Hereford United's Edgar Street headquarters could be part of a major redevelopment incorporating a new leisure centre for the city.

That's the desire of Herefordshire Council leader Terry James who is soon to make a statement on the future of the cash-strapped Nationwide Conference outfit.

"What we need is a super sports and leisure centre in Hereford. I am very positive about my plans, but we are not yet in a detailed stage," said James.

"It would mean a much-improved facility for Hereford and it is one of my number one priorities. The football ground would certainly be part of a large and busy complex to be used by the community which would help the club raise money off the pitch."

The existing leisure centre, off Holmer Road, would be sold for commercial use, said James, and the money used to fund the multi-million pound proposed redevelopment.

James confirmed that he had the support of his colleagues, although he recognised that not everyone in Herefordshire would be in agreement.

His plans for the cattle market and Merton Meadow area were also earmarked in a new report from Hereford Arts Academy.

It said: "The site may well include new council offices, a large hotel, a cinema, a redeveloped football ground with the existing leisure centre relocated with it and other facilities."

United chairman Graham Turner commented: "Terry James has indicated at a liaison meeting with supporters that he will be making a statement on the future of the club on March 18 or 19. We have therefore called a board meeting for March 20 to discuss the council leader's proposals for the ground and the make up of the consortium."

Meanwhile, the Bulls' cash-flow problems increased after high winds ripped off part of the Meadow End roof last Saturday and caused the postponement of their Conference clash with leaders Dagenham & Redbridge.

The club lost an estimated £3,000 in revenue and now have to repair the roof, electrics, a wooden beam and rebuild a toilet area which were all damaged in the incident at about 12.15pm.

Hereford had to pay for match officials, Dagenham's travelling expenses and programmes. The match is expected to be re-arranged for April.

The Bulls will be aiming to end a sequence of four defeats this Saturday at Conference basement club Dover Athletic, who sacked manger Neville Southall this week.

United's worrying slump, which included a 4-2 defeat at Farnborough on Tuesday, has seen them slide to within six points of the drop zone.

United will be without the suspended Matt Clarke, while goalkeeper Matt Baker (ankle) is facing a race to be fit. The England National Game XI has asked for Baker to be put on standby for their forthcoming match against the USA.