National League South side Maidenhead United appear to be moving closer to leaving their current York Road home following a reported agreement over the land for a new stadium.
Maidenhead's 155-year-old stadium is believed to be the oldest ground in the world to be continuously used by one club. However, the ground is no longer fit for purpose and could put the club's long-term future at risk.
The Magpies are keen to relocate to Braywick Park, but they suffered a significant setback when their plans were knocked back by the Windor and Maidenhead Council.
However, they have not given up hope of moving to their desired location. Chairman Peter Griffin explained in December that they are now looking at a location at the back of Braywick Park, rather than their previous plans of a new ground at the front of the park.
Maidenhead move closer to York Road departure
According to BBC, via The Sun, Maidenhead are on the brink of moving a step closer to their new stadium dream. That is because the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead cabinet is expected to approve the club's plan to build on land at Braywick Park.
As per the Maidenhead Advertiser, a council report has stated that the club will be able to raise ‘significant capital funding’ for investment into community sport by selling their York Road stadium.
To counter the concerns of the previous failed proposal, the new ground will have a ‘reduced visual impact from the front of Braywick’ and will cover a smaller footprint and height.
The new proposals will see Maidenhead pay the council £2.5m, with £500,000 of that sum to be paid over the first 20 years of a 999-year lease.
FGG says: Sad but necessary move
Everyone associated with Maidenhead will be saddened when the day comes to leave their historic home. However, the stadium is not fit for the modern day, and the club have no other choice but to seek a new home if they want to guarantee the club's long-term future.
Griffin has previously stated that he would have to consider selling the club if a new ground fails to materialise, highlighting the importance of the latest developments that suggest the Magpies are getting closer to achieving their stadium dream.
The proposed new ground would also improve the supporters' matchday experience, with the plan to build a 5,000 capacity venue with 2,000 seats, compared to the 500 seats that are available at the 4,000 capacity York Road.