Torquay United Takeover Collapses Over Stadium Sale

The proposed takeover of National League side Torquay United has "fallen through after bidders Gaming International pulled out," according to the BBC. The Swindon-based firm could not agree to a deal "over buying the freehold of the club's Plainmoor ground." GI wanted to build a new stadium for the Gulls "on the outskirts of the town, paid for by redeveloping Plainmoor." But Torbay Council, which owns Plainmoor, "could not come to a deal over selling the ground to GI." Club Chair David Phillips said, "We encountered a major stumbling block over GI's instance on the purchase of the freehold of Plainmoor which was not a part of the memorandum of understanding we had with them. As a consequence we are now actively talking to and inviting interest in Torquay United from parties who share our vision and passion for this great club" (BBC, 7/31).