Needham Market Football Club plans for Bloomfields approved

Needham Market lodged plans with Mid Suffolk District Council in July after winning promotion to the National League North from the Southern League Premier Central. 

The proposals will see the capacity of its Bloomfields stadium increase. 

The construction will take approximately eight weeks (Image: Charlotte Bond)

The ground can currently hold about 2,250 people-  but could welcome up to 2,400 spectators after being given the green light for the plans.

A more modern stand would be erected in place of the current one in place, which would be in place. 

Plans sent to the council as part of the application process said the current stand, which is nearly 30 years old, does not meet safety standards, has restricted views in some seats and does not offer access to anyone with mobility issues. 

The development would provide additional facilities such as a club shop, toilets, drinks kiosk and two small corporate suites for directors and press. 

An area dedicated for those who are visually or mobile impaired will be created.

The improvements to the stadium would help the football club meet the grading requirements set out by the Football Association (FA).

An officer's delegated report said: "The proposal would also be providing improved facilities and services within the site as well as the ability to cater for more visitors, which in turn would assist with the long-term viability of the football club.

"It is important to note that the development would not just be beneficial for the football club, but also the wider community."

A report from the economic development team added the increase in visitors is likely to provide a boost to the local economy and provide a number of temporary jobs.

For more information about planning notices visit the Public Notice Portal.