PLANS are in the pipeline to "end years of uncertainty" and provide Sydenhams Premier outfit Newport IW with a new state-of-the-art home.

This time last year landlords South Coast Leisure (SCL) gave the club notice to leave their current St George’s Park HQ by August 2017, making way for a retail park to be built on the site.

But, following negotiations, SCL allowed Port to continue playing there free of charge while a long-term sustainable future was sought for the football club.

The plans, to be submitted shortly, would see a new ground built on land off The Racecourse on one of the main routes into the town. It would comprise a brand new floodlit pitch, main stand, bar/function room, on-site parking and facilities for the disabled.

The new ‘low throw’ floodlights would meet the FA’s Category D ground grading, enabling Port to play up to Step 4 of the National League System – the equivalent of the Evo-Stik South West where the likes of Winchester City, AFC Totton and Salisbury currently play.

If the plans get the thumbs up, it is hoped the new stadium could be up and running for the start of 2018/19.

Newport FC chairman Stuart Ross said: “We would like to thank South Coast Leisure for their support over many years.

"The club has been working closely with SCL to develop these plans to ensure they meet the required Category D ground grading specifications and are fit for purpose for the club.

“We are very close to this, which is magnificent.

"This is a chance for the club to end years of uncertainty and settle into a new home that will offer top-class facilities.

“We have to move quickly for the start of the 2018/19 season. But we have a plan which, if approved, will finally see the club playing in a ground that can thrive both in terms of its football and in developing and strengthening links with the Island's community.”