PLANNING permission for Renfrew Juniors new ground has been rubber stamped by the Scottish Ministers.

As revealed in Gazette Sport last week, Renfrew’s bid for a new stadium at Blythswood Retail Park is ever closer having been passed in principle and approved by the Renfrewshire Council planning committee.

However, due to the prroximity of the Diageo whisky plant on Argyll Avenue, the plans had to be referred to the Scottish Ministetrs to be passed.

But, the planning permission has now been completed by the Scottish Government and returned to Renfrewshire Council for issuing approval.

Plans continue for the club to move away from Western Park, which they vacated in May, to a new purpose built ground at Blythswood where Renfrew hope to attain community club status, and give all affiliated sides the opportunity to train and play at the new stadium.

The club are now waiting for the handover of land and schedule of work to be drawn up before construction begins less than a mile from their former ground.

In the meantime ‘Frew will groundshare with near rivals Johnstone Burgh at Keanie Park, until work is completed.

Derek Mackay, Renfrewshire North and West MSP, said: “Due to the planning status of the land, the planning permission had to be referred to the Scottish Government, who have passed and swiftly referred back to Renfrewshire Council, who were minded to approve the application.

“I am delighted that a major hurdle has been overcome in Renfrew Juniors FC progressing their home ground and new facilities. It will now be back to the club to complete their financial negotiations and take the next steps of commissioning work.

“There have been a few bumps along the way, and the journey is not yet over, but this seems like the final green light to move forward.

“Renfrew Juniors FC have expanded their community work and absorbed local youth teams, so this does suggest a strong future.”