From time to time it will be necessary for The FA to laterally move Clubs without them having entered an application. This is as a result of balancing the divisions in order to achieve full and equal divisions at a given Step Level. The main contributing factor in this is as a result of accommodating promoted or relegated Clubs.
The Regulation in which The FA exercises this is found within the NLS Regulations:
Movement of a Club from participation in one League to another is not permitted other than by
promotion and relegation or otherwise as set out in these Regulations or League Rules save with the
approval of the Committee.
It may be necessary from time to time to move Clubs laterally at the same Step. Each year the Committee
(or sub-committee thereof) will consider whether any lateral movements may be necessary at each
Step and the final decision shall rest with the Committee / sub-committee. Only a Club subject to
lateral movement from one League to another may appeal that decision pursuant to Regulation 8.2(b).
Clubs have the ability to appeal any decision made in relation to lateral movements.