Northampton chairman David Cardoza has given a 'cautious welcome' to the latest motion passed by Northampton Borough Council regarding the proposed development of Sixfields. Cardoza has constantly seen plans to improve the Sixfields stadium and site blocked by a succession of different councils over the last eight years but is hopeful the latest statement could pave the way forward.

Conservative group leader Councillor David Palethorpe proposed a motion to the Council that recognised 'the importance and value of Northampton Saints and Northampton Town Football Club to the sporting, cultural and economic wellbeing of our town' and the council 'would support any planning applications (subject to the normal planning process), that will help to ensure the continuing development and success of the clubs'.

Cardoza said: "We have been looking to proceed with our re-development for a number of years so we give a cautious welcome to the news.

"Our welcome is only cautious, because we have been here and seen this before. However this motion does give us renewed hope and optimism that the Borough Council can see sense and that we can work in partnership to fulfil our ambitions on behalf of the club, the community and the town.

"What we need now is action and co-operation as well as supportive words, but we look forward to working with the Borough Council and our re-development partners to see what can be achieved."