A campaign has been initiated to preserve the site of First Hampden, the first home ground of Scotland’s national football team, established in 1878. This historic Glasgow location is considered by many to be the world’s first purpose-built international football stadium, and is credited with the origin of features now common in sports venues, such as season tickets and turnstiles.
The site, located near the current Hampden Park, was also the home of Queen’s Park FC, a club associated with the invention of modern football tactics like passing play. A mural at the location commemorates a significant 1882 victory over England and features Andrew Watson, the first Black international footballer.
Following the closure of the tenant bowling club, the site has been put on the market. A community interest company (CIC) aims to transform it into a community hub and heritage space, celebrating its footballing history. While part of the site has protected status after excavations revealed remains of the original pavilion, another section, including the former bowling club building and lawn, is not covered by this protection.
Despite efforts by the CIC to acquire the site, including a rejected community asset transfer, the owners are reportedly seeking commercially reasonable terms. The CIC is pursuing other avenues, such as a feasibility study and official bids, to achieve its goal of creating a vibrant community space that also upholds significant footballing heritage.
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Source: theguardian.com
