Rule change force champions Bromley to ditch 3G pitch plans

BROMLEY have been told that they can’t lay an artificial pitch at Hayes Lane ahead of their first season in the top-flight of non-league football.

The Ravens celebrated their first title in 54 years by winning the Vanarama Conference South and will be playing in the rebranded Vanrama National League next season.



THE WAIT IS OVER: Bromley celebrate winning the Vanarama Conference South title after beating Weston-super-Mare 3-0 at Hayes Lane on 18 April.
Photo: Edmund Boyden
 

The club were going to install a 3G pitch later this month to boost revenue streams but they have been told that they will have to play on grass next season.

Mark Goldberg’s side lost seven of their nine league games on their bobbly Hayes Lane pitch, a result of too many games played at the iconic 76-year-old stadium.

The club issued a statement on their club website.

“Bromley Football Club were surprised to learn at the start of this week, that despite previous announcements to the contrary, artificial pitches will not be allowed in the top division of the Vanarama National League for the forthcoming season.

“We understand that a rule change has recently been agreed by the football authorities that prevents ATPs from being used at Step 1 of the National Leagues System.

“As the Conference National League sits at the base of Step 1, should we go ahead with our planned installation of a 3G pitch inside the stadium, we would not be able to take our rightful place in that division. Therefore the Club will be competing on the traditional grass pitch for the forthcoming season.

“Ground improvements will be getting underway shortly to ensure that we meet the appropriate grading level for national football and there will be regular updates posted on the club website during the close season.”

Meanwhile, Bromley have confirmed their admission and season ticket prices for next season, when they will be playing the likes of relegated Tranmere Rovers at Hayes Lane next season.

Bromley are supported by fans of local League sides Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic and season ticket holders of Premier League and Football League clubs can watch Goldberg’s side for £10 per game next season to boost attendance figures.

The club have increased adult admission prices by £3 to £15, while concessions (over 65s and over) will be charged £10, as will the armed forces, NHS staff and the Emergency Services.

Under 16s when accompanied by a full paying adult and arriving before 2pm on Saturday match days and 7:15pm on midweek matches are FREE, otherwise charged £5.

Seating inside the stadium is unreserved and on a first come, first served basis. Seating is free of charge.

The club have confirmed season tickets prices, although the early bird price has been set between today and next Friday 8 May.

Existing season ticket holders will have until Friday 15 May to take up the offer.

Adults: £300 (Early bird price £275)
OAPs: £200 (£175)
Students/Under 16s: £100 (£75)

Season tickets can be purchased from the club tonight at the Awards Night as the club celebrate their Greatest Ever Season.

Bromley collected their biggest ever trophy haul in a season having won the Vanarama Conference South title, Conference Youth Alliance title, Kent Women’s Plate, Kent FA Under 18 Cup and chairman Jerry Dolke guided the club to London Veterans Cup glory.

Visit Bromley’s website: www.bromleyfc.net