RFL approve Oldham’s use of Bower Fold

Correspondent

Oldham have confirmed that the RFL have approved the use of Bower Fold in Stalybridge for the club’s home matches in 2016.

The ground, the home of Stalybridge Celtic FC, has a capacity of 5,200 and it has 1,215 seats.

RFL regulations state that a Championship ground must have a capacity of at least 3,000, including 750 seats.

“We expected it, but it’s still good to know that the final piece of the jigsaw is in place,” said the Roughyeds chairman Chris Hamilton.

“The RFL have rubber-stamped all the processes we’ve been through so, obviously, we’re delighted at that.

“We had to put together the rationale for what we needed to do in terms of finding an alternative venue and explain how it fitted into the long-term strategy of the club. That’s something every club has to do when faced by similar circumstances.

“We had to go through several processes, one of which involved a visit to Bower Fold by RFL representatives.

“All the available information was then considered by members of the RFL board, and the last remaining box has now been ticked.

“It is important for us to reiterate that Bower Fold doesn’t merely meet minimum standards; it exceeds them in various ways.

“It will be one of the best grounds in the Championship and we’re delighted to be playing there.

“It’s compact; fans are close to the action; and it will generate a great atmosphere.”