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"Lennoxtown is presently our preferred location for the club's new training facility and we hope to make a decision within the next few months."

The council judged that Celtic would bring "physical, economic and social benefits" to the Lennoxtown area, and the club could now press ahead with their plans for a world-class facility.

They intend to build a training academy, hostel accommodation for young players, and six full-scale pitches, with the centre to become Celtic's base away from Parkhead.

The complex is expected to cost Celtic in the region of Ł7million, according to recent reports.

Celtic have received outline planning permission to build a new training ground north of Glasgow.

East Dumbartonshire Council's planning board have authorised the club to build on the upper site of the Lennox Castle Hospital, in Lennoxtown.

Hoops chief executive Peter Lawwell said: "This is excellent news and a very positive step forward."