Accrington to close academy despite council offer

Accrington Stanley finished the 2024-25 League Two season in 21st place

Accrington Stanley have confirmed they will close their academy despite the offer of a grant by Hyndburn Council.

The League Two club previously announced it would be forced to close the academy as a cost-cutting measure.

That came amid a row with the council over the loss of revenue from the use of club facilities for non-matchday events after the council revoked its entertainment licence following noise complaints from neighbours.

The council had offered to put forward the £140,000 which it said in a statement would "be the figure required to keep the academy operational for the next 12 months" but the club has now turned down that offer.

"While we genuinely appreciate their offer, a detailed review of the club's financial situation and immediate challenges has made it clear that this support would not address the wider issues we are facing," a club statement said.

"During these discussions, the club outlined its ambitions and financial responsibilities, particularly as we look ahead to the 2025-26 season.

"After careful consideration, the board has concluded that continuing to operate the academy at this time is not a viable option, even with the council's proposed financial assistance."

Accrington finished the 2024-25 League Two season in 21st place and eight points off the relegation places.

That finish came as a row with the local council continued late into the campaign, with owner Andy Holt eventually saying he would step down from his position as chairman.

He eventually agreed to continue funding the club by up to £250,000 per season.

"The enforced closure of our function rooms, rising costs - such as National Insurance and minimum wage increases - combined with no forthcoming resolution to the club's planning issues have placed an ever-growing financial burden on our club and subsequently on our owner who is now in his 11th year of financially supporting Accrington Stanley FC," the statement added.

"This situation has compelled the club to reassess its strategy for the upcoming season and beyond.

"Despite Andrew Holt's continued generosity, the lack of significant revenue streams to offset these escalating expenses has left us with no option but to implement difficult yet necessary cuts."