Widnes FC Resign from Northern Premier League After Ground Move Collapse

Widnes FC have announced their withdrawal from all senior competitions, resigning from the Northern Premier League just months after securing a historic promotion to the third tier of the non-league pyramid.

The decision follows the collapse of plans to move into a permanent home at the Corporation Club site, after the club cited a lack of support from Halton Borough Council (HBC) in resolving parking issues. Widnes had agreed a 36-year lease on the site before withdrawing their application last month.

Widnes had capped off a remarkable 2024/25 campaign by winning the NPL West Division on the final day, with Harry McGee’s goal securing the title in dramatic fashion against Trafford. But despite their success on the pitch, off-field challenges have forced the club to withdraw from the league entirely.

The Northern Premier League Premier Division will now operate with 21 teams for the 2025/26 season, with Widnes taking the bottom place by default. As a result, only three teams will be relegated.

In a strongly-worded statement, the club expressed frustration with HBC, claiming that meetings were promised but never materialised, and that communication dried up at a critical moment. The statement added: “We couldn’t even get an email reply or a simple congratulations as NPL West Champions from anyone at HBC or our local MP.”

Despite the senior team’s resignation, Widnes confirmed their junior section will continue, operating under a new affiliation as Widnes FC Juniors.

The club thanked fans, staff, and the Northern Premier League committee, while paying special tribute to Steven Irwin and Sean Miller for their efforts to keep the club afloat.

“It’s a very sad day for us all at the club,” the statement concluded, “and we really do hope you keep your fires burning.”