Fleet name change was a "strategic decision", says chairman

The Directors of Gravesend & Northfleet Football Club have decided to rename the club as Ebbsfleet United Football Club.

The name change has received the Football Association’s approval and the change will come into effect immediately.

The Directors believe that this change sets the scene for the club to grow both on and off the pitch in the future. The benefits of the name change, which was first muted in 2005, have been thoroughly investigated, with many parties consulted over the last few months.

The club believe that this evolutionary move along with the significant regeneration programme taking place within the Thames Gateway are will galvanise both the wider community and football fans in the locality.

The club’s traditional home colours of red and white remain, as does the historic design of the clubs badge. The club will proudly continue to be known by their nickname of ‘The Fleet’.

Commenting on this change, club Chairman Jason Botley told www.gnfc.co.uk:  ‘The club have served well a loyal community fan base over the last hundred years.

"We have evolved through that period from Gravesend FC with the merger in 1946 with Northfleet United. Moving forward over the next 100 years and being able to adapt as the whole area is regenerated was an important driver for the club.

"Becoming Ebbsfleet United FC was a strategic decision by the club for our future. The change will provide many new benefits; not least the ability to attract new commercial investment as North West Kent’s growth continues a pace."

Jessica McQueen, the Chair of the Fleet Supporters Trust said: "The Fleet Trust can understand the rational behind the name change, which may help to better identify the football club with the area, projects and development being aligned with that name.

"We can also understand that this could mean the club may be able to attract more sizeable sponsorship. However, we must never forget the history of the club and of course we intend to consult with our members in due course’.

"Leader of Gravesham Council, John Burden added: "Gravesham Council have always supported The Fleet with all their initiatives. This name change is no different. We know the Directors strive to continue to move the club forward for the benefit of all sections of the community. We see this as a positive move for the club and the whole area’

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Viist Ebbsfleet United's website www.gnfc.co.uk