Plans submitted by a football club for a new £2 million community pavilion have been approved.

Orpington FC has been working on developing plans for the facility at Goddington Park for more than four years.

Following a consultation in March 2020, the club found that 92% of the 650 park users and neighbours agreed it needed a new pavilion.

An application was submitted in September 2021 but was refused for not making a strong enough case for “very special circumstances” which is a requirement to build on a green space.

The club adapted the plans by reducing the building size by 21% and partnered with Millwall Community Trust.

The partnership offering will include walking football sessions for over 45s as well as after-school sports clubs.

There will also be programmes for children with Down syndrome and other physical disabilities and free HAF holiday camps in the school holidays to provide sporting activities and hot food for school children on free school meals.

The pavilion was approved by Bromley Council on November 9 and promises positive impacts on health, sport, and recreation for residents.

Sevenoaks council also approved Millwall FC's new training ground in West Kingsdown last year, with the club saying it will be "amongst the best in the country".

The new facilities, near Brands Hatch, will include buildings for groundsman and security, indoor and outdoor football pitches, artificial turf and training areas, as well as car and cycle parking and hard and soft landscaping.

Orpington FC’s chairman Tom Shrubshall said: "I am thrilled to announce that our dreams have become a reality.

“With great joy and gratitude, we celebrate the granting of planning permission for our new community clubhouse at Goddington Park.

“This milestone marks a significant chapter in our club's history, paving the way for a brighter future.

“Together, we will build more than just a clubhouse; we will forge lasting memories, nurture talent, and strengthen the bonds that unite us on and off the field.

“Let this be a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and the unwavering support of our dedicated members.

“Here's to the exciting journey ahead and may our new community clubhouse stand as a beacon of pride for generations to come”.

The club will now begin fundraising to bring the facility to life.