THE leader of Harlow Labour has questioned the ruling Conservatives over their recent talks with Harlow Town Football Club.

Harlow Town removed all their teams from the leagues due to problems with their artificial pitch.

Councillor Chris Vince asked a number of questions at a recent full council meeting.

He asked:

“Harlow has a proud footballing history, be it Harlow Town’s historic win over
Gary Lineker’s Leicester city to our many grass roots football teams, not to
mention our walking football, helping to reduce social isolation and improve
mental health. Football is more than just a game. It is about friendship and
community. However, last week we heard that Harlow Town FC, Harlow
ladies and Harlow reserves were forced to resign from their league siting
ongoing issues with their pitch. What support if any can Harlow council give
to ensure the long-term future of the club and football in our town?

Reply from Councillor Dan Swords (Deputy Leader of the Council and
Portfolio Holder for Regeneration):

“Harlow has an incredibly proud footballing history and I share the sadness of
Cllr Vince and indeed the whole town with the news that the club had to
withdraw its senior teams from their respective leagues last week.

This Council pledged to do everything possible to support the club, alongside
our MP, Robert Halfon, and that’s why myself, the MP, and senior officers met
with the Chairman and Owner of the club on Monday.

I am pleased to say that the club continues to operate fully in all other
respects with the ground still being used for training schemes, youth teams
continuing to play, and the venue still being used for functions.

The issues are solely with the pitch and our MP has spoken with the Football
Foundation who have agreed to provide expert advice to the club on the pitch
and the best way forward.

The Council is working with the club to ensure all youth team games can take
place on council-owned pitches and we will continue to support the club in
any way possible with its senior sides.

We remain in almost daily dialogue with the club, and I will continue to update
Cllr Vince on progress and appreciate his offers of support in this process.

Whilst there are challenges in the months ahead, I remain absolutely
confident that we will protect Harlow Town FC and that the senior teams will
be playing again in the new season and youth football will continue to go from
strength to strength.