SUTTON Coldfield Town have moved within touching distance of securing a state of the art 3G playing surface at their Coles Lane headquarters in time for next season's Evo-Stik League campaign.

The Central Ground, also home to league rivals Romulus FC, is set to have its entire pitch dug up and replaced with artificial grass.

Sutton chairman Tom Keogh told the Observer: "We're most of the way there now.

"We have had permission from our landlords as well as the green light from Birmingham City Council so we're just awaiting the final confirmation from the Evo-Stik League and the Football Association.

"We are confident that will be in place for us to start work at the end of the season on our new playing surface.

"Work should commence next month.

"The club will also have extra changing rooms and showers to assist the commercial side of the plan."

Keogh confirmed that the venture had been funded from sources within the club as the Royals looked to extend their commercial activity.

"Obviously it's a commercial venture but we are also looking to link up with schools and colleges in the area and build partnerships in the community."

On the pitch, Keogh also sees an advantage in the quality of football both Sutton and Romulus can offer fans of the respective clubs.

"It will enable teams to get it down and play and that's what people want to see," he said.

An artificial surface doesn't come without drawbacks. It will prevent both Sutton and Romulus from playing FA Cup games at Coles Lane.

FA Trophy ties, from the first round proper onwards, will also have to be played elsewhere, though both clubs have a alternative arrangements set up.

In addition, the Football Conference doesn't allow clubs to be promoted into its competitions with artificial surfaces.

If Sutton or Romulus were to gain promotion from Evo-Stik One South they would not be able to challenge to go up again without finding alternative provision.

"That won't affect us," said Keogh. "Sutton wouldn't be able to sustain Blue Square North football, but what we have to do is to improve our revenue streams and build community links."

The Royals travel to play-off rivals Kidsgrove Athletic this weekend.

Chris Keogh's men are on their travels again on Wednesday evening as they take on another side vying for the top five – Carlton Town.