Kilmarnock have lifted the lid on ambitions to build a new dedicated training base and 500-seater stand in the town.
The state-of-the-art plans dubbed the Bowie Park Training Facility would feature two full-size pitches, two five-a-side pitches and a two-floor training facility building.
Killie bosses want to build the grand facilities on a parcel of land east of the A77 between Kilmarnock and Crookedholm.
Funded by club director Billy Bowie, the site would also feature a gym, changing rooms, canteen / seminar room, offices and a players’ lounge.
The facility would also become a permanent home for Kilmarnock Women and the academy, with potential to evolve the 500-seat stand in the future.
Billy Bowie said: “Bringing first-team training back into the local area at Rugby Park has been integral in strengthening the connection between the team and our community in recent years. The next stage of our vision is to build a bespoke training facility, at the heart of our homeland, where our first-team and academy squads can develop side-by-side on a daily basis.
“The facility will lay the foundations to continue the club’s long-term growth, from grassroots level upwards, to ensure that we’re consistently progressing in the top-flight of Scottish football, in addition to competing in European competitions on a regular basis in years to come.”
Killie manager Derek McInnes added: “The proposal demonstrates the ambition of Billy and the directors, which was one of the main factors in committing my own future to the club.
“Purpose-built training facilities support the nurturing of academy and first-team talent, in addition to strengthening a reputation that will help to attract and retain a certain calibre of player. It’s important that those players feel connected to the community, and a dedicated club base in the town will enhance engagement opportunities with future generations who will go on to wear the blue and white stripes.”
A public consultation on the plans is now underway with directors keen to get the views of fans on the proposals.
Fans can view the plans and leave feedback on December 14 and 15 between 12pm and 6pm at the Killie Museum at Rugby Park.
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