Oldham after Whitebank

Oldham have expressed their delight that a planning application will be submitted for the development of Whitebank Stadium to include a new artificial pitch.

Oldham chairman Chris Hamilton said in a statement: “We have been speaking to Oldham Council for a considerable time regarding the site as a whole and the potential for improvements.

“As our supporters are well aware we are currently playing out of the borough at Bower Fold, Stalybridge because Whitebank as it stands does not meet the Rugby Football League’s minimum standards.

“As part of these discussions with the Council a number of options have been, and continue to be, discussed with various parties which will ultimately enable funds to be brought in to dramatically change the face of Whitebank Stadium.

“As part of that process it was necessary to surrender the current lease to enable matters to move forward, but our fans can be assured that the club’s position is protected now and in the future.

“The talks with the Council have also involved discussions with the local amateur football club Avro FC.

“It has always been our desire to see facilities at the ground improved and to that end we have worked constantly to achieve it.

“An opportunity has now arisen to work with this local amateur football club and OMBC to access sizeable funding which will have the potential to see significant changes take place.

“This application will be the first of a number of applications which will see Whitebank Stadium improved – a major positive for all concerned.

“If approved the application will see an artificial pitch laid down to the same dimensions of the existing playing surface and, importantly, will also see levelling work take place to remove its current slope.

“We will continue to keep fans abreast of progress in due course.”