Calderdale reviews future of Shay Stadium following expressions of interest
Three organisations have so far submitted proposals to the council, including a consortium of Halifax Panthers directors.
The council is considering options for the future management and operation of the Halifax venue after receiving three enquiries from potential operators.
An update was presented to the council’s Cabinet on 13 July, outlining the next steps following the withdrawal of businessman Ken Davy’s interest in purchasing the stadium in June.
At the time, Davy said: “I would only continue my interest in the Shay Stadium, and sport in Halifax in general, if my input and involvement was welcome. Unfortunately, in the respect of a small minority [on the council], it is abundantly clear that this is not the case.”
The council has established a task group, led by cabinet member for corporate services, assets and resources, cllr Mike Payne, to undertake a review of the stadium’s operations and identify a sustainable long-term financial model.
The review will consider a range of options, including external investment to support a more commercially focused operating model.
The organisations that have submitted proposals are:
- Stewart and Beverly Charnock-Bates have proposed a community asset transfer to a not-for-profit, community-led organisation with professional management;
- Halifax-based Roxor Group owner Tony Wood has put forward plans to establish a Community Trust to operate the stadium;
- A consortium of Halifax Panthers directors has proposed a collaborative approach involving other organisations and stakeholders.
According to the council, all proposals will be expected to recognise the role of the Shay as the home of Halifax’s professional sports clubs while maintaining its function as a community asset.
The authority is continuing to invite expressions of interest from other organisations, with submissions required by 2 August.
Following a detailed evaluation process, Calderdale Council expects to present recommendations to Cabinet for a decision in October 2026.
In early 2024, Calderdale Council informed both of the stadium’s tenants, National League football club FC Halifax Town and rugby league side Halifax Panthers, that it intended to sell the Shay, saving it at least £161,000 a year in running costs.
In reality, the running costs are much greater, with the report to cabinet suggesting upward of £350,000 is spent each year keeping the ground safe.
Cllr Payne, said: “Halifax has a long tradition of sport, and we know how important F.C. Halifax Town and Halifax Panthers are to the town.
“As a supporter myself, I’m determined to ensure that the Shay Stadium has a sustainable long-term future, and we have been working hard to establish the best way forward to support our local professional football and rugby clubs.
“We want to reassure supporters that there are no plans for the council to withdraw from its operation of the stadium. However, it clearly isn’t viable for the current level of expenditure to continue without adequate resourcing.
“The Shay is now operating without a defined budget which is contributing towards a wider council overspend.
“We are confident that we will find a positive solution to the situation and have already received expressions of interest from local organisations who share our passion for ensuring that the stadium has a bright future, benefitting our sporting teams and the whole community.”
