MP backs Sheffield Wednesday fans' bid to give Hillsborough Stadium protected status

A campaign by Sheffield Wednesday fans to protect Hillsborough Stadium for the community is gaining momentum after an MP offered his backing.
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Owls fan Clive Betts who is the Labour MP for Sheffield South East, has become the latest high profile figure to publicly support the attempt to get the historic ground listed as an ‘Asset of Community Value’ (ACV).

Should the Sheffield Wednesday Supporters Trust (SWST) succeed in its bid to get the venue recognised by Sheffield Council, the community would have to be informed should the owners try to sell the stadium and would get six months in which to prepare an offer.

Sheffield MP Clive Betts is backing the attempt to get Hillsborough Stadium recognised as an 'Asset of Community Value'Sheffield MP Clive Betts is backing the attempt to get Hillsborough Stadium recognised as an 'Asset of Community Value'
Sheffield MP Clive Betts is backing the attempt to get Hillsborough Stadium recognised as an 'Asset of Community Value'
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The ACV status would also have to be considered as part of any future planning application.

Mr Betts said: “The past few months have shown us the cynical, exploitative side of football with big money interests and teams trying to form the European Super League against fans’ wishes, so it is incredibly reassuring that fan ambition and change is still alive and well.

“This bid by Wednesday fans therefore has my full support, and will hopefully secure the long term future of the ground going forward. The grounds of any club is a spiritual home for the fans and acts as a the centre of so many communities.”

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Within Sheffield, there are currently 18 ACVs, including a number of pubs plus Heeley People’s Park, Walkley Carnegie Library and Birley Spa Bath House.

Sheffield Council said it has yet to receive an application for Hillsborough Stadium to be added to that list.