September 30 – London City Lionesses have secured planning approval for a new “world class” training and performance campus in Ditton, Kent – a project that further cements owner Michele Kang’s status as one of the most influential figures shaping the future of the women’s game.
The newly-promoted Women’s Super League (WSL) side – the only independent club in the division not tied to a men’s team – will break ground in 2026 on a complex that aims to set a new benchmark for elite women’s football facilities.
Designed by F3 Architects, the state of the art campus will include a purpose-built first-team base alongside an expanded academy infrastructure and a community 3G pitch, with completion zeroing in on a 2027 deadline.
According to the club, the multi-million pound investment will create more than 50 permanent jobs and generate over £1m annually for the local economy, resulting in a women-first facility that rivals the infrastructure of men’s Premier League clubs.
The project is the latest in Kang’s growing portfolio, living up to her nickname as the ‘godmother of women’s football’. Already the owner of NWSL side Washington Spirit and a majority shareholder in OL Reign, she also spearheads a women’s football group spanning Europe and North America.
Earlier this month, Kang sanctioned the world-record signing of Grace Geyoro for £1.43million, representing a statement of intent for the Lionesses’ on-pitch ambitions.
They’ve endured a difficult run of fixtures since being promoted – facing Arsenal, Manchester United, Everton and Manchester City. They’ve come out of that with three points, collected in a tricky away win over Everton, but have visibly struggled to leave a mark against the bigger teams – conceding 13 goals across the other three games.
“I extend my sincere thanks to councillors for endorsing our vision to provide women and girls with the leading performance campus in the world,” said Kang. “This facility will remove the barriers that have long held women back in sport and ensure the next generation of girls have the environment they need to thrive.”
Martin Semmens, chief executive of the Lionesses, added: “This is more than just a planning decision – it’s a game-changing moment for women’s football. The facilities we will create here will set the gold standard.
“They will be comparable to a men’s Premier League team, specifically designed to meet the needs of our female athletes. I’m delighted and proud that Tonbridge and Malling Council support our vision and look forward to creating a new home for professional women’s football here in Kent in the months ahead.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1759230525labto1759230525ofdlr1759230525owedi1759230525sni@g1759230525niwe.1759230525yrrah1759230525
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