Liverpool FC announce £50m plan to overhaul training operations

Liverpool FC have today revealed plans for a proposed redevelopment of the club’s Academy in Kirkby.

The £50m proposal, formed jointly with Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council, will undergo a public consultation in March to allow residents and businesses to share their views.

Liverpool’s aim with the plans is to consolidate its first team and Academy training operations and facilities.

The club is looking to construction a new combined training centre, redevelop the existing Kirkby facilities and bring the site’s main pitch indoors.

Under the masterplan, the council hoping to provide new and improved sports facilities for the area, which includes working closely with including Kirkby AFC and other football clubs.

Elsewhere, the plan outlines a raft of improvements to the surrounding area, including new cycling and dog-walking paths and improved lighting and security.

For the proposals to move forward, the Reds must purchase additional land adjacent to the Academy site and close the portion of Moss Lane between Arbour Lane and Simonswood Lane.

The consultation will be held on March 8 at Northwood Community Centre in Kirkby, from 2pm until 8pm.

Liverpool FC’s chief operating officer, Andy Hughes, said: “Our proposed plans to bring the first team and young players together in one location is a really exciting proposition.

“The scheme includes state-of-the-art facilities which will be used to support the development of our players and provides all-weather training options.

“We are also working closely with Knowsley Council on plans to make substantial improvements for the local community. These include new and improved football pitches and sports facilities to support grassroots and amateur football teams, and developments to the surrounding areas for local residents.”

Cllr Graham Morgan, Knowsley Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, commented: “We have been working closely with Liverpool Football Club and the local community to develop these plans for the site on Simonswood Lane in Kirkby.

“As well as developing the LFC Academy site, the plans include proposals to provide new and improved football pitches and sports facilities for local teams and the community.

He added: “I would encourage local residents and businesses to come along to the public consultation event to find out more and give their opinions. That feedback will then be used as part of the planning process in due course.”

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