Yorkshire CCC is pleased to announce the commencement of the Headingley redevelopment to take place over the next 18 months. The project is to be split into two phases to fit around the Test Match and One Day International being staged at the ground. Phase one starts on Monday and involves the redevelopment of the Western Terrace and North Enclosure with 7,500 new seats to be completed for the One Day International between England and Pakistan in June.

Phase two provides a wonderful new East Stand facility for Yorkshire members and also includes three additional cricket nets and facilities at ground floor level with 36 boxes above. This second phase will commence after the Ashes Test in August for completion prior to the 2002 season.

Funding for the �10 million project has been secured with support from Sport England, Leeds City Council and the Sports Grounds Initiative.

Yorkshire Chairman, Keith Moss expressed his delight that Ballast plc, the appointed contractors, were to commence work next week and was looking forward to the culmination of many months of negotiations.

Sport England's Chairman, Trevor Brooking said it was a great project for Yorkshire at all levels. Whilst the County's top cricketers would enjoy the best of facilities for training and playing the local youngsters would also benefit from these wonderful amenities. The project will undoubtedly attract more young people into the game and provide the first step on the ladder for some of our future cricketing stars.

Cllr. Brian Walker, Leader of Leeds City Council commented "I am delighted that, at long last, work is to begin on the Headingley redevelopment. It means that Test status has been secured for Leeds and that the City is to have yet another first class sporting and leisure facility which will attract visitors and investment from far and wide. I am particularly encouraged that the proposals will enable Yorkshire to continue its excellent work in encouraging young people to train and take up the game. Yorkshire has produced many great names in the past - as well as modern-day heroes like Darren Gough, Craig White, Michael Vaughan and Matthew Hoggard, who are currently representing Yorkshire with the England team in Pakistan. The Cricket School facility planned as part of this development will help us develop the huge pool of potential that I know exists in Leeds."

Ends

(Press release - 16.11.00)

For more information please contact Chris Hassell, Chief Executive YCCC on:
(o) 0113 2033 603