Fans up in arms over Wimbledon FC's move to the Shires

Wimbledon football club's plans for relocation to Milton Keynes have met with a cynical response from supporters, council leaders and even the Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone.

Wimbledon, who are currently ground-sharing with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, could well move to a new £30m stadium in Milton Keynes in time for the 2003-4 season.

The club, however, may find many of the 28,000 seats unoccupied, as the local fan base has expressed dissatisfaction at the proposal.

Club chair, Charles Koppel said the move was essential to securing the club's future: This is about ensuring the survival of the club. Wimbledon has been homeless for 10 years now and without a proper ground the future is bleak.

In order for the move to proceed, only a majority decision from the eight-strong board Football League board of directors is needed.