The owners of Edgware Football Club's ground are preparing a planning application which would see houses built on the site.

Edgeware sic Development, who are registered in the Isle of Man, bought the White Lion Ground in High Street, Edgware, 18 months ago from Scottish & Newcastle Breweries.

Its plan to build on the ground, said to involve a substantial housing development, has not yet been lodged with Harrow Council, but a consultation process is due to start next week and information will be sent to neighbouring residents.

But Edgware Town, who have played at the ground since their formation in 1939, are resisting the new threat to their home. A club spokesman said that their lawyers were preparing for a court hearing in March, and would argue that the club have an option for a 25-year lease on the site. The club, currently lying 11th in Ryman League Division Two, have suffered financially in recent years, but successfully rebuilt their clubhouse after it was destroyed by fire in 2003. The White Lion pub, which gave the ground its name, was demolished in 1997.

Wealdstone FC, who also played at the White Lion Ground until their recent move to Northwood, have offered Edgware Town a ground-share agreement at their new stadium Prince Edward Playing Fields in Canons Park when it is completed next season.

Wealdstone director Howard Krais said: "We have been approached by the developers and can confirm that there is a ground-share agreement on the table, which we have offered Edgware Town."