Joint press release from Torquay United Football Club and Torbay Council

Torbay Council and Torquay United FC have agreed to postpone a decision on purchasing the freehold interest of the Club’s stadium at Plainmoor. This is to allow the Council and the Club time to fully explore a comprehensive proposal to relocate the stadium facilities and incorporate football into a new multi-use complex in Torbay.

Torbay’s Elected Mayor, Gordon Oliver, said: “Torquay United Football Club is an important community facility and we need to ensure that we retain it for future generations. That is why it is so important that the Club develops a comprehensive plan so the Council can make an informed decision on what is the right course of action for both the club, its fans and the residents in Torbay.

“The planned purchase of the freehold of Plainmoor has proved controversial with certain fans and that is why I have agreed with the Club’s new owners that this first phase should be postponed. This will allow the Club time to develop comprehensive plans for a new stadium and event arena in Torbay, and to build a successful football academy.

“We will continue to offer advice and support to Torquay United throughout the whole process and I hope a solution can be found that brings lasting benefits to Torbay.”

Clarke Osborne, Chairman of Torquay United, said: “The results of our recent survey and representation by fans has clearly indicated a level of concern surrounding our proposed first phase in bringing stability and sustainability to the Club, i.e. purchasing the freehold of Plainmoor.

“We have agreed with the Mayor that the process should be postponed until we produce a comprehensive plan for the new facilities that this club desperately needs if it is to be sustainable and grow. We look forward to sharing our ideas with the Mayor and outlining plans later this year.

“There is a feeling of optimism at Torquay United at present and we are all looking forward to the new season with great excitement. It is the time of year when the arrival of new players, a new kit and new sponsorship agreements all combine to generate the enthusiasm and positivity needed for a happy and successful football club.

“We completely understand the need for the Council to fully scrutinise our future plans for a new stadium and the growth of a Torquay United Academy, and, as part of that process, we welcome the opportunity to also publish the findings from our recent consultation survey involving supporters, club partners and stakeholders.

“We remain committed to building a football club that can secure and maintain its rightful place in the Football League, to provide a 21^st century experience to its supporters, and to form an integral part of the sporting and leisure facilities available to the community and visitors to Torbay.”