Teams in the three divisions of the newly-named Vanarama Conference will be allowed to play their matches on artificial pitches (ATP) from the 2015-16 season.

The move was discussed at a pre-season meeting of member clubs and a statement was issued yesterday confirming the proposal had provisionally been given the green light.

“Following recent dialogue with the Football Association and Football League, the Football Conference’s Board intends to allow Competition matches to be played on ATPs, in all three divisions from the start of the 2015-16 season,” the statement read.

“Such approval will only to be given where surfaces meet the standards of installation and criterion for use, which are to be agreed by the respective authorities.

“Further statements will be made as and when the standards and criteria are agreed with all our football partners, ensuring a pragmatic and practical approach is made when considering applications for their use at levels one & two of the national league system and associated cup & trophy competitions.”