Since the club’s earliest days, York Road has been home to Maidenhead United-the ground is officially recognised as the oldest senior football venue in continuous use from 1871 that belongs exclusively to one club.
Why the move is being considered
According to club officials, York Road no longer meets the needs of contemporary, community-oriented fanfare and a purpose-built replacement would offer best chance that Maidenhead United’s future will be secure. Recent discussions with Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead have focused on a site at Braywick Park as preferred alternative.
What’s planned at Braywick Park
The emerging plans clearly differ from mother after other. A compact, modern stadium, roughly 5,000 capacity which is bigger than York Road. Men’s, women’s and youth matches could be held. Benchmark environmental features such as renewable energy and water recycling have been floated in early documents.
Engagement with the community and what happens next
Maidenhead United have taken public workshops to gather local views and fine-tune designs; the council is expected to take a view on the proposals and, if agreeable, the club will move into formal planning and consultation processes.
A little reminder of history
Founded in 1870, the Magpies have deep roots locally and a thriving community programme–the move is presented as a means to protect and enlarge that role for future generations.
In a nutshell
If the Braywick Park project goes ahead, a piece of footballing heritage will be replaced with a new venue designed to maximize opportunities for everyone. Supporters are divided, but the club stresses it’s about long-term sustainability for Maidenhead United.
— Sources: Maidenhead United, local council papers and regional reporting