AMBITIOUS plans to redevelop the home of Accrington Stanley could see new corporate boxes built at the Football League’s smallest ground.

Proposals have been unveiled for a new single-tier stand as part of a multi-million pound overhaul of the Wham Stadium, off Whalley Road.

And club bosses have not ruled out installing corporate hospitality along the Whinney Hill side of the ground as part of their designs.

Stanley owner Andy Holt is also set to secure a 50-year lease on the site, subject to borough council approval.

Hyndburn MP Graham Jones has heralded the move, which he believes is just the latest phase in the League Two side’s rebirth under Holt, the boss of main sponsors What More.

The new stand, to be constructed by the Frank Whittle Partnership if given planning consent, would be capable of being split between home and away supporters, depending on the status of the fixture.

Mr Jones said: “Andy Holt is a credit to the area and has been a very generous benefactor for Accrington Stanley.

"He has been willing to invest in the club and I think it’s very welcome that the facilities are going to be upgraded.

“I know that both myself and Hyndburn Council have been working constructively with Andy, to ensure issues which have bedevilled the club in the past are no longer an issue.”

Mr Holt said: “We have been working together with the council and local community and looking at a substantial investment to improve the entire area.

“We will create community facilities that should make the whole area something the people of Accrington can be proud of. It will be also a major boost for football fans coming to the Wham Stadium and improve their match day experience.”

Club officials have confirmed there is no intention to increase the current capacity, which stands at just over 5,000, as a result of the planned revamp.

Council leader Cllr Miles Parkinson said: “This is great news. These are exciting times for Accrington Stanley as the plans will herald a new era for the club.”

Architects at Frank Whittle have been behind stadium designs recently for Scunthorpe United and Berwick Rangers, and an £18million sports and science park at Kirkham.