The MP for Bedford and Kempston, Mohammad Yasin MP (Labour) has weighed in on the ongoing row over the lease of McMullen Park, home of Real Bedford FC.
Commenting on allegations made by Real Bedford FC owner, Peter McCormack that Bedford Borough Mayor Tom Wootton “had instructed the Council not to progress with our lease renewal”, Mr Yasin said he hopes “there is no truth to these accusations”.
This comes after the Bedfordshire Football Association also commented on the ongoing situation on Tuesday.
Last Friday evening (19 January), McCormack released an open letter on his social media channels claiming foul play by the Mayor and necessary delays by Bedford Borough Council.
Allegations that the Conservative Mayor denies.
Read: Real Bedford owner claims foul play in renewal of McMullen Park lease
Mr Yasin has now written to Mr Wootton for answers, including reasons why the Council will not accept a lease extension.
“Vital that the Council supports the club”
“To date, no agreement has been reached for a lease extension”, says Mr Yasin.
“This has led to real concerns that a club which holds a strong portfolio of investment and potential for growth, which in turn would benefit Bedford Borough, is being left behind.
“It is vital that the Council supports the club by extending the lease which would not only secure the future of the club but secure vital funding for the Council going forward.”
Bedfordshire FA also released a short statement regarding the lease on Tuesday evening (23 January).
“Bedfordshire FA is communicating with representatives from Bedford Borough Council and Real Bedford FC regarding the expiry of the lease period at McMullen Park.
“Bedfordshire FA will be working to support both parties with the ongoing discussions and will continue to do so until a final decision is made.”
McCormack’s open letter, which has been viewed upwards of 214,000 times on ‘X’ alone at the time of writing, has caused a stir in the local football community.
Most notably, because with just two years remaining on the current lease, McCormack is unable to upgrade McMullen Park to the required standards to achieve future promotions.
Real Bedford owner, Peter McCormack told the Bedford Independent he welcomed Mr Yasin’s comments.
“It is good to see that our local MP, Mr Yasin has grasped the needs of our local football club and the impact we are having in Bedford.
“As per the statement from Bedfordshire FA, we look forward to seeing how they progress in their discussions with the Council.”
Real Bedford are back in action this weekend as they travel to Baldock Town looking to build their lead at the top of Spartans South Midlands Premier Division, while the Women face Watford Development Ladies in the League Cup at McMullen Park on Sunday.
Speaking to the Bedford Independent, last weekend, Mayor Tom Wootton, said he has been in discussions with Real Bedford about finding a solution that benefits them and other clubs in the Borough.
“I’m here to support Bedford and all sports across Bedford Borough,” said the mayor, adding that he doesn’t have an agenda that favours one team or sport over another…”
