Castleford’s plans to build a new stadium have received a boost after funding for the sale of their current home was assured.
A local authority decision to remove a chemical licence means Ben Bailey Homes, which an option on the 10-acre site of the club’s current home, the Jungle, in 2006, can now go ahead and build homes on the land.
The announcement means the Tigers will, in turn, now have money available for their new stadium at Glasshoughton, just off junction 32 of the M62.
Castleford chief executive Richard Wright said on club’s website: “This announcement is highly significant being undoubtedly the biggest hurdle to overcome in the entire project as it unlocks our key source of funding.
“Removal of the chemical licence has been out of our control and has delayed our progress since 2005. It was the one single factor that could derail our plans for the new stadium.
“Subject to detailed planning submission approval, which we anticipate to be a formality, we can now move the project forward with increased confidence.”
Castleford have received a pledge of £2million from Wakefield Council to develop the 13,300 capacity stadium within a 20-acre site next to Xscape.
It is hoped the club will be in their new home by 2012 to improve their chances of securing a new three-year Super League licence.
