Regarding the proposed BFC training facility, it is probably worth pointing out that Trevoe Hemmings bought Ingol golf club and and there was a clause in the contract that it would remain green belt for 25 years. As soon as that period expired, the club was closed and he submitted plans to build a new academy for use by PNE. However, it was conditional in that the council had to agree that he could build houses on a large proportion of the land. The houses have gone up but not the academy, nor is there any sign of it appearing, Some land has been donated for public use because it was unaccessible to traffic.
In the meantime, PNE continue to use UCLAN facilities (built largely with public money) but UCLAN refuse to let local teams play there now (not very helpful for local talent). The investment in park pitches over the past 20+ years has beeen close to zero so grassroots has been royally shafted. In fact it appears that UCLAN have an unhealthy influence over the town (lets face it, it's not a real city) and its infrastructure. The dual carriage ring road has been dug up for a couple of years to lay down a cycle lane for students. Not sure what the planners were on when that was decided.
I believe that we are in a decent position and better placed that PNE to move forward. Time will tell, but you've got to be concerned if your club has Risdale involved in it.