Talks Begin On Future Of Headingley (17 Nov 1995)

Electronic Telegraph Friday 17 November 1995

Fears for future of cricket at Headingley

By Andrew Collomosse

TALKS aimed at turning Headingley cricket ground into one of the world`s top Test venues begin in Leeds today.

Yorkshire County Cricket Club, which leases the ageing arena, wants to buy the freehold and develop it to modern standards.

But if negotiations with the owners, Leeds Football, Cricket and Athletic Club, break down the county side is considering drawing stumps and moving to a green field site, possibly near Wakefield.

Leeds FC & AC, which also owns the adjoining rugby league ground, is thought to be willing to discuss a deal and chief executive Alf Davies is meeting his cricketing counterpart, Chris Hassall, today.

Mr Hassall said yesterday: "Re-developing Headingley would be an enormous undertaking and isn`t something we would consider while we are in a leasehold situation. You would not spend a small fortune on improving your home if you were just the tenant, would you?

"If we cannot reach an agreement there is an alternative for us to move to a new ground, perhaps at Wakefield."

The present arrangement means Yorkshire has never been able fully to reap the financial benefits of Headingley`s status as a Test venue.

The plan is already receiving enthusiastic backing from some quarters.

Keith Wilford, chairman of Yorkshire Supporters` Association, said yesterday: "Unless you own your own ground you are going to be left behind.

"Leaving Headingley might upset people in Leeds but if moving is good for Yorkshire cricket it has to be done."

Traditionalists are appalled at the prospect of quitting the ground and they have wasted no time in making their feelings known.

Mr Hassall said: "It is an emotive issue. And it isn`t just cricket fans who have had their say. Local hotels, shops and restaurants aren`t too happy. But there is still a long way to go."

Source :: Electronic Telegraph