Work is continuing to draw up plans for a major expansion project at Surrey County Cricket Club (CCC).

The Club is working on development plans to redevelop the Kia Oval, which would see the current ground's capacity expand from 25,500 to 40,000.

Proposals include replacing the Bedser Stand which could add up to 8,000 seats, while planning permission has already been granted for a large development next to the Pavilion, 1 Oval Square, which is able to incorporate additional capacity and facilities.

Following relevant approvals, work could begin at the end of 2019. The club aims to complete the development in time for the Ashes in 2023, making the Kia Oval the largest cricket stadium in the UK.

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Surrey CCC Chairman Richard Thompson said: "The time is now right for cricket to think on a bigger scale. This summer we have seen unprecedented levels of demand for cricket at the Kia Oval, whether it be for the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy, the 100th Test which takes place in July, or to watch Surrey CCC in the NatWest T20 Blast.

"We need to build on this success and have a ground that can satisfy the unprecedented demand we have created."

The Club has now released a 'masterplan' image which has provided the inspiration for the development of the ground project in recent years. It will act as the design template for future projects.

Mr Thompson added: "We have already received a positive response from early discussions with the ECB and our landlord, the Duchy of Cornwall. We will now work up more detailed proposals and financial models to share with our wider group of stakeholders."

(LM/MH)