Wasps: Former Premiership side announce plan to move into new stadium in Kent

Wasps were considering building a multi-use stadium, training facilities and a hotel on the outskirts of Swanley, with a public consultation planned next month; Wasps have been without a permanent home since leaving Coventry when they were banned from all competitions last year

Former Premiership giants Wasps have announced their intention to explore the possibility of establishing a permanent home in Kent.

The club, who were removed from the Premier League last year after going into administration, say they are “actively engaged” with Sevenoaks District Council to find a suitable location.

A future move to Kent would mark another geographical shift for the club, who played most of their 156-year history in London before moving to High Wycombe in 2002 and Coventry in 2014.

Wasps, who are two-time European champions and six-time Premier League winners, were £95 million in debt when the club went bankrupt and said the decision “marks a new chapter in the club’s journey, expanding its commitment to professional rugby is reconfirmed.”

A statement said: “Having faced significant regulatory and funding challenges, the club has remained determined to revive Wasps at the highest possible level.”

The club has also agreed an option to use Worcester Warriors’ Sixways ground for both training and playing purposes, while Wasps say they will actively explore temporary facilities to support activities in Kent.

A spokesperson for Sevenoaks District Council said Wasps are considering building a multi-use stadium, training facilities and a hotel on the outskirts of Swanley, with a public consultation planned for next month.

Wasps played their home games in Coventry before leaving the Premier League

“As a top club, with an international profile, we firmly believe this is a unique opportunity,” the spokesperson added.

“Wasps would bring unparalleled economic, sporting, development, health, education and skills benefits to the district and we are keen to explore how that can be achieved.”

It is yet to be confirmed which level of the league pyramid Wasps will be able to return to.