Exeter Chiefs are on course to be playing their rugby in a brand new purpose built stadium at Sandy Park on the outskirts of Exeter in September 2006.

In the summer of 2004 the development plans for the site received approval from both Exeter City and Devon County Councils, and other Statutory Authorities. The site will house not only superb playing and training facilities, new grandstand, exclusive hospitality suites and function areas for the Exeter Chiefs, but also a David Lloyd Tennis Centre with indoor and outdoor tennis and swimming facilities, gymnasium and social areas.

This major development will position the club to provide the facilities necessary to achieve premiership status. It indicates in no uncertain terms the level of commitment the Club has to this goal.

The County Ground has been sold to developers Bellway with effect from May 2006. This will allow the club sufficient time to ensure that the new Stadium at Sandy Park is ready for use, both on and off the pitch, from the beginning of season 2006/07, in September 2006. The land at Sandy Park passed into the Clubs ownership in February 2005. In the same month enabling works began, including site levelling, construciton of a new access road from the A379, and provision of mains services. This programme was completed in November 2005.

The main stadium contract for the Club began in November 2005, for completion by September 2006. This includes pitches and the first main grandstand with seating for 2400, rugby playing infrastructure, function and hospitality suites, shop and cub offices.

To view a virtual fly-by of the Chief's new ground click here (note you will need the latest version of Flash installed.

Please click here to view further information on the Sandy Park Conference Centre