Talks to transfer land at Kings Park to AFC Bournemouth have been approved by councillors following a recorded vote on Monday night.
At the full council meeting on 14 October, members voted 44–2, with two abstentions, in favour of progressing Option C from a cabinet report, allowing negotiations for new leases covering the stadium and adjacent car park.
Councillor Mike Cox, who introduced the recommendation, stressed that the approval is not a sale but an agreement to begin discussions. “This is just asking them to go away and negotiate and then come back to us with what the terms are,” he said.
The club’s proposals include demolishing the existing South Stand, building a larger replacement, infilling all four corners of the stadium, upgrading the East and West Stands, and expanding the height and width of the North and East Stands to increase capacity.
Councillor Bobbie Dove raised objections, saying the report contained “inaccuracies” and that the lease negotiations should remain separate from the stadium expansion.
Councillor Tarling said he supported the move, adding that the investment enhances Bournemouth’s reputation globally.
Cllr Cox concluded that any final agreement will return to cabinet and council for full scrutiny before a decision is made.
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