MAIDSTONE United’s proposals for a new stadium could be held up by an archeological dig on the site at James Whatman Way.

Archeologists at Kent County Council have been analysing the club’s plans and have requested more information from chairman Paul Bowden Brown amid fears a site of local historical interest could be harmed.

A spokeswoman for KCC’s Heritage Department has asked the club to clarify parts of its planning application because the location for the proposed ground is less than 100m from Mount Villa.

The Villa, remains of a Roman building, was discovered in 1843 and overlooks the River Medway near Maidstone East Station.

“The club have mentioned that the site was previously disturbed and we need to know why and how any development might affect what could be an area of historical importance to the people of Maidstone,” she said.

The area of land at James Whatman Way has been used by the Army for 100 years.

Bowden Brown said disturbances to the site over the years have been caused by military activity, the building of the KM Millennium Bridge and sewerage work across the land.

“The depths of the foundations for the new ground will have no effect on any potential archeological finds.

“We have written back to the KCC and explained this and said it can be involved when the excavation work for the floodlights takes place. We are happy to work with them on this,” he said.

The KCC, which acts as an advisor to Maidstone Borough Council on archeological planning issues, could insist on further exploration by demanding a full survey or asking for sample trenches to be dug.

This work would have to be funded by the football club and could delay the final planning decision on the new ground which is still expected to be made by Maidstone Borough Council before the end of July.

The Stones hope to be playing back in the Borough in time for the start of the 2005/06 season.