Plans to build a new sports centre prove “businesses have faith in Borehamwood”, according to the council's leader.

Legal & General has announced proposals to build a 'centre of sporting excellence' on the land, which lies to the east of Rowley Lane and to the west of the A1.

It will be open to grass roots sports teams, clubs for all ages and schools in Borehamwood, as well as people from the wider community.

The Borehamwood Times first reported on plans for the "North London Stadium" project in May, when it was mentioned in the agenda of a Hertfordshire County Council highways and waste management committee meeting.

Brief details suggested it would include a 20,000 seat stadium, a 200-bedroom hotel and associated conference facilities.

Residents living near to the site have now started to receive letters informing them of a public exhibition unveiling the plans later this month.

Hertsmere Borough Council leader Cllr Morris Bright said: “What this is showing once again is that businesses have faith and confidence not just in Hertsmere, but Borehamwood.

“Hertsmere now has the highest number of start-up businesses in the whole of Hertfordshire and so this is a great thumbs up for our town.

“The potential of this could be great and it’s up to the developers to make the case to residents and the council as to why we want it.”

However, Cllr Bright said correct traffic and road infrastructure would have to be in place to ensure there is adequate transport links.

He added: “We don’t want to find ourselves at a gridlock as a result of inconsiderate drivers.

“Plans for a shuttle bus through the town to take people there could be an option. There will also be plenty of space for parking so that won’t be an issue.”

Chairman of the Elstree & Borehamwood Residents Association, Andy Lewis, suggested turning Elstree Way into a dual carriageway to the A1.

He added: “This is a fantastic idea and will bring in some much needed employment within the area. My concern though is who it will actually be for.

“I do think Borehamwood is growing way too fast. Our infrastructure is at breaking point. Transport needs to improve dramatically if this is going to happen.”

The plans include a training complex, sports facilities for the community, accommodation for players and research space.