Wyre Forest District Council is recommending that Burlish Country Park remains in public ownership and is not sold to Kidderminster Harriers Football Club.
The council received a proposal from the football club earlier this year to purchase approximately 8.5 hectares of land next to its training ground. In July, Cabinet agreed to consider the proposal and undertake the statutory process required for disposing of public open space land, which included a public consultation period.
Public Response
During the statutory notice period, the council received 656 responses to the consultation: 650 objections, three in support of the proposal and three enquiries. Responses highlighted the importance of Burlish Country Park as a valued community asset, providing opportunities for recreation, leisure, wellbeing and access to nature.
The Council's Position
The Cabinet report recognises the potential benefits of investment in local football facilities and acknowledges the club's vision. However, it concludes that the benefits of retaining the land for nature, public access and community wellbeing outweigh those potential advantages.
Councillor Marcus Hart, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council, said: "We recognise that people hold strongly differing views on this issue and that any decision will disappoint some residents. Given the significance of the proposal, it is important that it is considered carefully, openly and transparently."
Councillor David Ross, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and the Capital Portfolio, added: "It was right that we considered the proposal and gathered all the relevant information before reaching a view. People hold strong views on both sides. After considering the arguments, responses and evidence, the report recommends keeping the land as part of Burlish Country Park and not selling it."
What Happens Next
The Cabinet report will be examined by the Overview and Scrutiny Committee on Thursday 15 October. Cabinet will make the final decision on the sale at its meeting on Wednesday 21 October.
Both meetings can be watched live from 6pm on the day on the council's streaming webpage. The full report is available on the council's website.