Orpington Football Club has submitted planning permission for a “game-changing” modern sport and recreation hub in Goddington Park.

The club, which has been providing football in the park for over a decade, says that aims to create a community space that will benefit residents of all ages and interests.

Orpington Football Club provides a location for more than 600 children and adults to play the sport they love.

With the proposed new pavilion in Goddington Park, the club intends to expand its offerings to include accessible football training for girls and boys from four-years-old through to men’s and women’s teams.

At a community consultation held in May, the club shared its vision for the modern pavilion with local councillors and residents.

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The proposed facility, which will replace the existing building, aims “to be a game-changer for the club and other park users”.

Proposals suggest the new building will include a repositioned sports pavilion, external equipment store, cycle and bin store, perimeter fencing and associated works, including new access from car park and landscaping.

The pavilion has been “thoughtfully designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape and plans to feature dedicated changing facilities, accessible toilets, and a cafe with seating”.

The pavilion also hopes to serve as a versatile venue for meetings, classes, and events for local groups.

The plans for the pavilion have garnered support so far with the vast majority of comments Bromley Council’s planning website being of a positive nature.

The public can leave comments relating to the application on the planning on the Bromley Council website until August 17.

According to a club trustee, many community groups, fitness providers, and local businesses have also expressed their interest in collaborating with Orpington FC at the new base in Goddington Park.

Orpington FC is sponsored by local law firm Manak Solicitors, with additional sponsorship from high street bar/restaurant Orpington GPO and easycoffee.

The club is hoping for a successful planning application for the facility and if approved, will launch a fundraising campaign to secure the estimated £2M needed for construction.

If approved, construction is set to begin in September 2025.

Club trustee, Julie Covill said, “Orpington Football Club looks forward to the opportunity to work with the local community, businesses, and Bromley Council, to create an outstanding facility that will elevate sports and recreation opportunities for everyone in Orpington.

“Please support us in our effort to get planning permission to build a new Community Pavilion in Goddington Park.”