Peebles Rovers, a 130-year-old football club, fears it could be expelled from the Scottish football pyramid unless it finds a new home. The club has played at Whitestone Park since the early 20th century, but the ground no longer meets league standards.
The East of Scotland Football Association requires clubs to meet strict stadium criteria. Peebles Rovers have made efforts to upgrade Whitestone Park, including installing dugouts and temporary fencing. However, new rules demand permanent fencing and changing facilities close to the pitch, which Whitestone Park cannot provide.
Club chairman Allan MacDonald said: “We’ve been asking for help for years, but we’re running out of time.”
The club has explored several solutions, including moving to new sites in Peebles and sharing grounds with the local rugby club. All attempts have failed due to planning issues and resistance from other parties.
Vice-chairman Dave Lamb warned: “Without a new ground, we face automatic relegation at the end of the season. If we’re still without a solution next year, we’ll be removed from the league altogether.”
Peebles Rovers are the only Borders club to have played in the Scottish leagues, with a brief spell in the Third Division from 1923 to 1926. The club also has a rich history of Scottish Cup ties, including a memorable draw with Hibernian in 1923 and a series of replays against Brechin in 1959.
Despite limited silverware, Peebles Rovers have been a key part of Scottish non-league football since their formation in the 1890s.
The Scottish Borders Council, which owns Whitestone Park and the nearby Gytes, is stepping in to help. Council leader Euan Jardine said: “We are fully aware of the club’s predicament. We’ve requested a meeting with the East of Scotland FA to find a solution. It’s in everyone’s interest to secure Peebles Rovers’ future.”
However, league officials have not shown any flexibility on deadlines. The club now has 10 months to find a new facility or face losing its place in the Scottish football pyramid.
The East of Scotland FA has been asked for comment.
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