Exchange seals historic day

Following planning permission being granted in 2014 to redevelop the ground for more than a hundred homes, Aveley's delighted officials are looking forward to building a new multi-million pound stadium at nearby Belhus Park.

Aveley's local council voted unanimously in favour of the plan to relocate the Millers two years ago and their announcement on Friday ends nearly 30 years of discussions and planning by the Essex club who now hope to move into their new home in time for the start of the 2017-18 campaign.

The new ground at Belhus, close to the existing Impulse Leisure facilities, will include a new clubhouse, changing room facilities, main stand, 3G artificial pitch, secondary full grass pitch and two mini soccer grass pitches.

Craig Johnson, Aveley's club secretary and vice-chairman of the Ryman League, pictured, announced that contracts had been exchanged and the start of building work on their new home within weeks while on a trip to Latvia.

Johnson said: "I am delighted to be able to announce that all contracts were completed this afternoon on the sale of Mill Field and the land purchase. Building work will be commencing in the next four weeks.

"This is an exciting time for everyone connected to the club and reward for many years hard work. It is hoped that the new facility will be built in time for the commencement of the 2017-18 season.

"We must not forget the good times we have had at Mill Field, and the people that have left the club in such a position that we are able to build a facility that the village can be very proud of moving forward."

Follow us: @rymanleaguenews on Twitter | Ryman League group on Facebook