said it hoped "any future development plans will result in ongoing investment in the football club, commensurate with an ambitious, progressive and sustainable club keen on securing its League One status and building for better".

In November, Cobblers chairman Kelvin Thomas said the land would "probably be warehousing" as it represented "the best financial return to the club", but no final decision had been made.

Asset of Community Value legislation is designed to protect community buildings from inappropriate development and changes of use.

If the owners of a listed asset wish to dispose of it, then eligible groups will first have the opportunity to prepare a bid for the property.

ACV legislation does not provide a right for the eligible group(s) to purchase the property, nor does it restrict the use of the nominated property for community activities.

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