FoBC latest: 18 July press release
FoBC calls public meeting
Supporters’ pressure group, the Friends of Bootham Crescent (FoBC) have called a public meeting next week, to discuss the ongoing crisis over the plans for York City FC to move to the Huntington Stadium.
Fans of the football, rugby and athletics clubs, and residents close to Bootham Crescent and Huntington stadium, along with any other citizen’s of York are invited to join in the debate, which takes places at 7.30pm next Tuesday (22nd July) at the Main Hall of the Priory Street Community Centre.
FoBC spokesperson David Allison commented that admission would be free, and that all were welcome. "This event is being organised by FoBC, but we fully encourage contributions from anyone with an interest in the issue of Huntington Stadium, no matter what side of the fence they are sitting on," he said. "We aim to gauge the overall feeling of York residents about the proposed move, the loss of Bootham Crescent, and the much criticised stand taken by the council."
Allison went on to explain that the event will feature a number of speakers from the key groups involved in the long-running saga. "Representatives of the 3 sports clubs (York City FC, York Knights RLFC and Nestle Rowntree Athletics) will be invited to make their comments, as well as key members from the 3 political parties whose groups make up the City of York Council; LibDem, Labour and Green." He went on to say "After a brief statement from those groups who choose to accept our invitation, the meeting will be opened to contributions from the floor. We certainly hope for a good turnout, and a healthy, balanced debate. As a group, FoBC has some very strong opinions on the matter, but we are very keen to establish the mood among the wider public."
It is understood that York City FC have already agreed to ensure at least one director is present to state their position, however Steve Galloway - leader of the controlling Liberal Democrat group on the Council - is thought to have already indicated that he is unlikely to attend.