Bournemouth given green light for new training complex

Bournemouth have been given approval to build a new multi-million pound training complex.

Plans for the former Canford Magna Golf Club, around seven miles north-west of the club’s Vitality Stadium, were given the green light by the Borough of Poole last month, subject to a referral to the Secretary of State.

However, the application has not been called in by the Secretary of State, meaning the Premier League club can start developing the 57-acre site, which the club acquired last year.

According to the club’s website, facilities at the complex will including 10 full-size pitches, three junior pitches, an indoor artificial playing surface, state-of-the-art medical, fitness, sports science and rehabilitation facilities, and a press conference theatre.

“I’m delighted that the Secretary of State has not called in our planning application for the club’s proposed new training complex,” chief executive Neill Blake told afcb.co.uk.

“This means we can start work on an exciting project, one which is crucial for the present and future of AFC Bournemouth.

“While it is important to provide Premier League facilities for Premier League players, we also want to give the region’s youngsters the best place to develop their talent, and we believe this complex will be the perfect place to do that.”

Bournemouth have planned a phased development which, once completed, will bring all operations and facilities into one location.

In July last year, the club confirmed their intention to build a new stadium within Kings Park.

They are expected to submit plans to Bournemouth Borough Council later this year.