Wakefield submit plans for Belle Vue upgrade

WAKEFIELD TRINITY chairman John Minards has hailed an “important milestone” in their bid to redevelop Belle Vue.

Following the purchase of the freehold of the stadium in March last year, the West Yorkshire club yesterday submitted a planning application for the next phase of building work including a 2,500- seater East Stand.

After decades spent trying to get a new stadium built, Trinity have resorted to redeveloping Belle Vue which was built more than 120 years ago and is in dire need of improvements.

Minards said: “The lodging of this planning application is an important milestone in our journey to redevelop Belle Vue.

“The structure of the existing East Stand dates from 1924 and the new stand will provide first- class 21st century facilities for our spectators which are well overdue. Most importantly however, this phase of our redevelopment plans will provide multi- functional community facilities including conferencing and banqueting space and a café.

“The 4G pitch will also be available for community use as well as providing an all yearround venue for our first and youth teams.”

The plans also include the renovation of the North Stand terracing allowing an increased overall ground capacity plus an upgrade of the existing floodlights, creation of landscaped car parking and a FanZone behind the new East Stand.

Trinity say it will be funded by a significant contribution from Newmarket Lane Ltd, a joint venture between Yorkcourt Developments and Henry Boot Plc, via a S106 contribution and other private funds facilitated by club shareholders.

Meanwhile, Chris Kendall has been appointed referee for Friday’s Betfred Super League Grand Final.