Roughyeds seek stadium talks

ROUGHYEDS chief executive Chris Hamilton is to seek talks with Oldham Council over Athletic’s proposed new £20million stadium in Failsworth.

The plans for the 12,000 venue off Broadway, which also features community facilities, were approved by the Council’s cabinet last night.

With the Roughyeds’ current rented home at Boundary Park set to be sold off for housing to help pay for the move, the logical step would be for an agreement to be reached allowing the rugby club to ground-share with Athletic at the 30-acre site off Broadway.

However, Mr Hamilton says the Roughyeds have so far been left in the dark.

“We have spoken briefly to the Rugby Football League and to the Council since the plans were unveiled, but we were not party to any discussions prior to that,” he said.

“Though (Athletic managing director) Simon Corney did indicate some weeks ago that something may happen regarding a new ground, we were not aware the plans were so far advanced.

“We are currently waiting to sit down and have talks with the Council on it.”

Should a buyer for Boundary Park be found, the hope is that the new venue will be ready for the 2011-12 football season.

On the team news front ahead of the game away at Co-operative Championship One leaders Dewsbury on Sunday, the condition of Roughyeds men Andy Ballard, Paul O’Connor and Paul Reilly will be monitored at training tonight. All are struggling with ankle injuries.

Luke Menzies goes for a scan on his own ankle problem tonight, while Marcus St Hilaire (Achilles and calf) is again doubtful.

Craig Littler, set for a recall to Oldham ranks when his loan spell expires on Saturday, has had a temporary cast put on his arm and is set to visit the fracture clinic on Monday to find out the extent of his injury.


BILL Quinn will speak on BBC Radio Manchester’s Rugby League Extra programme tonight, between 6pm and 8pm.

The former chairman and majority shareholder is set to to explain why he is keen to sell his shares and pull out of the club.