Could Maitland be the answer for the Jets? This mayor thinks so
The Newcastle Jets and Venues NSW are in a dispute over a "preposterous" security bond. Mayor Philip Penfold suggests that an upgraded Maitland Sportsground could serve as a new home for the Jets after news emerged of a standoff between the A-League club and Venues NSW regarding a large security bond for McDonald Jones Stadium.
The Newcastle Herald reported that Venues NSW, a government agency managing several stadiums in NSW, demanded a $300,000 upfront bond for hiring McDonald Jones Stadium this season. Venues NSW warned it would take action if the Jets did not pay $250,000 by next Wednesday.
Sources indicate the Jets, now under new ownership, agreed to the $300,000 bond last year due to past payment issues under former owners. They have reportedly settled outstanding debts since then. The club, aiming to rebuild financial stability, proposed a more reasonable arrangement this year.
The Jets have 13 home games scheduled at McDonald Jones Stadium and offered to pay for two games in advance, but this offer was rejected by Venues NSW.
Currently, McDonald Jones Stadium, with a capacity of 30,000, is the only available venue in the region for the Jets. This conflict underscores the urgent need for a new stadium with a capacity of 10,000 to 12,000 seats in the area.
"Venues NSW has warned that action would be taken to protect the organisation if the Jets don't pay $250,000 by next Wednesday."
"The Jets have 13 home games scheduled for McDonald Jones Stadium this season and are understood to be willing to pay two games in advance, an offer that was rejected by Venues NSW."
Mayor Philip Penfold's suggestion
Mayor Penfold believes that upgrading Maitland Sportsground could provide a viable alternative venue for the Newcastle Jets, addressing the security bond dispute and the region's stadium capacity needs.
Author's summary: The Newcastle Jets face a costly stadium bond dispute, prompting calls to upgrade Maitland Sportsground as a practical solution for regional football facilities.