Prescot Cables FC could be forced to relocate

A Merseyside non-league football club could be forced to relocate as soon as next season because its main stand is “nearing the end of its life.”

Prescot Cables FC, who play in the Northern Premier League West, said it may need to consider moving out of the town due to concerns about the stand at Valerie Park.

Knowsley Council said the stand would need to be rebuilt or replaced within three years.

The 142-year-old club said any long-term solution is likely to require substantial investment.

Knowsley Council bought the Prescot Cables home ground from private owners in 2018 [BBC]

Council leader Graham Morgan said the club had no funding plan in place for the required works.

The fan-owned club’s board said it was “exploring all options” and was in discussions with the council and its landlord about a move to a new venue.

“Such a move could potentially be on a temporary or permanent basis, depending on the options available and the outcome of the discussions,” it said.

“While no final decision has been made, it is important that supporters are aware that a relocation could potentially take place as soon as next season.”

The club said the directors appreciated that the news of a possible move may raise questions among supporters, adding any decisions would be made “with the long-term interests and sustainability of Prescot Cables Football Club firmly at heart.”

Knowsley Council stepped in to secure the future of Cables in 2018 when it bought Valerie Park for £300,000 from private owners and granted the club a 99-year lease.

Morgan said the authority had also loaned the club £63,000, which enabled it to secure funding for £200,000 of ground improvements via the Premier League Stadium Fund – helping it match Football League standards.

He said: “We are working closely with the club to support them in identifying funding sources and developing a future plan for Valerie Park.

“While this does regrettably mean some uncertainty in the short term, what is absolutely clear is that both the club and the council – and the wider community too – want to see Prescot Cables remain in the town for now, and for generations to come.”

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