Plans to expand Stevenage FC’s Lamex Stadium home with a new stand are being backed as a positive move for the town.

The Comet: Plans for the new North Stand at Stevenage FC's Lamex Stadium, May 2015Plans for the new North Stand at Stevenage FC's Lamex Stadium, May 2015 (Image: Archant)

The proposal for the Broadhall Way ground was announced last week, with the football club calling for support for “the ambitious plans”.

If given the go-ahead, the 645-capacity North Stand would be replaced by a two-tiered structure with seats for 1,546 people.

As well as offering an improved experience for fans and the opportunity for the club to build revenue for even greater success, the development is also being looked upon as a boost for the town.

Andrew Percival, board member of the Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership and chairman of Stevenage First, which helps steer the direction for future economic growth in the town, said: “We are delighted the club is planning to invest further in the town and sees its potential, as regenerating Stevenage is a priority for the LEP.

The Comet: Andrew Percival, LEP board member and chairman of Stevenage First, says the move is confirmation that Stevenage is a great place to live and workAndrew Percival, LEP board member and chairman of Stevenage First, says the move is confirmation that Stevenage is a great place to live and work (Image: Archant)

“This proposed investment by the club is further confirmation that Stevenage is a great place to live, work and do business.”

Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland added: “There has been talk of improving the stadium for many years and, as a football fan, it is clear better facilities lead to a better experience for the fans.

“There is a lot of pride in our town and an increasing level of support for the football club, so making some progress on this development will be a big boost to both the town and club.”

A club statement released to the Comet last week when the plans were unveiled said: “The new stand would complement the town’s growing status as a destination for international business and innovation and provide much-needed facilities in a key location.”

Planning permission for the state-of-the-art development, which will include high-end conference and banqueting facilities, is now being sought from Stevenage Borough Council.