Merstham go 3G- and, temporarily, to Sevenoaks
Merstham announce temporary Sevenoaks Town groundshare whilst new 3G pitch is completed
If you are planning on taking a trip to watch a Merstham home match between now and October, you may need to rethink your journey planning- as the Moatsiders will be temporarily sharing with Sevenoaks Town.
The club have announced plans for a fabulous new 3G pitch- and whilst the work is being completed they will be heading into Kent to share with their Pitching In Isthmian South East rivals.
In a statement, the club explained:
'Merstham Football Club is delighted to confirm that work has officially begun on our new FIFA Quality 3G pitch - a transformational project that represents one of the most significant milestones in the club’s history.
The new facility will provide a first-class home for football and recreation in Merstham, ensuring we can continue to grow while creating a lasting legacy for future generations.
As part of this exciting project, we are also delighted to confirm that Reigate & Banstead Borough Council has agreed a new 30-year lease with the club. For the first time, both our football ground and clubhouse are now covered under a single long-term agreement, providing the certainty needed to invest with confidence and secure the future of Merstham Football Club.
The club has also been awarded a £500,000 grant through Reigate & Banstead Borough Council’s Community Asset Transfer and Support Programme. The programme has been created to help local organisations improve community assets so they continue to benefit residents for generations to come.'
The work is expected to be completed in October, and fixtures have already begun to be rearranged. The first home fixture at Sevenoaks will be the Emirates FA Cup tie against Raynes Park Vale on Saturday 8th August at 3PM, and all midweek evening matches will kick off at 7.30 PM rather than the more usual 7.45 PM.
The club have also added that they are looking into the viability of arranging coach travel for supporters wishing to travel to ‘home’ matches, and there will be more news on that as soon as possible.
Congratulations to all at the club on their fabulous news. Hopefully all will run to schedule and you'll be back at home soon!