AFC Marine are set to embark on a new chapter in the club’s history as they have opened discussions to move to a new stadium.
The Mariners have resided at Rosette Park in Crosby since 1903, and given the clubs’ trajectory in recent years they have now decided this is the right time to expand.
Chairman of Marine Dave McMillan said:
“We want to look to expand, and I think if the discussion had been 10 years ago, it probably wouldn’t have been the latter, at the time the gate averaged 300 and so it really wasn’t really feasible to look at and we didn’t really need a bigger ground.
“However, we played Bootle on Boxing Day after the FA Cup run in 2021. And basically, we could have sold probably three and a half 1000 tickets for that game, such as was the demand.
🏟️ Marine Football Club are proud to announce the full plans for a new 8.32 acre stadium to be situated on Edge Lane, L23 1TR, in conjunction and with support from Bellway Homes and land-owner Craig Sneddon.
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— Marine Football Club (@MarineAFC) February 4, 2025
“The increase in attendances was the catalyst to first discuss moving stadiums further down the line, as you’re not going to attract and retain fans unless your winning matches and improving your match day experience.”
The new stadium could reach a 7000 capacity and is proposed to feature dedicated supporters’ bar, an upgraded function suite, and improved facilities for players and officials.
How the new stadium will be a benefit for grassroots football
As well as being the home to AFC Marine Rosette Park has long provided a vital space for youth football, charity matches and structured training sessions.
The demand however often exceeds capacity and with a new stadium Marine can meet the increased demand and expand community offerings further.
Dave McMillan said:
“Rosette Park is currently used by the community as well as our own teams that play there such as the first team, the women’s team, and the academy.
“As well as being as being used by our different teams, we have agreements with grassroots teams such as Crosby Stuart JFC who have teams from all age groups currently playing at the stadium now.
“We also currently get bombarded by other youth teams to use the 3G pitch if the weather is bad so the new stadium will obviously help the increased demand and to expand activities further.
“So, the new stadium will be another community benefit for kids and junior teams.”
(Featured image by Kevin Bannon)
