Rugby club Wasps RFC are planning a “once in a generation” move to Kent.

The former Premiership club’s plans will see a new stadium built in the Sevenoaks district as it seeks to restore itself to glory.

The club was removed from English rugby’s top-flight competition after slipping into administration a year ago.

However, bosses have now confirmed they are “actively engaging” with Sevenoaks District Council over plans that could see the club move to the outskirts of Swanley.

A club spokesperson said: "The journey of Wasps has been one of passion, resilience, and commitment to the game.

“Our determination to secure a new, sustainable future for the club has never been stronger. By working with Sevenoaks District Council, we hope to build a long-lasting legacy that acknowledges our storied past and charts an ambitious future.”

It is understood that the development would see a multi-use stadium, training facilities and a hotel built on what is currently Pedham Place, on the outskirts of the town.

“We firmly believe this is a once in a generation opportunity”

While the scheme moves forward – which will require planning permission – the club is understood to be exploring temporary accommodation options, including an option to utilise a stadium belonging to Worcester Warriors – another former Premiership team that also went bust last year alongside London Irish.

A club spokesperson said this would be “without in anyway replacing Worcester Warriors RFC and indeed committed to assisting their return to competitive rugby”.

A Sevenoaks District Council spokesman said: “Wasps Rugby Football Club has told us it is considering locating to the Sevenoaks District with a new multi-use stadium, training facilities and a hotel at Pedham Place on the outskirts of Swanley.

“Wasps has put its proposal forward as part of our ‘Call for sites’, which identifies potential development sites that could be included in our new Local Plan.

“The public will have an opportunity to consider Wasps’ proposal, and all the other ‘call for sites’ proposals, when we next consult on the Local Plan from November 23 to January 11, 2024.

“As a top tier club, with an international profile, we firmly believe this is a once in a generation opportunity. Wasps would bring unparalleled economic, sports development, health, education, skills and cultural benefits to the district and we are keen to explore how that could be achieved. However, the public and partners will need to have their say on Wasp’ proposals before it could be considered for inclusion in the new Local Plan.”

“Further down the line, Wasps’ proposals would require planning permission, which again would give the public an opportunity to have their say and actively engage in the process.”