THE next step in bringing state-of-the-art facilities to Minehead Football Club has been taken after plans to demolish the current clubhouse and install a modern one were submitted.

If approved a brand new clubhouse and community area, modern floodlights, and a stand with a capacity of 50 could be set for Minehead Recreation Ground.

A public consultation on the plans was held last June at the current facilities in Irnham Road with Louise Crossman Architects, who designed the scheme in partnership of Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership (SASP) on behalf of Minehead Town Council.

A spokesman for Louise Crossman Architects said: "The scheme was well received by the public who attended during the consultation, with the majority of comments being positive.

"Further design alterations will be made in relation to external lighting; bin storage; bar size and the stand."

The proposal is create a new modern clubhouse facility where the current tea shack stands, while knocking down the current clubhouse which is no longer fit for purpose.

It would require substantial investment to bring the existing building up up to current health and safety standards, and there is a section currently closed off due to asbestos.

In addition to the new clubhouse, the plans include new LED floodlights and storage garages.

The new function room facilities will be large enough to host community groups in need of a base for day time or specific evening use.

If further funding can be found there are plans to upgrade the existing tennis courts and Multi Use Games Area to encourage more fitness activities at the Rec.

Minehead Town Council has already invested in a new play area and public toilet facilities at the Recreation Ground and it is hoped that the upgrade will encourage more community use of the site.

"The football club has seen the recent successful development of facilities at the Cricket and Rugby clubs and are starting to feel like the poor relation," Mr Johnson said.

"The club is run by volunteers and has teams from Under 7s up to the senior team, as well as a girls team and are keen to get the facilities up to a high 21st century standard."