THE REDEVELOPMENT of Wrexham AFC's derelict Kop should be a key priority of a new masterplan, it has been claimed.
Wrexham Council is looking to commission a feasibility study to examine development opportunities along the Mold Road gateway into the town.
It includes looking at potential improvements to the Wrexham Glyndwr University campus, the Racecourse Ground and Wrexham General train station.
The 4,900-capacity terrace has been closed for a number of years and Cllr Marc Jones (Plaid), believes restoring it should be the focus of any future proposals.
Cllr Jones, who represents the Grosvenor ward including Crispin Lane which the stand backs onto, said: "Any redevelopment of this area should prioritise the neglected Kop end of the Racecourse.
"This has huge potential both to increase and improve capacity for Wrexham AFC's Racecourse but also to bring added value through other key developments on the site.
"The study is potentially significant as it signals that this area is becoming the focus for improvement.
"This area is the main gateway to Wrexham in terms of road and rail and needs to be a priority for regeneration - specifically the wasteland behind the Kop and the now empty Nightingale House charity shop."
Kop pictured in use in match between Wrexham AFC and Stockport County back in 2007
Glyndwr University has already announced £60 million plans to revitalise its main base with new facilities for students, as well as applying for planning permission for housing on the site of its old student village.
It recently purchased Wrexham Village, a newer student complex that backs onto the Racecourse Ground, and is looking to expand it with a new block.
Meanwhile, the nearby train station has been earmarked as a key transport hub by assembly members.
Cllr Jones said: "We've already heard some encouraging noises from the Welsh Government that the train station needs to become a proper transport hub.
"It clearly needs expanded parking and better links to the bus network.
"Some joined-up thinking by those with the power to make a real difference to this important area would be very welcome."
The Welsh Government is providing funding for the blueprint to be drawn up.
A tender notice was previously published by the council on the Sell2Wales website, asking for a company to come forward to create it.
The authority is currently considering the most suitable bidder before the work can begin.
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