The architects have held site meetings with planners, which were more than favourable. Access is likely to be from a new slip road off Catcote Road which would also serve the proposed new allotments to replace those at Briarfields.

The plans drawn up for the clubhouse and changing facilities are well into seven figures [Supercodhead, that's more than £1m.]

The bid to Sport England will include a wide range of information including how West intend to further develop the sport in town. Dave Ince is already working with a whole host of schools in the town assisted by Sportsmatch funding.

Brinkburn would become a focal point to further develop the coaching, outside of school hours, as well as at last providing a superb home for all of the sides who carry the West name.

The plans would include preparing a new main pitch, which would have to be levelled, as well as new drainage. In all it's proposed to have four full size rugby pitches on the site.

It's hoped to have the Sport England bid ready within two months which could mean a decision in the autumn.

West Chairman Ron Greig said: "We have taken top advice and are confident that we have a very strong case indeed. The area is one of special need, which is very important, and we can also demonstrate that, through the hard work of all our junior coaches and our schools coaching programme, we are already making a significant conribution to the community. Our ambition is to build on all of that success through our partnership with the Sixth Form College and the tremendous opportunity which Brinkburn provides.

"If we are successful we will have one of the best rugby facilities in the country."