PONTYPOOL RFC will announce tonight that they intend to leave their historic home.

Pooler are holding a special meeting at the Parkway Hotel in Cwmbran on tonight, Tuesday, July 17, at 6.30pm, where supporters will be told about the club’s intention to leave Pontypool Park, their home since 1945.

Marking its 150th year, the club announced its intention to leave Pontypool Park last week after being plagued by vandalism and anti-social behaviour at the Torfaen council-owned grounds.

The move comes as Pontypool RFC becomes frustrated with plans to secure the grounds, which have stagnated after years of talks with Torfaen County Borough Council.

Currently, a 1920 covenant prevents Pontypool RFC from erecting a fence.

As part of Pontypool Park, the covenant prevents the site being used for anything other than full public use.

Back in February 2014, Pontypool RFC and Torfaen council announced they were working together on “a strategy” to safeguard the future of the historic club at Pontypool Park.

Meetings were held between the two parties to find a solution to halt persistent issues of anti-social behaviour at the rugby ground part of the park, and even arson attacks.

But complex legal procedures have halted progress.

Pooler will remain at the ground for the coming season as they attempt to return to the Premiership.

No time frame has been set for the move and the club has not yet triggered the release clause in its agreement with the council, as they are still looking for an alternative site.

The club, bankrolled by owner and chairman Peter Jeffreys, have investigated installing a 3G pitch that could be used by the community, along with building a new stand and facilities.

But no investment would take place without safeguards surrounding antisocial behaviour in the area.

Chief Executive Ben Jeffreys, son of Peter, has made frequent appeals for help dealing with vandalism, arson and graffiti.

Leader of Torfaen County Borough Council Anthony Hunt said: "I remain optimistic that we can work together to reach a resolution for the best of the club, the park and the town of Pontypool.

"I understand the frustrations of all at the club and have massive respect for what they are trying to do on the pitch taking the club forwards. As a supporter of the club myself, I would be gutted if the club were to leave the park, so you have my word that I will do all I can on this.

"The situation is a complex on not because the council want it to be, but because the legal situation in the park is complex and the decision to change it would not lie with the council. The park was gifted to the people of Pontypool with restrictions on its usage, so legal processes must be followed.

"Otherwise, when a formal application did come in, those who have already expressed concerns could appeal, and that would not be good for the club. However, I am optimistic that a resolution can be found if we all work together.

Mr Jeffreys has worked closely with Cllr Hunt, as well as AM Lynne Neagle, to find ways to tackle anti-social behaviour on the grounds.

AM Neagle said: “I am deeply saddened by the news that Pooler and its many loyal supporters and volunteers may no longer call Pontypool Park home.

"I have been involved in negotiations between the club’s owners and the council for a number of years regarding anti-social behaviour and the proposals for perimeter fencing to protect the club’s facilities.

"I will continue to do everything I can to support Pontypool RFC and Torfaen Council to resolve this matter.

"Pontypool Park is a unique and beautiful venue that is recognised worldwide by rugby fans. I really hope a way can be found to ensure that Pontypool RFC continue playing there.”

More to follow.