:: Chelsea get go-ahead for academy
Chelsea have been granted planning permission for their new training and academy base at Cobham.
The multi-million pound state-of-the-art facility will become home to all the club's professional and academy players.
The scheme was approved by Elmbridge Borough Council last week and the club hope to complete construction of
the complex, which will boast 15 football pitches, by July 2006.
The club see the new centre as vital in their quest to compete with the best in Europe in terms of training facilities,
the developing of homegrown talent and injury rehabilitation facilities.
Manager Jose Mourinho said: 'This is fantastic news for Chelsea. One of the reasons I joined the club was the
commitment that Mr [Roman] Abramovich and the board showed about investing in youth.
'With the academy, youth, reserves and first team all on the same site, this will act as an inspiration for the young
players at Chelsea.
'A modern and top training ground is also important for first team players. Our current home at Harlington is an
excellent facility but the club needs its own home for training and top players want to know about the facilities and
their environment for work before they join a club.
'If we can tell them we have the best training ground this is a big advantage. I am looking forward to moving there.'
The complex's main building, which will be a distinctive structure with a curved grass roof and moat, will also
contain an indoor pitch for winter training.
Chief executive Peter Kenyon said: 'The Cobham development is central to the future of the club and we are
delighted we now have the final go-ahead.'