Bid group plan to big things for QPR

The supporters consortium bidding to buy Queens Park Rangers have begun a feasibility study with a view to extending the club's Loftus Road ground.

Architects and town planners have been appointed to investigate the possibility of improving existing facilities and expanding the site, which is entrenched within a residential area.

The consortium, spearheaded by local businessman Maurice Fitzgerald, opposed exdirector Andrew Ellis's proposal to relocate to Heathrow. But it is generally accepted that Loftus Road's capacity of little more than 19,000 would not be enough if QPR returned to the top flight.

Fitzgerald said: "It's an issue that needs attention right now. If, for example, we are two years away from coming up with something concrete, then waiting even six months would obviously mean we are two and a half years away. It's better to put something in place straight away."

But the consortium accept that upgrading the existing stadium may prove to be a shortterm measure. The second stage of their plan could involve a move away from Loftus Road - but only if a site can be secured within the local area.

"We are looking at the short, medium and long t e rm," Fitzg er ald added. "We are planning for success.

"None of this is the final answer for QPR by any means but it is the be ginning of the future.