PUBLIC bodies backing a vision to transform the main gateway into Wrexham have been urged to firm up their support by providing the money to deliver it.

Four organisations revealed their aspirations for the Mold Road corridor yesterday, which includes plans for a new 5,000-seat stand to replace Wrexham AFC’s famous Kop, as well as conferencing facilities, improvements to Wrexham General Railway Station and a four star hotel.

Wrexham Council, the Welsh Government, Wrexham AFC and Wrexham Glyndŵr University are all supporting the scheme.

However, with funding yet to be agreed, a politician who represents the area believes the Welsh Government and other partners need to make sure it becomes a reality.

Marc Jones, Plaid Cymru councillor for the Grosvenor ward, said: “This is the major route into town both by road and rail.

“It’s also an opportunity to regenerate the Racecourse and develop derelict land behind the Crispin Lane end of the ground as well as providing an integrated transport hub.

Major plans unveiled to transform main Wrexham gateway including new 5,000-seat Kop Stand

“That all costs money and we need to see the Welsh Government and others investing substantial amounts in the capital of the north.

“There’s been enough talk of a millennium stadium for the north – well, we’re 19 years into the millennium and we’ve still only got a three-sided Racecourse.

“It’s vital that the people behind the masterplan get it right and I will give my full support for it if they do.”

One of the main aims of the project is to regenerate the Kop end of the Racecourse Ground, which has stood derelict for more than a decade.

By boosting the stadium’s capacity back above 15,000, it is hoped it will attract international football to the region on a regular basis.

It is understood some elements of the masterplan would require compulsory purchase orders to take control of land around Mold Road.

Funding has yet to be agreed, but the Welsh Government is viewed as a key enabler of the project.

While the Cardiff administration has not clarified where the money will come from, it said it was dedicated to moving the proposals forward.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “This week’s announcement on the Mold Road Gateway is a very positive step for Wrexham with the potential to deliver transformational change on a local and regional level.

“All the key partners have come together to back this scheme, which is significant.

“There is much work ahead now, and we will be focussing on driving this forward with our partners.”

Speaking earlier this week, Wrexham Council leader Mark Pritchard said he was also confident the scheme would be delivered.

He said: “I can always tell and sense when things are right.

“I’ve been in a lot of places where things are wrong, but on this occasion, I believe the right people are around the table and around the table for the right reasons.

“I would not sign up to something and put myself forward for false downs.”