Saracens will end their tenancy of Vicarage Road at the end of the season, Watford Football Club have confirmed.
Aviva Premiership club plan to move to Barnet Copthall Stadium
Saracens will end their tenancy of Vicarage Road at the end of the season, Watford Football Club have confirmed.
The Aviva Premiership side have shared the ground since 1997 but had already announced their intention to move to Barnet Copthall Stadium.
The switch would see them return to their traditional roots in north London, while they also plan to play on artificial turf next season at their new home.
Sarries are set to begin discussions with the London Borough of Barnet about the viability of developing the ground into a multi-purpose sports venue.
Statement
Hornets chairman Graham Taylor said in a statement: "We originally presented Saracens with a September 3 deadline to make a decision about their future after June 2011.
"Despite this deadline not being met, I believe we have shown understanding, empathy and no little patience in wanting to conclude this matter in the best interest of both parties.
"But with Saracens now seriously pursuing another option we feel the time is right to provide some definition and clarity. We are very comfortable with our decision and now we want to push forward with the plans we have been starting to formulate.
"The development of Vicarage Road into a stadium of which we can all be proud remains our key focus."
