Gillingham FC has sparked outrage by banning fans from bringing outside food and drink into Priestfield Stadium, a move that has split supporters ahead of the new League Two season. The club now restricts fans to a single 500ml plastic water bottle, with medical exemptions requiring a doctor’s note, medical certificate or prescription.
What’s behind the new rule?
The club installed new signs outside Priestfield Stadium outlining the policy, which applies to all supporters. Exceptions are limited to those with medical needs, who must provide documentation to the fan engagement team. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from fans who argue the club’s own food and drink outlets are too slow, too expensive and offer poor variety.
Gillingham sit 17th in League Two with 53 points from 46 games, 34 points behind leaders Bromley, and have conceded 72 goals this season. Their recent form stands at two wins and three losses in their last five matches, though they ended a two-game losing streak with a 1-0 win over Shrewsbury on 2 May 2026.
Why are fans so angry?
Many supporters have slammed the policy as a cash grab, pointing to long queues at kiosks and high prices. One fan launched a petition against the ban, while others took to social media to call the move heavy-handed. Some claim their children were searched and had snacks confiscated, adding to the backlash.
The Gillingham FC Supporters’ Club (GFCSC) said it was “very surprised” by the announcement and believes the policy was not thought through. A spokesman told KentOnline the club should have discussed the change at the upcoming Fans’ Forum to explain its reasoning and gauge supporter reaction.
How does this compare to other clubs?
Several League Two sides operate similar bans, but most allow more flexibility. Walsall FC permits small cold food items and sealed non-alcoholic drinks up to 500ml in plastic bottles. Gillingham’s policy mirrors venues like cinemas, where outside food is restricted to prevent competition with in-house sales.
Fans have questioned whether the club will police the rule by searching every supporter at the turnstiles. Others have highlighted that NHS doctors rarely provide notes for such requests, and when they do, the cost can reach £40. The GFCSC also asked whether diabetics will need a doctor’s note to bring in glucose tablets or similar items.
What happens next?
The policy has already drawn strong reactions online, with some calling it a “bad move” and others defending it as a standard practice that supports the team financially. The GFCSC stressed that while poor service at Priestfield’s outlets needs improvement, the ban risks alienating fans before the new season even begins.
Gillingham’s opening fixtures are just weeks away, and the club has yet to address the growing controversy publicly beyond the initial announcement.
