AN UPDATE on the development of the new home of Kendal RUFC has been released by the club's chairman, who says everything is on track for the team to start the new season at the new ground.

Work on the £11 million project, which includes a £3.5m clubhouse, started in July on the site which is further north up Shap Road from the club's current Mint Bridge home.

Chairman Stephen Green released a statement saying he expects Kendal RUFC to formally move in July, but pre-season fixtures this summer will be played away while preparations continue for the start of the new season in September.

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He said: "The revised timetable for the move is completion of the new site – end of June; our move from Mint Bridge - end of July; first game at the ‘new’ Mint Bridge at start of the season in September. We shall play any warm-up games in August as ‘away’ fixtures."

Mr Green added other areas of the development were moving towards fruition with some of the finer details now being decided.

He said: "We are in the final stages of approving the finishes to the ceilings, walls and floors, having previously worked our way through the process with lighting and other electrical fittings. This involves reviewing samples of tiles and floor coverings to fit with our overall colour scheme for the building. You will not be surprised to know that we have a recurrent ‘black and amber’ theme where appropriate.

"The design of both bars is complete and we are using quality materials to ensure a pleasing finish which will last. This is one of a few areas in the building where we have taken over the design from the developer to make sure the finish and appearance is coordinated properly.

"We visited the new building last week to assess progress and the majority of the block walls are complete, with plastering about to start. The size of the rooms within the building is now evident and very impressive. "Contrary to the rumour that reached my ears recently, both the member’s and main bar rooms are bigger than our existing Club, allowing for approximately 150 seated in the main bar.

"The project team continues to work hard to meet deadlines and monitor progress. I am sure members are grateful for the effort on their behalf and we shall see the results very soon."

Kendal look set to continue next season in National League Three after a strong return to the division following promotion last season.

The team currently lie in 7th of 14 teams in the division with 10 wins from their 18 fixtures so far.