The Bees have unveiled plans to the local community of its redeveloped training ground which would turn its academy into the highest standard, Category One.

The proposals will see new football pitches, including two full-sized grass pitches, smaller grass pitches, and an artificial surface (4G) at the Jersey Road training ground.

It will also include "a high-quality designed" academy building with flood lighting installed on the outdoor artificial surface pitch (4G) and three of the grass pitches.

To meet Premier League guidelines for the 2024/25 season, clubs must have at least a Category Three academy, the club currently has a Category Four.

Brentford is the only club in the Premier League that does not have a Category Three academy, something that could leave them "disadvantaged in the long-term".

In its proposals, the club said: "In order to compete fully and build the home-grown talent we want, particularly post-Brexit, we need an academy at the Category One level.

"The Premier League has stipulated that all clubs must have an academy at least at Category Three level (from under 9s through to professionals) and we'd like to provide that in a purpose-built facility at our training ground."

Brentford FC's current training ground site (credit: Brentford FC).



Brentford FC's proposed redeveloped training ground site (credit: Brentford FC).

The plans will enable the club to open its doors to the local community and "create positive opportunities" for residents.

Brentford said: "Working with Brentford FC Community Sports Trust, we are exploring a number of early ideas, which may include: Opening the Pavilion for local residents to use for community events and meetings.

"Further investment and support for community football sessions, so people of all ages and abilities can enjoy the beautiful game.

"Allowing access to our multi-functional indoor pitch, that can support sporting activities at key points during the season and developing links with local schools to support their sporting activities."

As part of Brentford's plans for the Robert Rowan Performance Centre, it invested in new landscaping and trees around the training ground.

It plans to add further landscaping, planting and ecological improvements, "to respect the area's status as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC), and minimise any potential disturbances to local residents."

Before the end of year, the club will submit a planning application to Hounslow Council and if approved, begin construction of new the academy in Spring of 2024.

To see Brentford's training ground redevelopment in full, click here.

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