The petition of residents of the constituency of Aylesbury,
Declares that Aylesbury United Football Club, founded in 1897, has made an invaluable contribution to our area in fostering community spirit and promoting physical and mental wellbeing over more than 125 years; further declares that over 60,000 people have been positively impacted by the Club over the last 30 years; further notes that the Club’s players and supporters, nicknamed the Ducks, have been without a home ground in the Aylesbury constituency since their eviction from Buckingham Road in 2006—a displacement that has now lasted 20 years; and further notes that the Ducks have long sought to relocate to a local ground.
The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urge the Government to consider the merits of Aylesbury United Football Club returning to a home ground within the Aylesbury constituency, and to encourage the relevant bodies to take the necessary steps to achieve this, thereby “bringing the Ducks home”.
And the petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Laura Kyrke-Smith, Official Report, 22 April 2026; Vol. 784, c. 405.]
[P003182]
Observations from the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (Stephanie Peacock): I would like to thank my hon. Friend the Member for Aylesbury (Laura Kyrke-Smith) for raising this important issue on behalf of their constituents and the wider supporter base of Aylesbury United football club. I also extend my thanks to the club’s volunteers, staff, and supporters. The Government recognise the vital role that historic grassroots clubs like Aylesbury United play in towns and villages across the country, making an immense positive impact on the fabric of their local areas.
These clubs are often the beating heart of their communities, providing a vital space for both sport and social connection. The immense value of grassroots football is well documented, providing substantial social wellbeing benefits and relieving pressure on our health services through improved physical and mental health. These community institutions are instrumental in fostering local networks and a true sense of pride in place.
The Government also acknowledge the rich history and cultural significance of Aylesbury United. The Ducks have long been a source of local pride, with notable historical achievements including their run to the third round of the FA cup in 1994-95, and they famously hosted the full England national team ahead of the European championships in 1988. Furthermore, we note the club’s recent transition into a community-owned model. This move demonstrates a commendable commitment to the club’s long-term sustainability, and ensures that Aylesbury United remains firmly rooted in the community it serves.
In this context, it is highly commendable that the club has maintained such an extensive youth set-up, providing sporting opportunities to hundreds of boys and girls, despite the prolonged logistical challenges of not having a dedicated local stadium over the past two decades. We understand the deep frustration of the fans and the wider community when they see local children potentially miss out on these opportunities due to a lack of permanent, dedicated facilities.
The Government support the enthusiasm that relevant bodies are showing in continuing their efforts to bring the Ducks home. Should a new site be identified, support may be accessed via the Premier League stadium fund. This fund can assist existing national league clubs in securing a permanent new ground by part-funding specific facility developments at a new site, such as stands, floodlights, and pitches.
We remain committed to supporting football at all levels. We have already put football fans back at the heart of our national game by delivering the historic Football Governance Act 2025 and establishing the independent football regulator. While this is focused on the top five levels of men’s football, the new regime will promote a more sustainable game, ensuring the success of English football at all levels.
We wish Aylesbury United the very best in their ongoing efforts to find a permanent home within their community.