More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Millwall FC is weighing up plans to build a new training ground in Kent, it is understood.
Details of preliminary proposals to host the team's sessions at a new base in Sevenoaks – more than 15 miles from its current facilities in Bromley – have circulated online.
According to a headed letter posted on social media the south London football club wants to build the complex in Fawkham Road, West Kingsdown.
And now it is reportedly inviting neighbours to a consulation meeting next week to discuss the proposals further.
The letter to neighbours, from chief executive Steve Kavanagh, said it has acquired land along that road.
It reads: "We have acquired this land to build a high-end training complex that will be the new training ground for our club.
"We feel it is imperative that our neighbours and residents are consulted prior to the planning application process and we hope next month's meeting is an early opportunity with you to share our plans for the site and opportunities for the community in the months and years ahead."
A photo of the letter was posted on the West Kingsdown Residents Group Facebook page.
The meeting is planned for 6.30pm on Monday, October 4, at the Old School Hall, School Lane, West Kingsdown.
Reacting to the letter, one resident wrote: "Be nice if they offered the facilities to the local teams for occasional use as well.
"Grassroots clubs are finding it harder and harder to find pitches to play on."
Another resident highlighted potentially thorny problems should visitors park along Fawkham Road, Warland Road and Southfields Road.
If the training ground is built, it would be an easy journey from the Lion's main base and stadium at The Den in Bermondsey.
It is 19 miles away, almost entirely along the A20 and, according to the online AA Route Planner, would take just 44 minutes to drive.
The club currently trains at facilities in Calmont Road, Bromley – just over 15 miles away. It had previously considered moving its home ground to Kent amid the threat of land around the Den being sold but an agreement was later reached to remain at its home since 1910.
Sevenoaks council says it has not received a planning application from the club.
Daniel Whitmarsh, communication and consultation manager, said: “Should an application be lodged in the future, the community will have an opportunity to comment on the proposals.”
KentOnline has contacted West Kingsdown Parish Council and the relevant ward members for Sevenoaks District Council for comment.
