Barnet FC chairman Tony Kleanthous is waiting until next week before deciding whether the football club can remain in the borough.

The uncertainty has arisen because the Bees supremo is expecting a decision from the Government Office for London (GOL) over the club's proposal for a new stadium to the south of Underhill.

It is believed Mr Kleanthous may take advice on possible legal action against Barnet Council if the GOL gives the green light to the plans.

Speaking for the first time since Tory councillors voted unanimously against the new stadium at last Tuesday's full council meeting, Mr Kleanthous said: "There is no point in us jumping into anything at the moment until we know the Government Office for London decision."

The club is expecting a positive outcome from the department following the Conservatives' stance, as the current Underhill site will remain in Green Belt, a point deemed crucial to any permission granted by the GOL.

Regardless of planning permission, for the stadium south of Underhill to go ahead, the club still needs to convince the new Tory administration on Barnet Council to sell the land required.

July 16, 2002 16:00