Birthplace of international football put on market as fight to save historic Scottish site continues

The site of the original Hampden Park, widely regarded as the birthplace of international football in Scotland, has been put on the market for lease.

Campaigners hoping to preserve the historic Queen's Park site are now racing to submit a community-led proposal after an earlier bid to take ownership was rejected.

The original Hampden Park now put on the market

City Property Glasgow is advertising the former Hampden Bowling Club as an “exciting leisure opportunity”, with the site comprising a small clubhouse, bar, kitchen, toilets, outbuildings and a former bowling green, as per local reports.

The land has significant historical links to the origins of Scottish football and the country's first international team.

The original ground was the world's first purpose-built international football stadium, while archaeological remains of its pavilion in Kingsley Rose Gardens were designated a national monument by Historic Environment Scotland in May.

However, the site's future remains uncertain.

First Hampden, a campaign seeking to preserve the location as a heritage asset, previously submitted a bid for community ownership that was refused.

A spokesperson for the group stressed that the site had not been saved, despite suggestions in some recent coverage, and confirmed that campaigners were working on a fresh proposal. No closing date has been set for the current marketing process.

City Property Glasgow has defended the decision to test the market, explaining that the property forms part of its commercial investment portfolio and previously generated rental income.

The organisation said offers would be assessed on financial value, deliverability, community benefits and heritage considerations.

It also stressed that there is no intention to sell the site for redevelopment, encouraging interested organisations to submit proposals for consideration.

FGG says: Scotland must protect the heritage of original Hampden Park

It would be a significant loss if a site so closely connected to Scottish football's origins failed to find a sustainable future that recognises its historical importance.

City Property Glasgow has made clear that heritage and community benefits can influence its decision, giving campaigners an opportunity to put forward a viable alternative.

The priority now must be finding a solution that preserves this important piece of football history while giving the site a meaningful future.