CHAIRMAN Jeff Mostyn insisted Cherries' plans to build a new stadium were a "clear indication of our commitment" to supporters.

Cherries announced at the start of this month that the board had taken the decision after talks with owners Structadene and Bournemouth Borough Council to develop the current site had reached an impasse.

The club is hoping to find a new venue for the start of the 2020-21 season.

Mostyn, in a chairman's new year message published by the Daily Echo, looked back on 2016 and ahead to 2017.

He described as the "greatest achievement" Eddie Howe's team preserving their Premier League status in their first season in the top flight.

Mostyn's message read: "I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our supporters and their families a very happy, healthy and successful 2017.

"Looking back, what a year 2016 turned out to be. Retaining our place in the Premier League was the greatest achievement and to do it in such style was the icing on the cake.

"There were many magnificent individual performances to reflect on but the overriding success was the performance of the team.

"We succeeded as a collective and that remains our greatest strength as a team and as a football club.

"I am certain we can all recall our favourite moments in what turned out to be a most memorable year for the club. There were many magical moments.

"What we have all discovered is every point is so vital at this level and every point has to be fought for.

"Many senior people in the game have said to me that had it not been for Leicester City’s incredible achievement of winning the Premier League, our own achievement of retaining our position would have been the outstanding performance of the season.

"I think that sums up just how well we have been received at the top level of English football.

"With the old year behind us and new one ahead, the challenges for the team remain the same.

"The reverse fixtures beckon with the emotional highs and lows to contend with but we wouldn’t have it any other way.

"This is life in the fast lane and, if there is a low moment, I always take time out to reflect on our journey and the smile quickly returns to my face. I sincerely hope you all share those same sentiments.

"Focusing on the future, the recent announcement that we are looking for a site for a new stadium is a clear indication of our commitment to you our supporters and our desire to ensure long-term success for the club.

"We want to make certain we can compete with the best in the Premier League. In this respect, we will do everything possible to achieve that goal.

"Finally, on behalf of everyone at the club, thank you for your incredible support, it is invaluable to us all."