Wasps were considering building a multi-use stadium, training facilities and a hotel on the outskirts of Swanley, with a public consultation planned next month; Wasps have been without a permanent home since leaving Coventry when they were suspended from all competitions last year
Monday 23 October 2023 17:11, UK
Former Premiership giants Wasps have announced their intention to explore the possibility of establishing a permanent home in Kent.
The club, who were removed from the Premiership last year after falling into administration, say they are "actively engaged" with Sevenoaks District Council to identify a suitable location.
A prospective move to Kent would mark another geographical shift for the club, who played most of their 156-year history in London, before moving to High Wycombe in 2002 and Coventry in 2014.
Wasps, who are two-time European champions and six-time Premiership winners, had £95m worth of debts when the club went into administration and said this decision "signifies a new chapter in the club's journey, reaffirming its commitment to professional rugby".
A statement read: "Having faced significant challenges with regulation and funding, the club has persisted with its determination to revive Wasps at the highest possible level."
The club has also agreed an option of utilising Worcester Warriors' Sixways ground for both training and playing purposes, while Wasps say they will be actively exploring temporary facilities to underpin its operations in Kent.
A Sevenoaks District Council spokesman said Wasps were considering building a multi-use stadium, training facilities and a hotel on the outskirts of Swanley, with a public consultation planned next month.
"As a top-tier club, with an international profile, we firmly believe this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity," the spokesman added.
"Wasps would bring unparalleled economic, sports development, health, education, and skills benefits to the district and we are keen to explore how that could be achieved."
It has yet to be confirmed what level of the league pyramid Wasps will be able to return to.
