Statement on Ashford United and the pitch at Homelands

I feel it is important to clarify our position regarding Ashford United’s pitch at Homelands.

I can confirm The Club and the Council had been in discussions over various avenues to support the replacement of the pitch, however at no time has the Council taken a decision promising the club any money for the pitch. The Council were in negotiations with The Club over a potential loan, but this was subject to a due diligence process and The Club being able to offer us adequate security and assurance that the loan could be repaid. 

Unfortunately, they were not able to provide the necessary assurances we required to protect taxpayer money and therefore the discussions on this matter ceased. We are therefore disappointed that this is not how the situation has been portrayed by Mr Crosbie. We were not approached for our position by the local media, so were not able to clarify the incorrect statements that were subsequently reported.

Ben Lockwood, Deputy Chief Executive

Ashford Borough Council