Understand
Original Hampden Park site advertised for let by council property body
Overview
The site of the original Hampden Park, which now largely comprises a bowling green and clubhouse, has been advertised for let by City Property Glasgow following the dissolution of Hampden Bowling Club. While a preservation group called First Hampden is seeking to bring the site into community ownership for use as a heritage hub, their initial request was rejected due to the site's income-generating potential. Local politicians have since asked for bidding deadlines to be extended to allow a community-led feasibility study to be completed.
Key points
- The site of the original Hampden Park, considered the first purpose-built international football ground, has been advertised for let.
- City Property Glasgow stated that offers will be assessed on community benefits, heritage considerations, deliverability, and financial value.
- The Hampden Bowling Club occupied part of the pitch since 1905 but voted to dissolve earlier in the year.
- The First Hampden preservation group is working on a costed plan to bring the site into community ownership as a heritage site and community hub.
- First Hampden's initial community transfer request was rejected, but they have secured funding for a feasibility study.
- MP John Grady has requested that City Property Glasgow give an additional six months before closing bids to allow the community-led bid to be completed.