CLARETS bosses have unveiled plans which will see them take a major step towards revolutionising facilities for the next generation of Turf Moor legends.

Earlier this year Burnley FC’s board pledged that a bond scheme would bring the historic ground and Gawthorpe training ground back under the club’s control.

And now the first scheme following the announcement has been submitted to Burnley Council, which will enable the Clarets’ youth training academy to make significant progress.

Joint chairman John Banaszkiewicz said Gawthorpe could become an important tool in attracting new young talent to the club.

And Clarets Trust chairman Peter Pike also welcomed the move as a solid foundation on which the club can build for the future.

Proposals drawn up by Manchester-based architects RCAS Interiors will see the former groundsman’s accommodation at Gawthorpe turned into offices, a medical facility, and changing rooms and showers, for Terry Pashley’s outfit.

Mr Banaszkiewicz said: “It is a little bit like buying a house - once you have acquired it you can start making improvements.

“We are looking to make a number of improvements and investments at Gawthorpe. Players are starting to notice the difference.

“It is a challenge but we have still got a good youth policy and have invested in more scouts.

“We have got to make sure that we have the best facilities so we can attract young players and that they like playing there.”

Planning agent Nick Darnley said that the new set up would replace the temporary accommodation which is currently being used by the young players.

While a number of options had been considered, including demolition of the property, it was felt remodelling the building would prove the best alternative.

Mr Darnley added: “This will provide the club with a necessary asset, which will be in line with the club’s overall vision of moving forward, with next-stage status being gained as a result of the redevelopment.

“The club will be able to attact more youth players and improve existing relationships with junior football clubs from the local area.”

He has also maintained that the works would be contained within the site’s current footprint and not affect the nearby Gawthorpe Hall estate, an issue which has been discussed with officials from the National Trust.

Former Burnley MP Mr Pike said that the club had been attempting to make progress with the Gawthorpe redevelopment for some time and that the new plans were ‘encouraging’.

“Our great days were built on our youth policy so I would fully support this,” he said.

“Perhaps we are never going to have the big money, which other clubs may generate, but if we can attract more young players, by improving our facilities, then we can remain competitive for the future.”

Last January the club, under joint chairmen John Banaszkiewicz and Mike Garlick, proposed a bond scheme which would see Turf Moor and Gawthorpe bought from Longside Properties Ltd, under a new vehicle, Burnley FC Holdings, Ultimately it is hoped that their retention will place the club on a sounder financial footing and enable investment in the training and developing of new players.