SOCCER chiefs in Huddersfield have a new base.
They have reached agreement to take over Bradley Mills Cricket and Bowling Club, to establish a premier site for amateur soccer.
The ground, off Barr Street, Leeds Road, will stage high-profile matches, including local soccer finals and representative games.
Officials are to bid for grants to improve the changing rooms, showers, toilets and clubhouse.
Huddersfield and District Football Association chairman Frank Beaumont is delighted with the move.
It was confirmed today after 12 months of talks between soccer officials, Kirklees Council - which owns the land - and the Bradley Mills club.
The FA and the club will be joint lessees of the ground.
Mr Beaumont said: "We do not under-estimate the task ahead, but firmly believe that, with the full support of the local soccer leagues, Kirklees Council and the appropriate grant authorities, that over the years this site can be developed to be the premier one for amateur soccer in Huddersfield.
"The FA will take over all aspects of the football operation, with responsibilities for ground maintenance, changing facilities and ground letting."
Mr Beaumont added: "There is a lot of work to do to bring the ground and changing facilities up to the standard of a high-quality ground and headquarters.
"But it is hoped that having agreed a joint lease that work can begin to bring about short-term improvements.
"It is the longer-term intention to apply for grants so the pitch and changing facilities will rank alongside the best in the district."
Two clubs will use the ground next season. Moldgreen Con will play in the Works League on Saturdays and Towngate will play Sunday football.
Bradley Mills Cricket Club quit the Drakes Huddersfield League in 1995, after a history spanning 119 years.
It folded because of a player shortage and repeated problems with vandalism.
Since then, the ground has been used by cricket teams from the Arrow Central League and the Wilkinson Rodgers Evening League, as well as football clubs.
