Clarets unveil development plans

Clarets chief executive Paul Fletcher is leading the "Premier Plan", in conjunction with Burnley Borough Council and The Prince's Charities. And he said: "If you dare to dream, dream big, and this is not just about Burnley Football Club, this is about the whole town of Burnley and potentially leaving a massive legacy brought on by promotion to the Premier League." The proposals, which Fletcher expects will take two to three years to reach fruition, would see an innovative "StadiArena" stand erected in place of the David Fishwick Stand at Turf Moor. In addition to its use for football, the stand would be employed to stage concerts and conferences. The scheme would also require the relocation of Burnley Cricket Club to Towneley Park, while the run-down Weaver's Triangle district would be redeveloped for use as student accommodation and an entertainment complex. Fletcher said: "On the basis of one idea involving the building of a new stand at the football club, this could become a much bigger idea shared by all parties. "The name of Burnley is now right around the world because of our standing in the biggest league in world football. Our games are beamed around the world and they all now know where we are. "The trick now is getting people here. The university would do that and allow students from across the world to learn about every facet of the business side of the biggest sports industry in the world. "Burnley Cricket Club are another important partner and the plans, which we have discussed with them, offer the chance to become self-sufficient at a brand new state-of-the-art facility. "This really is a win-win situation for everyone. The cricket club gets a brand new ground and the opportunity to be a profitable club in a beautiful location. The football club gets a new stand that isn't compromised and can be used seven days a week. The town gets a new university and finally the Weaver's Triangle is redeveloped."