Headingley redevelopment gets the go-ahead

Yorkshire County Cricket Club have given approval to a 10 million pounds redevelopment of Headingley.

The club's general committee approved lease, financial and management proposals to secure the Test future of the venue.

Negotiations with the club's landlord, Leeds CF&A Ltd, have been ongoing for many months and agreements will now be submitted to Sport England for approval in support of the in-principle grant offer made to the club.

Included in the redevlopment project will be modern seating with improved sight lines, upgraded toilets and a members' long room and seating on the Bowling Green stand.

A significant element of the scheme is related to cricket development and community involvement to justify the financial support of Sport England and Leeds City Council.

The city council are anxious to counteract any suggestions that Test cricket be taken away from Leeds.

Full details of the scheme and associated issues are being prepared for circulation to the club's members. There will be an extraordinary general meeting of Yorkshire CCC on September 20.

Yorkshire chairman Keith Moss said, "All Yorkshire members will be relieved that Headingley's future has been resolved and that they will at last be able to enjoy first-class facilities as befits the premier county at a ground with such a rich heritage."