Castleford get chemical all-clear to boost development plans

A local authority decision to remove a chemical licence means Ben Bailey Homes, which in 2006 bought an option on the 10-acre site of the club's current home, can now go ahead and build homes.

This in turn means there will be funding for the Tigers to press ahead with their new ground at Glasshoughton, which they need to move into by 2012 to improve their chances of securing a new three-year Super League licence.

"It unlocks our key source of funding so it is highly significant," said Wright.

"It was undoubtedly the biggest hurdle to overcome in the entire project.

"Removal of the chemical licence has been out of our control and has delayed our progress since 2005.

"But, subject to detailed planning submission approval, which we anticipate to be a formality, we can now move the project forward with increased confidence."

Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have signed St Helens prop/second-row Paul Johnson – on the same day their ex-Great Britain international by the same name departed for Crusaders.

Johnson, 22, made his Super League debut during Saints' win over Huddersfield in June, coming off the bench the following week in the success at eventual champions Wigan Warriors.

He spent most of the season a dual-contract with Championship club Whitehaven but Wakfield coach John Kear said: "We've had our eye on Paul for quite some time.

"We're assembling a squad based mainly around young players who have the drive and hunger to succeed at Super League level and Paul certainly fits that bill. He's come from an excellent environment at St Helens and we believe that he has a big future with the Wildcats in Super League."

Andy Prout has stood down as Featherstone Rovers' chief executive after three-and-a-half years at Post Office Road.

Director Andrew McNeil said: "The club is indebted to the countless hours and huge strides and achievements made under Andy's stewardship.

"This year, and indeed recent events, have been difficult for everyone associated with Featherstone Rovers and Andy has born the majority of these pressures.

"It is impossible to put into words our gratitude to him and his family."

Warrington's Lee Briers has come out of international retirement and been re-appointed as Wales captain ahead of Sunday's Alitalia European Cup tie against Scotland.