Ground Plans Scrapped

Luton have abandoned plans to move to a new stadium near junction 10a of the M1 after discussions hit another stumbling block.

The club are now examining other areas, as the former site would not have been viable had Luton Airport earned planning permission for a new runway.

They are now looking at a site near to junction 12 and have already had preliminary talks with the landowners over the proposal.

‘This [news] has come after 18 months of protracted negotiations, but the club’s directors have looked at alternative options for relocation,’ read a club statement.

‘Meetings have been held with the landowners and local authorities for the purpose of building a 20,000-plus all-seat stadium.

‘We have been encouraged by the positive response, and it should still be possible to have a new stadium in time for 2008/09.’