Tuesday 28 March 2017 14:08, UK
Yorkshire's Headingley redevelopment plans have been boosted by a new funding agreement with Leeds City Council.
The club's hierarchy last week revealed Headingley's future status as an England venue was in doubt after £4m-worth of Council backing was withdrawn.
But a new deal has been struck in principle which would see the Council support an agreement between Yorkshire and a private financial company to deliver the required upgrade.
"We would like to thank Councillor Judith Blake and Leeds City Council for their support in reaching this point," Yorkshire chief executive Mark Arthur said. "There is still a way to go, however, it is a significant step in securing the future of international cricket at Headingley.
"Yorkshire County Cricket Club will continue to work hard to ensure that all remaining funds are in place to ensure that the redevelopment is completed in time for the Cricket World Cup in 2019."
Blake said: "I'm delighted we've found a solution that will ensure Headingley continues to enjoy full international sporting status. Subject to the final approval of the Council's Executive Board, this will deliver the funding to redevelop the stadium in full.
"The money will be provided by a private financial services company at no cost to the council tax payer, which offers the best and most viable option moving forward."
The stand at Headingley's Football Ground End, shared with Leeds Rhinos' rugby league stadium, needs improving to international standards if Yorkshire is to remain as a Test venue beyond 2019.
Rhinos chairman Gary Hetherington said: "There is still much to do but recent developments are very encouraging and could provide the funding mechanism to complete the redevelopment work."
