Winklebury Football Complex has received a stamp of approval from league inspectors, officially securing its Grade 4 stadium compliance and confirming Basingstoke Town Community Football Club’s place in the league ahead of the new season.

The announcement comes as a welcome relief for the club, confirming that their first team can play their upcoming matches at the revamped complex.

The football club had initially sought a dispensation to carry out the necessary upgrades over the off-season, a request that was approved.

READ MORE: Basingstoke Town FC: Full list of fixtures for new season

Recent efforts to meet the Grade 4 standards have culminated in the installation of a temporary metal scaffold covering the tunnel area and additional seating in the Peter Raynbird Main Stand.

The club revealed that plans for more comprehensive Grade 3 enhancements are also progressing.

Although specific start dates for these works are yet to be confirmed, Basingstoke Town remain committed to achieving the March 2024 deadline for the Grade 3 upgrades.

Following the approval, Basingstoke Town chairman Jack Miller said: “Although the recent works have gone in to satisfy ground grading requirements, namely the tunnel covering, which aren’t the most pleasing on the eye, we understand that these have been installed to get us over the line and league complaint which is the most important thing at this stage.

“It’s our understanding that these works are only temporary and will form part of the additional works due - but we are awaiting confirmation of this.

“We are awaiting news on a commencement date for the rest of the works which we are looking forward to being able to take advantage of - particularly the new clubhouse due to be built.”

The first day of the Southern League Premier South gets underway on Saturday, August 5, with 'Stoke playing their first game away to Tiverton Town.

The club’s first home match is against Hanwell Town on Saturday, August 12.

'Stoke will face the likes of Walton and Hersham, Winchester City, Didcot Town and more this season as they look to compete in their new league - having gained promotion on the final day of last season.