Fulham have purchased the former BBC sports ground at Motspur Park as they look to expand their training ground.

The abandoned sports ground, which lies opposite the club’s training ground at Motspur Park, has been the subject of numerous initiatives, ranging from schools to cemeteries since it was sold by the BBC to Irish businessman Ben Dunne.

No development, however, ever materialised with the site occupied by ruined tennis courts, hockey and football pitches, while the clubhouse was burned down last year.

Fulham previously had a bid for the site rejected earlier in the year but the site was put out to tender by its owner in February, and the club have now purchased it outright.

Two building companies wanted to build houses on the site, but residents and councillors set up a petition to ensure it remained a sports ground in some shape as opposed to housing or any other development.

It is believed that the club wish to build new pitches, including new Academy pitches, on the current derelict site, which sits opposite their current training ground.

It is not yet known when work will start on the site.

Shahid Khan, Fulham Chairman, said: “The purchase of the site gives our Club additional and much-needed flexibility at Motspur Park and reinforces our commitment to providing first-class resources and one of the best training environments in all of football.

“We haven’t yet determined exactly how we will use the property, but one thing I can guarantee is we will be respectful owners and excellent neighbours.

“I’m very appreciative to everyone who helped make this happen. It’s great news for the continued progress of our First Team and a huge boost as well for all of our squads and our renowned Academy.”