United plan to build a new covered terrace to replace the Blackfriars End

Hereford United are to rebuild the Blackfriars terracing at Edgar Street after it failed a safety test.

Following a meeting with their landlords and Herefordshire Council, the club has decided to proceed with plans for a 2,000-capacity terrace.

United face a reduced capacity this season after officials closed the terrace following crush barrier tests.

The club will fund the development but they hope to receive backing from the Football Stadia Improvement Fund.

United officials needed permission to undertake the work from the Richardsons, who own the leases on the ground, while they also required extensions to those leases.

There was no alternative but for us to pursue the development independently Hereford United club statement

They also sought assurances over planning permission from Herefordshire Council and say that all three issues were clarified to the club's satisfaction.

A club statement read: "After 12 years of talks we felt there was little chance of advancing things quickly which is vitally important considering the reduction in capacity and the closing of the Blackfriars End.

"Therefore there was no alternative but for us to pursue the development independently.

"The configuration of the terrace would enable seats to be installed if required at a later date but we believe that many supporters still prefer to stand.

"It will also incorporate facilities and viewing platforms for disabled supporters and those accompanying them, new toilets and canteens."

Meanwhile, on the field, Hereford will continue their pre-season build-up on Thursday with a trip to West Midlands Premier Division club Wellington.

They will then head to Birmingham City for a training match on Friday morning with manager John Trewick planning on using all of his contracted players and trialists at some stage during the two matches.

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