Hillingdon Council has agreed to set aside an 18-acre plot of land in north Hillingdon to enable Wealdstone Football Club to draw up plans for a new stadium.
The news comes following a year of negotiations between the council and the local club, which has a healthy following in Hillingdon, to find a new home where they can pursue the club’s ambition of playing in the English Football League (EFL).
The land, on Freezeland Way, adjacent to the Master Brewer site, has been identified as potentially suitable for such a development with easy access to the A40 and Hillingdon station which runs alongside and away from core residential areas.
The club has publicised its intent to create a venue with a capacity to hold 6,300 fans as well as providing for parking, training and retail facilities.
At present, no plans have been finalised and any proposals for a new stadium would be subject to the club being able to find funding for the project, developing an acceptable plan and demonstrating a robust case that the project has significant benefits for the local community that goes beyond the core football function.
Finally, a planning application would then need to be independently assessed through the council’s rigorous scrutiny processes.
The council has agreed not pursue any potential projects with the land for six-months while Wealdstone FC undertake feasibility studies, including funding availability and planning permission. Once they demonstrate that they are progressing with their proposals, the council has agreed to extend this by an additional six-months.
Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Hillingdon Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for properties, highways and transport, said: “The council has a proud history of strongly supporting the borough’s local sports clubs, including Wealdstone FC, which we know has a loyal and passionate fanbase in Hillingdon.
“This is potentially a great win for all residents, not just for local sports fans, as the club’s proposals have the potential to be a positive development that could bring many benefits to our borough.
“It’s a long road ahead but we look forward to hearing more detailed plans in due course, which will undoubtedly be an exciting prospect for the Stones’ fans.”
Read Wealdstone FC’s statement on the club’s website at www.wealdstone-fc.com/post/club-statement-club-plans-new-stadium.
Photo by Bence Balla-Schottner on Unsplash
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