Ipswich Town Football Club’s plans to redevelop Playford Road training site approved

The £30 million redevelopment of Ipswich Town Football Club’s training grounds in Rushmere St Andrew has been approved.

In November, The Tractor Boys submitted plans for a makeover to their site in Playford Road.

When complete, it will feature a hydrotherapy centre, an upgraded gym and rehabilitation areas for players, while the main building will be refurbished for use by its academy and women’s teams.

Work will begin ‘imminently’, the club said, with it expected to take 14 months.

Speaking of the plans, Mark Ashton, chief executive of ITFC, said: “Developing our training facilities is something we have spoken about since day one at the club.

“To continue the club’s progress we need to attract, retain and develop elite players. We need first-class facilities to do that.

“With development of the training ground being a key pillar of progression for the Football Club, this substantial investment will enhance our facilities and environment for our first-team, academy and women’s players, and will be key to the delivery of Category One status for our Academy.

“Having worked with both internal and external stakeholders, we are delighted to have these works approved and we are grateful for everyone’s support. We will look to break ground as quickly as possible now.”