Folkestone Invicta offer positive update on installation of new 3G pitch at Cheriton Road; Isthmian Premier club to temporarily ground-share at Margate’s Hartsdown Park

Folkestone insist work to install their new 3G pitch is “full steam ahead” - despite confirming the surface won’t be ready for the new season.

Isthmian Premier Invicta confirmed plans to install an artificial surface for the 2025/26 campaign last year.

There had been speculation and growing concerns among Folkestone fans at a lack of work being done this summer at Cheriton Road, though, as the club’s pre-season schedule started.

But the club confirmed on Tuesday they hope work can be completed by early October and, while it means their new pitch won’t be ready for the new season by the time it starts next month, they intend to reverse all of their August fixtures and then will temporarily groundshare at Margate’s Hartsdown Park in September.

It means Invicta supporters face a temporary 50-mile round journey to matches.

“We’re delighted to confirm that, after months of hard work, Folkestone Invicta FC is now full steam ahead with the installation of our brand-new 3G pitch at Cheriton Road,” the club statement read.

“This development marks a major step forward for the club and our community, and we’re excited about the future it will help us build - one that allows us to grow the game in the Folkestone & Hythe district and invest in developing home-grown talent.

“As with any major project, there have been some short-term challenges and delays that coincided with the season ticket renewal period. This means that changes to our August and September fixtures are necessary.

“With league approval, any August home fixtures will be reversed to away and, in September, we will temporarily groundshare with Margate FC, who have kindly stepped in at short notice.

“This ensures we meet the Step 3 stadium requirements while work