STRONG concerns have been raised as private developers have entered the race to buy land behind Wrexham AFC’s famous Kop end.

The area off Mold Road is seen as crucial to redeveloping the derelict stand, which has been closed for more than a decade, and bringing international football to North Wales on a regular basis.

It has also been earmarked as an important part of Wrexham Council’s plans to transform one of the main gateways into the town.

The Welsh Government has made two bids to buy the plot from neighbouring Glyndwr University, but has so far proven unsuccessful.

It is understood that the university is now in negotiations with a private firm which has expressed its interest.

The move has been met with worry from a North Wales Assembly Member, who said it would be ‘scandalous’ if the rug is pulled from under the regeneration scheme.

Plaid Cymru’s Llyr Gruffydd has called on either the Cardiff administration or the local authority to step in and fund the purchase.

He said: “It’s clear that this is an important gateway site to Wrexham in terms of road and rail access.

“Therefore it’s deeply concerning that Glyndwr University appears to be pressing ahead with plans to sell this land to a private developer, something that could undermine the entire regeneration project.

“The regeneration of the football ground and restoration to a four-sided stadium with modern facilities is essential to the future success of Wrexham, the football club and the region as a whole.

“After a disappointing night on the pitch in the play-offs, it would be scandalous to be let down off the pitch by both the council and government.

“The club is invaluable to the town and funding must be found in the same way as the Welsh Government was able to find funding for so many similar projects in the M4 corridor.

“I urge the Welsh Government to get this sorted – it’s totally unacceptable that these delays have put the redevelopment at risk.”

The leader of Wrexham Council has also expressed fears about third party interest and has asked the university to act in good faith.

The local authority recently commissioned a feasibility study to examine development opportunities along the Mold Road corridor, including the Glyndwr University campus, the Racecourse Ground and Wrexham General train station.

Funding was given for the blueprint by the Welsh Government, but Cllr Mark Pritchard believes it should be prepared to offer more to secure the land.

The independent councillor said: “What we want is the redevelopment of the Kop so it can hold international football at the ground.

“With regards to partners and developers, what I’d say to everybody is we need to be careful and selective of who we work with going into the future because of the history and emotion surrounding the football club and how they’ve been treated in the past.

“When you look at the money which has been allocated to organisations in South Wales, what Wrexham Football Club and the university is asking for is small fry compared to what’s gone on.”

Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths has revealed it has made two bids for the land.

The first offer for the plot was made by officials around a year ago.

However, after no decision was made, officials from Cardiff increased the amount in January this year.

Ms Griffiths said: “It’s no secret the land known as 2-4 Mold Road is crucial to Wrexham AFC and the future of the Racecourse Stadium.

“The process is time-consuming but the Welsh Government’s commitment and ongoing work cannot be questioned.

“I will continue to work with the relevant partners and am scheduled to meet with Wrexham AFC representatives this month.

“It is vital all parties work together in order to achieve the best possible outcome for the town.”

Ms Griffiths added that the Mold Road feasibility study was due to be published later this month and said she was hopeful it would lead to the land being secured.

Meanwhile, Glyndwr University has stressed that all options remain on the table for its future use.

A spokesperson said: “We are totally committed to regenerating the area around Wrexham General Station, including the land behind the Kop which is owned by the university.

“As a valued and important stakeholder, Wrexham AFC continue to be consulted about potential options as they emerge – as do all other parties.

“Final proposals for the site have not yet emerged and all options are being considered.”