An Oxfordshire rugby club has announced proposals for a new stadium with seating for 5,000 spectators.

Chinnor RFC put forward the plans on Tuesday, March 24, with the venue intended for construction in Thame.

Club chairman Nick Stainton announced in an online statement that construction of the new covered 5,000-seat stadium would begin at the end of next season, pending planning permission.

He explained that the club had secured a family benefactor who would cover the entire cost of the project, ensuring the club’s long-term financial viability. Stainton noted the organisation had always operated according to this principle of sustainability.

The chairman stated the club remained dedicated to serving the entire community across all levels, an approach developed over the past two decades. He expressed pride in expanding community outreach efforts and gratitude that local residents had supported the club’s aspirations.

The new stadium would also be accessible for community events and recreational activities benefiting the area.

In related news, the board announced that head coach Nick Easter had signed a contract extension. The former England international will continue leading the team into the next season.

Chief executive Simon Vickers stated the move aligned with the club’s goal of competing at the highest level within their league. He acknowledged that while sustainability would improve significantly, operational costs would rise accordingly, but the club remained committed to maintaining balance while investing in community initiatives.

Vickers described the development as potentially the most significant infrastructure advancement for the club in several decades, particularly for a newly promoted side.

Regarding the coaching appointment, Vickers indicated the extended contract would strengthen the club’s performance capabilities both on and off the pitch.

He added that Easter had expressed strong enthusiasm for the club’s vision and would join the main board to help deliver these objectives.

Easter commented that he was pleased to remain at Chinnor and be part of the club’s ongoing progression.

He acknowledged considering other attractive options but ultimately weighed heavily the quality of people at Chinnor, whom he described as among the finest he had encountered in rugby. Easter noted the club made him feel respected and empowered in his role, while also possessing clear ambitions that had been evident in both playing and organisational areas during the club’s sustainable growth in a strong rugby region.