Maidenhead United's historic York Road stadium, the world's oldest football ground continuously used by the same club, is set to be abandoned after 154 years. The National League South side, established in 1870, has played at the Berkshire venue since 1871, a record recognised by the FA.
Club chairman Peter Griffin announced revived plans to move to a new stadium at Braywick Park, citing that the historic ground is no longer fit for purpose. The move is seen as crucial for the club's future, despite being described as a decision made with a 'heavy heart'.
Previous plans to leave York Road were blocked by the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in 2023 due to concerns about loss of space. However, the club is now re-engaging with the council, with public consultations scheduled for January and hopes to submit a formal planning application thereafter.
The proposed new stadium would include a hybrid grass and artificial turf pitch, separate changing rooms for men's and women's teams, and aims to create a sports hub in the town centre. Griffin emphasised the need to secure the club for the next 150 years and support community activities.
Maidenhead United currently sits eighth in the National League South table, having returned to the division this season after an eight-year stint in the National League.
