It consists of the existing Cross Bar, plus a brand new kitchen and Main Bar (yet to be named), as well as an open plan reception and boardroom, complete with work spaces so it can be used as an adjoining office. There is also a new toilet block including disabled facilities and a baby changer. What’s more, on non-match days the Cross Bar and new Main Bar will also be operated as a single, large entity that will be open every night.

Monies for the project have been raised through grants, but have largely relied on the goodwill of the club directors – with the building project also managed internally.

The project also extends to building above the toilet block in the south west corner of the stadium to create new manager and coach offices – freeing up the old development office in the changing room block to become a dedicated Sports Injury Clinic. The other end of the changing room block has already been converted into a state-of-the-art gym to extend the versatility and scope of the stadium complex even further.

LRFC Director Ku Akeredolu says: “It’s a landmark occasion for the club, because for the first time in our five year history, LRFC will be able to operate out of Leicester Road Stadium without any reliance on third party facilities - and host visitors, sponsors and functions, plus provide indoor space for players, supporters, match officials and staff all under one roof.

“This will not only allow us to exist as a proper and totally independent football club, but also enable us to maximise our revenue streams and administer and build our business in line with our longer term aspirations.

“It’s been a long and rocky road, with the club forced down the route of building a new clubhouse after repeated offers to purchase the former Holiday Lounge behind the main stand were rejected. Initially LRFC operated out of Nobbys and Starlight (the former Hinckley United FC’s sports and social club) for a year, until we had our license which was granted by the liquidator terminated by Greene King, who also chose not to sell to us – effectively leaving us homeless and with no access to any of the utilities. Hence the rapid conversion of the former club shop and stewards changing room into what is now the Cross Bar and the need to operate on electricity from diesel powered generators initially.

“It was only a small and very basic hospitality room for no more than 20 people, however, so the last four years of having been very frustrating and costly without the ability to expand or grow our business – and we’re absolutely delighted to now be able to welcome all visitors and sponsors alike on site in a modern, spacious and comfortable clubhouse facility that befits our otherwise impressive Leicester Road Stadium.”

Work has also recently begun on phase 2 of the project (the upstairs) that will be home to the new LRFC Academy when complete. This 200sqm upper floor will have multi uses and be able to host two lectures of up to 30 scholars simultaneously – with a large screen (72 inch) TV at each end and the latest in Wi-Fi and USB connectivity. It will have its own bar area too and can act as an overflow from the new Main Bar downstairs, plus also double up as a dedicated large function or conference room.