Youth academy strike Hamilton deal with SLLC

Hamilton Accies have confirmed they will be keeping their youth academy in the town after securing a facility in conjunction with South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture.

- PAUL THOMSON

The Advertiser revealed last week that the club were close to securing a site in the town and the club have now announced they have retained elite-level status for their renowned academy, after a deal was struck to find a home for the youth sides amid a temporary move away from the town for first team operations.

Following the club's decision to quit New Douglas Park last month, Accies confirmed their lease at Broadwood Stadium in Cumbernauld for next season only applies to first team operations and the club’s U19 side.

But now a temporary venue in the town has been secured for an initial two-year spell to retain a status within Hamilton, with all academy staff and operations based there.

The exact venue has yet to be announced by the club.

It is some welcomed good news for Accies, who have still to have their switch to Broadwood ratified by the Scottish Football Association, and they have thanked SLLC for their assistance in securing a stay in the town.