Farnborough confirm 4G pitch plans

[FF News]

Farnborough FC owner Rob Prince has broken his silence to confirm rumours the club have submitted a formal application to Rushmoor Borough Council to install a new 4G pitch at Cherrywood Road.

And they could be about to join forces with either an American football team or rugby union team to create a multi-purpose sporting facility to bring “long-term regeneration” to the area.

In a statement issued on Monday, Prince revealed that the joint venture application for a 4G pitch has received a “positive reaction” from council chiefs with view to starting work on the development in the summer.

The Farnham Knights American football team and London Irish rugby union side are among those rumoured to be interested in sharing the facility.

Meanwhile, two local football teams, believed to be Camberley Town and Badshot Lea, are also keen on becoming part of the project, which will run in conjunction with schools and community groups.

Elsewhere in the statement, Prince revealed the club have agreed a five-figure sponsorship deal with Greene King to run for the rest of this year and next.

Speaking of the 4G venture - similar to those who run successfully at Sutton United, Merthyr Town and Maidstone United - Prince confirmed the Rushmoor Community Stadium will be used for more than just football particularly should a 4G pitch be laid.

"We have had very detailed discussions with American football and rugby union teams that seek a long term tenancy at the site, one through the Council directly.

"The matter is tied to the 4G application but either proposal will bring long-term regeneration of the area and ultimately benefit the community as well as the football element of the club.

"The site will also be used on a daily basis by schools and community groups. I have also received two applications from football teams to ground share next season at considerably more money than our previous tenants.

"I have delayed an answer on these as our 4G proposal takes precedence and I must give that application every chance of proceeding rather than just taking the short-term financial gain."

Prince went on to add that two separate applications for housing development on land at the back of the stadium and new changing rooms to support the increased usage will also be submitted in the next 90 days following initial discussions with planning officials.

Source: www.gethampshire.co.uk

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