Waltham Forest FC so close to Wadham Lodge return

Waltham Forest FC are poised to complete the club’s long-delayed return from exile to Wadham Lodge.

The site in Kitchener Road, Walthamstow, was finally given the thumbs up by FA inspectors this week.

That is good news for grassroots football clubs in the area, according to the firm which has redeveloped the Lodge over the course of this year.

Matchday Centres director Jason Maguire said: ”We’re made up with the decision and hopefully we can crack on.

“It means other clubs have a step progression so players if they’re good enough can come through the ranks and play for Waltham Forest FC.

“We can get the club back on track.”

He insisted Forest FC is at the heart of Matchday Centres’ plan for Wadham Lodge, even if the Stags get relegated down to the Essex Senior League next May.

Club secretary Andy Perkins predicts the relocation will save the Stags’ season.

“Many players will not come to us because of the pitch at Cricklefields. We cannot play on that pitch, so we are really happy about it.

“Once we are back there, we will have lots of people who can come along. Hardly anyone comes to see us in Ilford,” said Perkins.

But football is also a political game.

An FA committee may be required to approve the inspectors’ decision.

Then the Ryman League could yet block the move if the board fears distortion of competition arising from Forest’s mid-season relocation.

A decision is expected by next week. The first home match could be Grays Athletic in the first weekend of December.