WEST HAM S dream of a new state-of-the-art training facility moved a step nearer reality this week with the news that a planning application has been put in to develop their new site. The club purchased the Ford Sports site in Rush Green, Romford during t

WEST HAM'S dream of a new state-of-the-art training facility moved a step nearer reality this week with the news that a planning application has been put in to develop their new site.

The club purchased the Ford Sports site in Rush Green, Romford during the summer, and were planning to move in as early as this November, but West Ham's financial problems have delayed progress.

However, on Monday the two-stage development of the site was finally revealed, with an initial planning application put into Havering Council.

The plan is to renovate the existing facility, construct new groundsman's buildings and install three full-size training pitches, enabling the first-team squad to move there immediately.

The second phase will see the construction of a purpose-built training, rehabilitation and media centre, together with a further four training pitches and the renovation of the existing stand and terracing to enable West Ham to play reserve team games there.

Chief executive Scott Duxbury said: "This is a major step forward for the club, as a new training ground with world-class facilities is fundamental to our vision for the next few years.

"Chadwell Heath has been a fantastic home for many generations, but I have been aware in recent years that it is no longer fit for our first-team aspirations.

"We have worked very hard to put this planning proposal together and I would like to add my thanks to Havering Council for their co-operation to date and in the future."

West Ham will continue to use the site at Chadwell Heath, as well as continuing to develop both Academy facilities at Little Heath and Beckton.