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United’s Board say carrying on as they are is not an option
16/01/2025
Members must decide what to do so the club can survive
The future of Banbury United as a fan-owned football club is to be discussed by its members at a meeting next week. The club’s Board of Directors have warned members “carrying on as we are is not an option”.
In a briefing document to members, seen by Banbury FM, the board alludes to a £91,391 loss in its financial year ending in May 2024. Reserves built up during the promotion run to the National League North and FA Trophy successes have been wiped out through loss of income due to flooding at Station Approach and the purchase of a new grandstand.
The Board state their view that, based on the operational income received during the first quarter of the season, Banbury United cannot sustain football at the current level or above under the existing ownership structure and operating model.
The lack of a long-term lease – or ownership – of the ground at Station Approach is noted as an issue adversely affecting the club’s ability to create income.
A number of options will be discussed by members, including an increase in the amount members pay each year to provide more capital to the club, or budget cuts which would affect the amount paid to players and the number of staff employed.
Members will also be asked to consider moving from fan ownership to private ownership.
A full discussion on the options will take place at the Spencer Clubhouse on Thursday January 23 from 7pm.
Claire Dumbrek from Banbury United told Banbury FM: “The Board of Directors of Banbury United Community Football Club is meeting, as scheduled, with the Club’s member-owners next Thursday to discuss possible options for the future of the Club.
“The aim is a financially stable Club that continues to grow its position in football and the community, long term. To achieve that, major changes are required. Carrying on as we are is not an option.
“There have been open and transparent communications about this with the members for many months and this meeting is the next stage. It would be inappropriate to enlarge on the possible directions before the consultation meeting with the members.”
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam