HALIFAX PANTHERS can make a key contribution to a flourishing Shay stadium through their work in the community.
That’s the vision of one of the group of local individuals working to secure the long-term viability of the ground.
The Panthers are gearing up for a 28th campaign at The Shay, and play Warrington there in James Saltonstall’s testimonial on Sunday.
But as owners Calderdale Council try to lessen their involvement, there are concerns over the longer-term future of the 10,400-capacity venue which is also used by football club FC Halifax Town.
A six-strong group are in discussions with the council, the Panthers and Town with the aim of setting up a not-for-profit company to operate the stadium, where the Rugby League club moved in 1998 after selling their former ground Thrum Hall.
The intention is to develop The Shay for use by the community as well as the two tenant teams, who would be allowed greater commercial opportunities, and to invest any surplus back into the stadium.
Group member Keith Butterick told the Halifax Courier: “The clubs have to work together and I think the most optimistic outcome is some form of community involvement in some form of trust.
“The Shay could be such a great asset for the area. We’ve got ideas about using it as a centre for sport and a centre for community.
“What the Panthers do on their community side and with their women’s team is absolutely brilliant and that could be the focus of what we could do at the stadium.
“There is an opportunity for significant development and it could be very exciting.”