Could Maitland be the answer for the Jets? This mayor thinks so
The Newcastle Jets and Venues NSW are in conflict over a high security bond requirement. Mayor Philip Penfold suggests that an upgraded Maitland Sportsground could serve as a new home for the Newcastle Jets, following reports of a standoff between the A-League club and Venues NSW regarding the McDonald Jones Stadium bond.
Dispute over security bond
The Newcastle Herald reported that the Jets and Venues NSW, a government agency managing multiple stadiums, disagree over a $300,000 up-front bond to rent McDonald Jones Stadium this season. Venues NSW has threatened to take action if the Jets fail to pay $250,000 by next Wednesday.
Jets' financial history and current offer
The Jets, currently under new ownership, agreed to pay $300,000 last year due to unpaid debts by previous owners. It is understood that those debts have now been cleared. The club, aiming to rebuild financial stability, proposed a fairer plan this year, offering to pay for two games in advance, an offer rejected by Venues NSW.
Current stadium situation
The Jets have 13 home games scheduled at McDonald Jones Stadium, which seats 30,000. Currently, there is no alternative venue suitable for their matches in the region.
Potential solution: Maitland Sportsground
Mayor Penfold believes that upgrading Maitland Sportsground, with a 10,000 to 12,000-seat capacity, could address the team's need for a stadium in the region.
This dispute highlights the ongoing necessity for a smaller, dedicated stadium suitable for the Jets and the area’s sporting community.
Summary: The Newcastle Jets face a costly bond dispute with Venues NSW, prompting calls from local officials to develop a smaller stadium at Maitland Sportsground as a practical alternative to McDonald Jones Stadium.