Hythe Town reach groundshare agreement

Hythe Town have confirmed that they will play all their remaining home fixtures for the 2026/27 season at Folkestone Invicta’s Alcaline Stadium following delays to the installation of their new 3G pitch at Reachfields.

The SCEFL First Division club had hoped to have their home ground ready for the current campaign, but ongoing delays to the redevelopment have forced them to seek an alternative venue.

Following discussions, Hythe have now secured a groundsharing agreement with National League South side Folkestone Invicta, allowing them to complete the remainder of the season on a 3G surface.

The club have confirmed that all existing season ticket holders will continue to receive free entry to home fixtures at their temporary home. Their fixture schedule will be updated over the coming weeks, with kick-off times remaining unchanged unless otherwise announced.

First-team manager Andy Crush has spoken about the decision, revealing the considerable work that has taken place behind the scenes in an attempt to resolve the situation at Reachfields.

“The Chairman Andy, the board and others have been working tirelessly to try and resolve the ongoing issues surrounding the pitch at Reachfields.”

However, with the necessary deadlines having passed, the club have been left with little alternative but to arrange a temporary move.

“The unfortunate conclusion for this season is simply we have run out of time. Deadlines were set and have now passed.”

Crush was also keen to reassure supporters that their interests had been considered throughout the process, with Folkestone providing the closest suitable alternative and the 3G playing surface required by the club.

Despite the disruption off the pitch, Hythe have made an encouraging start to their First Division campaign, and Crush is hoping supporters will continue to get behind the team at their temporary home.

“I really hope to see all of you there supporting myself and the boys as we continue this fantastic journey and brilliant start to the season.”

The manager also emphasised that the move is temporary and that the club remain determined to return to Reachfields.

“Reachfields will always be our home and we cannot wait to return there! Hopefully after a successful season we will return home next year ready to do it all over again!”

While the first team will complete the campaign at Folkestone, Hythe’s Under-23 and youth teams will return to Reachfields to play their remaining scheduled home fixtures.

The club have acknowledged the frustration caused by the delays and the lack of communication with supporters over recent months. However, they have reiterated their commitment to completing the installation of the new 3G pitch.

Hythe have also expressed their gratitude to Folkestone Invicta for accommodating them and thanked everyone associated with the club for their continued patience and support.

For now, the Cannons have a new temporary home and will be looking to build on their promising start to the season while plans to redevelop Reachfields continue.