A FOOTBALL club is being made homeless after council experts deemed its facilities to be “dangerous”.
Kelvedon Social Football Club said it is “saddened” by the decision which will see the council-owned property in The Chase sealed off.
It follows a building control inspection by Braintree Council which determined the clubhouse and changing rooms to be a “dangerous structure”.
It means Kelvedon Parish Council has had to seal it off from all access "in the interest of public safety," a spokeswoman said.
The football club said it has not yet had the chance to consult with the council regarding the future of its three teams which call The Chase home.
A statement reads: “We are hopeful that the council will consult with us going forward to ensure the future of Kelvedon's longest running sports team.
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“The football club currently runs three teams and still plays an important part of the community and village life.
“Members of the football club’s committee hope Kelvedon Parish Council will enable us to work with them to try and find as suitable way forward for both parties regarding the site at The Chase.
Kelvedon Social Football Club is saddened by the news shared today by Kelvedon Parish Council. We were sent a letter last week sharing this news but have not yet had an opportunity to consult with the council regarding the football clubs future at the Chase
— Kelvedon Social FC (@KelvedonFC) March 27, 2023
“Rest assured, this is not the end of Kelvedon Social Football Club and we hope that one day we will be able to return to our home.”
The building, known as the Len Hyam Pavilion, was built by volunteers in the early 1980s, many of whom provided its construction materials.
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The council spokeswoman added it will continue to consult with the football club as information is considered.
Neighbouring youth football side Feering Falcons stated its members were “very sad” to hear of the news.
A response reads: “Over the years many Falcons have gone on to play for Kelvedon Social and we hope our current players have that opportunity for years to come.
“It's vitally important that we support our sports clubs both as a community and also through our village and district councils.
“We need to ensure that our community can continue to use our playing fields in both villages.”
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