A new era has begun at Bath City FC after the club’s takeover by a new ownership group was officially completed alongside a multi-million-pound investment.
The deal, finalised on 10 September, sees Bath City Holding Company take control of the club after a year-long process involving supporters, shareholders and club officials.
The investment group, led by new Executive Chair Andrew Stalbow, has raised more than £6 million from around 50 investors. It says the funding will be used to support both the men’s and women’s teams, improve facilities and strengthen the club’s links with supporters and the wider community.
Mr Stalbow thanked fans, shareholders, the Supporters Society, the Supporters Club and volunteers for backing the deal.
Mr Stalbow said: “This deal happened because of the incredible backing we’ve received from the fans, the shareholders, the Supporters Society, the Supporters Club and the board.
“Our role is to unlock Bath City’s potential and transform the club. Our work starts today.”
Bath City has been supporter-owned since 2017, when the Bath City Supporters’ Society acquired a controlling stake in the club. Members of both the Supporters’ Society and the Supporters’ Club voted overwhelmingly in favour of transferring their shares to the new ownership structure.
The club said measures have been built into the agreement to ensure supporters continue to have a voice in its future. These include a seat on the board for a Supporters’ Society representative, a Community Share and provisions giving supporters a say over key decisions affecting the club.
Outgoing chair David McDonagh, who will remain involved as the Supporters’ Society representative on the new board, said many people had worked behind the scenes to ensure the deal was right for the club.
Bath City’s men’s team currently plays in the Southern League Premier Division South, having been relegated from National League South at the end of last season. The club also operates two women’s teams.
The new ownership group’s plans include helping the club progress up the football pyramid and developing infrastructure capable of supporting future growth.