FC United green light

Ten Acre Lane football pitches in Newton Heath, site of FC United’s planned new stadium.

FOOTBALL: FC UNITED of Manchester have been given the go-ahead to build their own ground at Ten Acres Lane in Newton Heath.

The Evo-Stik Premier League outfit, formed in 2005 by Manchester United fans protesting the Glazer family’s takeover at Old Trafford, received full planning permission from the city council to work on the Ten Acres Lane site.

It is a decision that carries extra significance for supporters, as Manchester United were established in Newton Heath — but it hasn’t gone down well with Athletic, who have had difficulties in getting the go-ahead for their own stadium nearby.

“I think it is absolutely wonderful how quickly Manchester City Council’s planning department works,” said chief executive Alan Hardy.

The 5,000-capacity stadium will be built as soon as the funding is in place.

News of the decision was of interest to Athletic officials, with the Boundary Park club still hoping for a move to Failsworth.

FC United raised £500,000 through a community share scheme, and aims to raise another £1m by selling shares.

The community share issue enables investors to buy £1 shares to a value ranging from £200 up to £20,000.

o SAM Ashton saved a last-minute penalty as 10-man FC United made it into the third round draw of the FA Cup.
The goalkeeper saved an injury-time spot-kick by Brighton’s Elliott Bennett top keep the score at 1-1 after Scott McManus had been sent off. The winners of the replay will face Portsmouth at home in the third round.