The news comes as a great relief to fans, as the Tynesiders finished 6th last season—securing a playoff spot—only to be denied a chance at promotion due to their failure to secure a 10-year security tenure at their home ground, Gateshead International Stadium. The club has played at the stadium since the 1971-72 season.
Fans welcomed the announcement with enthusiasm, with one supporter stating: "The update we all wanted! Well done, everyone—let’s cement our playoff spot." Many others expressed their joy, celebrating the club’s renewed chance to compete in EFL League Two.
To provide context, a security tenure is a tenant's statutory right to remain in occupation of a business premises after their lease expires and to negotiate a new lease. This protects commercial tenants from being evicted by their landlords once their lease term ends.
For Gateshead FC, securing this tenure means long-term stability—they cannot be easily evicted or forced to relocate by the stadium’s owners.
In its statement, the club thanked supporters for their patience since the end of the 2023/24 season and encouraged fans across Gateshead and beyond to rally behind manager Carl Magnay, his coaching staff, and the players for the final 11 games of the season. Gateshead currently sits fourth in the National League table, positioning themselves well for a potential promotion push.