MPs oppose Dons move

Wimbledon enjoyed some good times at Plough Lane

Wimbledon's plans to move to Milton Keynes have come under fire from two former sports ministers.

Labour MPs Tony Banks and Kate Hoey were among 70 MPs who signed a Commons motion tabled by Wimbledon MP Roger Casale.

The motion warned that Wimbledon's plans to move to a £50m stadium in Milton Keynes could break the link between the club and its local community.

There are fears that allowing the Dons to relocate 60 miles would be the first step to the franchising of football clubs.

This could break the historical links between football clubs and their communities

House of Commons motion

The motion said that if Wimbledon are allowed to move it would: "establish a new precedent."

It suggests the move could "jeopardise the opportunities for young people to develop through activity in football in their community."

Both the club and Milton Keynes council have argued their case for the move.

Wimbledon have no permanent home and are currently ground-sharing with Crystal Palace.

While Milton Keynes say the move would give the Buckinghamshire town a much-needed football team.

The Football League has refused to sanction the move and haver made it clear it wants Wimbledon to return to the borough of Merton.

A twist was added to the saga by a government inspector's rejection of plans by Safeway to build on the site of Wimbledon's former home, Plough Lane.

Merton Council is seeking an urgent meeting with the supermarket chain over the future of the sight.