Key Highlights
- HSE seeks to block Clydebank FC’s plans for Holm Park stadium upgrades.
- The upgrade proposal includes a new seated enclosure but has been rejected due to safety concerns.
- Clydebank FC had hoped to enter the SPFL through the Lowland League, with recent promotion to that league.
- Residents and supporters argue that the plans are vital for the club’s long-term sustainability.
The Clydebank FC Dilemma: A Long Shot at Safety
Clydebank FC has been on a steady climb, rising from the shadows of West Dunbartonshire to compete in the Lowland League and now eyeing a spot in the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL). But their ambitions may be grounded by the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) intervention.
The club’s dreams of a state-of-the-art Holm Park are currently on hold. Their plans to create a new seated enclosure were submitted in September 2025, but they now face a major hurdle.
The HSE has advised against the upgrade due to safety fears, specifically citing concerns about increasing the number of people outdoors within a consultation zone near an adjacent hazardous installation.
Despite the potential risks, the proposal received strong support from local residents and 23 representations in favor. These supporters argue that the upgrades are crucial for giving their town “a great heart” and ensuring the club’s long-term sustainability. However, the HSE’s cautious approach suggests a need to balance these benefits with safety concerns.
The club’s recent promotion to the Lowland League has set them up well for an SPFL bid through the play-offs this year.
If successful, they could secure a Scottish Football Association Bronze License and significant financial support from UK Government funding of £240k. This grant was intended to boost community pride and bring all ages together.
The planning committee will deliberate on February 11, 2025, but the HSE’s advice is a serious setback for Clydebank FC. The club must navigate this challenging situation while maintaining their ambitions for growth and success in Scottish football.
Community Pride vs. Safety
The debate between community engagement and safety regulations is a familiar one in local sports clubs. While supporters see the upgrades as essential for their team’s future, HSE priorities are understandably focused on preventing accidents that could harm people nearby.
This case highlights the fine line between progress and caution. The club’s plans were part of a broader strategy to enhance facilities and increase fan engagement, which is vital in today’s competitive sports environment. However, safety must always be the paramount concern when dealing with public spaces and potential hazards.
The Long Road Ahead
For Clydebank FC, this is an uphill battle. The club will need to work closely with HSE and council officials to find a solution that addresses both the safety concerns and the community’s desire for improvements. This could involve revising plans, conducting further assessments, or finding alternative solutions.
The outcome of the planning committee meeting on February 11, 2025, will be crucial in determining the club’s immediate future. Regardless of the decision, this episode serves as a reminder that success in football often comes with challenges and compromises.
