SITTINGBOURNE and Maidstone fans braving the cold and rain to support their football teams next season could enjoy games in greater comfort.

Sittingbourne FC has applied for planning permission to build a new 300-seater stand at its Central Park ground.

The club also plans to provide three covered standing areas and a new clubhouse and social club.

The £220,000 scheme would replace the existing temporary stand currently on loan and ensure that the club is fulfilling the requirements of the Dr Marten's League.

Chairman Andy Spice said: "If we get the planning permission it will make a great difference to the spectators. They will have a comfortable seat to sit in during the games and a good club house."

The ground, in Central Road, Murston, is soon to be renamed Bourne Park and is currently shared by Maidstone United. The Kent League side is still without a home ground of its own in the County Town.

Mr Spice said Sittingbourne FC was bidding for a grant from the Football Foundation to help meet the costs of the ground improvements.

The planning application should be processed and ruled on by Swale Borough Council within six weeks. Planning permission for a stand at the ground was already granted once but expired 18 months ago before any work was carried out.

The club hopes the fresh application will be approved without any opposition. Without it, the club would not be promoted from the Eastern Division of the Dr Marten's Southern League.

It could even be in violation of ground regulations for the Eastern Division if it does not provide adequate seating for fans.