Kirklees Council's careful response to Huddersfield Giants' stadium plans

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Kirklees Council say they are committed to securing the long-term future of the John Smith's Stadium following Ken Davy's revelation that he intends to build a new stadium for Huddersfield Giants. The owner of the town's rugby league club outlined plans for a purpose-built stadium earlier this week, with the Super League team hoping to move away from their current home in the future.

Earlier this year, Huddersfield Town owner Kevin Nagle outlined his intention to take control of the stadium and expressed confidence that a deal would be struck with Davy to acquire it. Kirklees Council and the football club currently own 40% each, with the Giants owning the remaining 20%.

But Kirklees Council no longer want any involvement in the running of the facility and have approved for either Town or the the Giants - or both - to take operational control.

With Nagle seemingly intent on owning the facility, it left the Giants seeking options of their own, with Davy keen for the club to have its own facility that would be suitable for their needs, with the John Smith's proving too big for their fanbase over many years.

When contacted by Rugby League Live regarding Davy's plans, Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance & Regeneration, stated that the future of their current home was a focus point, with the Giants' plans for a new facility not referenced.

The statement read: “We’ve worked closely for many years with both the Giants and Huddersfield Town to make the John Smith’s Stadium the real asset it is for local people today. We’ll continue to work with our partners to secure the long-term future of the John Smith’s, keeping it as a top-class venue for sport, entertainment, and the benefit of the wider community.”

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