Stand is a real crowd pleaser

Plans for a swish new Broadway stand at Boundary Park were unanimously approved by councillors last night.

An enthusiastic backdrop of supporters applauded as planning committee members gave their verdict.

Latics’ agent Anna Kocerhan said the stand will be a much-needed and eagerly-anticipated investment to cement the club’s long-term future.

The £11million stand will seat over 2,300 spectators and incorporate 11 executive boxes, a supporters’ bar, corporate facilities and function room. There are also plans for a 286-space car park.

Chairman Simon Corney said: “I’m really happy — this is the culmination of a lot of hard work that has gone on between Oldham Athletic and Oldham Council. It will be great for the fans and for the club.

“Now we have planning consent we can crack on and get things moving. There is a lot to be done, but we are moving in the right direction.”

It is likely work could start as early as the summer, with the stand ready for the 2014-15 season.

Welcoming the news, Council leader Jim McMahon said: “This is fantastic for the borough and represents a landmark decision after a lengthy process of working incredibly hard alongside Oldham Athletic.”