EAST Thurrock United football club is looking to build a new stadium on land in Stanford-le-Hope after their hopes of acquiring the Pegasus Club were dented.

And the club could now take advantage of the council’s intentions of sell off part of playing fields at Billet Lane, as it has been “recreational facilities” by the council.

A spokesman for East Thurrock United Football Club, who currently play at Rookery Hill, Corringham - which may eventually be developed for housing - said: “We have made no secret of our hopes to purchase the Pegasus Club and that remains an option.

“But realistically the price could become significantly beyond our capability following interest from foreign investors and the possibility of investors landbanking the site with a view to housing, which would be unfortunate.

“Our thoughts for the Billet site only concern the land to the east of the access road and car park – not the Mobil Field or Recreation Ground.

“Our hopes for the field at the Billet which currently has just one football pitch and some poor changing facilities certainly present an opportunity for the council to benefit financially and for local people in East Thurrock to have the benefit of a first class sporting facility.”

Shane Hebb, ward councillor for Stanford-le-Hope West, said there were two views on the matter. He said: “One we could see a exciting and new Sporting Hub in Stanford-le-Hope, which would complement existing sports groups and draw in spectators and investment.

"The second view is that this could be an inexcusable takeover of public space, and we need to ensure that any decision to sell this land is backed by safeguards to protect usage for local residents.”