Football club hopes for house sales

The cash-strapped football club has submitted plans to turn part of its ground into two new three-bedroomed houses in a bid to raise funds to buy new floodlights and spectator seating.

The proposals, which are due before a Harrogate Council planning committee on September 1, are recommended for approval by council officers.

The club, which currently plays in the West Yorkshire Association Football League and is based at Manse Lane, claims the money which will be raised by the sale of the properties is vital for its future progress.

Earlier this year, Harrogate Council granted planning permission for the re-development of Harrogate Railway Athletic’s ground in Starbeck with the southern end of the site developed into a £5.5m specialist dementia care home by Vida Healthcare, part of Harrogate-based property and healthcare group, The Rycroft Group.

The ambitious plans include a new clubhouse built at the club’s Station View home, an all-weather pitch, training pitch and mini-football pitch for youngsters to play on.