A DEAL has been agreed for Accrington Stanley to set up a training base at the King George V playing fields in Baxenden.

Hyndburn Council cabinet members yesterday backed the deal and leader of the council Miles Parkinson said he was optimistic about the move.

Last year, club bosses announced that planning permission had been granted to develop land in Read into a new training facility for the Reds.

Cllr Parkinson said: “The club has progressed a long way in the last few years.

“The lease of the King George V playing fields will bring much needed investment into the borough and ensure the club has a training ground to match its ambition.

"I want to praise the club for committing to keep its base in its home town and for showing drive and ambition to move up the football league in a sustainable way.

"The team provides good publicity for the local area as well as drawing thousands of visitors to Accrington."

Leader of the opposition, Cllr Tony Dobson, added: "We welcome investment into the borough.

"All of us were disappointed when we heard the new training ground could have been in Read so it's great we have worked with Accrington Stanley to agree this new investment.

"I am sure the club, the council and residents will work together to make this an amazing success."

Ward councillor June Harrison said: "Residents think King George V playing fields are a waste of space at the moment so hopefully this will be good for the future."

Proposals were passed by Ribble Valley Council last year for a training base at land off Whalley Road in Read.

Stanley owner Andy Holt, who owns the land, submitted the application for the construction of changing rooms, including showers, and a car park with access road.

But the agreement with the council means the club will now be able to stay in Hyndburn to train.