Council backs Athletic's 3G dream

Carshalton Athletic are a step closer to installing an artificial pitch after their landlords at Sutton Council agreed to let the Ryman Premier club alter its lease.

The Robins are investigating the possibility of joining a growing numbers of clubs playing on the latest 3G surfaces and have yet to submit a planning permission for approval.

In a boost for their plans, Sutton Council agreed this week to vary the conditions of Carshalton Athletic's lease on their War Memorial Sports Ground to enable the club to make an application for a £400,000 grant to fund a new all-weather facility.

Athletic, who were recently honoured by UEFA as one of Europe's leading community clubs, hope the new pitch will provide better sports facilities in the South London borough, create jobs and also cut maintenance costs.

They have faced opposition from neighbours who've raised concerns over increased noise and disturbance. In an effort to combat this, Sutton Council has also agreed to the formation of a forum made up of representatives from the club, the council and residents to discuss and resolve any issues.