After a decade of anticipation, the name of Guernsey’s new home of football has finally been announced.
‘Victoria Park’ will welcome its first spectators to the new state-of-the-art stadium on Victoria Avenue, St Sampsons, from March 2025.
When it opens its doors next year, Victoria Park will be the first ever permanent home for the Guernsey FA and the new home ground of Guernsey FC.
The name Victoria Park was chosen to reflect the stadium’s location on Victoria Avenue and the ground’s recreational and unifying identity. In addition to the new name, a contemporary green logo has been unveiled. Comprising three Vs that combine to form a circular shape, the logo is an abstract reflection of both blades of grass and a football.
Developed by local agency Stratagem, the branding is designed to support the inclusivity of the community venue, with football firmly at its heart.
A new Victoria Park website and social media platforms have also been launched, which will keep islanders updated as the project nears completion.
Designed by Guernsey-based architects Lovell Ozanne, and project-managed by Jason Powers Consultants, the stadium comprises substantial seated and standing spectator capacity, a world-class 3G pitch and training area, and a contemporary clubhouse. Victoria Park’s development marks another key milestone in the Guernsey FA’s long-term aim to provide Guernsey with a community hub that drives positive engagement and participation in football at all levels.
The announcement comes at the start of the 2024/25 football season and as the project enters a new development phase. Guernsey-based building contractors Rihoy & Son commenced work at the site in July 2023 and, a year later, the buildings are now wind and watertight, while the pitch’s final playing surface is due to be laid in early autumn.
The ambitious 10-year project has been realised thanks to substantial private investment, including funding from the Football Association, the Football Foundation and local benefactors.
Rob Jones, Director of Victoria Park, said: “After much speculation, we’re thrilled to finally share the new name and branding for the stadium with the local community. We’re looking forward to welcoming football players and fans of all ages through Victoria Park’s gates next spring and realising this exciting new era for Guernsey football.”
Gary Roberts, CEO of Guernsey FA, said: “This marks such an exciting new chapter for the GFA and for local football. Victoria Park’s facilities are second-to-none, and it’s great to be able to offer players of all ages and abilities such a fantastic venue to encourage and support their love of the sport.”
Tony Vance, Manager and Club Director of Guernsey FC, said: “As a club, to have a home ground of Victoria Park’s calibre is an absolute game-changer; it’s something we’ve always dreamed of. Having the security of an all-weather pitch and premium facilities means our players have the best quality training and match play available – and I’m sure our fans will appreciate the opportunity to visit our stylish new home ground.”
