Notts Athletics Club warns of relocation over stadium decay
Club officials describe the track as unfit for purpose while the council cites health and safety concerns for closing the main stand
Notts Athletics Club has issued an urgent call for remedial works at Harvey Hadden Stadium, warning that the deteriorating condition of the facility could force the organisation to relocate. The club, which currently supports 350 members and hosts up to 100 children during weekly training sessions, has described the running track as unfit for purpose.
Chairman Mick Robinson stated that the surface requires relaying and that the throwing cage needs repair or replacement. He emphasised that investing in equipment is futile without a guaranteed future for the venue, noting that the track surface represents a significant financial commitment that must be secured before other improvements can proceed.
The dispute centres on the management of the stadium’s infrastructure. Nottingham City Council has fenced off the main stand and padlocked the floodlights, citing health and safety concerns. Robinson reported that the club received no prior communication regarding these closures, despite previous assurances that they would be kept informed. He highlighted that the closure particularly impacts winter training, where parents previously used the stand for shelter.
In response, David Mellen, the council’s executive member for leisure, culture and tourism, explained that the stand was closed due to structural safety concerns. He stated that fencing was installed as a precautionary measure after unauthorised access persisted. Mellen maintained that the track itself remains open for use and that the council is actively identifying a programme of works alongside viable funding options.
The stadium, originally constructed in the 1950s with funding from philanthropist Harvey Hadden, is managed by the Harvey Hadden Stadium Trust. Under a High Court order, Nottingham City Council serves as the sole trustee and is legally required to maintain the facility. The council has pledged to provide an update on funding strategies later this year, while continuing to balance the needs of Notts Athletics Club with other users, including universities and schools.
