Kent County Cricket Club have announced that outline planning permission has been granted by the London Borough of Bromley to develop Beckenham.

The Council voted 9 – 6 in favour of a scheme which will dramatically enhance the Club’s operation at the County Ground, Beckenham.

The Club has operated the Beckenham ground since 2002 and now looks forward to a long future in Bromley. The plans include a new all-weather hockey pitch, an indoor multi-use training centre, a health and fitness centre, improved permanent spectator seating, and a small conference facility.

The funding for these facilities will be raised through enabling development. The Club expect that the proposed new facilities will provide the required revenue streams to create a viable future for the ground, and in turn ensure that professional cricket continues to be played in Beckenham.

Jamie Clifford, Kent Cricket CEO commented; “I am delighted that Bromley Council have approved our scheme. We have been determined to secure a long term base in the Greater London area for the county, and this decision brings that hope a step closer.

“The cricketing county of Kent covers a very big land area, and we have always been keen to take cricket to all parts of the county. Most importantly, I now look forward to establishing a thriving sporting centre of excellence, that will help us considerably in the development of talented young cricketers. I anticipate that this, coupled with our community programmes, will bring something very special and lasting to Bromley.”