Yorkshire To Decide Next Move Over Headingley (20 Feb 1996)

News: Yorkshire to decide next move over Headingley

BY DAVID GREEN

THE future of Headingley, Yorkshire`s headquarters and a Test ground since 1899, will come under scrutiny at the county`s annual meeting in Sheffield on March 16.

Though it seems almost heretical to suggest that Headingley, scene of many stirring Test feats, could be abandoned, Yorkshire face headaches if they stay.

Yorkshire lease the ground from Leeds Rugby League Club, who take the hefty revenue accruing from catering and advertising. Another obstacle is Headingley`s residential situation, which prevents any increase in the height of its buildings, thereby inhibiting development potential.

Chris Hassell, the chief executive of Yorkshire, said: "If we can`t improve facilities, Test match cricket at Headingley will be in danger. Parking and access, as well as ground accommodation, continue to cause problems."

The decision of rugby league to switch to summer play will cause further complications.

However, Yorkshire are still considering staying at the ground and are discussing financial options with the rugby league club.

Another option presented itself when Wakefield council offered a green-field site. Leeds City Council, anxious to keep the Yorkshire club within its boundaries, matched Wakefield`s offer and now Bradford and Huddersfield have also thrown their hats into the ring.

Yorkshire, seeing what Durham have achieved with their new ground at Chesterle-Street, are impressed by the opportunities that a fresh start would afford, but they are weighing up their options.

"Our future for the next hundred years is very much at stake," said Hassell. With Lottery money possibly available for a new ground, Headingley`s days could be numbered.

Source :: Electronic Telegraph (http.//www.telegraph.co.uk)