Gateshead's Good News As Security Of Tenure Granted

The Heed were denied the opportunity to compete in the National League play-offs last season by the EFL because they did not have a '10-year security of tenure' at their home ground.

Now, the North East club have had an agreement signed off by the local council that would grant them the required English Football League licence.

The Heed will remain tenants when the running of the multi-purpose venue switches from the local authority to Greenwich Leisure Limited in April next year.

Gateshead are currently fifth in the National League after 18 games and will be allowed to compete for promotion if they reach the top seven.

“Following the situation between Gateshead FC (Licensee) and Gateshead Council (Landlord) at the end of the 2023-24 season in relation to the non-granting of a 10-year licence between the parties, which ultimately resulted in the Club being unable to participate in the National League play-offs, the parties have been in negotiations to ensure the same would not happen going forward,” the statement read.

“Negotiations have been concluded between the EFL and the Club whereby the form of wording agreeable to the EFL has now been reached.

“This has now been agreed in principle with the Council and we expect this to be signed off at Cabinet tomorrow, this is a Letter of Guarantee which will confirm that should that should GFC be in a position to be promoted to the EFL, the Council will grant the necessary Licence to facilitate such, and which will fulfil the EFL’s entry criteria.”

Council leader Martin Gannon said: "It's an exciting time for Gateshead as we work towards partnering with an organisation who has a strong track record of delivering modern and efficient leisure services across the country.

“As part of a rigorous tendering process, this particular provider has set out how they'll improve our facilities and ensure that they can continue to support the health and wellbeing of our communities.

“Thanks to their expertise and investment, the partnership is expected to result in significant savings for the council whilst also offering a better experience for leisure centre visitors."