Scunthorpe United close to buying back home stadium
The club was in an ongoing dispute over Glanford Park with former owner Peter Swann.
Last updated 16th Nov 2023
Scunthorpe United are close to buying back their home stadium Glanford Park after exchanging contracts with former owner Peter Swann.
The Iron are under their third ownership of 2023, after Swann's replacement David Hilton put the club up for sale in September. A dispute over the club's ground - still owned by Swann - cast doubt over the future of its home games.
Former club director and local businesswoman Michelle Harness stepped in as owner last month, and set about buying back Glanford Park.
The Board of Directors said in a statement: "We are ecstatic to announce that we have exchanged contracts for the purchase of Glanford Park.
"The monumental effort from all involved, both in this process and to keep the club running on a day-to-day basis, has not gone unnoticed, and we express our unwavering gratitude for the support which has been a driving force behind these positive outcomes."
"This club is integral to the town"
Despite the turmoil surrounding the club, on-field results have been positive, as Scunthorpe United sit just one point away from the top of the National League North.
In the wake of Hilton's exit, the community got behind the club, as a Gofundme appeal raised over £70,000 to pay staff wages. Glanford Park consistently records attendances of over 3,000 - well over triple the average in the division.
The Board said: "Over the past couple of months, we have seen how much this football club means to everyone. It is integral to the town, and everyone had rallied round to ensure we have a future.
"This needs to continue. Whether it’s attending games, purchasing from the shop, signing up to our lottery, or supporting the club in another way, every little bit of backing is pivotal for our future."