Eleven years after Dartford Football Club played its last match on Borough turf, Leaders of Dartford Borough Council confirmed proposals to build a new stadium for the Club within the Borough.

Members of the Council's Cabinet have instructed officers to bring forward a report seeking approval to provide land and fund the cost of construction of a new stadium for the Darts. The report will be considered by Members on May 13 2004.  

The Council hopes to see the new Stadium up and running for the 2006 season.

Founded in 1888 the Club, which plays in the Dr Martens League, has been sharing a ground with Gravesend and Northfleet for the last three seasons, following earlier ground shares with Purfleet and Erith and Belvedere.

Commenting on the team's current arrangements and today's announcement, Councillor Leadbeater said

"It is simply not right for a town of Dartford's size and standing to see its football team leading a nomadic, hand to mouth existence. We have been talking to the club since taking control in May and were determined to find a way to bring them home. However we have been careful not to raise the hopes of the club and supporters until we had something practical and firm to say. That day has now arrived."

Several potential locations for the new Stadium have been under consideration and a detailed announcement will follow. Councillor Leadbeater said "We want to find a first-class facility that will not only meet the immediate requirements of the Darts but also its aspirations to move up through the leagues. We want a Stadium that is easy to get to, well-served by public transport and as close to the heart of Dartford as possible."

Consultants have been exploring partnership funding and work will continue. However, today's proposals seek approval to fully fund the new stadium if partnership funding cannot be secured.

Councillor Leadbeater said "This club has had too many false dawns and we now propose to end the uncertainty over of the Football Club once and for all. We are prepared to provide the land, fund the construction and bring the Darts home."

"This is just the start and there is a lot more work for the Council and club to do," said Councillor Leadbeater. "We want to work with the whole Dartford Football Club family - Directors, Sponsors and Supporters - to make this stadium the best it can be. It will enhance the club's family approach to sport and provide first class facilities."

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