#1 in an occasional series... Posted by 1978sussex on ITTV; From SEnine Magazine New plans for the development of Charlton Athletic's training ground at Sparrows Lane in New Eltham have been submitted for approval. The new plans suggested a renewed commitment by club owner Roland Duchatelet who scrapped the previously approved time-table when the club was languishing in Division One. Although scaled-down slightly from the previous versions, the new plans still include a purpose-built indoor facility and two storey pavilion to house state-of-the-art training equipment and accommodation. It is unclear whether the plans will involve the facilities being classified as 'Category 1' by the football authorities, as this comes with huge staffing commitments. However, the move suggests a renewed optimism around the club's future after its impressive start to life in the Championship, which sees the club sitting in second place in the division and outside hopes of a return to the riches of the Premiership. It remains unclear Duchatelet's game-plan for the club, which at one time involved a sale to others, which might now be on hold pending results over the coming season. The plans are likely to sail through the planning process as the club enjoys a close relationship with Greenwich Council. Previous requests by its close neighbours, the Friends of Avery Hill Park for help with landscaping were dismissed by the club but will be renewed by the group which, while happy with the club's ambitions for New Eltham, is itself is anxious to improve the amenity value of the local area. As part of its expansion at New Eltham,, CAFC has combined with Footscray Road sports club to provide new public facilities and a new vehicle entrance from the west. Looks like Piggy is going to invest some money again, thanks to the success of Lee Bowyer. Well done Piggy!
Apparently they are slightly smaller plans now, and maybe not Cat 1. But Piggy seems to be thinking he can sell CAFC more easily if it has a finished training facility rather than a building site. Or permission to finish one at least.
