Ebbsfleet United confirm they will retain full-time status despite the government rejecting the proposed Northfleet Harbourside project, including the club’s planned new stadium

Ebbsfleet have confirmed they expect their full-time model will remain in place for the coming season.

Doubts had been cast after planning permission for the Northfleet Harbourside plans – which would have seen the Fleet build a new stadium and increase revenue streams - was rejected by the government last Thursday.

It comes two years after the project was given the green light by Gravesham Borough Council and the decision followed news of a winding-up petition against the club over outstanding HMRC debts.

With the new National League South season starting this Saturday, the Fleet confirmed on Tuesday that the proposed change of ownership – first announced by the club a year ago – will still go through later this month, and the HMRC debts will be paid shortly.

The new ownership group is led by Dublin-based businessman John O’Leary as the largest shareholder and head of the consortium which comprises a number of investors. The largest two of these are based in Ireland and India.

“The proposed takeover of Ebbsfleet United FC by an ownership group who have been approved and vetted by regulatory authorities continues to progress and is expected to be completed by the end of August 2026,” said a club statement.

“The new ownership are committed to the club and expect the current full-time football model for this season to remain in place.

“However, with the club’s requirement for a more sustainable model and future in the absence of community regeneration and the non-core football-related revenues associated with it, they have tasked the club with restructuring the overall cost framework as a priority.

“Once details of that are agreed and implemented, the club will update supporters further.

“Payroll and the outstanding HMRC