Plans to redevelop Somerset County Cricket Club's County Ground have had to be revised because of a funding shortfall of £8m as a result of the global credit crisis.

In January 2008, construction work started on the first phase of the much-hyped redevelopment.

Phase one includes building three new spectator stands on the western side of the ground, capable of holding around 3,000 people, and 65 apartments specifically for the over 65s.

However, the second phase, on the St James Street car park to the south of the ground, has been put on hold over concerns about the club's long-term finances.

Instead, Somerset County Cricket Club will build a new 'Club Hub' which will house "international class" changing facilities, treatment rooms, offices and a new gym.

"Phase two has a funding gap which cannot be closed in the current financial climate. Therefore, the club has sought ways to provide some of the facilities which would have been delivered in Phase 2, but in a more sustainable manner," the club said in a statement.

The new building will also incorporate hydrotherapy pools, dining facilities and office space for the teachers who operate the Study Support Centre.

"It has been designed to meet the requirements of the England and Wales Cricket Board Strategic Facilities Policy, and meets all criteria for hosting international cricket, for which our existing facilities do not comply," the club said.

"The 'Club Hub' will therefore allow the club to attract international fixtures such as the Women's World T20 Cup, which Taunton will host in June 2009."

The new building is designed to be built as an addition to the existing Ondaatje Pavilion.

Whereas the original second phase plan would have seen this facility largely demolished, it will now be added to with the 'Club Hub', which will have "internal links at ground floor and first floor to allow both building to act as one centre for cricket and sports development".

The club have submitted a revised planning application for the 'Club Hub' to Taunton Deane Borough Council.

Additional developments could include conversion of an existing pavilion into a major conference and banqueting centre.

The club are planning to begin construction on the 'Club Hub' in September 2008, to be completed in May 2009 at the same time that phase one is fully completed.

Exciting times lie ahead for the Taunton-based club.