YOUNG footballers will benefit from a state-of-the-art training ground.

Kirklees Council yesterday gave Huddersfield Town permission to upgrade Canalside Sports Complex on Leeds Road.

The work is vital if the club is to retain its coveted academy status.

The council’s Huddersfield Planning Sub-committee voted yesterday to allow the development.

The upgrade includes laying a third generation (3G) training pitch. The artificial surface looks like grass but gives a firmer grip, allowing for better ball control and reducing the chances of injury.

Other changes include:

Construction of groundsman’s building, including a large vehicle turning circle

Building of two portable classrooms with associated timber decking

Relocation of bowling and croquet lawns and building new pavilion

Increase in parking spaces from 77 to 88

Removal of some perimeter trees and erection of three-metre high galvanised mesh security fence around the side of the 3G pitch and bowling green.