Saracens move for Copthall Stadium angers Barnet FC
Barnet Football Club has criticised Saracens and Barnet council after the rugby club held talks over relocating to Copthall Stadium.
The athletics venue has been Barnet’s preferred stadium for their relocation. The club has tried to move from the Underhill ground for nearly a decade.
Barnet’s chairman Tony Kleanthous described the revelations as "quite a blow" for his club.
He added that he hoped the council were not, “supporting and looking favourably on the Saracens proposal, it sends out a straightforward and clear message to our football club that they would prefer having them in the borough, rather than us".
Saracens are looking for a new ground since leaving Watford’s home ground at Vicarage Road, after the terms of their lease ended and the Aviva Premiership side refused to commit to another ground sharing agreement.
Saracens are currently playing their games at Wembley, but the stadium is deemed to be too large for the rugby club.
The board of directors at Saracens have looked at a number of options and have stated that Copthall Stadium is just one of 30 to 40 proposals that the club are considering.
However, Kleanthous believes that the Barnet council have turned their back on the football club and said, "It's sad that they are now looking to invite others into the borough whilst escorting us out via the back door."
Responding to Kleanthous’ comments, Lynn Hillian, the Barnet council leader revealed her disappointment at the chairman of the football club.
"Barnet FC's proposals for Copthall Stadium were approved by the council's planning committee, but overturned by the then Secretary of State. We took it as far as we could," said Hillian. "I am totally supportive of the football team and to keeping the club
in the borough, but it is up to Tony to make a proposal," she added.
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