Starting gun fired on fresh future for Quibell Park 

A much-loved Scunthorpe sports ground could be set for a new chapter as North Lincolnshire Council is teaming up with Curly’s Athletes on plans to secure a more active, sustainable future for Quibell Park. 

The council wants to see the site used by more people, more often, with stronger links to local clubs, volunteers and community sport – the ambition is to build on Quibell Park’s proud sporting history while opening up new opportunities for residents, young athletes and people who face barriers to getting active. 

Curly’s Athletes, which already runs free community sessions from Quibell Park, as well as several hugely successful sporting events nationally – is working with the council to develop plans for the future of the site. 

The aim is to bring together volunteers, clubs, sponsors and local people to widen community use, support young athletes and remove barriers that stop people taking part in sport and physical activity. 

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Quibell Park is an important site with a proud sporting history and real potential for the future. 

“What matters now is making sure that future is sustainable, open and built around the needs of the clubs, athletes and residents who use it. 

“Curly’s have shown real energy in helping people get active, and this is a positive opportunity to work with them and explore how that ambition could support the wider future of the site. 

Curly’s have made an expression of interest which will now be considered through the council’s community asset transfer process, marking a positive step in exploring how the historic sports venue could be used by more people, more often. 

The site is already home to a number of clubs and has played an important role in Scunthorpe’s sporting life for generations. 

Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for Ashby, Bottesford and Scunthorpe, said: “No decision has been made, and any proposal would need to go through the proper process, but we want to work constructively with people who care about Quibell Park and want to see it thrive. 

“Residents tell me all the time they want to see the space developed and used more often. Through a community group, with some council backing, we can make that vision a reality.” 

Jono Frary, from Curly’s Athletes, said: “Quibell Park is an incredible site and we’re fortunate to have it in Scunthorpe. We see a rather exciting vision for the future, working alongside those amazing clubs who also currently call the venue their home.” 

Anyone interested in volunteering, becoming a trustee, offering practical skills, sponsoring activity or helping shape future community sport opportunities is encouraged to get in touch with Curly’s Athletes.