Carlton Town FC could face as many as seven local derby matches during the 2026-2027 season, depending on the outcome of a major league restructure.
The Football Association has approved changes to the non-league system that will see 110 clubs moved up the pyramid. This restructure involves adding one division at Step 4 and two at Step 5, while reducing the number of divisions at Step 6 from 20 to 17. The changes are intended to help reduce travel time and associated costs for clubs.
If current projections for the Step 4 Midland League hold true, The Millers would play local rivals including Basford United, Belper Town, Mickleover, Shepshed Dynamo, Loughborough Students, Grantham Town, and Long Eaton United. These fixtures would provide supporters with significantly more opportunities to attend matches against nearby teams.
The upcoming season follows a competitive 2025-2026 campaign for the club, based at the Bill Stokeld Stadium in Gedling. Carlton Town finished as runners-up in the Northern Premier League Midlands Division, ending the season just two points behind champions Anstey Nomads. The team later faced playoff disappointment on 28 April 2026, when they were defeated 4-2 on penalties by Racing Club Warwick following a goalless draw.
Since taking charge in 2002, chairman Mick Garton has invested over £200,000 into the club to improve facilities. These updates were aimed at ensuring the stadium meets the required standards for the level of football in which the club competes.
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