Wasps Explore Permanent Home in Kent: Multi-Use Stadium, Training Facilities, and More on the Horizon

Former Premiership rugby club Wasps has announced its intention to investigate the possibility of establishing a permanent home in Kent. The club, which was removed from the Premiership last year due to administration, is in active discussions with Sevenoaks District Council to identify a suitable location for their potential move.

If the move materializes, it would mark another geographical shift for the club, which spent most of its 156-year history in London before relocating to High Wycombe in 2002 and later Coventry in 2014.

Wasps, boasting two European championships and six Premiership titles, faced financial challenges with £95 million in debts when the club entered administration. The decision to explore a new permanent home signifies a new chapter for Wasps, reaffirming its commitment to professional rugby.

As part of their plans, Wasps have secured an option to use Worcester Warriors’ Sixways ground for training and playing purposes. Simultaneously, the club is actively exploring temporary facilities to support its operations in Kent.

Sevenoaks District Council revealed that Wasps are contemplating the construction of a multi-use stadium, training facilities, and a hotel on the outskirts of Swanley. A public consultation is scheduled for the upcoming month. A council spokesperson expressed enthusiasm, stating, “As a top-tier club with an international profile, we firmly believe this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

The potential economic, sports development, health, education, and skills benefits that Wasps could bring to the district are significant, and the council is eager to explore how these advantages could be realized.

The blog post concludes with the anticipation of Wasps’ return to the league pyramid, although the specific level remains unconfirmed. The club’s determination to revive itself at the highest level reflects its resilience in the face of regulatory and funding challenges

Wasps have revealed a plan to try and move to a permanent location in Kent

Wasps played their home games in Coventry before dropping out of the Premiership

“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.”