by Nicola Brown

PLANS to update a new 3G sports pitch and make it the permanent home of Clydebank's and Yoker's football teams have been approved by councillors.

The two teams have occupied Holm Park since 2008, when Clydebank FC entered into a five-year tenant agreement to share the grounds with Yoker Athletic.

Now, the wheels are in motion for a £500,000 investment by West Dunbartonshire Council to update the grounds by installing an artificial 3G pitch making it fit for all weather, as well as adding floodlights and a new stand for the crowd.

Councillors at the infrastructure, regeneration and economic development committee agree to investment proposals for Holm Park, which were stated as:"The proposal is to upgrade playing and spectating facilities at Holm Park and allocate the £500k previously identified for Faifley Knowes to this project. It is anticipated that both Clydebank FC and Yoker Athletic FC will receive £125k each from the Community Sports Fund to take the value of investment to £750k in this project."

As well as to note the progress made in the projects development so far and delegate authority to the Strategic Director to tender and award associated contracts.

The Clydebank team have been without their own grounds since 1996 when, after many successful years operating as a senior football club, Clydebank FC went into decline at the end of the 1995-1996 season. The Steedman family, who at the time owned the club, decided to sell New Kilbowie Park with no plan in place for where they would relocate.

Councillor Lawrence O'Neil told the committee meeting last week: "As we celebrate 130 years approaching Clydebank as a town, Yoker has been part of this area since 1886.

"The most important thing is we have now a situation since 1996, where Clydebank Football Club have not had a home. They operate as a tenant.

"This gives us an opportunity. The club will have use of the facility from August/September next year, the start of the season. We have a ground that the community can use. We have a floodlit pitch that we can use. The most important thing is that the community has a valuable development that can be used."

Gil Paterson MSP, said: “This new community stadium is a terrific solution to bring stability to Clydebank FC and Yoker FC. It's a great opportunity for the two football clubs to grow and prosper. The project's completely brilliant in the sense it will be an asset for the whole community. The location is one of the best places for a sports facility, so going forward I'm sure everyone will wish Clydebank and Yoker football clubs well.”

Both teams and politicians welcomed the approved plans.