At last.. Sunderland AFC's application for permission to build an indoor training facility and all-weather floodlit pitch at the Academy of Light has been granted approval by South Tyneside Council's Planning Committee. The club had previously obtained planning consent for an indoor facility on the site, however due to changes in the statutory requirements for Academy facilities an amended proposal was submitted for consideration. Work has now begun on the project and is expected to be completed by mid-October. Sunderland's Academy is widely recognised as one of the best training facilities in Europe and has gained an impressive reputation as a leading centre of excellence for developing young footballing talent from across the region. The completion of the indoor arena and artificial pitch will ensure that the club can provide the best possible training environment for its academy youngsters, particularly during the winter months, evenings and periods of bad weather. SAFC chief executive Margaret Byrne said: "Naturally we are delighted that our application has been approved by the Planning Committee and we thank them for their diligence in considering our proposals. "We want to ensure that Sunderland continues to attract and nurture the best young home-grown talent and having top-class facilities certainly helps us in that respect." Academy manager Ged McNamee added: "Ensuring that we have the very best facilities to enhance the development of home-grown players such as Jack Colback and Jordan Henderson has always been a priority for us. "The new regulations pertaining to the Elite Player Performance Plan made the building of the indoor arena and floodlit artificial pitch an absolute necessity for the club, so we're delighted that the project has been given the go-ahead." http://www.safc.com/news/20120504/academy-building-work-kicks-off_2256213_2759860
