Jags step up search for training ground site

PARTICK THISTLE’S plans for a new training complex will continue at pace, according to the club’s board.

A project board has already been put together including Jags chief Ian Maxwell and project manager Craig Dunn to already build towards a facility to take the Firhill club to the next level.

Thistle have yet to buy land for the development, but have already identified several sites.

And a statement from the club has assured supporters that once the land is acquired, work will start almost immediately to get the complex up and running for the summer of 2019.

It read: “A Project Board has been established to meet with the investors at regular intervals. In addition to the TBC representatives, PTFC’s MD Ian Maxwell, Chairman David Beattie and Manager Alan Archibald sit on the Board. Again, other Directors, staff and contractors will be involved as required.

“The project team has already whittled a huge number of potential sites down to a short list and hopes to be in a position to purchase the chosen plot soon.

“This would see work starting as soon as any necessary permissions have been given in order to meet the completion deadline of summer 2019.

“However given timescales, work has already been going on in parallel to identify a design scheme for the build, including costings and initial designs for the building and outdoor space, with visits to similar facilities underway to learn from others’ experiences.

“Discussions around their detailed requirements are well developed and are informing the design process.

“With contractors identified and ready to go, this should also help with ensuring the project meets deadlines and budgets.”

The facility is set to cost £4million and will be funded by the Three Black Cats, a company set up by the Weir family, with the lottery winners already behind the investment in the club’s youth academy.