EVESHAM United chairman Jim Cockerton is hopeful the Robins will enjoy considerable financial benefit from Gloucester City groundsharing at the Jubilee Stadium next season.
The National League North outfit’s move to Evesham will be their fourth groundshare since a massive 2007 flood forced them out of Meadow Park, their home since 1986.
Cockerton told the Evesham United website: “This is a business decision and is great news financially.
“I expect there will be one or two people who will say it will create extra wear on the pitch, but this is a business decision that we have taken as a committee.
“They have an option for two years if their ground isn’t ready, so we will do our best to welcome them and make their stay as enjoyable as possible.”
The Robins will have to complete a small schedule of works to ensure the Jubilee Stadium meets National League North standards by the March 31 deadline, but this will cause no disruption.
A statement issued by Gloucester City, who have shared Cheltenham Town’s Whaddon Road home in recent seasons, said: “We fully appreciate this is a longer distance for fans to travel, but must stress there are no options closer to home with the required grading.
“Even taking voluntary relegation, which we do not believe is in the best interests of the club, would not open other suitably graded options within the city.
“We believe this club, which has represented the city for more than 130 years, is worth fighting for and we will fight tooth and nail to keep it playing at as high a level as possible.
“We will of course look at ways to help fans with transport to and from games, but would urge all those who support this club to continue that fight. Our fans have always been a massive asset and we need their support now as we have throughout our exile.
“With regards to the building of our new ground, we are seeking details of timelines from our owner, and will look to share that as soon as we can.
“Everyone is very aware of the need to return this club to the city and the continuing damage of our exile.”
