Luton Town Football Club (LTFC) has been given the permission by the Borough Council to use an old industrial site at Addington Way as a temporary training ground.

In exchange for being able to use the old Electrolux site, LTFC will be working closely with Active Luton – an independent Trust responsible for running sports and recreation activities and facilities in Luton on behalf of the council.

The partnership aims to develop the facility with a view to eventually use it for community use.

The development will include a classroom facility that means Active Luton can bring youngsters into Addington Way to benefit from watching a professional sports club in action.

Hazel Simmons, leader of the council, said: "I've always made it clear that the council should work closely with the club and I'm delighted to be able to say that through this exciting development we can provide much needed facilities for the community in the area."

Helen Barnett, chief executive of Active Luton, said: "Active Luton is looking forward to developing a close partnership with the football club. Our own objectives of making sports and facilities accessible to everyone in the community can only be advanced through this positive and bold venture."

Kevin Blackwell, LTFC manager, said: " Active Luton's vision and drive match my own. I'm passionate about LTFC developing positive links with the local community and I can't wait to move this project forward. In the short term I am grateful to the council for helping me with much needed training facilities based in Luton, where they should be."