A battle to replace a councillor who resigned amid controversy over Sandhurst Town Football club was set to take place this week.

Stephen Thomas resigned as a Conservative member of Sandhurst Town Council in September shortly after criticising leaders from his own party over decisions regarding the football club’s grounds.

The council agreed to a 30 lease with SB Group – which owns Sandhurst Town and Bracknell Town football clubs – to use the stadium at Bottom Meadow.

The lease means Bracknell Town has made the ground in Sandhurst its permanent home – despite fears and complaints from neighbours that the extra games bring increased traffic, parking and noise problems.

Liberal Democrat candidate Nicky Coppins and Conservative candidate Gill Birch are set to contest the election for the Little Sandhurst seat on November 9.

Ms Coppins said she would aim to be “transparent and fair” if she was elected. She said: “I am aware of the very real local issues that require attention, and assure you that I do not view the situation through rose-tinted glasses. I’ve never shied away from difficult problems but always worked hard towards finding solutions.”

Ms Birch said she was “very proud” to be the Conservative candidate. She added: “I’m very looking forward to coming round and visiting you all on your doorstep to find out your ideas and views about what we should do on Sandhurst Town Council.”

The election was set to take place on Thursday, November 9.