AFC Wimbledon cleared to build new stadium on Plough Lane as Secretary of State opts not to 'call in' plans

'Show me the way to Plough Lane': AFC Wimbledon are set to return to their spiritual home
Galliard Homes
Sam Long27 September 2016

AFC Wimbledon have been cleared to build a new stadium on Plough Lane after the Secretary of State, Sajid Javid, announced he has decided not to call in the club's planning application.

The Dons, who were formed in 2002 after a controversial decision allowed the old Wimbledon FC to relocate to Milton Keynes, originally submitted their plans 20 months ago.

But details of the proposed development with an initial capacity of 11,000, plus 602 new residential units, hit a snag when Boris Johnson called the plans in to be reviewed, despite Merton Council unanimously agreeing that they go ahead, before he left office as Mayor of London.

Sadiq Khan handed the powers to progress the application back to Merton Council after succeeding Johnson but Wandsworth Council urged the Secretary of State to intervene and halt the development.

However, Javid has confirmed he is "content that it [the club's plans] should be determined by the local planning authority", paving the way for AFC Wimbledon to return to their spiritual home.

The club's Chief Executive Erik Samuelson said: “After so many years in exile, the Dons are coming home!”

"At long last, we can start planning with confidence to give AFC Wimbledon a secure future at the heart of the community the club represents, as well as building many much-needed homes and providing a major boost to the economy of the area.

“We would like to thank the very many people who have supported us in this and previous campaigns, in particular by writing to the relevant authorities to urge approval of the application.

"Such support is a sign of the continued determination to return to Wimbledon that has sustained us over the time since we re-formed," he added.

Wimbledon hope to move into their new base ahead of the 2018/19 season, with the project set to cost in the region of £20million.

Neal Ardley's side are currently 20th in League One and are competing in the third tier of English football this season for the first time in their short history.

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