A full planning application for a 60,000 capacity, completely rebuilt stadium at Stamford Bridge, has today been published by Hammersmith and Fulham Council.

The new home for Chelsea Football Club, which may take up to four years to build, features an expansion in capacity from 41,600 to 60,000 spectators, and what Chelsea FC calls 'an outstanding view of the stadium from every seat'

Chelsea FC says the new plans, submitted by holding company Fordstam Ltd, involve 'an arena designed to create an exciting atmosphere and stadium facilities improved for every area'.

There will also be direct access to and from Fulham Broadway tube station, making travel more efficient.

The designs have been drawn up by architects Herzog and de Meuron.

Stamford Bridge expansion in pictures:

The planning process is expected to last beyond the end of the season, and is expected to be just one of a number of steps towards full consent for the stadium development to go ahead.

The full planning application runs to 210 separate documents, and is one of the largest ever considered by Hammersmith and Fulham Council.

It includes a new club shop, museum, and separate restaurant or cafe.

If approved, there will be new decking over both the District Line and Southern Railway adjacent to the existing ground, to expand the footprint of land available.

Hammersmith and Fulham Council will now consult on the plans, with all replies to be received by Friday 8th January. A date for the plans to g to committee will be scheduled in due course.

The full plans can be found at www.lbhf.gov.uk/StamfordBridgeGrounds