Over 2,300 Fans Sign Scarborough 3G Pitch Petition

A petition urging North Yorkshire Council to repair the 3G Pitch at Scarborough Sports Village has gained well over two thousand signatures.

The petition on Change.org calls on North Yorkshire Council to take immediate action and "restore the 3G pitch at Scarborough Sports Village for the future of Scarborough Athletic Football Club and our community's sporting pride."

It comes after the revelations last week that there will be a delay in the repairs being made to the club’s pitch, which was due to be replaced by North Yorkshire Council over summer. An initial site survey revealed more serious structural issues which could take up to 44 weeks to repair according to one local councillor.

With North Yorkshire Council currently unable to commit to a completion date, it remains unclear where Scarborough’s home games will be played next season, which has left fans feeling bemused and disappointed.

Over two thousand fans attended the final home game of the season against Darlington on Bank Holiday Monday, among them was Rob Barker, Scarborough fan, who said: 

“It’s disappointing. It’s a community thing and, as you can see, there’s a lot of people down here today supporting Scarborough playing Darlington. It’s a real shame we’re in this situation.”

With over 2,000 fans in attendance, it made for a strong supportive atmosphere at the Flamingo Land Stadium, showing just how important this club is to the local community.

MP for Scarborough and Whitby, Alison Hume, was also in attendance at the game, showing her support and giving fans hope that their message is being heard.

The ground is also used for numerous recreational and youth teams, with clubs being left unsure on where they stand in this confusion.

Andy Falconer, fan, said: 

“It does a lot for the community. There’s 250 children in the academy and my dad also does walking football here as well, so going forward it’s going to be disappointing if this isn’t sorted out.”

Supporters have expressed their upset in many ways, with some taking to social media to share their opinions, others starting online petitions, and some protesting with banners at the game.

Scarborough Athletic’s Facebook post announcing the news quickly gained over 200 unhappy comments and an online petition urging North Yorkshire Council to repair the pitch quicker has amassed over two thousand signatures in just a few days. The petition at https://www.change.org/p/urge-north-yorkshire-council-to-repair-scarborough-s-3g-pitch says:

"Scarborough Athletic Football Club, a cornerstone of our community, faces an impending challenge. Their ability to host and play games next season is at risk due to the deteriorating condition of the 3G pitch at Scarborough Sports Village. Immediate action is required to restore this vital community asset.

The 3G pitch has been central to sports and physical activities for the residents of Scarborough, promoting healthy lifestyles and team spirit. Unfortunately, the current state of disrepair has rendered the pitch unsafe and unfit for use by Scarborough Athletic as well as local sports enthusiasts. It is paramount that North Yorkshire Council addresses these concerns and prioritizes the refurbishment of this facility.

Restoring the 3G pitch is not just about sports; it's about investing in community well-being, youth development, and the economic benefits that come from attracting spectators and hosting games. A well-maintained pitch will ensure that Scarborough Athletic can continue to thrive and inspire the next generation of players and fans.

North Yorkshire Council, with its duty of care to the community, must commit resources to this project without delay. The repair of the 3G pitch will also uphold the reputation of Scarborough as a vibrant and attractive place for sporting events.

We need your support to send a strong message to the council that the community values its sports infrastructure and requires action now. Let's keep the heart of our local sports scene beating strong by ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Sign this petition to urge North Yorkshire Council to take immediate action and restore the 3G pitch at Scarborough Sports Village for the future of Scarborough Athletic Football Club and our community's sporting pride."

Fans at the game protested using banners which stated: ‘This is home’ and ‘Save our club’.

Laura Finch, fan and female footballer, said: 

“It’s important for everybody, it’s part of the community. If we don’t have it next season, I don’t know what’s going to happen because it’s a pillar of the community.”

Scarborough secured three points from the game, beating Darlington 1-0. After the match, fans celebrated as the players did a lap of honour, showing their encouragement for the team.

Related Stories

• Scarborough's MP Seeking Solution to Scarborough Athletic Pitch Problems
• Scarborough Athletic Receives Overwhelming Support Amid Pitch Uncertainty
• Scarborough Athletic Pitch Repairs Could Need Funding Approvals
• Scarborough Athletic Pitch Could be Out of Action for 44 Weeks And Cost £3m to Repair
• "Chaotic Week" At Scarborough Athletic as Pitch Availability Thrown in to Doubt
• "Serious Structural Issues" Mean Scarborough Athletic Pitch Out of Action For Start of Season