GUISELEY are optimistic that the planning application they have lodged to extend their stadium will be passed.

A booklet detailing the proposed changes to Nethermoor and CGI pictures of how it would look when finished was produced and given away free at the turnstiles at last Saturday’s Vanarama Conference North game against Tamworth.

The application to Leeds City Council is for a new two-storey clubhouse/community building, single storey team/officials changing room, new spectator terracing to three sides of the ground, new turnstile and toilet facilities, a new compound building and landscaping.

It is an ambitious project and team boss Mark Bower says the staff and players hope everything goes through so that they can grace the pitch at the heart of the newly-developed ground.

Bower said: “It looks fantastic and a lot of hard work has been put in to get this far, and is still going on. I believe the facilities will benefit the whole of Guiseley, it is not just about Saturday afternoons.

“The buildings are for the wider community and will be an asset to the town. We are optimistic that work will begin soon but you never know with planning applications.”

Bower is keeping his fingers crossed for the green light but feels the building work will add to the pressure of his job and the expectation of the club’s supporters.

“We have all seen the artist’s impressions and it looks great. We are all looking forward to playing on it but we’ll have to ensure we do our part and keep playing good football and taking the club forward.

“It’s our duty to put a team out that is befitting of the new surroundings. If it all goes through I think we would have the facilities to shame a few clubs that are playing at higher levels.

“These are exciting times for the club and we are on a little run and we want to keep that going. We want a successful club on and off the pitch – it’s no good the club providing a smart new look stadium if we’re not doing the business by getting results.”