The world's oldest football ground is set to be left abandoned after 154 years in use.
As reported by The Sun, Maidenhead United have revealed plans to move away from York Road, their home since 1871.
Maidenhead United set to leave world's oldest ground
According to The Sun, Maidenhead United have found a site for a new purpose-built stadium at Braywick Park, less than one mile from their historic home.
Initial plans for a move were made in 2023, however these were rejected at the time by Windsor and Maidenhead Council.
Chairman Peter Griffin reported at a December fans' forum that the council will now consider the new relocation proposal, with the new ground set to have a 5,000 capacity including 2,000 seats, as well as a hybrid natural grass and artificial turf pitch.
Furthermore, club chief executive Jon Adams told the Maidenhead Advertiser: “There was a lot of concern about the original location at the front of the park, close to the road and the impact that would have on the openness of the park.
“So, we’ve now proposed a location that is at the back of Braywick.”
“We’re not looking to create a facility that is a seven-day-a-week astroturf that’s being used for lots of community sessions.”
“What it’s going to be is a football stadium which enables us to play more competitive football at the ground.”
“The big thing is that York Road maybe gets used once a week during winter, maybe twice a week.“
“The benefit of a hybrid pitch is that we can play two, three, four or five games a week on the pitch as a minimum.“
“It will provide access for our junior teams, who never get to play here.”
History of York Road
Maindenhead United played their first-ever home game at York Road in February 1871, and the FA have since recognised the Berkshire stadium as the oldest senior football ground continuously in use by the same club.
The wall of the stadium is even adorned with a blue plaque, commemorating its history and the FA's belief of the record.
York Road has never seen football league action, with Maidenhead United only reaching the National League thus far in its history.
FGG says: Unfortunate but understandable switch
While many lower-league clubs seek hybrid and astroturf pitches as a form of revenue, with greater opportunities for hiring out space during the week, it appears Maidenhead United's move is putting a focus on their own teams and supporters.
With the need for a better quality surface to satisfy their league obligations, and the chance for womens' and youth teams to play at the same ground as the first team, a switch to a purpose-built new stadium should be for the best for the club, while a greater capacity with more seating only improves their ability to host fans.