Guiseley chief optimistic over stadium demotion fears

The Lions were already facing a serious race against time to make a whole raft of improvements to ensure Nethermoor can achieve an A grade ground status by a deadline of March 31.

But the club have been forced to call a halt to work after Leeds City Council posted a ‘stop notice’ at the ground, amid concerns about protected trees.

Now talks are being held to try to resolve the problems in time for work to be completed ahead of the deadline.

If Guiseley do not achieve A grade status from the National League, they will be demoted regardless of where they finish in the table.

A statement said: “The club can confirm the posting of a stop work notice at Nethermoor in relation to the ground improvements required to meet the minimum standards for the Vanarama National League.

“This relates to certain aspects of the building work that has been undertaken so far and the club understands that some adjustments to the management of the site will now be required.

“We are in dialogue with Leeds City Council as well as independent experts to solve the issues and hope to reach a positive solution over the coming days and weeks.

“We will keep everyone up to date with the situation via the website and social media as and when things develop.”

But Guiseley chairman Phil Rogerson has attempted to allay fears to supporters over worries about significant delays to the re-starting of work.

He said: “The problems are not insurmountable and we are hoping that work gets back underway next week.”