New 20,000-capacity stadium has both the planning permission and contractor. All indications suggest that Brentford FC may in fact be the first London-based club after Arsenal to have a new stadium, though others began their attempts much earlier.

Chelsea, Tottenham, West Ham, QPR, Fulham – talks of their stadium moves/expansions have been ongoing for years now, though happy ending isn’t likely for all of them soon. West Ham are moving to the revamped Olympic Stadium in over 2 years, while Tottenham are awaiting for their new stadium to break ground. But the history behind their campaigns is a long and turbulent one.

Meanwhile Brentford FC have seen a rather smooth way towards their new stadium so far. Beginning their work on the project in 2012, the club presented it in early 2013, submitted planning application in May and now has permission granted. It’s still awaiting review by mayor of London and secretary of state, but with local counsil’s opinion being positive the two bodies should approve it too.

Not only that, but also the contractor has been selected after over half a year of talks with various companies. It’s Willmott Dixon, who have previously worked on a few stadiums and some of the 2012 Olympics facilities.

Chris Gammon, Co-director of Lionel Road Developments, said: “Soon after submitting our Planning Application in May 2013 we began the process of identifying a partner to work on this exciting and challenging scheme. We have had a high level of interest and it has been a difficult job narrowing it down to one company to enter into detailed negotiations on a development agreement. All the short-listed bidders showed considerable understanding of the challenges and put a great deal of work into areas such as architectural design.

"Hounslow Council officers have been focused on the deliverability of our scheme and we believe that the Club and Willmott Dixon have in place a sound commercial model and sensitive design approach which will do a great deal to meet the concerns of local residents. We recognise we have to await the views of London and Central Governments before progressing to the next stage.”