Gigg Lane Finally Given The Green Light!
Bury FC, in their current guise, are to return to their Gigg Lane stadium four years after being kicked out of the Football League. The FA has given the green light for their name to be used in competitive fixtures. The decision comes just weeks after supporters voted to merge two fan groups with the aim of having one club playing back at the historic ground.
The Shakers were thrown out of the EFL in 2019 amid financial difficulties.
Following Bury’s expulsion, a group of fans set up a new team, Bury AFC, meanwhile, a separate fan group purchased Bury FC's name, assets and Gigg Lane.
Last month, members of the Shakers Community Society, which set up Bury AFC, and Bury Football Club Supporters Society groups, which owns the ground, voted to unite in a bid to ensure men's football returns to Gigg Lane for the first time in four years. As the original Bury FC remains in administration, there was uncertainty as to whether the club could use the same name. However, the FA has now given the green light for the name Bury Football Club to be used in competitive fixtures.
It means a team by the name Bury FC is set to play in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division for the 2023/24 season. In a statement on its website, the majority fan-owned club said: “We want to thank all the people and organisations that have made this possible and who continue to support us on and off the pitch. Please join us on our adventure and become a member to help fund the club and allow you a say on how it is run. Everyone is welcome to join us on our wonderful journey. Up the Shakers and see you in July!”
Bury council has pledged £450,000 alongside a £300,000 government grant to support the new club following the merger. Dozens of supporters turned up at Gigg Lane to help clean seats in preparation for the new season, and volunteers efforts will be essential in restoring the historic ground and the club to former glories.
James Daly, the MP for Bury North, described the FA's decision as “brilliant news”. He added: “I said when I got elected that I would do what was necessary to have Bury FC back at Gigg Lane and we've done that. This is absolutely brilliant news for our town and I am overjoyed with everyone who has kept football alive in Bury. Well done to every single person that has worked so hard to keep that dream alive.”
