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East Dunbartonshire Councillors have granted Celtic the outline planning permission they need to develop the upper site at the former Lennox Castle Hospital.
The Council's Planning Board approved the application last night (Tuesday), believing that it would help bring 'physical, economic and social benefits' to the area. The application includes:
- a training academy
- hostel accommodation
- six full size UEFA football pitches & 5 a-side area
- a goalkeeping area & a warm-up area
Leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, John Morrison, welcomed Celtic's interest in Lennoxtown. He said, "The Council's Planning Service has worked closely with Celtic over recent weeks to progress this application and has shown real efficiency. This decision is an important step forward for the Club. I'm sure that East Dunbartonshire's residents will be excited at the prospect of such an ambitious development in their area.
"I'm also advised that Celtic will be bringing a significant presence into the community and will assist local young footballers to improve their skills which will be very welcome."
Outline planning permission agrees the principles of the development and will be followed by consideration of the full planning application from the Club for phase 1 of the proposed development. This will need more details including a transport assessment for the site, a tree survey and drainage information.
Local Councillor, John Dempsey, is looking forward to working with Celtic and their agents on a project that could bring massive changes to the 18.8 hectare upper site which has lain vacant since the hospital closed in 2002.
He said, "This is a very significant local site which the community wants to see developed in a positive way and they are eager to see these proposals become a reality."
Celtic's Chief Executive, Peter Lawwell, commented, ""This is excellent news and a very positive step forward. Lennoxtown is presently our preferred location for our new training facility and we hope to make a decision within the next few months."
Ends (328 words)
Contact: Claire Robertson, Public Affairs, 0141 578 8167
Date: Wednesday 21st December 2005
http://www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/Web+Site/Live/Whats+On/EDCCPPA.nsf/0/865D750D5DF64F56802570DE005608C3?OpenDocument