Northampton Town conference centre and hotel plan could still happen

Kelvin Thomas says a conference centre and a hotel could still be built

A conference centre and hotel could still be built as part of the redevelopment of a football stadium.

Northampton Town chairman Kelvin Thomas told fans the club had considered knocking down the East Stand and starting again but would instead work with what was there.

Mr Thomas said if it was not finished by next season they would consider installing temporary seating.

Similar plans by previous chairman David Cardoza stalled.

Work to revamp Sixfields' East Stand had ground to a halt because of a dispute

Mr Thomas, who took over the club six weeks ago, said: "We don't think it's the ideal design.

"There's been so many designs put out there. Our decision is probably six weeks away but I will try and keep everyone informed."

Mr Cardoza had unveiled plans for the stand, which included a hotel and conference centre, in June 2014, but work came to a halt after the club failed to pay contractor, Buckingham Group.

Northampton Town's East Stand remains unfinished

The development had been financed by a £10.25m loan from Northampton Borough Council but the club under Mr Cardoza failed to complete the work or repay the loan.

As part of a deal allowing Mr Thomas to take control of Northampton Town, the authority wiped out this debt.

Now, Mr Thomas has spoken about his plans for the ground.

At a fans' forum meeting on Thursday, he said the club was in detailed discussions with the Buckingham Group and Northampton Borough Council but there were "still complications".