Latics release update on academy plans

03 July 2013 08:15
Wigan Athletic have announced the club's acqusition of Charnock Richard golf course just to the north of the town.

Whilst confirmations were made that the course and restaurant will remain open for the present season, it is expected that longer term the course will be converted into the youth academy as planned last season.

The original site was surrounding the Wrightington Hotel and Country Club, a facility already owned by chairman Dave Whelan, but came under hostile attack from local residents.

The residents were angry at the proposed development of greenbelt land in the area and the move to Charnock Richard has official signalled the intention to leave the Wrightington site as it is.

The statement read: "Wigan Athletic can confirm that Chairman Dave Whelan has purchased Charnock Richard Golf and Country Club with a view to possibly developing the site as the club’s new First Team and Academy Training Ground. 

The purchase and development of this site will be a key aspect of the club’s objective of securing Youth Development Category 1 Status."   Such a development is excellent news for the long term future of the club. Youth development represents a solid way in which the Latics can continue to punch above their weight in the upper echelons of league footbal.

Source: WIGANER.net

Source: FOOTYMAD