Thursday, 21 Nov 2024

Gallagher Stadium: The Home of Maidstone United

Maidstone United’s journey to playing football at Gallagher Stadium was anything but straightforward. After selling their original stadium in 1988, the club faced financial difficulties and eventually went out of business. However, a phoenix club was formed in 1992 and spent years playing in various grounds before finally settling at Gallagher Stadium in 2012. This move was made possible by a change in ownership and a renewed interest in establishing a new ground in Maidstone. The construction of Gallagher Stadium cost approximately £2.8 million.

Maidenstone United: A Fascinating Journey

Maidstone United’s history is as captivating as the stadium in which they play their games. The club was a member of the Football League from 1989 to 1992, but unfortunately went bankrupt and ceased to exist. A new club, Maidstone Invicta, was then formed around the youth team. Slowly but steadily, the club climbed up the ranks of football’s lower divisions and rebranded as Maidstone United in 1995. The club has had its fair share of ups and downs since then, including reaching the National League.

Gallagher Stadium Stats

  • Year Opened: 2012
  • Capacity: 4,200
  • Average Attendance: 1,972
  • Record Attendance: 4,175 (Maidstone United v Hampton & Richmond Borough, 07/05/2022)
  • Pitch Size: 100 x 64 (6,400)
  • Former Name: James Whatman Way
  • Owner: Maidstone United Ground Ltd.
  • Sponsor: Gallagher Group
  • Clubs Hosted: Maidstone United
  • First Fixture: Maidstone United v Brighton & Hove Albion
  • Year Founded: 1992
  • Nickname: The Stones
  • Rivals: Ebbsfleet United
  • Previous Stadiums: London Road, Central Park, Bourne Park, The Homelands
  • Kit: Gold & Black (Home) / Sky Blue & White (Away)
  • Training Ground: Maidstone United Academy
  • Shirt Sponsor: Manchett
  • Team Owner: Oliver Ash & Terry Casey
  • Record Appearances: Tom Mills (341)
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Gallagher Stadium Photos

[![Gallagher Stadium Photos](link to image)](link to image)

Gallagher Stadium Seating Plan and Where to Sit

Gallagher Stadium offers four distinct areas situated around the pitch. The Main Stand, located on the east side, features 750 seats, a media room, press area, and two executive lounges. The North Stand is a covered terrace accommodating nearly 1,800 people, while the South Stand is also a covered terrace with space for approximately 500 people. The west side of the stadium is currently undeveloped and consists of a hard standing area.

Maidstone United FC Ticket Prices

Here is a breakdown of Maidstone United ticket prices for the 2023-2024 season, which vary based on age and personal circumstances:

  • Adult: £17
  • Concession: £13
  • 11-16-year-olds: £7
  • Under-11s: Free

Concession tickets are available to individuals over 65 or students with valid identification.

FAQs

Q: How can I get Maidstone United FC tickets?

A: You can visit the official Maidstone United website or purchase tickets at the box office on the day of the game.

Q: Where can I buy tickets?

A: You can buy tickets on Ticket Compare.

Getting To Gallagher Stadium

Train – If you’re traveling from London, head towards Maidstone East or Maidstone Barracks station, both within walking distance of the stadium.

Bus – The Mall Bus Station is the best place to catch a bus to Gallagher Stadium. Bus routes 101 or 155 stop outside the Kent Library and History Centre, providing easy access to the ground.

Car – The optimal driving route will depend on your starting location. Generally, you’ll want to take the M20 and exit at Junction 6, followed by the M2 to Junction 3. From there, follow the signs for Maidstone.

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By Air – Southend Airport is approximately 22.4 miles from Maidstone, with convenient transportation options available from London City Airport, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, and London Stansted.

Taxi – Taxis to the stadium from nearby stations typically cost around £5, depending on traffic conditions.

Parking Near Gallagher Stadium

Parking at the stadium is limited to those with pre-reserved spaces. If you’re unable to secure a designated parking spot, there are pay and display car parks nearby to avoid any parking infringements.

See available parking near Gallagher Stadium.

Useful Resources

  • Parking – [Just Park](link to resource)

Pubs and Bars Near Gallagher Stadium

[Insert information about pubs and bars near Gallagher Stadium]

About Maidstone United FC

After Maidstone United went into administration in 1992, the supporters and those involved in the club were determined to establish a phoenix club. The youth squad formed the foundation of the new team, known as Maidstone Invicta. The club gradually progressed through the non-league system, reclaiming the Maidstone United name in 1995. Climbing up the leagues was a long and challenging process, but the club eventually made it to the Isthmian League and then the Conference South in the 2015-2016 season. Though they faced difficulties at the National League level, the team persists with a dedicated fanbase.

Gallagher Stadium History

Construction on Gallagher Stadium began in September 2011, with preliminary work starting the previous month. Floodlights were installed in early 2012, and funding from the Football Stadia Improvement Fund was secured in February. Terracing was completed in April, and a 3G pitch was installed at the end of that month. The stadium was considered fully completed by July 2012. Over the following years, the club continued expanding the stadium’s capacity, including the Main Stand, which welcomed approximately 750 spectators in 2015.

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In 2016, the 3G pitch was re-laid after the club achieved promotion to the top-tier of non-league football in England. Gallagher Stadium’s inaugural game was a friendly against Brighton & Hove Albion, which ended in a 5-0 victory for the visiting team. The first competitive match at the stadium was an Isthmian League Division One South game against Walton & Hersham, resulting in a 5-4 loss for the home team. The stadium was constructed on a former drilling site of the Royal Engineers, with its completion delayed due to the signing of a lease with the Ministry of Defence. The club will need to install a grass pitch to be eligible for Football League participation.

Conclusion

Gallagher Stadium serves as the beloved home of Maidstone United FC. With an intriguing history and ongoing developments, it continues to be a place where football fans gather to support their team. Whether you’re interested in attending a match or simply exploring the stadium and its surroundings, Gallagher Stadium offers a unique experience for football enthusiasts. Learn more about Maidstone United and their upcoming fixtures on the official Movin993 website.