North Herts Councillor Ian Albert has welcomed the announcement that Hitchin Town Football Club and the Hitchin Cow Commoners Trust are working together on a new vision for the historic Top Field site.

Cllr Albert, who also represents North Herts Council on the Cow Commoners Trust, described the plans as "totally different from what happened in 2014" – when proposals risked the Club leaving the town altogether.

He told Hitchin Nub News that - "As a local Councillor and as North Herts Council's representative on Cow Commoners Trust, I welcome the announcement that the Trust is working closely with Hitchin Town FC to explore the possibilities of redeveloping the Top Field site with a new ground for the Club and community on site. This is totally different from what happened in 2014 which would have meant the Club left the Town."

But Cllr Albert, a regular to Hitchin Town game's, also cautioned that the redevelopment will not be straightforward.

"Building a new ground will still not be simple, as it will cost several million pounds. And any partial redevelopment of the site to fund this will need wide consultation with local residents."

The Club and Trust recently set out their ambition to retain the spirit and history of Top Field while creating a modern, inclusive facility for both the football club and the wider community.

Consultation with supporters, residents and local groups is expected to take place as plans develop.