Kent Hurlimann League chairman Denise Richmond has admitted she is unsure whether the FA's restructuring plans will help step 5 clubs thrive.

The FA are planning a radical overhaul of step 5 football to reduce the number of leagues from 14 to 12.

It means the Kent Hurlimann League could be forced to merge with neighbouring counties, although the latest proposal is believed to be a new London South East with all of the Kent League teams alongside Croydon and sides from Sussex.

The fear is that the changes could make it harder for clubs at this level to survive rather than encourage them to prosper.

"I'm left with mixed emotions by the proposals," said Ms Richmond. "It does answer the 14 leagues into 12 issue but it also raises more questions than answers.

"Are we making it difficult for clubs at this level to survive? For example, Peacehaven have been grouped with the clubs in Kent and that could have an adverse effect on them.

"However, the strength in depth of these leagues, that could have as many as 24 or 25 teams initially until issues settle down, could also be a strength for step 5 football which has suffered in many areas, including Kent, as many clubs progress up the non-league pyramid."

The plans will be presented to clubs at four regional meetings - with Kent teams due to meet at Thurrock this Sunday.

Athough many teams across the country will be alarmed at the increased travelling, Ms Richmond does not believe that will be a major issue for Kent Hurlimann League sides under the current proposal.

"In other parts of the country there is a significant increase in travel, again another cost for clubs during challenging times, but the counter argument is that clubs at this level strive to be promoted and that would also result in increased travel costs," she said.

"In terms of Kent clubs, however, more than half of our sides have applied for promotion to step 4 so they don't see that as an issue. "We also need to take into account the fans of these clubs as they are the lifeblood of football at non-league level."