FOOTBALL will be returning to Edgar Street next season – and supporters will be able to stand on the Meadow End.

Hereford FC – a phoenix club launched in the wake of Hereford United being wound up – have agreed a five year lease with Herefordshire Council, with the iconic Meadow End part of the agreement.

It means that the club can now register for a new league for next season ahead of this Sunday’s deadline.

“We’re absolutely delighted to have agreed a deal with Herefordshire Council for Hereford FC to play at Edgar Street from the start of the 2015/16 season,” said Hereford FC chairman Jon Hale, who is hoping to get the keys early next week.

‘The lease deal covers five seasons and it is particularly pleasing to be able to confirm that, as part of the agreement we have in place, supporters will be able to stand on the Meadow End.

‘We know how important the Meadow End is to so many supporters and we believe having the traditional home end in use will help ensure we take the spirit of Hereford United with us as we start our journey as Hereford FC.”

The likely scenario is that Hereford FC will play at step five of the non-league pyramid – probably the Midland Football League Premier Division where city rivals Westfields play.

However, due to the away support that the new club will no doubt generate, a placing in step four could be agreed with the Football Association.

Hale said that season tickets will go on sale as soon as it practicable.

“We want to create a family atmosphere at Hereford FC and to do that we know good communication is vital,” he said.

“We will provide updates as soon as we can and will work closely with Hereford United Supporters Trust (HUST) to ensure as many people are involved as possible.”

The Hereford FC bid is thought to have been the only one presented to council officers at the Town Hall on Monday.

Redditch United had reportedly wanted to re-locate to Edgar Street, but the move was rejected by the FA. Council leader Tony Johnson said he was delighted that Hereford FC is the new tenant.

“The last few months have been fraught, there has been great uncertainty over the future of the ground and I am personally extremely pleased that we have been able to put an end to that uncertainty,” said Cllr Johnson.

“We hope that the historic supporters of the club will welcome the news and support Hereford FC with the same passion and fervour as Hereford United.”