A popular green space could soon be known locally as the Sports Direct Country Park after it emerged billionaire businessman Mike Ashley is poised to join the race to secure the renaming rights for Gedling Country Park.
Gedling Borough Council are considering accepting a bid for rights to rename the attraction in a bid to raise much-needed revenue to fund other activities across the borough.
It is understood a number of parties have been approached by the council and are said to be interested, including Sports Direct and Frazers founder Mike Ashley.
Sources close to the London-based businessman revealed he is keen to acquire naming rights to a UK green space due to its association with fitness and health – which would be a perfect fit for his Sports Direct and Everlast Gyms brand.
Documents seen by Gedling Eye revealed that the winning bidder would have the right to rename the park and also create retail space within the popular visitor’s centre – making a bid appealing to retailer Ashley.
The park attracts more than 100,000 a year and would create a huge amount of footfall for any future Sports Direct store based at the attraction.
One park goer who didn’t wish to be named said: “This is outrageous. I won’t be supporting it. Sports Direct Country Park sounds ridiculous. Keep it as it is.”
Joe King lives in nearby Carlton and visits the park daily. He slammed the move.
Mr King said: “Everything is up for sale these days to cash rich businesses. Any commercial name change would put me off visiting. I hope this is just a stupid rumour and not true.”
That’s very good 😀 Almost had me 😉
April Fool