The Wanderers Supporters’ Trust have been successful in re-applying for the University of Bolton Stadium to be considered an Asset of Community Value.

A statement from the BWFCST was sent out this evening to members confirming that Bolton Council have accepted their application, which effectively safeguards the stadium and associated lands from being subject to a so-called “secret sale” in the future.

The initial application in 2017 was contested by former owner Ken Anderson, who lost his appeal against the listing a few months later.

The current listing has been made with Wanderers’ blessing and cross-party support from several political figures in the town.

Having the stadium classified as an ACV means that it cannot be sold without being advertised in public and that the BWFCST would be given a six-week moratorium to make their own offer, after which another 18 weeks would be granted to raise the requisite money.

Whilst it does not guarantee the BWFCST the absolute right to purchase the assets, it does provide time and scope for a sufficient rival offer to be made.

Several major stadia around the country have been listed as ACVs including Old Trafford, Anfield and Villa Park.

“We are pleased to inform our members that the recent application to Bolton Council for renewal of the listing of the University of Bolton Stadium as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) has now been accepted,” said the Trust statement.

“The BWFCST received notification in writing of acceptance in a letter (dated November 30, 2022) from Bolton Council chief executive’s department (legal services). The ACV listing will now remain in place until November 24, 2027.

“The UoB Stadium is now listed on the council website under List of Assets of Community Value.

“The importance of having our stadium listed as an ACV has, once again, been emphasised by the eviction notice issued this week to Coventry City FC by their stadium owner, Mike Ashley’s Fraser Group.

“Coventry City have experienced several years of disruption and stress from current and previous owners of their stadium and been forced to play their home games in other locations (Birmingham and Northampton).

“The recent administration of Derby County FC was also made far more complicated and drawn out due to their stadium not being owned by the football club. Several other stadia in English football are not directly under the ownership of the associated football club, leaving those at the mercy of the stadium owners.

“Whilst there are examples of stadium ownership residing outside the football club and operating in a satisfactory manner, we feel that our ACV listing of the UoB Stadium provides added security for our football club.

“We wish to thank the current owners, Football Ventures, for their support and encouragement in our ACV re-listing, which in turn is indicative of the positive relationship that now exists between the club and the trust.”