Maidenhead United suffer setback over plans to move away from world’s ‘oldest football stadium’

Maidenhead United's plans to leave the world's oldest continuously used senior football stadium have suffered a major setback after councillors unexpectedly moved to reconsider the proposed relocation project.

The National League South club had appeared to take a significant step towards a new future at Braywick Park, but fresh scrutiny over the decision-making process has now cast uncertainty over the development once again.

Council to reconsider Maidenhead United stadium plans in surprise U-turn

Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council had approved the Magpies' proposed move to a six-acre site at Braywick Park in April, subject to planning permission being granted.

However, councillors agreed this week that the decision requires further examination after details of 148 public objections were not published before the original meeting within the recommended timeframe under local government guidance, as per the BBC.

The proposed move would see the Magpies leave York Road, where the club has played since 1871. The ground is widely regarded as the oldest senior football stadium in the world to have been continuously used by the same club.

As part of the proposal, Maidenhead United would pay £2.5 million for a 999-year lease of the land, with £2 million intended to be invested into wider sporting facilities at Braywick Park, including refurbishment of the athletics track.

Despite councillors being given access to consultation responses ahead of the original decision, concerns have intensified around several aspects of the project.

Residents have raised objections relating to traffic congestion, the loss of green space and the impact the development could have on nearby facilities, including Forest Bridge School.

Maidenhead United responded by saying: “We fully understand and respect the democratic process and the need for Cabinet to consider all points of view in its decision making.

“As a non-profit making organisation, we remain fully committed to the project and benefits it will bring to Braywick Park, community sport and the wider town both now and for future generations.”

FGG says: A significant hurdle in Maidenhead's long-term vision

This is not the end of Maidenhead United’s proposed move, but it is undeniably a setback.

For the club, relocating from York Road has always been framed as a long‑term sustainability project.

It is a delicate balance. Honouring the emotional pull of one of football’s most historic homes while pursuing the facilities and infrastructure needed for future growth.

However, the path forward has become more complicated.

The real challenge for Maidenhead may never have been the physical construction of a new stadium. Instead, it may lie in persuading local stakeholders that the wider community benefits outweigh the concerns being raised.

And while York Road’s remarkable history remains intact for the time being, uncertainty has once again crept into what had appeared to be a clear next chapter in the club’s story.