GRAYS Councillor Martin Kerin is backing Grays Athletic Football Club as they prepare to present their case for a new home in Ship Lane.
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s meeting of the Thurrock Council Planning Committee, he said:
“After a decade of homelessness, this plan will provide a secure base for Grays Athletic Football Club and give the club a ground to finally call its own. It will bring Ship Lane back to life as permanent community football asset, and provide increased sporting opportunities for local people through a Community Use Agreement.
“Of course, the ultimate aim of the Blues and its fans is a move back to the town of Grays. This is an ambition which I share wholeheartedly. However, this move to Ship Lane doesn’t hamper that long term aim – it actually enhances it, by ensuring that the club has a secure base to build on.
“Grays Athletic is a well-run, supporter-owned, community-orientated football club, with a large and loyal fan base. After years of travelling between Rookery Hill, Rush Green, the Mill Field and Parkside, I know that they will make a success of having a permanent ground.
“One day, I hope to see Grays Athletic back in Grays. Until then, I look forward to seeing the club blossom and grow at Ship Lane as it starts a new chapter in its rich history.”
