Herne Bay hope to install 3G pitch at Winch's Field in time for next season

Herne Bay hope to have a 3G pitch in place at Winch’s Field for the start of next season.

The Isthmian South East club have applied for planning permission to replace their grass surface as part of what Herne Bay are describing as "the biggest development and transformation of the club's facilities in recent times".

Bay chairman Stuart Fitchie revealed the news in a club statement on Wednesday following discussions with Canterbury City Council.

He said the club have appointed a project manager to oversee the works and estimated the works would cost £600,000.

“While my heart is entirely (with) grass and I don’t have particularly fond memories of playing on 3G, the knowledge I have gained in the last few months has educated me on how far 3Gs have come since I was playing,” Fitchie explained.

“Nowadays, we find ourselves with high-spec carpets with very similar characteristics to grass but with the durability of an artificial surface.

“The proof will be in the pudding when it is down but we have chosen a top-end product that will enable a ‘natural’ feel and meet FIFA Quality ‘PRO’ standards.

“Many clubs either already have a 3G surface or are planning on replacing their grass pitch with a 3G playing surface. This has transformed clubs, their business models and opportunities directly and indirectly exponentially.”

Indeed, Bay’s announcement comes after National League South Tonbridge were given the green light to put down a 3G pitch in time for their 2022/23 campaign last week by Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council.

Other football clubs in Kent to have artificial pitches include Ramsgate, Margate, Maidstone, Ashford, Sheppey and Chatham.

Fitchie, who joined the club in 2019, continued: “This application extends to new