Bangor FC faces survival threat over alleged debts

Irish league side Bangor FC is facing a Belfast High Court battle for survival over alleged outstanding debts. A winding-up petition has been issued against the Championship One club in connection with the installation of a 3G pitch.

In court on Thursday a judge agreed to a two-week adjournment, but suggested proceedings could be approaching “the end of the line”.

Proceedings against the club known as The Seasiders centre on work carried out at their re-branded Bangor Fuels Arena. The club opened a new all-weather training surface at the Clandeboye Park ground in 2013. It was hoped the pitch would generate additional revenue for a club that was founded in 1918 and enjoyed Irish Cup success in 1993.

Confidence

Contractor TAL Civil Engineering is reportedly behind the petition due to outstanding debts for its work on the project. Ahead of Thursday’s hearing Bangor issued a statement expressing confidence that a resolution securing the its future would be reached.

A lawyer representing the club acknowledged in court there was “some concern” over the debt. She said she had been instructed to seek an adjournment for time to advise her client.

Master Kelly questioned the lack of steps taken to prevent the petition being issued.

“To approach it in terms of any question or dispute is going to be very difficult for the company,” she said. Pointing out that proceedings were advertised, she added: “It’s really the end of the line.”

However, the Master agreed to put the case back for further instructions. The winding-up petition will be heard again in two weeks time.